There is no doubt that Bali is a paradise in Indonesia and an amazing travel destination in Southeast Asia for anyone and everyone. Where the South and Central Bali is a tourist hub and overly crowded, Munduk in North Bali is still a well-kept gem.
Often overlooked by tourists, Munduk is a small hillside village located in the Buleleng District in the Northern part of Bali. It has a cool misty ambiance, thanks to the majestic mountains, and is covered with jungles and lush plantations away from the madness of the South. Munduk’s raw and natural beauty is unparalleled that offers peace and scenic surroundings.
This complete guide to Munduk Bali includes a lot of amazing things to do in Munduk that will surely make you wanna put this mountain retreat on your list. Even if you don’t have much time in Bali then taking out 2-3 days would be a good start to get the feel of this region.
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IS MUNDUK WORTH VISITING?
Many people who visit Bali sadly don’t think about visiting Munduk or even staying in this region. The most they do is to make a day trip here to see some of Instagram’s famous sites. But Munduk is more than a day trip, it’s well worth visiting here and staying for a few nights.
Munduk is a beautiful place, think of it as a mountain retreat. It definitely deserves to be on your itinerary. You can choose to relax in the luxury resorts or go out to have a real adventure chasing waterfalls in the wild. There is a lot to see and do and all the choices will bring you closer to nature.
WEATHER IN MUNDUK
As the village is at an altitude of around 800-900 meters above sea level, it tends to rain more in the area. So, the weather in Munduk is colder than in any other region. The days can be warm and sunny but the nights are usually chilly.
It may rain any time of the day, even in the dry season. Usually, the rains don’t last long more than 1-2 hrs but it is better to come prepared with a raincoat. Also, carry a jacket or a sweater with you because the weather can turn from sunny to chilly in minutes here.
BEST TIME TO VISIT MUNDUK BALI
Any time of the year is the best time to visit Munduk but if you are particularly interested in visiting waterfalls which are in abundance in North Bali then I would suggest skipping the rainy season. The best time to visit Munduk, in that case, would be from April to November.
THINGS TO DO IN MUNDUK
1. Soak in the beauty of Pura Ulun Danu Beratan Temple aka The Floating Temple
Set on the shores of Lake Bratan and surrounded by the backdrop of scenic mountains, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan temple is a picturesque landmark and a significant temple in Munduk Bali. It’s the iconic beauty of this temple that makes it one of the most photographed temples in Bali.
The changing water level makes this place even more fascinating. You can rent a boat and go out to explore the lake or just take pictures of the temple. The temple complex is huge and gorgeous. I recommend exploring for at least an hour.
Pro Tip: Visit the temple at Sunrise or when it opens (at around 7 am) for the best light. There will be fewer to no people at this time making the place even more pretty and enjoyable.
Google Location: Ulun Danu Temple
2. Go Waterfall Chasing
There are countless waterfalls in Bali and North Bali is home to several waterfalls, all thanks to the lush vegetation. You can’t go to the North without visiting at least a few of them. Some of the waterfalls are located near the Munduk region while a few others are a bit further North in the Singaraja area.
Some of the best waterfalls in Munduk and surrounding areas include Air Terjun Munduk waterfall, Banyumala Twin waterfall, Aling-Aling waterfall, Gitgit Waterfall, Nungnung Waterfall, and Sekumpul Waterfall. There are a lot more hidden waterfalls in the area than these ones so you just have to keep exploring.
Sekumpul Waterfall
Hands down the best waterfall in North Bali and not the one that is easy to get to. It is grand in every manner but there are a lot of scams at this place where they will ask you to take a mandatory guide costing you a whooping 125,000 IDR. There is a lookout from where you can see the waterfall from the top and that costs 20,000 IDR.
Give yourself enough time to hike down without paying the additional money (if that’s possible), enjoy, and then hike back up. At least a half-day would be good. It will take you around 1 hr to reach the parking spot at Sekumpul. The road is windy and narrow so be careful.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee for the Sekumpul waterfall is around 20,000 IDR per person.
Parking: 2,000 IDR.
