26 Surprise natural destinations in Bali where you can discover mystical waterfalls, secret canyons, breathtaking mountains and more!

Versi Bahasa Indonesia: http://indonesia.tripcanvas.co/id/bali/tempat-wisata-alam/

Written by Fiona Davies
Co-written by Adam Ariawan

Of all the honorary names bestowed on Bali, the most famous is the ‘The Island of the Gods’.

The moniker doesn’t just come from the Hindu deities revered by the Balinese people – but is equally inspired by the incredible natural beauty and geographical wonders of the island.

Also read: Uncovering Bali’s 7 most spectacular waterfalls unknown to most

11 hidden beach paradise that Balinese would never tell you

These supernaturally beautiful creations dot the Balinese landscape, like reminders of an ancient time when gods roamed the earth.

Get away from the chaotic bustle of Denpasar and the garish tourist resort strips, and Bali’s natural beauty isn’t hard to find. But some of its most spectacular geological wonders will take a little more effort to uncover.

Some of them in fact, are rarely visited at all. To experience the untouched splendour of the Island of the Gods at its finest, hook up with an experienced local guide, or arrange your own transport.

Venture off the well-worn tourist trail and uncover some of these extraordinary sights!

1. 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!

2. Together, hike up to greater heights: Mende Hill

If you and your partner don’t have a lot in common, it’s time to share interest in a great hobby that could suit you both.

Greater views come after the hardest climb; relationship-wise too!

Fill your couple life with adventures, get out of your comfort zone, wander where the Wi-Fi is weak but where the connection between you both is the strongest!

As we all know, a relationship is like a hike up a mountain, it needs courage, strength and helping hands from both sides.

We’ve got this on the list as it is one of the most lesser-known hiking spots in Bali, which also means no crowd and privacy assured.

The hike is relatively easy but oh-so-totally worth it and scenic!  The way up the hill might sometimes be challenging, but what can be better than giving each other mental and physical support? Who knows, you might both fall in love with hiking!

P.S. Girls, relax – it’s totally fine to be dirty and smelly around your partner… sometimes! They say doing sports together can bond couples together!

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. The Sacred and Secret Canyon of Sukawati

Near Pura Beji Guwang in Sukawati, there’s a sacred, secret canyon that’s so incredible, it’s sure to inspire anyone and everyone.

For any artist, photographer, creative, or simply anyone who wants to be wowed by a real life view of nature’s masterpiece – this secret canyon is a must-visit.

The craziest thing about this canyon, is if you look hard enough – it is so uniquely shaped, one can even see a crying skull and other faces (lions?!) in the abstract landscape.

And if that’s not enough, the colours around make for an amazing visual feast too.

Sit on the flat of the canyon rocks, and dangle your feet while admiring the view – or get a little crazy and see how much deeper you can go into the canyon. (Make sure you’re as safe and careful as possible, of course!)

When getting here, do be ultra careful as you will have to pass several rivers with a sticky muddy floor, and you might also have to climb some big slippery rocks.

Other than that feel free to explore to your heart’s content and fully appreciate this magnificent find!

5. Marigold fields forever at Desa Temukus

Note: These marigold fields are currently out of bounds for visitors due to the recent Mount Agung eruption. Just keep this magical place on your list when you next travel to Bali!

Desa Temukus (also known as ’Temukus Village’) is not green but orange. The place blossoms with pretty yellowish-orange flowers!

If you’ve ever wondered, there’s one particular flower used in religious rituals in Bali – the marigold flower, or locally known as ‘Gemitir’. It’s easy to imagine how wonderful it could be to be in the middle of flower fields full of marigold!

Desa Temukus is a quiet village in East Bali, close to the holiest (but sadly most commercial) temple in Bali. Many of its inhabitants grow flowers, so you can find many flower fields here. But don’t forget to ask for permission from the locals before entering their fields!

Another good news for travellers – the area also has a flower field of Edelweiss (or otherwise called ‘Kasna’). And one crucial tip: it’s better to visit the place before the harvesting season, so you can see the lushest flower fields ever (usually before a major religious day, so do check with your local Balinese friends about the dates, as Bali uses a lunar calendar so the dates change every year).

