Priyank Pathak, Bali

Bali is a destination known for its abundant natural beauty, and especially its stunning and refreshing waterfalls. 

Found all over the island, many of Bali’s waterfalls are popular tourist attractions. From plunge waterfalls with their dramatic drops, to the gentle flow of cascade waterfalls, a visit to one of Bali's many waterfalls is one of Bali's top activities. Many of these, like Tegenungan Waterfall, are found just outside of the major tourist areas like Ubud or Canggu. Others, like Jembong Waterfall, are hidden gems found off the beaten track or deep within the jungle. Bali’s tallest waterfalls include Sekumpul Waterfall, Blahmantung Waterfall and Carat Waterfall. 

In determining the criteria for Bali’s best waterfalls, we have primarily considered the overall popularity and aesthetic value of each waterfall. Other discriminating factors include how accessible the waterfall is, how safe it is, how secluded or crowded it is, whether or not swimming is possible, the cultural significance of the waterfall and whether there is an opportunity to value-add to the experience by enjoying additional facilities (like river clubs, giant swings or nearby cafes). .

Safety is important to consider when visiting Bali’s waterfalls. Some waterfalls are difficult to access, or require a level of physical fitness to visit. Additionally, wet weather often causes trails to become muddy and rocks to become slippery. It’s important to exercise caution at all times, especially if choosing to swim. 

Waterfalls hold deep cultural significance in Bali, largely due to the influence of Balinese Hinduism. For the Balinese, waterfalls are a place of spiritual purification and a sacred dwelling place of gods and spirits. The Indonesian word for waterfall is ‘air terjun’, meaning water (air) + terjun (to dive from a height).

Oftentimes at some of Bali’s most popular waterfalls, like Kanto Lampo, locals are on hand to help you take the perfect picture for a small fee – and they usually know how to take a great snap for Instagram. 

Without further ado, we present our list of the best waterfalls in Bali.

1. Sekumpul Waterfall

Sekumpul Waterfall, Bali

Photo credit by Destination Bali

Location: Bebetin, Sawan, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Hours: 7:00am – 6:00pm

Standing at a height of 80 metres, Sekumpul Waterfall is often considered Bali’s tallest waterfall, alongside . Located in Bali’s northern mountains, Sekumpul features seven cascades in the midst of jungle, with a misty ambience that gives the area an otherworldly feel.There are a few hundred steps to descend to reach the waterfall, so it does require moderate fitness (and good knees!). We recommend wearing shoes with a good grip and taking your time on the slippery path. Whether you’re visiting to simply take some photos of the beautiful views or to swim at the base, come prepared with a raincoat and waterproof bag to protect your belongings. Sekumpul Waterfall is roughly 2.5 hours from Ubud, Seminyak and Kuta and entry is 20,000 IDR to 200,000 (~ $AUD 2.00 to 20.00) depending on the hike you choose. We recommend buying your ticket from the designated ticket counter for a hassle-free experience. 

BEST FOR: Size, natural beauty

DRAWBACKS: Difficult to access

2. Tegenungan Waterfall

Photo credit by Devon Daniel Unsplash

Location: Kemenuh, Sukawati, Gianyar Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Hours: 6:30am – 6:30pm

Tegenungan Waterfall, known alternatively as Blangsinga Waterfall, is one of the easiest waterfalls to access in Bali, found just 25 minutes from Ubud Central. Nestled in lush Balinese rainforest, this powerful 25-metre-tall waterfall is an excellent social and family-friendly spot. Keep in mind that getting to the waterfall requires you to descend around 150 steps, so this activity isn’t best during wet weather or for those with lower mobility. Once you arrive at the base of the waterfall, cool off in the plunge pool and take a photo on the love swing with Tegenungan in the backdrop – the view is hard to beat! Remember to bring shoes, swimwear, a towel, and around IDR 20,000 (~AUD$2) for the entrance fee. Adjacent to the waterfall is the Dtukad River Club, a bamboo club offering pools, party music, and food service – an excellent place to view the waterfall from a great height and relax for the day.