Banyumala Twin Waterfall
One of the Munduk Bali waterfalls that’s not a very powerful one but a very pretty one is Banyumala Twin waterfall. As the name suggests, it is a waterfall with 2 separate streams and in my opinion, it is a must-visit.
The drive to the Banyumala waterfall is not for the people who are not expert drivers. There is no proper road and the lane is very narrow and the ride is bumpy. So if you aren’t a confident driver then there are locals/guides who will charge you and can take you back and forth to/from the top of the waterfall.
From there it just takes 15 mins to hike down to this gorgeous waterfall. The water is quite cold and refreshing. Make sure to wear water shoes because the rocks are sharp. The best part is that it’s relatively not very busy.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee for the Banyumala waterfall is around 30,000 IDR per person.
Parking: You May have to pay extra for parking.
Air Terjun Munduk Waterfall
A 5 min drive from Munduk and you will find this gem of a waterfall on someone’s land. It is not as impressive as other waterfalls and the water is not deep enough to swim either but it still has a lot of beauty and is very easy to reach.
There is a parking area, Munduk waterfall parking where you can park and then walk for around 300-400 meters to reach the waterfall.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee for the Munduk waterfall is around 20,000 IDR per person.
Parking: 2,000 IDR.
Google Location: Munduk Waterfall
Nungnung Waterfall
A very powerful waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation, Nungnung will wow you in every sense. The 500 steps to reach this waterfall are killer and very steep. As you reach closer, you will be able to hear the loud noise of the waterfall. Don’t forget to wear water shoes as the rocks are slippery and sharp. There is also a toilet in the parking area.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee for the Nungnung waterfall is 20,000 IDR per person.
Parking: Free
Aling-Aling Waterfall
It is a set of 3 waterfalls, Kroya waterfall, Kembar waterfall, and finally Aling-Aling waterfall. At the ticket counter, you have 2 options – To go with a guide which means you can jump and swim in the waterfalls and another option is to go without the guide which means you cannot swim or get down to any of the waterfalls. It is definitely possible to do it without the guide as the path is marked well.
Entrance fee: The cost for all three waterfalls is 10,000 IDR with no guide and 125,000 IDR with a guide.
Parking: 2,000 IDR.
Gitgit Waterfall
One of the easiest waterfalls to get to in Munduk Bali is Gitgit Waterfall. You will see a lot of vendors selling food, drinks on your way. There are paved pathways and a small walk of around 15 mins will take to the waterfall.
This waterfall is quite popular amongst tourists so I recommend coming before 10 am to fully enjoy your time before crowds arrive.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee for the Gitgit waterfall is 10,000 IDR.
Parking: Free
3. Take a dip in the best Infinity pool
Nestled in North Bali on a working coffee plantation, Munduk Moding Plantation is an eco-luxury resort producing its own high-quality coffee. The Resort is beautiful and surrounded by lush jungles with a view of the lake and hill on a clear day.
The most stunning and famous part of this resort are the two infinity pools which have been rated as the world’s third top Infinity Pool by Asia Spa. It truly is so mesmerizing any time of the day but sunrises and sunsets are just heavenly.
It’s a bit of a luxury to spend a night here but a day pass is a good option to visit the property and have access to the infinity pools and Jacuzzi. The “Green Voucher – IDR 900.000/Person” is the one that gives you access to the pools. However, spending the night is highly recommended.
Read More: Where to Stay in North Bali – Munduk Moding Plantation Resort
4. Lookout at the Twin Lakes viewpoint
Munduk region in North Bali is blessed with 3 lakes: Lake Bretan, Lake Tamblingan, and Lake Buyan. Lake Tamblingan and Lake Buyan are sister lakes also known as Twin Lakes because they are right next to each other.
These twin lakes used to be one single lake but because of the landslide in the 1800s, they were divided into two separate lakes. On the left side is lake Buyan which is bigger and on the right is lake Tamblingan.
On the main road, there is a huge stone platform that overlooks both the lakes and is an incredible vantage point to see the beauty of these lakes. It is very easy to miss this platform since there is no sign on the road. Keep looking on the lakeside of the main road and you will easily spot it.
The Panorama view from this platform shouldn’t be missed.
