Northern Bali Itinerary: 21 Best Things to Do in North Bali, Indonesia
If you’re looking for an incredible Indonesian adventure, you must add north Bali to your itinerary! Compared to the mass tourism areas of south Bali, this region is home to beautiful waterfalls, Instagram-worthy shots, and epic volcano views away from the crowds.
Is North Bali Worth Visiting?
After taking a few days to explore the Buleleng Regency area and East Bali, I was shocked at how many things there were to do in northern Bali, and can’t understand why it’s often left off of most people’s travel plans.
That’s why I’ve put together this sample itinerary in this north Bali travel guide, hitting all the major highlights. Read on for our top recommendations for things to do in north Bali!
Full-Day Private Tour in North Bali
Sample North Bali Itinerary
Day 1: Lovina Beach
- See the jumping dolphins in the early morning
- Make your way to the Ancient Brahma Vihara Arama Temple, then drive a few minutes to the Banjar Hot Springs
- Sip cocktails as you enjoy a crazy Bali sunset from Lovina Beach
- We took a cooking class at Hotel Suma, which was amazing!
- If you have an extra day: Go on a snorkeling trip to Menjangan Island
Day 2: Munduk
- Go on a waterfall chasing day to some of the best waterfalls in north Bali
- Banyumala Waterfall
- Banyu Wana Amerta Waterfall
- Git Git Waterfall
- Aling-Aling Waterfall
- Sekumpal Waterfall
- Stay at an Instagram Hotel, aka an infinity pool over the canopy like the famous Munduk Moding Plantation
Day 3: Ulun Danu Water Palace
- Stop for views of Lake Buyan and Tamblingan Lakes to take selfies at Hidden Hill Wanagiri
- Queue for another photo opportunity at the iconic Handara Gates
- Kayak around Ulun Danu Water Palace
- Hike around Jatuwilah Rice Terraces
- Check out the Pura Luhur Batukau Temples
Day 4: Mount Batur
- Do a sunrise trek either up the summit of Mount Batur, the caldera rim, Munduk Bunbulan
- Soak in another round of hot springs with a view of Lake Batur
- Have lunch at Caldera Coffee for scenic views of Lake Batur and Mount Batur’s three craters and lava field
- Long drive back to South Bali after some adventurous, fun-filled days in North Bali
Best Things to Do in North Bali, Indonesia
Entrance Fee Tip: Almost all attractions in Indonesia have a fee to enter. The best things to do in the north Bali region range in price from around 10,000 IDR (0.70 USD) to 50,000 IDR (3.50 USD).
Appropriate Dress Tip: Men and, especially, women will need to wear a sarong for all cultural and temple visits. Some attractions have a stricter dress code, not even allowing pants in some cases. Most places will offer sarong rentals for a small fee near the entrance.
1. Play with Jumping Dolphins at Lovina Beach
Lovina Beach is one of north Bali’s most popular beaches. Known for its black sand beaches, soak up some rays, take a dip in the calm waters, and watch incredible sunsets views.
One of the most popular tours of Lovina? Taking an early morning boat tour to see the crowds of jumping dolphin playing in the waves.
BUT…CAVEAT! I have heard from multiple other tourists that the methods by which they “find” dolphins are not the most ethical. Make sure to read reviews and vet the tour agency before booking.
2. Snorkel at Menjangan Island (Pulau Menjangan)
Some of Bali’s best-preserved snorkeling and diving sites are around Menjangan Island at North Bali National Park. Most opt to take this all-day trip from Lovina Beach, which includes snorkeling gear and a boat to the island.
With 11 dive sites of fantastic coral reefs and tropical fish, there are options for both beginner and experienced divers too.
👉 Heading to Lovina Beach? Book a combo Dolphin Tour & Menjangan Island Tour by booking here
3. Visit the Ancient Brahma Vihara Arama Temple
Experience the Buddhist meditative chants while exploring Brahma Vihara Arama Temple. This ancient temple is one of Indonesia’s most important Buddhist temples, some likening it to another famous Indonesian landmark, a mini-Borobudur. The temple is also surrounded by a beautiful garden, and you can join a meditative class.
