18 Surprise waterfalls in Bali to immerse in nature, magnificent landscapes, fresh air and clear waters!

Versi Bahasa Indonesia: https://indonesia.tripcanvas.co/id/bali/air-terjun/

Written by Oceana Setaysha
Co-written by Adam Ariawan, Fiona Davies, Elsa Marie, Adelina Luft
Edited by Beverley Lennon

This exotic melting pot of an island offers much more than meets the eye. Waterfalls, for instance, have been Bali’s hidden gems that seem lesser-known to many tourists. Hidden in deep jungles and valleys, these waterfalls are as breathtaking as the beaches we find in Bali!

Hop from one waterfall to the next with this list of 18 pristine-watered beauties that Mother Nature has to offer in the Land of Gods…

Read more:

77 Extraordinary things to do in Bali: Places to visit, eat and everything!

30 gorgeous natural attractions in Bali you never knew existed

15 Stylish affordable hotels in central Bali under $50

1. Step down into the rarified beauty of Tukad Cepung Waterfall

You must have heard all about Bali’s majestic waterfalls. Unknown to most people and only recently discovered by travellers, Tukad Cepung Waterfall stands almost virgin and unexplored.

This is as close to nature as you can get! You will have to climb a flight of steps to get to this beauty, so gear up accordingly.

Very importantly, do be gentle with and respectful of the natural space around Tukad Cepung as locals strive to maintain the area. Once you walk down the steps, remember to look up – cliffs encircle your surrounding with the waterfall flowing from a river above.

We’ve heard some mixed experiences from the few tourists who have travelled to Tukad Cepung. Since the waterfall remains a relative secret, there is no official entrance fee. However, in recent expeditions, travellers have been told to pay Rp. 10,000 (USD 0.75) to enter the area.

Be very careful though, it’s important to be aware of the river water levels before you head for the falls. Rapid flooding may occur if the water table begins to rise during rain so do check ahead before descending the stairs!

2. Plunge in a hidden endless stream of beauty – Bhuana Sari Waterfall

This is by far one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali – unknown to many, untouched and thus spectacular! So why not head up north and check out this lesser-known gem?

With a 2.5-hour drive from Denpasar and located in a secluded area, this waterfall flies under the radar. However, it is not a force to be reckoned with as its beauty is second to none.

After trekking for 20 minutes, you get to relish on a picturesque gush of water pouring down. Bhuana Sari is actually the second set of the Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall; both offer magical experiences!

Watch it burst out of the rocks and cascade soothingly into a creek. Awaken all of your senses and listen to the soothing flow of water and birds chirping in the background…

Experience Mother Nature at her finest; jump in the shallow natural pool to cool off after the effort it takes to get there or simply enjoy the droplets from high up a rock!

The waterfall is considered as a hidden oasis and only real adventurers tread this deep to explore an untouched gem! So what are you waiting for to get off the beaten path?

P.S. We heard there are 3 other waterfalls in the area that are not yet accessible – let us know if you manage to find a way!

3. A worshipping place to breathe in and dive in – Kanto Lampo Waterfall

The unique combination of four out of the five elements (fire, water, earth and air) make this waterfall a unique location to breath in, breath out and meditate in peace. Picture a clear river, a giant pile of rocks, fresh air  and the gentle flow of water piercing through them; all in perfect harmony.

According to the locals, water has been flowing through only since a few years back (apparently since 2015) following an intensive praying ceremony, and since then the waterfall has been considered as a blessing for the villagers as it attracts tourists and brings them a source of income.

Legend also says that a cave appeared following the worshipping event. Today, the cave is used for meditation purposes but is also home to some bat species!

The waterfall is rather accessible to all with a series of well-paved stairs leading down but you will also find other basic facilities such as parking lots and changing rooms. Mingle with the locals at the river bank as they spend the day fishing for the night’s dinner…

But that’s not all, there is also a small Hindu temple shaped like a gazebo where locals come to pray. You will also notice several beautiful carvings on the rocks. Culture meets nature at Kanto Lampo Waterfall; don’t miss out on this unique experience!

4. Discover a hidden waterfall among the cliffs and rocks at Desa Musi, Gerokgak

Generally known only among locals, Musi Village (otherwise known as Desa Musi) is a refreshing escape for those searching for an authentic experience in a simple Balinese village.

There, you’ll discover its secret – a cliff area where a waterfall crashes powerfully into a natural pool.

As this waterfall is very hidden, the best way to reach this place is to ask the local villagers for directions when you reach Musi Village. It’s a great opportunity to interact with the locals too!

At sunset, you can take a walk in the village, hunt for the scattered Hindu temples and observe the simple daily life of the villagers.

5. Adventure to seven falls – Sekumpul Waterfall

If you are really adventurous, here’s your chance at trying out another challenge: Sekumpul Waterfall.

It’s not entirely unknown, but its inaccessibility renders it to be hidden from many visitors.

