Bali: North Bali Highlands Tour with Water the Temple

Exploring North Bali with the Highlands and Water Temples Tour

This full-day tour of North Bali offers a chance to step away from the crowded southern coast and discover the region’s tranquil, picture-perfect landscapes. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries show it’s a well-loved way to experience Bali’s natural beauty and iconic spots. The tour combines sacred temples, panoramic viewpoints, and lush waterfalls, making it ideal for those who love photography, peaceful scenery, and a more authentic side of Bali.

What really makes this experience shine is the combination of stunning views at Wanagiri Hidden Hill, the serenity of Banyumala Waterfall, and the cultural significance of Ulun Danu Beratan Temple. The relaxed pace, small group size, and early start help travelers enjoy these sights with fewer travelers around. However, the moderate walking involved, especially at Banyumala, might be a consideration for some. This trip suits travelers craving nature, photography opportunities, and meaningful cultural experiences, all within a comfortable and scenic drive.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery at Ulun Danu Beratan and Wanagiri Hidden Hill offers perfect photo opportunities.
• Peaceful waterfalls like Banyumala provide a quieter alternative to southern Bali’s more crowded spots.
• Early starts mean cooler weather, fewer crowds, and more tranquil experiences.
• Small group tours create a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for photography and conversation.
• Cultural insights at Ulun Danu Beratan deepen your understanding of Bali’s water temple traditions.
• Moderate walking at Banyumala Waterfall ensures a rewarding but accessible adventure.

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An In-Depth Look at the North Bali Highlands Tour

The Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins bright and early, with pickup options from five locations—Ubud, Tabanan, Kintamani, Denpasar, and Badung Regency—making it flexible for different travelers. Travel is via private transport with a live English-speaking guide, which usually offers a more intimate and comfortable experience than larger group tours. With a total duration of about 8 hours, it’s a full but well-paced day of sightseeing.

Why Start Early?

Many reviews highlight the benefit of starting early. The cooler temperatures of the highlands are a welcome relief from the Bali heat, especially during the dry season. Plus, arriving early at each site means avoiding the crowds that tend to gather later in the morning. Travelers also appreciate the peaceful atmosphere that early mornings bring, allowing for more authentic photos and quiet reflection.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: Iconic and Sacred

Ulun Danu Beratan is often described as one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks, floating gracefully on Lake Beratan. This water temple, dedicated to Dewi Danu, the water goddess, is not just a beautiful sight but also a vital part of Bali’s irrigation system, making it culturally significant.

Reviewers mention the opportunity to see the temple with fewer visitors, which enhances the sense of serenity. Tour guides usually offer insights into the temple’s architecture and cultural importance, enriching the experience beyond just snapping photos. Visitors typically find the reflections on the lake and the temple’s tiered roofs particularly photogenic, especially during the softer light of morning.

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Wanagiri Hidden Hill: Panoramic and Playful

Next, the tour takes you to Wanagiri Hidden Hill, a popular spot for panoramic views over Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan. The viewpoints are equipped with creatively designed photo spots—swings, nests, and platforms—that make for fun and memorable shots.

According to reviews, the views are even more striking in the morning light. The creative installations add a playful element that makes the photo opportunities stand out. Travelers love the chance to get a fresh perspective on Bali’s lush highlands, and some mention that it’s a great spot for relaxing and taking in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Lunch Break: Flexibility and Local Flavors

After the viewpoints, many tours include an optional lunch at a local restaurant. This gives travelers a chance to enjoy Bali’s culinary flavors in a relaxed setting, often with views of the surrounding countryside. Some reviewers mention that the meal offers good value, with local dishes that hit the spot after a morning of sightseeing.

Banyumala Waterfall: A Hidden Treasure

The highlight for nature lovers is undoubtedly Banyumala Waterfall. Unlike the more commercialized southern waterfalls, Banyumala offers a peaceful retreat deep within lush jungle, with twin waterfalls cascading into a clear natural pool.

The walk to the waterfall involves some moderate hiking along forest paths, which reviewers say is manageable but does require comfortable shoes. Once there, you can swim in the cool waters, relax on the rocks, or just listen to the soothing sounds of falling water. Many guests note that Banyumala’s tranquility is a major draw—an authentic, less touristy spot where you can really connect with Bali’s natural environment.

Returning and Drop-off

The tour wraps up with a relaxed drive back to your accommodation, with drop-off options at the same five locations where pickup was arranged. The overall experience tends to leave guests feeling refreshed and inspired by Bali’s scenic diversity.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

• Wear comfortable shoes: Especially for Banyumala, where some walking is involved.
• Bring a sun hat and sunscreen: The highlands can be cooler, but the sun is still strong.
• Pack swimwear and a towel if you want to swim at Banyumala Waterfall.
• Camera and extra batteries: The scenery is stunning and worth capturing.
• Cash: Some small purchases or tips may require cash.
• Respect the temples: Sarongs are provided at Ulun Danu Beratan, but modest clothing is expected.
• Start early: To enjoy the cooler weather and avoid crowds at each stop.
• Prepare for moderate walking: Particularly at Banyumala, which might not be suitable for those with back problems or mobility issues.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is particularly suited for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting to experience Bali’s highland serenity. It’s a great choice for travelers who appreciate cultural sites and breathtaking vistas without the hustle and bustle of Bali’s southern tourist hotspots. If you enjoy peaceful waterfalls and spectacular viewpoints, this tour offers a satisfying blend of both.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer very easy walks, the moderate hiking involved at Banyumala might be a consideration. Also, those seeking a very relaxed, leisure-focused day might find it slightly packed, but overall, the itinerary balances sightseeing with downtime well.

The Sum Up

This North Bali Highlands Tour delivers a well-rounded experience for travelers wanting to explore Bali beyond the usual beaches and crowded markets. It combines cultural significance, stunning natural beauty, and photo-worthy moments in a convenient, small-group setting. The early start and peaceful pace make it especially appealing for nature lovers and photographers eager to capture Bali’s best highland vistas.

Priced for the value of diverse attractions—ranging from sacred temples to hidden waterfalls—this tour offers a meaningful glimpse into Bali’s serene highlands. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking cool mountain air, fewer crowds, and authentic scenic beauty in a manageable day trip.

If you’re after a balanced mix of culture, nature, and stunning views, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Bali adventures.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
It begins early in the morning, with pickup times varying depending on your location, to maximize cooler weather and quieter sites.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, including sightseeing, meals, and travel time.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, camera, cash, and swimwear if you want to swim at Banyumala.

Are the sites crowded?
Starting early helps you avoid the crowds at popular spots like Ulun Danu Beratan and Wanagiri Hidden Hill.

Is walking difficult?
Moderate walking is involved, particularly at Banyumala Waterfall, so be prepared for some forest path hikes.

Are the temples and waterfalls culturally significant?
Yes, Ulun Danu Beratan is a sacred temple dedicated to the water goddess, and Banyumala offers a peaceful natural retreat.

Can I swim at Banyumala Waterfall?
Yes, the clear natural pool at the waterfall is suitable for swimming and relaxing.

What is included in the tour?
Transportation, a live English-speaking guide, and the designated sightseeing stops. Lunch is optional, and sarongs are provided at the temple.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s best for travelers who are comfortable with moderate walking. Those with back problems or mobility issues should consider their comfort level before booking.

In summary, the North Bali Highlands Tour with Water the Temple offers a rich, scenic, and culturally immersive day that’s perfect for relaxed explorers and photography enthusiasts alike. It highlights Bali’s peaceful highlands and hidden waterfalls, providing an experience that’s both authentic and captivating.

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