4. Soak in the Banjar Hot Springs
After an adventurous day in north Bali, relax your muscles and ease your mind in the calming Banjar Hot Springs. Located near the coastal area of Lovina Beach, this hot water spring is heated by volcanic activity to a perfect temperature of 38C and offers three soaking pools.
5. Take Creative Shots in An Infinity Pool Over the Canopy
Dubbed the “Instagram Hotel,” booking a stay at Munduk Moding Plantation Resort & Spa takes the cake in terms of incredible hotel amenities with a view. This resort, located in the treetops, is probably one of the most imstagrammable places on the island of Bali, which is really saying something.
In addition to an infinity pool that overlooks the canopy, they also serve those famed floating breakfasts for a considerable fee.
While I’m still making my blog more financially sustainable, we went to visit a cheaper version with a super cool infinity pool too – Atres Sari Resort
👉 For the real experience, book Munduk Moding Plantation Resort & Spa
👉 For the slightly less cool, but cheaper version, book Atres Sari Resort here
Do Go Chasing Waterfalls
One of the most popular things to do in all of Indonesia is *drumroll* chasing waterfalls! There are so many waterfalls to explore in north Bali alone; each one is more beautiful than the next.
While many of these require a bit of trekking to reach, it’s definitely worth it when you see the cascading falls in front of you. Trust me, your Instagram feed will thank you. Here are a few popular waterfalls to check out during your time in north Bali.
6. Sekumpul Waterfall
Set in the lush jungle, Sekumpul Waterfall is one of Bali’s most popular attractions. To reach the beautiful waterfall, you’ll have to trek an arduous, steep walk passing through a local village for 40 minutes through the jungle.
As you get closer, hear the unmistakable sound of the falls getting louder and stronger before catching your first glimpse of the spectacular Sekumpul Waterfall tumbling down from high above.
Sekumpul Waterfall has three entrance fee prices: viewing only (20k IDR), medium trek (125K IDR), or long trek (200k IDR) to all three areas. Because of the hard-to-navigate route, the trekking options include hiring a local guide to take you to the falls.
7. Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
Banyumala Twin Waterfalls is another Bali waterfall hotspot, often less crowded than Sekumpul and just as beautiful. Two waterfalls, barely separated by the rocks on which they tumble, come together at their base to form a large swimming hole in the jungle.
The entrance fee to Banyumala Waterfall is 30k IDR, and it takes about 20 minutes to get to the waterfall’s base.
👉 Spend the day touring two of Bali’s best waterfalls: Sukumpul & Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
8. Aling-Aling Waterfall
One of north Bali’s most unique waterfalls, Aling-Aling features a series of slides and swimming pools that you can cliff jump into. This spot is great for adrenaline junkies who are looking for a bit of excitement during their waterfall-chasing adventure.
Aling-Aling Waterfall also requires a guide for those looking to jump in…safely.The entrance fee to swim and cliff jump is 125K, but if you just want the view, the cost is significantly lower at 10k.
9. Banyu Wana Amerta Waterfall
Overshadowed by its more popular neighbor Banyumala Twin Waterfall, Banyu Wana Amerta Waterfall is one of the lesser-known waterfalls but definitely worth a visit. For the price of one, four different falls are included in the price.
Surrounded by colorful flora, watch the water cascade down the rocky cliffside as you waterfall hop. It’s a short but steep way down to the falls, however, motorbikes are available for those who want to skip the hike back.
10. Git-Git Waterfall
GitGit Waterfall is one of the most easily accessible waterfalls in north Bali and, as a result, can get quite crowded. But don’t let that deter you; the 35-meter high waterfall is still one of the region’s most beautiful.
Trekking through rice paddies and bamboo forests, reach the falls in about 20 minutes before cooling off with a swim in the refreshing water at the base.
