When most people think of Bali as a vacation destination, they see the vibrant beaches of Sanur, the glitzy nightlife of Seminyak, the lush and quiet Ubud, or the grandeur of Nusa Dua. Numerous people are unaware that the northern region of Bali contains many hidden beauties worth finding.
Since Indonesia has reopened Bali to international visitors, you may need to make plans for a future visit to the Island of the Gods. If you want to go exploring in North Bali, here are some of our suggestions.
Table of contents
- 1 Enjoy the World-Famous Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
- 2 Visit The Gates of Heaven, Bali Handara Gate
- 3 Chase Gorgeous Waterfalls
- 4 Take a boat trip to Lovina to see dolphins and enjoy the black sands.
- 5 Adventure to seven falls: Sekumpul Waterfall
- 6 Refresh and Unwind – Banjar Hot Springs
- 7
- 8 Relax and Linger in Pemuteran
Enjoy the World-Famous Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
Ulun Danu Bratan Temple in the Bedugul district is well renowned as a tourism symbol in Bali. The word “Ulun Danu” means “lakeside,” and the lake where the temple is located is called “Bratan.” The lake is situated on a mountain 1,500 metres above sea level. When you arrive, you will be greeted by an amazing view and a refreshing wind.
With the exception of the occasional light breeze that brushed through, the still, crystal-clear lake remained practically motionless. The temple was surrounded by a light mist that came up from the lake and hovered in the air, giving it a slightly dreamlike appearance.
Visit The Gates of Heaven, Bali Handara Gate
Have you ever seen someone share a picture of themselves in front of a massive, majestic gate while on vacation in Bali? The gate you observed is most likely the famed Handara Gate, which is located in Buleleng Regency’s Handara Golf & Resort Area.
Handara Golf & Resort offers a complete luxury experience, but if you choose, you may simply take pictures in front of the gate, as many other people do. It will still be an enjoyable holiday experience. Plus, you get a nice holiday snapshot!
Chase Gorgeous Waterfalls
Bali’s natural features are not limited to beaches, forests, and rice terraces. Buleleng Regency also has some breathtaking waterfalls. People usually travel from Lovina to Gitgit Waterfall, which is located in the north of the island. The drive takes roughly 40 minutes from Lovina. However, getting to Gitgit Waterfall from Canggu or Ubud can take about two hours. If you are making a day of heading up North to chase waterfalls, you can also stop at Twin Gitgit, Aling-Aling, Banyumala, Sekumpul Waterfalls.
Take a boat trip to Lovina to see dolphins and enjoy the black sands.
Lovina Beach, about a 2-hour drive from Denpasar, is a beachfront location on Bali’s northwestern coast that is ideal for snorkelling and viewing the underwater beauty. Although this beach has recently become increasingly popular with tourists, it is still less crowded than the island’s southern side.
Aside from a leisurely on-foot exploration and tranquil swimming on its wonderful black sand beaches, you may also go on a dolphin watching cruise. Because to the calm waters, Lovina Beach sees more dolphin pods than other beaches in southern Bali. Many boats with seating for up to five or six people will be ready to set sail and serve you on a dolphin viewing trip in Lovina Beach. You can simply board and take in the magnificent scene!
Adventure to seven falls: Sekumpul Waterfall
Sekumpul Waterfall is an opportunity for you to attempt out another challenge if you’re extremely daring.
It’s not completely unknown, but because it’s difficult to get there, many visitors don’t know it exists. To see the waterfall up close, you must cross a river and down a number of treacherous steps, both of which are challenging to perform.
You can pay somebody to take you to the waterfall and they will take you until the end of the road where you can walk around 50 metres to see the most spectacular views from high elevation.
But what makes Sekumpul Waterfall unique is that there are seven waterfalls instead of one! These are all over the place, with the highest standing over 50 metres.
Refresh and Unwind – Banjar Hot Springs
Nestled in the village of Banjar in North Bali, Banjar Hot Spring is a hidden gem that’s worth the visit. The hot spring’s mineral-rich waters are believed to have therapeutic properties that can improve circulation, ease joint pain, and promote relaxation. The natural setting of the hot spring is also a treat for the senses, with lush tropical plants and towering palm trees surrounding the pools.
The hot spring features three pools that are fed by natural hot water from nearby volcanic springs. The water temperature ranges from 37-40°C (98-104°F), making it the perfect temperature for a soothing soak. Visitors can also explore the nearby Brahmavihara Arama Buddhist monastery which is located only 1.5km to the east with its stunning architecture.
Banjar Hot Spring is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, so it’s best to visit during weekdays or early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Admission fees are minimal, and there are changing rooms and lockers available for visitors. Make sure to bring a towel and swimwear, and get ready to relax in the natural oasis of Banjar Hot Spring.
However, be cautious because it can become overcrowded. We believe that the finest times to visit are in the mornings.
Relax and Linger in Pemuteran
Pemuteran was originally an undiscovered traditional fishing village in North Bali. Nowadays, Pemuteran, with its lovely backdrop of a tranquil clear bay, perched between towering mountain tops and bordering the West Bali National Park, is gently presenting itself to the more daring Bali travelling, silently announcing what makes the Island of the Gods so special.
Pemuteran is in Bali’s northwestern region. It’s a great place to get away from the crowds in Ubud and see somewhere less travelled than southern Bali. Pemuteran is a little fishing community surrounded by azure blue water and towering mountains on one side.
Pemuteran is well-known for its fantastic diving and snorkelling, but it’s also a great spot to visit if you enjoy yoga, walking, and seeing intriguing temples – and it’s a great hamlet for foodies as well.
These are our 7 trip recommendations for you in North Bali that will have you packing your bags and heading to Bali right immediately.
In conclusion, North Bali is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural richness, and exciting activities. From the stunning waterfalls and scenic rice terraces to the historic temples and serene hot springs, there is no shortage of amazing sights and experiences to be had in this part of Bali. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, North Bali has something for everyone. So why not plan your next trip to this breathtaking region and discover all that it has to offer?