Exact google coordinates of the viewpoint: -8.2467421,115.1001075
5. Take a Canoe Ride at Lake Tamblingan
Lake Tamblingan is a caldera lake surrounded by dense rainforests. It is still untouched by mass tourism. The lake is surrounded by Balinese temples that are associated with the ancient Tamblingan civilization which makes this place very important to locals.
The govt has taken special measures to conserve this place and the locals maintain this place. The best way to enjoy this pristine lake and have a tranquil experience is to take a canoe ride for a small fee. You can expect to see a lot of wedding photoshoots going on.
The water level of Lake Tamblingan changes according to the amount of rainfall received. Due to the changing water levels, some temples can be half immersed in water and the region can be swampy.
On a clear morning with a beautiful sunrise, the view of the lake and the color in the sky is unbeatable. Of course, the famous places are gorgeous and famous for a reason but the beauty of Bali is in places as serene as this.
Read More: Lake Tamblingan Bali – Ultimate Guide to see this Hidden Gem
6. Swing it for the Gram
Forget the slang but literally, take several pictures like a champ here with no regrets. Wanagiri Hidden Hills is heaven for everyone who is looking to take “the shots” for Instagram. With a view of Lake Buyan, all the installations here make the pictures oh so worth it.
There are several installations like a swing (not the famous Bali swing), a nest, a hand, a boat, etc. The workers here can help you take pictures and with the help of reflectors they can help you get the proper lighting.
It is located on the same main road where the twin lake viewpoint is. There are several other places that offer more or less the same photo opportunities and at less cost but this is the most famous one due to more installations.
Read More: Wanagiri Hidden Hills – A Guide to Bali’s famous Instagram spot
7. Take pictures in front of the famous Handara Gate
If we are talking about Instagram-worthy places then you just can’t miss this iconic Handara golf gate if you are in Munduk Bali.
Handara gate also known as the “the gateway to heaven” is a perfect backdrop for a picture and is extremely popular on Instagram. It is actually the entrance to the Handara golf course and resorts but because of its stunning ambiance and scenery, the gate gained popularity.
You can expect the entrance gate to be packed with tourists every time except for sunrise. It is very easy to find as it’s on the main road.
Ticket Price to click photos at Handara gate: 30k IDR
Drone Price: 100k IDR
8. Visit a HotSpring
Banjar Hot Spring, located at Banjar village, only 20 minutes from Singaraja is not just a typical hot spring. It is made in a traditional Balinese style built with stones decorated with carvings. There are water spouts resembling dragon heads which in Balinese culture means guardians of rivers, springs, and wells.
These rustic stone pools covered in algae have murky green water that has a sulfur concentration which helps cure skin diseases. At Banjar Hot Springs, there are some different ponds with different widths, lengths, and depths. Visitors can choose from three bathing pools.
For visitors who would prefer to bathe separately from the crowds, there are two secluded Jacuzzis. These are charged hourly but they’re worth the peaceful experience. There are so many tour companies that provide Natural Hotspring tours.
Opening hours: 8 am – 6 pm
Price range: IDR 6,000 per adult
Google Location: Banjar Hotspring
9. Sip the tastiest coffee from a coffee plantation
The cool climate of Munduk makes it a great place to grow a large number of vegetables and fruits but also coffee. Munduk coffee is supposed to be some of the best in all of Bali. Visiting a coffee plantation should definitely be on your itinerary.
There are many coffee plantations around Munduk in the village such as Wanagiri Coffee plantation Bali, Munduk Sari Garden Villa, Coffee Farm. You can also stop in at one of the coffee plantations during a trek or visit the Munduk Moding plantation resort for a tour.
As the resort is set on a working coffee plantation, during the tour, guests are taught how to process their own coffee. Munduk Moding also offers the famous Luwak or civet coffee and the best part is that the civets are not caged.
10. Sunrise over Mt. Batur
Are you ready for some adventure? Mount Batur sunrise trekking tour is a rewarding way to start your day. Rise and shine early to hike up to 1700-meter to an active volcano in the dark to reach the summit at sunrise. If you are an active person with a normal level of fitness, the hike shouldn’t be too tough and you will be able to reach the top of the volcano within a two-hour walk.