11. Take Copious Selfies at Hidden Hills Wanagiri
If you’re looking for those quintessential north Bali Instagram shots, look no further than Hidden Hills Wanagiri. This spot is home to a series of bird nest-style swings and open-palm hands that present incredible views of the jungle and Buyan lake.
Although a bit gimmicky, I indulged in multiple selfie spots at a nearby abandoned version of Hidden Hills Wanagiri.
12. Find Scenic Views of Buyan and Tamblingan Lakes
Located within the caldera of the extinct Bedugul volcano, Buyan and Tamblingan Crater Lakes showcase amazing scenic views of north Bali. The twin lakes are connected by a narrow strait that formed during an 1800’s landslide.
For those looking to escape the heat, the cool atmosphere of the Bali uplands around the lakes is significantly more comfortable than at lower altitudes.
13. Take that Insta-Worthy Shot at the Iconic Handara Gate
The massive Handara Gate is one of Bali’s most popular photo spots. It is, however, not actually the entrance to a sacred temple but rather the entrance gate of Handara Golf & Resort. Queues for this photo spot can range from 5 minutes (if you’re lucky) to 2 hours, with a small photo fee.
Related Post: In my humble opinion, this golf course entrance fee is a no no don’t go go. Find out other overrated Bali places to avoid and where to visit instead.
14. Kayak around the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple (Water Temple) sits on the edge of Lake Bratan and is surrounded by mountains, making for a truly stunning setting. While you can’t go inside the temple itself, you can explore the grounds and take in the views.
To really experience Ulun Danu, I recommend renting a boat and paddling around the temple. This is a great way to get up close and personal with the temple.
15. Walk the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Appointed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and visited by Barack Obama during his 2017 Bali holiday trip, the massive Jatiluwih Rice Terraces stretch from mountain to coast. Even the direct translation from Indonesian of Jati and Luwih means beautiful or special. The rice fields are a representation of the traditional water irrigation system named SUBAK.
16. Stroll amdst the Pura Luhur Batukau Temples
Set on the hills of Mount Batukaru, Pura Luhur Batukau is a temple complex made up of seven temples. This temple is important to both Hindus and Buddhists, acting as a protector from evil spirits.
Visit an Active Volcano – Things to Do around Mount Batur
Bali is home to several active volcanoes, including famous Southeast landmarks like Mount Batur and Mount Agung. If you’re not up for a hike to the summit, don’t worry, there are plenty of other ways to experience north Bali’s volcanoes.
👉 Check out these sunrise trekking tours for Mount Batur ahead of time
17. Hike Mount Batur for the Sunrise
Get an early start to catch one of Bali’s most breathtaking sunrises. The Mount Batur sunrise trek is one of the island’s most popular activities.
This active volcano has a beautiful view of the surrounding region streaked by a faint mist in the early mornings, all three Bali volcanoes, and the caldera. The journey up is not difficult; it will take you roughly two hours to reach the peak.
Note: Even though climbing Mount Batur without a guide is legal, locals have been known to give visitors trouble for not hiring one.
18. Alternative Sunrise from Munduk Bunbulan
For a less strenuous activity, take the 20 minute walk up to Mount Bunbulan viewpoint. At the artificial bamboo platform, you’ll see an unobstructed panorama of mount Batur and the other volcanoes in the area!
19. Sunset on the Caldera Rim
Scooter up the crazy steep roads around the caldera rim near Mount Batur for one of the world’s most spectacular sunsets. As the sun sinks below the horizon, stunning views of Lake Batur and volcanoes may be seen from standing on top of the caldera.
20. Watch the Bats Fly out from the Bat Cave
And after the caldera rim sunset, check out the bat cave on your way back to town. After sunset, millions of bats start to fly out for their nightly feeding, making it the perfect time to explore the cave.
