North of Bali - what to visit and where to stay

The north of the island, which often remains in the shadow of the noisy tourist centers of the south, attracts travelers with the calm and authenticity of real Bali. This region offers many natural places, cultural treasures and peaceful landscapes. Let us tell you about the most interesting places worth visiting in North Bali, and also recommend cozy accommodation options.

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What to visit in North Bali

Several popular sights of the region are concentrated in the Bedugul area, in the central-northern part of Bali. Among them are the three crater lakes - Beratan, Buyan and Tamblingan, as well as the water temple Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, which is protected by UNESCO, and the Bali Botanic Garden - the largest in Indonesia.

Ulun Danu Bratan Temple

Ulun Danu Bratan Temple (Pura Bratan), located on the shore of Lake Beratan in the Bedugul area, - is one of the most iconic sights of Bali. This water temple, dedicated to the goddess of water, lakes and rivers Dewi Danu, stands against a background of misty mountains and calm waters. It seems to float on the water, and its silhouette is reflected in the mirror-like surface of the lake, creating an illusion of weightlessness and harmony with the surrounding nature.

A few kilometers from Pura Bratan is Handara Gate - another iconic attraction of North Bali. Similar in architecture to the famous gates of the sacred Lempuyang Temple, Handara Gate is officially not a shrine, but only the main entrance to the territory of Handara Golf&Resort. Take stunning photos against this majestic background and create bright memories.

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Pura Beji Temple

Pura Beji, located in the village of Sangsit, - is another important place in North Bali that is worth visiting. This 15th century temple is dedicated to Dewi Sri, the goddess of rice and fertility, and is highly respected among local farmers. It is famous for its intricate stone carvings, while the detailed reliefs and statues make it an interesting place for lovers of history and architecture.

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Tamblingan and Buyan lakes

Besides Lake Beratan, there are several other beautiful bodies of water in North Bali, including the caldera lakes Buyan and Tamblingan. These twin lakes, located in the Bedugul area, are surrounded by dense forests and hills, offering peaceful moments without noise and fuss. You can explore the lakes by renting a canoe or by going along the shores.

On Lake Tamblingan and in its surroundings you will find several ancient temples, including Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan and Pura Dalem Tamblingan. These temples add a spiritual dimension to the calm atmosphere of the area.

Many tourists visit both lakes in one trip, since they are located very close to each other. For those who want to stay longer and get to know the calm side of Bali away from crowded tourist places, camping areas are provided nearby.

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When to visit Tamblingan and Buyan

The best time to visit the twin lakes - is the dry season, from April to October. The weather is more predictable and the trails are not slippery, which makes the visit more pleasant. For an informative and safe hike, hire a local guide.

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Lovina Beach and dolphins

Lovina - is a coastal area located in Buleleng Regency, near the city of Singaraja. There is a beach here, known for its black sand and calm waters. One of the most popular local activities is dolphin watching. Tours usually start early in the morning, around sunrise, because this is when dolphins are most active. Join a boat tour, and if luck is on your side, you will see pods of dolphins playfully jumping out of the water.

After meeting the dolphins, spend some time on the beach. Unlike the crowded coasts in the south, Lovina offers a calm atmosphere to relax and bask in the sun. It is also a great place for snorkeling, because the water has bright coral reefs and diverse marine life.

If you are traveling with children, pay attention to the small Krisna water park, as well as the Krisna Funtastic Land amusement park, located near the beach.

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Banjar hot springs

The natural hot springs known as Banjar Hot Springs are located a few kilometers from the famous Lovina coast. It is believed that the cascading pools, filled with water containing 26% sulfur and with a temperature of around 38 °C, have healing properties. The calm setting and healing waters make Banjar springs an ideal place for relaxation. If you do not want to bathe, walk through the lush tropical gardens, spend time at the spa, or appreciate the variety of Western and Indonesian dishes in the restaurant on the territory of the baths.

The entrance fee for tourists is 45 000 Indonesian rupiah.

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Gitgit and Sekumpul waterfalls

One of the most famous waterfalls in North Bali - is Gitgit Waterfall. It is located not far from Lovina, is easy to reach and is surrounded by tropical greenery. The walk to the waterfall goes through lush jungle and small streams. The waterfall itself descends from a rocky cliff into a clear pool below, suitable for a refreshing swim.

For those looking for more adventurous impressions, the must-visit place - is Sekumpul Waterfall. Considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali, Sekumpul has a unique charm. The hike to it is more difficult than to Gitgit, but the effort is worth it - you will be rewarded with breathtaking views and the chance to swim in clean waters.

