Lake Batur Cleanup: Bali’s Stunning Crater Lake Welcomes Tourists | The Bali Sun

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Lake Batur is one of the most ecologically important landmarks in Bali; it also holds huge cultural and spiritual significance and is seeing a surge in interest from both domestic and international tourists.

As more attention is falling on the lake, local leaders have committed to keeping it cleaner and in better condition. 

Bangli Regency Prioritizes Lake Batur’s Health and Tourism Potential

The Bangli Regency Government in Bali Province is undertaking a concerted effort to clean up Lake Batur, a vital water source and increasingly popular tourist destination. Regent Sang Nyoman Sedana Arta stated the goal is to ensure the lake remains sustainable, maintains a healthy environment and continues to provide benefits to the community. This initiative comes as Kintamani, the district surrounding Lake Batur, prepares to welcome a growing number of visitors.

A Community Effort to Restore Lake Batur

A recent weekend clean-up operation saw over 5,000 people – including government officials and local students – participate in removing trash from key locations around the lake. These included Jaba Pura Ulun Danu Songan, Pura Jati, Kedisan Pier, and Trunyan Village. Beyond trash removal, the effort included releasing 10,000 tilapia seeds and approximately 1,000 liters of eco-enzyme into the lake to naturally improve water quality.

Lake Batur and Kintamani: A Geographical Overview

Lake Batur, the largest lake in Bali, is situated at the foot of Mount Batur and Mount Abang. Bangli Regency, the only landlocked regency in Bali, centers around the spectacular volcanic crater of Batur. According to 2024 estimates, Bangli Regency covers 520.80 km² and has a population of 259,392 people. Bangli Regency’s location makes it a unique destination within Bali, offering cooler temperatures and a different landscape than the coastal areas.

Investment and Sustainable Tourism

The clean-up initiative is occurring alongside significant investment in tourism infrastructure around Lake Batur. In September 2025, the Bangli Regency Government signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with PT GMS Invest Internasional, affiliated with South Korean company Kanavi Mobility, to develop eco-friendly tourism options. This investment will focus on inland waterway cruise vessels powered by renewable energy sources – hydrogen, solar, and liquefied natural gas – as well as electric-powered water sports, an electric tourist train, a sky capsule, and a rail bike. This move aligns with a broader push for sustainable tourism practices, reducing carbon footprint and promoting eco-friendly destinations.

The Batur UNESCO Global Geopark

Regent Arta emphasized that preserving Lake Batur is also connected to the principles of the Batur UNESCO Global Geopark. The Geopark aims to honor the earth and ensure the well-being of the local community. This designation recognizes the area’s unique geological features and promotes sustainable development that balances conservation with economic opportunities.

What’s Next for Lake Batur and Kintamani?

The current efforts represent a broader commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental protection in the Kintamani region. The Bangli Regency Government is expected to continue monitoring water quality and implementing measures to reduce pollution. The recent tourism infrastructure projects, once completed, are anticipated to attract more visitors while minimizing environmental impact. The success of these initiatives will depend on ongoing collaboration between local authorities, investors, and the community.

Kintamani is also becoming a destination for those seeking unique stays and culinary experiences. New glamping businesses and cafes with stunning views are attracting visitors, offering a different side of Bali beyond the popular coastal areas.