BEST FOR: Close to Ubud, family-friendly

DRAWBACKS: Lots of tourists

3. Banyumala Twin Waterfall

Photo credit by Norbert Braun Unsplash

Location: Wanagiri, Sukasada, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81161, Indonesia

Hours: 8:00am – 6:00pm

Banyumala Waterfall (aka “Banyumala Twin Waterfalls”) is found high in the northern mountains of Wanagiri, around two hours from Canggu and 1.5 hours from Ubud. One of Bali’s less crowded waterfalls, Banyumala is a calm and peaceful spot with a split waterfall that plunges over rocks to an inviting jungle pool. The trek down to the waterfall from the car park takes 15 minutes, with some visitors remarking that the trip down and back up is challenging due to the steep steps. Sturdy shoes with grip are recommended, especially for those with low mobility. Once at the base, you’ll be rewarded with views of crystal clear waters cascading 40 metres through lush greenery – great for photography. The plunge pool at the base is a refreshing place to take a dip, so pack your bathers and a towel (there are change rooms nearby). The entrance fee is 30,000 – 50,000 IDR (~$AUD 3 –5.00) depending on where you enter from and includes a bottle of water. We recommend you give yourself ample time to relax in this tranquil, natural space.

BEST FOR: Tranquillity, photography

DRAWBACKS: The trek down and up is medium difficulty

4. Tukad Cepung Waterfall

Photo credit by Marco Tjokro Unsplash

Tukad Cepung Waterfall ( Air Terjun Tukad Cepung) is a must-visit for those looking to discover Bali’s hidden gem waterfalls. Located in a canyon, the water tumbles 15 metres through a cave opening, only to be lit up by shafts of sunlight - creating one of the most photogenic waterfall views in Bali. Located in the eastern part of Bali, in Jalan Tembuku, Tukad Cepung can be reached by car in around 50 minutes from Ubud. The forest trail requires a 15-minute trek down some steep steps but is well worth the effort. Swimwear and either thick sandals or aqua shoes are recommended for walking on the stony streams, where the water often comes up to your knees. It’s best to come early (8am – 10am) on a sunny day to see the sun’s rays create a stunning rainbow effect and take pictures without too many crowds. An entrance fee of 15,000 IDR (~ $AUD 1.50) is required and grants access to two smaller waterfalls nearby as well. For some delicious food and milkshakes, consider a stop at the café in the parking lot.

BEST FOR: Aesthetic value, magical views

DRAWBACKS: Becomes crowded at times, most visitors get very wet

5. Leke Leke Waterfall

Photo credit by Sergey Chuprin Unsplash

Location: Jl. Kaliasem lingk.kelod kangin, Beng, Kec. Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80513, Indonesia

Hours: 7:00am – 5:00pm

Located in north Bali’s Tabanan Regency, Leke Leke Waterfall consists of a 30-metre tall, narrow stream of water surrounded by lush forest, which plummets into a shallow pool of blue water. Reachable in about 1.5 hours from Canggu, Seminyak and Kuta, Leke Leke is less demanding to access than many of Bali’s other waterfalls. The trail is a moderate hike of around 15 minutes and is well maintained, with steps cut into the land and cleared paths that wind their way through a natural gully. There is a bamboo bridge over the river where you can stop and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the flowing river. We recommend you explore behind the falls as well, where you’ll find a naturally carved-out cave. The entrance fee is around 50,000 IDR (~ $AUD 5.00).  It’s best to visit Leke Leke only when it’s dry, as the descent is very challenging and muddy when it rains. Some visitors have complained of a pushy fruit/coconut salesman on the way to the waterfall – best to avoid buying fruit here!

BEST FOR: Visual beauty

DRAWBACKS: High entrance fee, reports of insistent local merchants

6. Kanto Lampo Waterfall

Photo credit by Fransiskus Filbert Mangundap Unsplash

Location:  Antapan, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82191, Indonesia

Hours: 6:30am – 5:30pm

Set in a canyon just 25 minutes from Ubud, Kanto Lampo Waterfall consists of powerful cascades which flow over tiered rock formations. The natural beauty of this waterfall is immense, making it extremely popular for tourists to get their photos taken here. You will usually have to wait your turn, but then you get the waterfall all to yourself as locals help you take the best photo possible for a small fee. Sitting under the waterfall is delightful, as you will feel the full pelt of the water envelop you. To reach the main part of the waterfall, it’s only a steady five-minute walk by stairs but on a steep incline, making it suitable for families with children only when it’s dry. Kanto Lampo gets crowded, so the best time to visit is on a weekday and around sunrise to take advantage of the best Insta-ready spots. Bring enough money for the 15,000 IDR (~ $AUD 1.50) entrance fee and for help from the local photographers.