Getting to the waterfall is very difficult, and you must travel down many slippery steps and across a river to see the falls close-up.

You can ask people to take you to the waterfall for a little bit of money and they will take you until the end of the road, from where you can walk around 50m to find the most beautiful views from high ground.

But what’s interesting about Sekumpul Waterfall is that instead of one waterfall, there are seven! (“sekumpul” means “group” in Indonesian) These are all scattered around the area, with the tallest being more than 50 metres high.

So, are you up for it?

Important: At the entrance, there will be a group of people beside the booth asking you to take their tour for 200,000 Rupiah (USD 14), and they will claim that it’s compulsory. Do NOT fall for this scam. The route leading into the Sekumpul waterfall is quite well maintained and you can walk by yourself. Although there are 2-3 junctions, but you can ask the locals for direction. Trust us, you won’t get lost in there.

6. The lesser known twin beauty – Banyumala Twin Waterfall

This is not an easy waterfall to find, but it will be well worth your effort.

The sight of this twin beauty can be overwhelming, as you take in the gush of uninterrupted water pouring against the steep cascading rocks.

Absorb the thunderous sounds among the rich green plants, trees and ravine around you while taking a cool dip in its freshwater. All you need to do next? Simply aim with your waterproof camera – focus on framing both twins of Banyumala in your shot for the most magnificent results to bring home.

Located in Wanagiri district near Lake Buyan, we definitely recommend getting a local who knows his way around this remote area to guide you here!

7. Swim in a natural pool gifted by Mother Nature – Gitgit Waterfall

When it gets too burning hot on the island, all you want to do is to jump into the pool!

And why not refresh yourself at one of nature’s most refreshing natural pools?

At Gitgit Waterfall, the water is clean, fresh and cool at 22° Celsius. One of Bali’s tallest waterfalls with a height of nearly 58 metres and located in the middle of a forest, Gitgit Waterfall is where you can indulge in a refreshing bathing session surrounded by lush greenery of the rainforest all around.

Here, you’ll be lulled by the soothing sounds of the water and the song of the birds… It’s a hidden paradise where you can truly listen to your heart and mind!

For the adrenaline junkies, you will love to go canyoning. Ride through natural slides, go cliff-jumping, hiking, rappelling and even climb down the waterfall. Or how about swinging right towards the waterfall and leaping straight into the water?

You’ll have the time of your lives!

8. It’s a waterfall with a secret cave waiting to be explored! – Pengempu Waterfall

Pengempu Waterfall is one of Bali’s latest and most accessible tourist attractions. When you arrive, a series of well-maintained stairs will lead you to a beautiful 20-metre-high waterfall; time to sooth your body, mind and soul!

Following your non-vigorous walk down to the waterfall, find yourself a spot atop the big rocks or by the river bank to sit back and relax; either that, or grab a liana to swing around and jump into the river- who knows you might find your Jane while pretending to be Tarzan?

If you seek a little more adventure, do not miss on exploring the secret 30-metre-deep cave (located near the parking lot). Be warned as it gets really dark inside. But not to worry, they provide some flashlights on-site!

9. Why have one waterfall when you can see three at the same time? – Pucak Manik Waterfall

Coffee, tangerine and clove plantations are what surround you in the highlands of North Bali and you should absolutely not miss visiting the area. While you’re at it, head over to this magnificent waterfall up in Buleleng.  Yes there is more to Wanagiri than its Instagram-worthy swing!

The trek down to the waterfall will have your inner explorer only thirst for more adventures like this one in the middle of the jungle, surrounded by lush greenery! But rest assured as the trail is an easy one.

Managed by the Wanagiri Tourism Awareness Group (Darwis), the natural attraction has been developed to be accessible to all. Once there, you will simply need to cross over a small bridge and walk on a slightly uphill path for about a hundred metres.

What makes this natural gem peculiar is the fact that it is comprised of three waterfalls. While the smallest flow of water is located on the extreme left, you will also find two other streams gushing out in the middle and to the right… We let the pictures speak for how magical they look!

10. Sip on fresh coffee with a side of waterfall – Golden Valley Waterfall

Who would have thought that a warm comforting cup of coffee and the soothing sight of a waterfall would go so well together?

Well, see it for yourself and head over to this waterfall in Singaraja City; only 15 minutes away from Munduk Waterfall and 70 kilometres away from Denpasar (approximately 1 hour 40 minutes’ drive).

Go on a little adventure through the valley to discover this hidden waterfall. The cool mountain air and spectacular scenery makes the walk enjoyable…

Once you’re there, check out the little bamboo stall and settle down for a cup of coffee. Not to rave about it but the coffee there is deemed to be surprisingly good! Probably because  it is freshly brewed from their own plantations!

The waterfall is set on a private plot of land so you can expect better cleanliness too.

