Agung Nugrono, a spokesman for Sumatra island's Kerincia Seblat National Park, which includes the 3,860-metre (12,892 foot) Mount Kerinci, said the ban was issued to halt a traditional influx of crowds ahead of a national holiday.

"We have issued a letter on August 2 that bans climbing activities on Mount Kerinci, especially in anticipation of National Day on August 17," Nugrono said.

He said the move followed discussion with vulcanologists late last month.

Increasing volcanic activities have been recorded in Kerinci since June, with the volcano sporadically emitting smoke and noxious sulphur fumes that have even reached areas around the foot of the mountain, Nugroho said.

Indonesia sits on the "Pacific Rim of Fire" noted for its volcanic and seismic activity. The country has more than 100 active volcanoes.

TERRA.WIRE