BOOK YOUR TOUR FROM HERE: Sunrise Mount Batur Hike with Breakfast
11. See the Rice Fields of Munduk
Rice fields are spread all over Bali and the major ones like Tegallalang Rice Terrace and the UNESCO world heritage site Jatiluwih Rice Terrace are hugely popular, overcrowded, and have expensive tickets. However, not much is known about Munduk Rice fields as they are not much visited by tourists but are equally splendid if not grand.
The highland region of Munduk has a wonderful expanse of rice paddies and they are more authentic and local away from the touristy Bali. There is no entrance fee and you can also find small cafes for coffee or lunch. The village is famous for cycling tours and nature walks.
Google Location: You will find 2 locations on Google maps named Rice fields Munduk and Dayang Rice Terraces.
12. Go Jungle Trekking in Munduk
Munduk Village is famous for its beautiful scenery that has a variety of amazing treks and walks along with cycling tours. Munduk is surrounded by rainforest, rice paddies, and farms. Jungle trekking is very popular amongst backpackers and people who stay in North Bali for a longer time.
Bali Jungle trekking as it’s called will lead you through rainforest plantations and magnificent waterfalls. The info booth is located on the road overlooking the lake, after a couple of local restaurants and lookouts. There are a number of tour companies offering the trek so choose your tour wisely based on the full research and reviews.
Google Location: Bali Jungle Trekking
13. Go wild with Munduk Wilderness
If you are up for a real adventure and a day filled with thrilling activities then I highly recommend Munduk Wilderness. They are adventure operators and offer unique expedition opportunities including off-roading in a buggy, cycling, and trekking.
You can choose a tour that you are comfortable with. They also have a base camp set in a small village in Munduk Bali with scenic surroundings.
GETTING TO MUNDUK BALI
No matter which part of Bali you are staying at, getting to Munduk is relatively easy by Bike or Car. Hotels can also arrange a transfer but usually, that is notoriously expensive so I wouldn’t suggest it.
While it’s totally possible to do a day trip from Ubud, Canggu, or any other part of Bali, I highly suggest staying in Munduk for a few nights to see the area more and without any rush.
How to get from Ubud to Munduk
To get to Munduk from Ubud, there are a few options. You can either take a taxi, rent a bike or car, or take a shuttle bus.
By Taxi – The easiest, most convenient and the fastest way is to take a taxi but it’s also expensive if you are alone or a couple. Different drivers will quote different prices so make sure to negotiate because they will try to charge as much as they can.
The journey from Ubud to Munduk is around 1 hr 45 mins and should not cost you more than 400,000 IDR.
By Shuttle – There are also shuttles that run from Ubud to Munduk that can hold up to 8 people. These vehicles are mini-bus or vans that are generally air-conditioned and are private. There are a lot of tours and travel companies that run these shuttle services.
They have different times and prices so the best bet is to ask your hotel or the owner of Airbnb the nearest shuttle services and the timings. It’s also possible that if there are not enough people traveling to Munduk at that particular time then the shuttle may cancel.
How to get from Canggu to Munduk
It’s going to take almost the same amount of time i.e 1hr 45 min to reach Munduk from Canggu. To get to Munduk from Canggu you can drive your scooter if you are comfortable driving for such a long time or the easiest is to take a taxi.
As Canggu is a base for ex-pats and is very popular, taxis generally cost more from this area. You can use Grab to book a taxi which is similar to Uber but more affordable.
NOTE: I wouldn’t recommend a Bluebird taxi at all. They are metered taxis and with traffic in Canggu being crazy, they will be much expensive.
GETTING AROUND MUNDUK BALI
Munduk is a small place, so it’s easy to get around yourself. You will not have to book a taxi or hire a driver to take you around. The best way to get around and explore the surrounding area is to hire a scooter if you already don’t have one.
To rent a scooter ask at your accommodation or one of the local restaurants. Prices for renting a scooter in Munduk Bali can vary from shop to shop and it will also depend on the number of days you want to rent for but it should be somewhere between 40,000 – 80,000 IDR.
NOTE: Make sure to have an international driving license and negotiate for prices when you are hiring a driver or renting a car/scooter.