BEST FOR: Insta-worthy photographs, sitting under the waterfall itself

DRAWBACKS: Touristy and crowded, most visitors get very wet

7. Gitgit Waterfall

Photo credit by visitbali.com

Location: Jl. Raya Bedugul - Singaraja, Gitgit, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm

At 35 metres high, Gitgit Waterfall is one of Bali’s largest and the power of this twin waterfall is a mesmerising experience. Located in the north, in Singaraja, Gitgit Waterfall is roughly 40 minutes from Lovina Beach and can take almost two hours to reach from Canggu or Ubud. Currently, there are three Gitgit Waterfalls marked on Google Maps, so make certain you are headed to the right spot (check the location address provided above). The waterfall cascades over a cliff through a gap in the dense foliage and crashes against the boulders below, creating some intense spray. Be prepared to get a good soaking! The pathway down to this popular waterfall is paved, well-maintained and only takes about 10 minutes (unless you linger in the many shops along the way). The entrance fee is 20,000 IDR (~ $AUD 2.00), so beware of demands from “guides” (scammers) who try to sell you a ticket for ten times that price. No guide is required for this location.

BEST FOR: Inexpensive, easy to access

DRAWBACKS: Some reports of scammers charging invented entrance fees

 8. Nungnung Waterfall

Photo credit by visitbali.com

Location: Belok/Sidan, Petang, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Hours: 8:00am – 4:00pm

Nungnung Waterfall (or Air Tejun Nungnung) is categorised as a “horsetail” waterfall, meaning the water largely remains in contact with the rock as it makes its descent. Nungnung is also one of the most powerful waterfalls in Bali. Less crowded than many other waterfalls on the island, you’ll need to travel over an hour from Ubud to reach this hidden gem. Once you’ve arrived, you need to traverse over 250 steps to the base, where you will find a swimmable pool. We recommend you walk right up to the water and experience the full force of the powerful water. The descent through the lush jungle takes around 15 minutes and the climb back up requires a moderate level of fitness, so this waterfall is not recommended if you’re travelling with kids, elders, or anyone with mobility issues. Pack some water and snacks, a waterproof bag and a rain poncho due to the drenching mist from the waterfall. The entrance fee for this less touristy destination is an affordable 20,000 IDR (~ $AUD 2.00).

BEST FOR: The sheer power of the water

DRAWBACKS: Lots of steps

9. Tibumana Waterfall

Photo credit by Florian Giorgio Unsplash

Address: Jl. Setra Agung, Apuan, Kec. Susut, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80661, Indonesia

Hours: 7:00am – 6:00pm

Tibumana Waterfall is a tall, steady waterfall found about 45 minutes from Ubud Central. Standing five metres tall, Tibumana is categorised as a plunge waterfall, meaning the water loses contact with the rock as it tumbles down. Positioned amongst exotic vegetation, the area feels like a hidden sanctuary, and the path to the waterfall is particularly scenic. This calming location is still relatively unknown and is easy to access, with just a ten-minute walk down 100 steps and across bridges made by the locals. There are some restaurants along the way if you’re after some refreshment as well as ample space to sit and take in the surroundings. Once you’ve bought your ticket for 20,000 IDR (~ $AUD 2.00), you will pass through a small temple into what feels like a secret world. This is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a place to take refuge from Bali’s heat.

BEST FOR: Ease of access, seclusion, bathing in the pool below

DRAWBACKS: The water is often brown after it has rained, swimming directly under the waterfall is not allowed

10. Guyangan Waterfall

Photo credit by visitbali.com

Location: Batukandik, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali 80771, Indonesia

Hours: 6:00am – 7:00pm

Guyangan Waterfall, also known as Peguyangan Waterfall, is a small waterfall located on Nusa Penida, an island close to the coast of Bali. The highlight of this location is actually the breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, with many visitors viewing this location as the main highlight of their trip to Nusa Penida. The waterfall itself is understated, consisting of water fed by a pipe system that tumbles down the cliff face into the ocean below. The real attraction is the views from the cliff and the clear blue swimming pools which you will find at the bottom of the cliff.