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Munduk village, coffee plantations and rice terraces

Munduk village, located in the highlands of North Bali, about 2 hours' drive from Ubud, offers a look at traditional Balinese life. This charming village is surrounded by coffee and clove plantations, as well as rice terraces open for visits.

Go hiking through green rice fields and hills, and witness the work of Balinese farmers.

Munduk is an excellent base for trekking: numerous trails lead to hidden waterfalls such as Labuhan Kebo, Melanting, Red Coral and Golden Valley.

In the village of Gesing, located a few minutes' drive from Munduk, grows another attraction of the region - a giant banyan tree, around 700 years old and up to 85 meters high.

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Wanagiri Hidden Hills

This unusual location wins hearts with scenic views of the peaceful waters of Lakes Buyan and Tamblingan, and with a collection of unique photo spots. The viewpoints are ideally placed to showcase the calm beauty of the lakes, often covered in mist.

The photo installations made Wanagiri quite popular on social media:

• A giant bird's nest, woven from natural materials and located high above the ground, creates a cozy setting and harmoniously complements the surrounding landscape.
• Swings suspended above the lush valley let you float in the air, creating the feeling of flying over the lakes and forests.
• A stationary boat, installed against the backdrop of the lakes, creates the illusion of traveling on water, which makes it a popular photo zone for romantic pictures.
• Viewpoints, different platforms and bamboo structures are placed in a way that opens the best angles of the lakes and surrounding hills.

Besides the photo zones, Wanagiri Hidden Hills offers opportunities for outdoor relaxation. The area is rich in biodiversity, and many walking trails are laid here, allowing you to explore the flora and fauna of the region.

The location is in Munduk village, a 2-hour drive from the popular tourist areas of Kuta, Seminyak and Ubud. It can be visited daily from 6:00 to 18:00, entrance is paid. The best time - is the dry season, when the weather is sunny.

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Mount Batur

Gunung Batur - is an active volcano located in the northeastern part of Bali island. The height of the summit is 1717 meters. In the volcano's caldera there is a crescent-shaped lake. The volcano's last activity was recorded in 2000, but despite this, it remains a popular tourist destination.

The mountain has trekking routes, especially popular are the pre-dawn hikes that allow you to watch the sunrise from the summit. During the ascent, panoramic views open over the caldera, Lake Batur and, on clear days, Mount Agung in the distance. After descending from the summit, you can relax in the natural hot springs located near Lake Batur in the village of Toya Bungkah.

Batur is easy to reach from Ubud and Kuta. Numerous tour operators offer organized tours.

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Menjangan Island

About 10 kilometers from Bali is Menjangan Island, which is part of Bali Barat National Park and offers wide opportunities for diving and snorkeling.

The waters around the island are known for their bright coral reefs and diverse marine life, as well as excellent visibility up to 50 meters. Resorts in the area around Menjangan, as well as Balinese dive operators, offer trips to the island to introduce travelers to the underwater world.

One of the nearest dive centers to Menjangan Island is the dive center of the Nusa Bay Menjangan resort. Off its coast are 7 world-class dive sites.

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Where to stay in North Bali

When choosing a place to stay in North Bali, you can count on a wide range of cozy and comfortable options: from luxury villas to budget guesthouses. For example:

• Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort - an atmospheric eco-resort in the mountains of Munduk, with panoramic jungle views. Spacious villas, an infinity pool and a high level of service.
• Elevate Bali - a stylish boutique hotel in the mountains with modern villas and valley views. Infinity pool, restaurant with signature cuisine and a calm atmosphere.
• Munduk Heaven Luxury Villas - cozy villas on a hillside with breathtaking views. Spacious rooms, a pool and a feeling of complete silence.
• Munduk Cabins by Desa Hay - designer cabins in minimalist style among the jungle. Panoramic windows, stylish interiors and an ideal location for a mountain getaway.
• Nadira Bali Villa - a boutique hotel with villas and views of tropical greenery. Cozy rooms, a pool and a calm atmosphere away from tourist bustle.
• Giriwood Hotel & Villa - a modern hotel among the nature of Munduk, with a panoramic pool.
• The Damai - a premium boutique hotel on the hills of Lovina. Spacious villas with private pools, refined cuisine and a high level of privacy.
• Puri Bagus Lovina - a traditional Balinese seaside resort. Separate villas, a spa center and calm beach relaxation in Lovina.

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