WHERE TO EAT IN MUNDUK BALI
North Bali majorly has Balinese dishes and a lot of non-vegetarian options along with a variety of seafood. If you are an Indonesian food lover and not choosy at all then you have a lot of options.
Apart from the street side Warung – which in Indonesia means a small family-owned business, there are a few restaurants that are worth mentioning.
1. Chilli Bar Indian Food
If you love Indian food then you should definitely try Chilli Bar Indian Food in Munduk. It’s a family-owned small business and restaurant that provides both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. Though the menu is limited, the food is tasty and authentic. It gives you a feeling of home-cooked food.
Recommendation: Go for a Thali meal either vegetarian or non-vegetarian.
2. Waroeng Buyan 818
Another one of my favorite In North Bali is Waroeng Buyan 818. It’s a cafe with a nice view of the surrounding valley from the rooftop. The menu is a mix of western and Balinese dishes. Apart from food, they have some of the best non-alcoholic drinks.
3. Warung Classic
If you are looking for an authentic Bali feel along with the best food, try Warung Classic. Their specialty is a typical Balinese menu. This place is quite famous so you may have to wait for your order or for seating. They have a nice range of vegetarian options and the food is good value for money.
WHERE TO STAY IN MUNDUK BALI
LUXURY – Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort and Spa
Munduk Moding Plantation is a dream stay in North Bali. Located on a working coffee plantation, they provide a scenic view of mountains on a clear day from their 2 infinity pools. They also have an outdoor jacuzzi and spa facilities. The staff is friendly and will cater to all your needs. They have an in-house restaurant called MiMPi restaurant that has a good variety of options. It’s located very close to Twin lake viewpoint, Wanagiri hidden hills, and Tamblingan lake.
MID-RANGE – Puri Lumbung Cottages, Restaurant, and Spa
Puri Lumbung Cottages are a charming accommodation option for people who are looking for a great stay and a bit of luxury without spending much. It is set in the mountains with views of rice fields and is surrounded by nature. Each cottage has an attached balcony made of solid wood and the attached washroom is equipped with hot shower facilities. Their restaurant, Warung Kopi Bali Restaurant serves a variety of local, Western, and Vegetarian dishes. Guests can also indulge in a range of traditional Balinese massage and various cultural activities such as cooking and language lessons at Puri Lumbung Cottages.
BUDGET – CLV Hotel & Villa
Located just 5 mins away from Handara Gate and Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, CLV hotel & Villa is the best choice for people who don’t want to spend more. The villas are fully equipped with a television, kitchen, free wifi, and a washroom. There is a dedicated parking space in every villa, it’s basically having your own home with parking and a small porch. They also offer a free buffet breakfast which is a good value for money. The wifi is a bit weak though.
PRO TIP: If you are looking for even more budget-friendly places then Munduk has a lot of Homestay options.
FINAL THOUGHTS
So, Is a trip to Munduk Bali worth it? I hope the answer is loud and clear. Yes, it definitely is worth spending a few days if not a week in this beautiful mountain region. Along with so much to see and do, this area is calm and will provide you with zen moments.
If you are interested and have more days to spare, you can venture further North to Lovina and Singaraja for an even more relaxing and peaceful atmosphere. The beaches of Lovina and the many waterfalls in Singaraja are worth exploring.
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Your photos are BEAUTIFUL!! Add Munduk to my bucket list and saving this for when we plan our visit! Thanks for sharing. 🙂
Between the waterfalls, the pools and the lakes it seems like it’s all about the water here! It all looks so beautiful. And I know at some point I have to visit Handara gate!
Your photos are gorgeous! Bali is so high on my list so I’m going to save this for the future 🙂 thank you so much for such a great guide!
I love this guide Suvarna! Munduk is so pretty and I loved the waterfalls there. I also went to a really great restaurant called The View that had amazing views! Wanagiri is so much fun and Ulun Danu is beautiful! 🙂 Your photos are always amazing!
Thank you for sharing! I’ve been wanting to visit Bali but was worried about over tourism. North Bali sounds like exactly my style, now to make this trip happen!
These waterfalls are stunning! I have to say, Munduk gives me a completely different idea of Bali. I’m adding it to my bucket list!
