Munduk & Northern Bali Travel Guide
Munduk is in the northern, mountainous region of Bali. The climate here is a lot cooler because of the elevation and it does rain more. Because of the weather, it is extremely lush and beautiful, and one of our favourite places in Bali. The best waterfalls can be found here, and there are many coffee plantations to tour and temples to see.
Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
A beautiful Hindu temple that is in a lake. If visiting in the dry season, the lake water is less likely to go around the temple fully and there will be exposed earth on one side. This temple is one of the main sights in this area and is usually full with tourists by 9 am. When we went there for sunrise, it was completely empty and such a beautiful scene with the mist rising above the lake.
Handara Gate
This iconic photo spot is actually the entrance to a golf club. The security at the front charges 30,000 IDR per person to take a photo in front of the gate. This spot does get busy so be sure to get there right after sunrise (best to do it after the Ulun Danu Bratan Temple as they are close to one another).
Our favourite waterfalls in the Munduk area are:
Sekempul Waterfall
This is the mother of all waterfalls in Bali. It is huge and massive and takes around an hour to hike down to it. Make sure to arrive early, around 8 am, to miss all of the tour groups.
Git Git Twin Waterfall
This is one of our personal favourite waterfalls, as there are two streams of water that form into one. This place is usually not visited by tour companies and is super easy to have all to yourself.
Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
Another beautiful waterfall that is still relatively unknown in Bali- and is therefore less busy. It is made up of many small streams that cascade down the moss-covered rock. This waterfall is more difficult to find- look for a faded sign that takes you down a dirt road.
Aling Aling
This is actually a 2 in 1 waterfall, as the path will take you to a smaller waterfall first which is like a natural waterpark. Here you can jump into the waterfall and slide down a rock slide. If you want to partake in any of the water activities you need to hire a guide. Pretty sure it is all a big money grab but they won’t let you jump without a guide around. The second, bigger waterfall is further down the path. You cannot swim in that one as it is very powerful.
Where to stay?
Munduk Moding Plantation
This is up in the mountain range of Bali and is set on a working coffee plantation. Rooms range from regular to luxury suites with private pools so you do have options. They are known for their stunning infinity pool that appears like it is hanging above the clouds. They also offer horse back riding, coffee plantation tours, and since it set high up in the mountains, they have a bonfire at night and a jacuzzi. They have amazing coffee and offer complimentary tea time.