Speed boats from Sanur Beach run hourly from 7am to 4pm and will ferry you to Nusa Penida in under an hour. To reach Peguyangan Waterfall, there’s an iconic blue cliffside stairway made up of 750 steps, and it’s extremely steep and potentially dangerous. We recommend you assess the risk and exercise extreme caution if making your way down. This location is best avoided altogether if it’s raining. There is also a temple you can see on your way to the small infinity pools built into the cliff at the bottom. Please note that Peguyangan is an active place of worship, so you will need to be respectful and bring a sarong or hire one at the entrance for a small fee of 15,000 IDR (~ $AUD 1.50). Admission is otherwise complimentary with no entrance charges.

BEST FOR: Immaculate views of the ocean, beautiful infinity pools

DRAWBACKS: Extremely steep stairs to reach the bottom, some consider the waterfall itself underwhelming, must wear a sarong

11. Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall

Photo credit by Sneha Chandrashekar Unsplash

Location: Wanagiri, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia

Hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm

Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall is a set of four adjacent waterfalls located in the mountainous Wanagiri region of northern Bali, around 60 minutes by car from Ubud. Known as a cascade waterfall, the water gushes down the rocks in levels, with four separate streams of water.. This area is virtually free of crowds, so you can take time to immerse yourself in the quiet and peaceful tropical setting without being disturbed. The trail to get to Banyu Wana Amertha is well-kept and undemanding, taking around 20 – 30 minutes to walk from the entrance, and there’s a motorbike taxi to take you back up for a small fee if you don’t feel like walking. The water cascades over a leafy backdrop into a shallow pool at the base, which is great for swimming or cooling down. The entry fee is 40,000 IDR (~ $AUD 4.00) and gives you access to all four waterfalls.

BEST FOR: Seclusion from crowds

DRAWBACKS: It takes a while to reach the waterfall

12. Aling-Aling Waterfall

Photo credit by Mamun Srizon Unsplash

Location: Jl. Raya Desa Sambangan, Sambangan, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia

Hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm

Aling Aling Waterfall is located in north Bali’s Sambangan Village, about two hours from Canggu, Legian and Kuta. Surrounded by lush greenery, this 35-metre waterfall consists of a series of four water streams. What makes this waterfall unique is that, with the help of a guide, visitors are allowed to jump off the side from different heights (2-metre, 5-metre, 10-metre and 15-metre) and into the natural pools below. You can also slide into the pool directly. Access to Aling-Aling waterfall is via a short walk through a jungle pathway. The waterfall is a sacred place and has special significance for the local Balinese. The entrance fee is 10,000 IDR (~$AUD 1.00), or entrance with a guide, including cliff jumping, costs 125,000 IDR (~$AUD 12.50), which many visitors report is well worth the money! Just remember to be safe and assess the risk properly in advance - we recommend wearing the life jacket that is included with the ticket price.

BEST FOR: Natural beauty, cliff jumping

DRAWBACKS: The waterfall is far from the main tourist areas of Bali

13. Munduk Waterfall

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Location: Jl Raya No.Desa, Munduk, Kec. Banjar, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81152, Indonesia

Hours: 6:00am – 6:00pm

Munduk Waterfall (known as Red Coral Waterfall or Air Terjun Munduk) is a beautiful waterfall located amongst rainforest in the village of Munduk in Bali’s north.  Categorised as a plunge waterfall (meaning the water loses contact with the rock), Munduk Waterfall stands about 50 metres tall and is only a short walk from the parking area. Once on the trail, you will actually find three additional waterfalls on the same trek – Labuhan Kebo, Melanting and Golden Valley waterfalls. We recommend taking about four hours to see all four waterfalls on the Munduk Waterfall Trek, which gives you time to explore this hidden paradise in peace. To arrive at Munduk, it’s best to hire a driver or go on a guided tour, many of which stop here on their way through the island. The steps can be slippery when wet, so it’s recommended to wear good shoes – a jacket is also advisable as it can get quite cold given the altitude. To enter Munduk, there is a cash-only entry fee of about 20,000 to 30,000 IDR (~ $AUD 2 – 3.00) per person – the other waterfalls are free of charge.

