Mount Agung Under the Milky Way's Glow

#Asia, #Astro

Mount Agung Under the Milky Way's Glow

Mount Agung is the highest volcano in Bali, Indonesia, towering at 3,031 meters above sea level. Revered as a sacred site, it holds deep spiritual significance for the Balinese people and is home to the iconic Besakih Temple, also known as the "Mother Temple." Mount Agung offers challenging trekking opportunities, with the summit providing spectacular views of Bali, neighboring islands, and the surrounding ocean. Known for its dramatic eruptions, the volcano has shaped the island’s landscape and continues to influence local life. Its majestic presence dominates Bali's skyline, making it a must-visit for adventurers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

During our month-long adventure through Bali and the surrounding islands, we were on a mission to capture the stars at some of the most iconic spots. One morning, we headed to Lahangan Sweet in Bunutan to catch the Milky Way rising over the landscape. The place is an Instagram favorite, but at night (and early morning), it’s like a ghost town, which was perfect for us. Finding the road to get there was like a treasure hunt, and calling it a "road" might be a stretch—it was steep and pretty rough. Climbing up that muddy mess with our questionable scooter was definitely an adventure in itself! But after a struggle, we made it and were able to sneak past the entry fee since no one was around. The sunrise was absolutely worth it, and we even managed to capture parts of the Milky Way rising perfectly behind Mount Agung—though, the smog and light pollution didn’t make it easy. By the time we were wrapping up, the place was getting pretty packed, so we decided to make our escape. And just as we were about to leave, a lady by our scooter asked for a parking fee with a big smile. Classic Bali moment!