I’m a water baby at heart so would love all the waterfalls and swimming in exotic places. Looking forward to it.
Wow! Your photos are absolutely stunning. You’ve inspired me to go chasing waterfalls! Love that there are so many diverse things to do including hot springs and jungle hikes! Thanks for putting this beautiful spot on my radar.
Can’t wait to get back to Bali once COVID is over! Will save this post for when we can visit again!
Such a detailed article! Beautiful photos too, which makes me want to add Munduk, Bali to my bucket list immediately!
I came for the waterfalls but stayed for everything else! I appreciate the tips on what to expect and costs to access each one. Those infinity pools, though! And you must have an amazing wardrobe — each shot is visually stunning!
I see what you mean about needing more time here! I could spend a week doing all the things you recommend. Coffee and waterfalls sound amazing.
Wow, this part of Bali is so beautiful! I love all of your pictures! I also really liked how comprehensive this guide was, pinned for later, hope to get here!
Wow your images are so stunning ! A great post ! I have been wanting to visit Bali for years !
Safe travels
Valerie
Beautiful photos! I really enjoyed North Bali.
What an amazing guide. Bali looks like an incredible place to visit. Thank you for sharing
We also loved Munduk! So many beautiful waterfalls and villages in the region 🙂
i’ll admit i was one of those people who never considered visiting munduk when going to bali – i now need to reconsider!!!
Great guide! Your photos are so beautiful and I love the waterfall! Now you made me to turn on the TLC song hahaha
YOUR PHOTOS ARE AMAZING! So magical! My favourite waterfall in Bali is Sekumpal, it’s just so majestic. Thank you for sharing.
Wow! Your photos are incredible! I am so on the fence about whether I want to visit Bali, but it really does look incredibly beautiful.
Wow! Bali is just so incredible. I’m dying to visit and I’m definitely adding this to my list!!
Munduk is one of my favorite places in Bali! I absolutely loved the waterfalls and lakes, and the amazing scenery. I do wish I’d been able to swim in that pool though!
Such a great guide and I love your pictures! I want to go back to Bali NOW 😀
Thank you for this very detailed post! I went to Bali last summer but didn’t go to any of the places that you detail! I had planned to go back this August but have to table my trip until COVID clears. I wish I was there right now! Felt like I lived vicariously through what you said. Thank you!
Your photos are incredible! I have actually never heard of Mundak before, so i will definitely add it to my future travel list. x
wow such beautiful photos! I had never heard of Munduk before reading your post – it is now on my bali list!
I went to Bali 20 years ago and spent most of our time in and around Nusa Dua, so a return trip is definitely in order. I’d love love love to visit Munduk, Bali – thank you for the inspiration!
Love the waterfall pictures. I’d live to return to Bali.
I hadn’t heard of this area before but it looks beautiful! Bali is on my list, but I definitely want to make time to stay here whenever I am able to visit. Thanks for so many great suggestions 🙂
Bali is on my bucket list. I can’t wait to visit it one day! Your photos look incredible!
I can’t believe I missed so many of these places when I was in Bali. I’ll just have to come back! 🙂
I’ve never even heard of Munduk before now! Thanks for sharing with us about it 🙂 your photos are lovely too
I love highlighting areas that are worth a visit but are underappreciatd, thanks for sharing these details for Munduk!
So much to see in nail. Great suggestions. 😊
Your photos are GORGEOUS! Bali has been on my bucket list for ages, probably since I first went there at 11 months old, haha. Hoping to go in 2022 so this is going straight to my Bookmarks!
You had me at waterfalls!
I love how much gorgeous natural areas you found in Munduk! Bali is so, sooo beautiful, but those waterfalls, lakes, lookout points and possible treks sound fantastic!
Bali looks INCREDIBLE! Those waters and the infinity pool look so magical!!
Every time I see pictures of Bali I just want to visit more and more! I’ve heard a lot about Ubud but not as much about Munduk so this was super interesting to read 🙂 Can’t wait to plan a trip one day!
Love your photos as always girl! What a stunning place. I had been to Bali last year but didn’t have enough time to make it to Munduk! Need to go someday and try the food at Warung Classic! 🙂