Plunge in the natural pool under the 15-metre-high waterfall. Nothing quite compares to the refreshing scent of the nearby coffee plantations while you enjoy a relaxing swim amidst the lush jungle!

11. The new twin waterfall darling of Bali – Tibumana Waterfall

Once an isolated spot, the Tibumana waterfall is finally getting the hype it so rightly deserves.

At Apuan village in the Susut Bangli district lies not one, but two remarkable waterfalls shyly shielding a cave opening underneath them.

Locals believe that the entrance is the secret gateway to Raja Besakih’s temple – one of the Balinese Hindu Gods.

At a 20-metre height for each waterfall, the surrounding area boasts a shallow clear pool guarded by large rocks and moss green cliffs. There is still an ongoing effort from the locals to develop this site as it holds enormous tourist potential.

Our last advice before you head out is: get a water-proof camera (or at least waterproof casing) as you’ll definitely be thirsting for gorgeous photos of your time here.

12. Treasure at the end of 500 steps – Nungnung Waterfall

Nine hundred metres above sea level, in a small village in the middle of nowhere, Nungnung Waterfall is waiting for you.

Listen and watch thousands of litres of water cascading down 50 metres into a beautiful pool.

Sounds gorgeous? Getting there is a real challenge, though. Situated at the bottom of a gorge, you must descent 509 steps to reach the falls.

But you’ll be greeted with a magnificent view of the waterfalls and rice paddies all around.

It’s picture perfect, and totally worth it!

13. Twin falls – Aling-Aling Waterfall

The Aling-Aling Waterfall is just 11km from the city of Singaraja, around 80km from Denpasar.

And it’s unique for a very special reason – the 35-metre tall Aling-Aling Waterfall is split at the top, leaving two streams that fall at completely different speeds.

Have you ever seen anything like it before?

But don’t believe the photographs alone. Take the long, steep walk down to the falls yourself, and admire it up close!

But what’s the most unique thing about this waterfall that sets it apart from the rest? The water flowing down has slowly created a natural water slide.

If you’ve ever thought how great it would be to slide down a waterfall, Aling-Aling is your fantasy come true.

14. A waterfall pool that you can lounge in – Tegenungan Waterfall

Tegenungan is one of the few waterfalls in Bali that aren’t situated in the highlands or mountains.

Tegenungan waterfall is unique for its lush green surroundings and heavy water flow, perfect for swimming and enjoying the fresh water.

With a nearby temple and bathing spot, it’s no surprise that Tegenungan is popular among locals looking for a quick escape from the city rush!

15. Infinity pool with unrivaled ocean views – Peguyangan Waterfall, Nusa Penida

Peguyangan Waterfall on Nusa Penida isn’t a towering vertical torrent of water like the jungle falls in central Bali.

Also read: The complete guide to the Maldives of Bali – the Nusa islands (Lembongan, Ceningan and Penida)

Instead, it’s a series of short, cascading spring fountains that eventually make their way over a steep ravine and into the sea.

Away from the ravine, the cascades make a great place for all to enjoy a ‘natural spa’, and a massage from the fast flowing waters as they burble over the shallow ledges and pools.

Reaching the springs involves a descent down narrow stairs against the wall of the ravine. After some 460 steps, the gorgeous sight of the cascades is both exhilarating and relieving.

Check this amazing adventure from Travel Life Love!

16. Coffee-scented retreat – Blemantung Waterfall

Hidden away in the Tabanan region of Bali, Blemantung Waterfall (or Blahmantung waterfall) is a gorgeous green sight, enjoyed by only a small number of dedicated travellers.

Tucked among the region’s many coffee plantations, Blemantung Waterfall is 50 metres high and is the perfect place to soak in the water and take in the fresh air of the rainforest.

If you pay close attention, you may even detect a faint coffee fragrance in the air!

17. The overshadowed hidden gem – Jembong Waterfall

Locally, Jembong Waterfall is known as one of the best waterfalls in Bali.

But it is in fact rarely visited due to its proximity to the famous Git Git falls.

And that may actually be a blessing in disguise – Jembong offers stunning unspoiled beauty.

Although the falls isn’t very high, its gentle slope and regular water flow makes it ideal for soaking in to enjoy the beautiful green jungle surroundings, and for spiritual healing.

18. In that faraway village – Yeh Mampeh Waterfall

Away from the overcrowded tourist centres of Kuta and Ubud, there is a small village called Les, wherein lies a beautiful waterfall.

This beauty, Yeh Mampeh Waterfall (which means ‘flying water’ in Balinese), is a virtually untouched one nestled in serene surroundings, and it is also one of Bali’s tallest waterfalls.

You can hike down the falls and visit the nearby caves, or just simply bathe under the gentle flow of the water.

Have you heard of or been to any other hidden waterfalls in Bali? Share with us below!

The post 18 Hidden waterfalls in Bali to immerse in nature, spectacular scenery, fresh air and clear waters! appeared first on TripCanvas Indonesia.