21. Relax in Mount Batur Hot Springs
After a long day of adventure, immerse yourself in the therapeutic waters of one of Lake Batur’s hot springs. The water is pretty rich in sulfur and is known to have some medicinal benefits. You’ve got a few options to choose from, from smaller family-run natural pools to full-blown resorts.
How to Get to North Bali
There are a few different ways to get to the north of Bali. As there are no North Bali international airports, the easiest and most popular way is to fly to Denpasar Airport (Ngurah Rai International Airport) and then take a private car or taxi to your final destination.
Ferries arriving from Java will take you to the northwest-most end of Bali, where you can take a 2 hour transport to Lovina.
Ferries arriving from Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, or Lombok will either arrive at the east ferry port: Padang Pai or Amed.
Rent a Scooter
If you’re looking for a more adventurous way to get around, I recommend taking the scenic route by renting a scooter for about 60k-70k IDR per day. There is no shortage of scooter rentals in tourist areas, and this is a great way to explore north Bali at your own pace and make some stops along the way.
Just be sure to drive carefully, as the roads can be pretty winding and dangerous. Before you go, check to see if your bike is in good working condition.
Hire a Private Car
If you’re not up for driving your own transportation, another option is to hire a private car or taxi for about 500k ($33 USD) per day.
Transportation gets expensive if you are just moving from destination A to B, so hiring a private driver for a day is more cost effective, especially if you are a group of 4.
Join a North Bali Tour
If you’re looking for a more structured way to explore north Bali or are short on time, I recommend joining a tour. This is an excellent option if you want to see the area’s highlights without having to worry about planning everything yourself.
👉 Hit all the highlights with this all day North Bali tour
Where to Stay North Bali
Lovina Beach
Soak in the black-sand, sun-kissed beaches of Lovina Beach. There is such a range of accommodation options available in Lovina Beach, from budget-friendly private rooms to luxury villas stretching all across the coast. Honestly, for the slight price difference between a dorm bed in Lovina and a crazy awesome private room, I would go for the private.
I stayed at Hotel Shri Ganesh, then the next day across the street to Suma Beach Hotel, and loved both of them. With the traditional Balinese beautiful architecture, they both offered swimming pools, nearby restaurants, and a beautiful set-up. The best part? It is less than a 1 minute walk to the beach.
✅ Hostel: Lovina Loca
✅ Private Room: Hotel Shri Ganesh and Suma Beach Hotel
✅ More Upscale: Padmasari Resort Lovina
Monduk
Monduk is a great place to stay if you’re looking for incredible views and want to be close to nature. The best resorts are located on the treetops and are probably one of the most instagrammable places on the whole island.
If you’re looking to splurge on your accommodation, Monduk is the place to do it. But, if you prefer to spend your money on experiences, I recommend staying in Lovina Beach instead.
✅ Famous Instagram Hotel: Munduk Moding Plantation
✅ Another Awesome Infiity Pool: Atres Sari
Kintamani (Mount Batur)
Kintamani is a great starting place to hike Mount Batur and get volcano views. Bring a tent or go glamping. Hostel to amazing Batur views, there are many lodging alternatives in Kintamani.
I stayed at Bunbalun Hill Hostel, which is the absolute cheapest option available in Kintamani that I was able to find. For those looking for a great alternative view, this hostel is only 20 minute hike up Mount Bunbulan. The owner also offers a unique tour of Mount Batur that stretches to 6 hours to see all three craters and the lava field.
✅ Hostel: Bunbulan Hill Hostel
✅ Private Room: The Breezy Volcano
✅ Glamping: Kubah Bali Glamping with a view of the lake
Bucket List Worthy? Best Things to Do On a North Bali Itinerary
North Bali is an incredible region offering epic waterfalls and lakes, to volcanoes and hot springs often left off people’s Bali itinerary. If you are short of time, I would still recommend visiting the north and hitting the following highlights.
- Sekumpul Waterfall
- Sunrise at Mount Batur Area
- Walk in the Jatuliwah Rice Terraces