BEST FOR: Variety of nearby waterfalls, seclusion,, only a sho

DRAWBACKS: Not usually suitable for swimming

14. Blahmantung Waterfall

Photo credit by Destination Bali

Location: PX2X+6H3, Pujungan, Pupuan, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82163, Indonesia

Hours: Open 24 hours

Blahmantung Waterfall, known by some as Pupuan Waterfall, is a remote waterfall located in north-west Bali, around two and a half hours from Kuta. Set between high cliffs and surrounded by coffee and clove plantations, Blahmantung is around 50-80 metres tall (though some claim it goes as high as 100 metres), making it one of Bali’s highest waterfalls. The waterfall is located in the middle of pristine rainforest, with fewer tourists, so you can take time to enjoy this quiet, picturesque place. Blahmantung Waterfall is located in the middle of a garden owned by local residents and there is no sign or car park, so it’s best to ask the locals for the correct way to get there. You’ll need to walk about one kilometre and shoes with a good grip are recommended, especially in wet weather. Local guides will offer their services for a fee of around 30,000 IDR (~ $AUD 3.00) for a tour to the falls.

Best For: Size, seclusion

Drawbacks: Located in a remote location

15. Jembong Waterfall

Photo credit by visitbali.com

Location: Ambengan, Sukasada, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81161, Indonesia

Hours: 6:00am – 5:00pm

Jembong Waterfall is a little off the beaten track but is well worth a visit, especially if you are taking a day trip to the north of Bali. Located in the village of Ambengan, in the district of Sukasada, Jembong Waterfall is around two and a half hours from Ubud, and an hour from Lovina Beach. This 15-metre waterfall is found in the middle of a cocoa plantation and is only 200 metres uphill from the car park, so it’s not a strenuous walk. Set amongst jungle greenery, the waterfall drops down two levels and has some man-made pools at the base, including one shaped like a heart. As it's not well known by tourists, you can have a more private experience enjoying the unspoiled natural setting. Entry is 25,000 IDR (~ $AUD 2.50) and includes access to pools.

Best For: Lack of tourists, hidden gem, natural beauty

Drawbacks: Located in a remote location, the road to access the waterfall is very narrow

16. Yeh Mampeh Waterfall

Photo credit by visitbali.com

Location: Buleleng, Les, Kec. Tejakula, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81173, Indonesia

Hours: 6:30am – 7:00pm

Yeh Mampeh Waterfall, which means splashing or ‘flying’ water in the local language, is one of Bali’s taller waterfalls with a 40-metre drop. Also known as “Les Waterfall”, Yeh Mampeh is one of Bali’s least touristy waterfalls due to its remote location – around three hours’ drive from Kuta. The 1.5-kilometre hike to the waterfall is flat and easy along a small stream, giving you time to take in the sounds of nature and the tranquil environment. This peaceful and relaxing spot is family-friendly and there are some small food and beverage stalls to visit on the walk. Don’t forget to bring your swimwear so that you can jump into the pool at the base of the waterfall and enjoy some splashing. However, be aware that this waterfall is used by locals for bathing, so you may encounter unexpected nudity. The entrance fee is a very reasonable 10,000 IDR (~ $AUD 1.00) per person.

