Mount Batur just received a lively dose of pop culture. A group of tourists transformed the hiking trail into a dance floor, showing off playful dancing moves that caught attention online.
The viral clip, posted by TikTok user @kusukamathcalatte, features the tourists dancing enthusiastically at Post 1 of Mount Batur, one of Bali’s most famous sunrise treks.
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Their spirited performance and synchronized movements quickly indicated participation in the TikTok challenge for Taylor Swift’s hit “The Fate of Ophelia.”
Online observers immediately picked up on the connection. One comment noted, “They dance to The Fate of Ophelia.” Another added, “They’re Swifties, recreating that dance, the land, the sea, the sky…”
The video rapidly spread beyond TikTok, resurfacing on several Instagram accounts such as @infodenpasarterkini, and sparking amusement and surprise among viewers.
Some expressed disbelief at the free-spirited dancing mid-hike, while others commended the group’s confidence. One user wrote, “Confidence level: maximum,” reflecting the sense that a good beat sometimes overcomes the climb.
From Fun Moves to Controversy: A Reminder of Respect
Although this latest video prompted smiles, it recalled an earlier controversy.
In 2022, Canadian national Jeffrey Douglas Craigen was criticized after dancing naked on Mount Batur. The incident caused outrage among locals and led to his deportation from Indonesia.
Initially, Jeffrey stated he didn’t need to apologize. Days later, he posted a public apology on his Instagram Story.
On Tuesday, 26 April 2022, he said tearfully, “It wasn’t meant to disrespect the Balinese people. I was just lost. I needed support but didn’t know whom to ask.” He also extended his apology to the Maori community in New Zealand, acknowledging that his actions caused offense to both cultures. The contrast between these viral moments highlights Mount Batur as a stage for more than just sunrise photos. While most come for the view, some visitations end up as unexpected viral events—for better or worse.
Still, after the earlier controversy, this latest group of dancing hikers seemed only to be having harmless fun. Their video adds another chapter to Bali’s long list of viral tourist moments. This time, with a catchy Taylor Swift beat echoing over the mountain trails.
