A Norwegian citizen with the initials BG, aged 41, was deported by immigration officers in Singaraja for climbing Mount Agung alone. He has been banned from entering Indonesia. BG arrived in Bali on February 2, 2025, through Ngurah Rai International Airport on a visa on arrival.
The immigration service explained that BG was expelled for violating the climbing regulations of the volcano. He was apprehended during his solo hike. Authorities noted that the administration had warned the tourist about the ban on climbing without a guide.
This requirement is stated in the 2025 circular issued by the Department of Forestry and Environment, No. B.24.500.4.1/95/UPTD.KPHBT/DKLH, aimed at preventing risks when climbing Mount Agung in extreme weather conditions. The document specifies that all climbs must be accompanied by a local guide.
After the circular was issued, warning banners were installed in the Mount Agung climbing area, making them quite hard to miss.
“However, BG deceived local staff. He even took a photo with the warning banner but still ignored the ban,” eyewitnesses reported.
By the way, please note that climbing Mount Agung will be impossible from Tuesday, February 25, to Saturday, March 1. The closure is due to a ceremony at Pasar Agung Temple in Sebudi village. The ban applies to all climbing routes on Agung. The closure is implemented to preserve the sacred status of the volcano during the rituals. Balinese people believe that the spiritual deity of the volcano will be present at Pasar Agung Temple, making it extremely important for no one to climb during this period.
You can add one right now!