Best For: One of Bali’s tallest waterfalls, peaceful environment

Drawbacks: Difficulty to access, warungs found along the way, some locals bathe and use soap or shampoo in the water

17. Carat Waterfalls

Photo credit by visitbali.com

Location: Tamblang Village, Kubutambahan District, Singaraja, Bali

Hours: Not listed

Carat Waterfall (or Air Terjun Carat) takes its name from the Balinese word ‘carat’, which means water jug. When seen from a distance, the waterfall has the distinctive shape of a jug. Located in the unspoiled village of Tamblang, just 45 minutes east of Singaraja and over two hours from Ubud, Carat actually consists of two waterfalls. The tallest cascade is around 100-120 metres, making it a candidate for Bali’s tallest waterfall, and the shorter one is just four metres. The path to the falls makes its way through clove and coffee plants and the 800-metre descent crosses a bamboo bridge. Casual clothing and trekking shoes are recommended, and you should bring your own drinks and snacks as there are no tourist facilities. Locals believe this waterfall is cursed, so it’s bad luck to say negative things. Best to enjoy the natural surroundings quietly and help to keep the area pristine by taking any rubbish with you. The entrance fee is 20,000 IDR (~ $AUD 2.00) per person.

Best For: Size, peaceful environment, warungs found along the way

Drawbacks: Difficulty to access

18. Air Terjun Sambangan

Photo credit by Destination Bali

Location: Dinas Banjar Anyar, Jl. Raya Desa Sambangan, Banjar, Sambangan, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia

Hours: Open 24 hours

Located in Northern Bali and slightly over two hours from Ubud, Air Terjun Sambangan has seven waterfalls in one valley and is well-known by tourists as a cliff jumping spot. Aside from the main waterfall, you can also visit Pucuk, Kroya, Canglin, Cemara, Dedari and Kembar Waterfalls. There’s a lot to experience here, so it’s worth spending a night or two in Singaraja or Lovina. Hiring a guide to take you to each location and help with any safety concerns is also recommended. A guide will cost around 50,000 IDR (~ $AUD 5.00) per person. If you are the adventurous type, you can slide or jump from 5, 10 or even 15 metres into the cool, fresh water. However, gentler pursuits such as exploring the jungle and river or visiting the cool local bars and restaurants are also available. Make sure to wear shoes with good grip, and bring your swimwear, sunblock and enough water to drink.

Best For: Swimming, cliff jumping, many other waterfalls found in the same area, nearby nars 

Drawbacks: Payment is required for cliff jumping

19. Lemukih Waterfall

Photo credit by Pande Satvika Unsplash

Location: Dinas Buah Banjah, Lemukih banjar, Kec. Sawan, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81171, Indonesia

Hours: 7:00am – 5:00pm

Lemukih Waterfall belongs to a complex of five waterfalls located in Northern Bali, about 2 hours from Ubud and 2.5 hours from Canggu. This waterfall tumbles from a height of 50 metres through a stunning tropical forest into three pools at the base before flowing into the river. From the car park, it takes around 20 minutes down the paved pathway through a lush jungle where you can see Balinese birdlife and dragonflies. Shoes with good grip are recommended, as walking on the rocks can be slippery and uncomfortable. For adventure seekers, there is a 45-metre section of the waterfall that is a natural water slide. Once used as a local children’s playground, it is now open for people looking to experience something special. Take care though, some visitors find it best to visit with one of the local guides, who are said to be friendly and improve the overall experience. The entrance price is 20,000 IDR (~ $AUD 2.00) per person or 150-250k (~ $AUD 15-25) for a guide. 

Best For: Water slide, activities, friendly tour guides

Worst For: Slippery rocks, only visitable with local guide

20. Taman Sari Waterfall and Natural Pool

Photo credit by visitbali.com

Location: Jl. Ngenjung Sari, Bakbakan, Kec. Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80515, Indonesia

Hours: 8:00am – 5:30pm

Taman Sari Waterfall is located 40 minutes from Ubud. The waterfall itself begins as a single column descending through lush greenery from about 30 metres and then divides into multiple cascades. At the base of Taman Sari is a spectacular emerald pool that is ideal for swimming. The pathway down to the falls is an easy 100-metre walk and is well built with gravel which stops it from becoming slippery and handrails to keep you steady. The amenities are very well thought out, with changing rooms and toilets available and places for your bag and belongings. A lot of work has gone into making this a user-friendly experience. There is an entry fee of 15,000 IDR (~ $AUD 1.50) per person as a donation to their annual ceremony and public use of the site. Bring shoes with a good grip and swimwear so you can enjoy one of Bali’s most beautiful natural pools.

Best For: Swimming, amenities, lack of crowds

Worst For: Water isn’t always clear

21. Jagasatru Waterfall

Photo credit by visitbali.com

Location: East Duda, Selat, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80862, Indonesia

Hours: 8:00am – 6:00pm

Jagasatru Waterfall is in East Duda, in the Karangasem Regency of Bali. This 40-metre waterfall is in the middle of the jungle and is far less frequented by tourists, so you may feel as though it’s your own paradise. Finding the waterfall can be a challenge and it’s best to go to Pateh village first and ask the locals for directions. The access road is unpaved and there is a steep and narrow hill to negotiate to reach the falls, which some say makes the drive a bit challenging. Solid footwear and a sense of adventure are required. Unlike other places, this isn’t a well-managed tourist destination, but it is an authentic Balinese experience with a crystal-clear cascade, a peaceful aspect and privacy and glimpses of the distant ocean. There is no entrance fee, but you can help local families with a small donation or by purchasing tea or coffee for around 10,000 IDR (~ $AUD 1.00).

Best For: Seclusion, quiet, no entrance fee

Worst For: Bumpy road to reach the waterfall

22. Pucak Manik Waterfall

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Location: 2PPM+HMV, Tonjong, Pasaleman, Cirebon, West Java 45187, Indonesia

Hours: 7:00am – 5:00pm

Pucak Manik Waterfall is three waterfalls in one place and is located in the village of Wanagiri in northern Bali. At around 40 metres, it’s not as tall as some of the other waterfalls, yet it’s a secluded and scenic experience. The jungle path to the falls is around a kilometre each way, so it’s moderately challenging, especially going up. Not recommended for families or anyone with mobility issues. Wear shoes for trekking and bring your own water and snacks. Swimming in the pool at the base of the falls is not an option, but you can enjoy and photograph the cascading water and the large bamboo treehouse. The entrance fee of 10,000 IDR (~ $AUD 1.00) helps out the local community and assists with maintenance. Situated just north of Bali’s twin lakes, it should take under two hours from Ubud to get to Pucak Manik Waterfall.

Best For: Multiple waterfalls in one location, jungle surrounds

Worst For: Accessibility is difficult, swimming not possible

23. Cemara Waterfall

Photo credit by visitbali.com

Location: Sambangan, Sukasada, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81161, Indonesia

Hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm

Cemara Waterfall is one of Bali’s hidden gems and at around 20-25 metres high and 6 metres wide, it has an impressive volume of water. However, it has a wild, natural setting and is difficult to access - so this waterfall is for true adventurers. Located in the beautiful Northern Bali village of Sambangan, Cemara is one of seven different waterfalls in close proximity. The name Cemara is linked to the many pine trees that were originally found growing near the waterfall and legend has it that couples who come to visit Cemara Waterfall will be blessed forever. The trail to the falls is moderately challenging and the 3.7-kilometre out-and-back trek takes about an hour and a half, crossing rice paddy fields, coffee plantations and village houses. The entrance fee is 20,000 IDR (~ $AUD 2.00) and if you take a guide to ensure you’re on the right track, it will be around 250,000 IDR (~ $AUD 25.00).

Best For: Hidden gem, located close to other waterfalls

Worst For: Long hike required to access this waterfall

24. Kembar Waterfall

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Address: Sambangan, Sukasada, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81161, Indonesia

Hours: Not listed

Kembar Waterfall is one of the seven waterfalls of Sambangan’s ‘Secret Garden’, a collection of villages as yet relatively secluded and undisturbed by modern developments. Kembar Waterfall is located in Northern Bali in the Sukasada District, about two and a half hours’ drive from Kuta. The name Kembar means ‘twin’ and this is indeed a twin waterfall type, with two waterfalls side by side that fall ten metres into a natural jungle pool. The junction of two waterways has spiritual significance in Bali and this enchanting place is believed to be able to cleanse the body, mind and spirit of sins. For tourists, it has become a place to enjoy a waterfall jumping experience. Those feeling adventurous can slide or take the leap into a pool that is four metres deep with a sandy bottom. You need to be a strong swimmer and a bit of an adrenaline junkie to do these jumps!  

Best For: Cultural significance, swimming, jumping 

Worst For: Far from a lot of Bali’s main towns