6. 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!

7. 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!

8. The High Cliff at Melasti Beach (Ungasan)

One of the most captivating beaches on Bali’s southern coast is largely ignored by tourists. It’s mostly in-the-know photographers who make it down to Melasti, drawn to its beautiful rock formations and stunning high cliffs.

Take note not to mistaken this Melasti beach (Ungasan) with the one near Tanah Lot, where after the rain, a spectacular waterfall often appears on the clifftop, tumbling down on the sand and washing out into the ocean.

9. Nothing like a Secret Getaway at the Angel’s Billabong

The Angel’s Billabong is one of Nusa Penida’s secret getaways in the form of a marvelous natural infinity pool.

With its emerald hues and crystalline waters, the Angel’s Billabong is the epitome of stunning. And apparently, the green floors of this particular infinity pool are so comfortable to walk on (not slippery), it actually feels carpeted.

Imagine that! We sure wish we were lounging around at Angel’s Billabong this very moment.

PS: Do note that Angel’s Billabong can be dangerous. There have been people swept out to the ocean by waves rushing in!

10. The Secret Gardens of Sambangan

Hidden away in the far north Bali is the village of Sambangan. Only the locals and a handful of savvy tourists have experienced the breathtaking splendour of the jungles and waterfalls near Sambangan, known as the Secret Gardens.

The gardens are a chain of natural pools and cascading waterfalls hidden within the lush Balinese rainforest. There are seven falls in total and it takes a three hour trek deep into the jungle to explore most of them. Remote and unspoiled, the scenery here is among the most beautiful in Bali.

The pools are filled with cold spring water, perfect for cooling off after the long jungle trek, and some of the waterfalls even serve as natural waterslides for the daring!

11. Bukit Teletubbies on Nusa Penida

In the lush green interior of Nusa Penida, a cluster of unusually shaped, conical hills have been curiously bestowed (we’re not sure by who exactly) with the name Bukit ‘Teletubbies’.

Confused? The name is a reference to the rounded green hills that were home to the fuzzy aliens from the children’s television program.

The best time to visit Bukit Teletubbies is during or just after the rainy season when the hills are a vivid green and most resemble the cutesy world of our gobbledegook speaking space critters.

12. Atuh Beach, Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is home to some of Bali’s most beautiful, secluded beaches including Atuh Beach on the island’s east coast.

Looking out from the gorgeous, white sand crescent beach, you’ll see the dramatic surf-worn cliffs of Juntil Cape to the left, and on the right, the rock island of Labuan Ampuak with its striking, craggy peaks.

Atuh is especially picturesque at low tide, when the exposed corals create a vibrant, living foreground for spectacular shots of the island.

13. Mount Batur’s Volcanic Landscape, viewed from Pinggan village

Mount Batur (1,717m) is the most visited volcano in Bali, but most visitors usually join the tourist hordes at Kintamani village for views of the majestic fire-breather.

For a view of Batur that’s arguably more spectacular, we suggest you head to the more isolated village of Pinggan.

Here you can experience the fierce splendour of the active volcano in a more solitary, meditative setting.

Batur is at its most photogenic at sunrise and sunset, and even makes for impressive night photography – with the lights of Pinggan village spread out at the foot of the mountain, and a sky full of stars twinkling above the peak.

14. The Green Cliffs and Little Grotto of Undisan Bangli

Getting here will be an adventure itself, with views of rice paddies, forests and ravines – and waterfalls nearby. The Green Cliffs of Undisan are basically towering moss-covered cliffs making up the sides of a ravine.

What is the bigger secret of the already undiscovered wonder of the Green Cliffs?

If you follow the water under where the green cliffs merge,  you will discover a secret grotto hidden inside!

Depending on how adventurous you are, one might even swim into the cave, just to explore what’s beneath the malachite-coloured cliffs!

If not, simply sit on one of the rocks below the green cliffs, and have a session of peaceful meditation in this beautiful secluded location.

15. Catch the Magnificent Waterblow at Nusa Dua

Envision majestic Indian Ocean waves crashing against rock cliffs – have you ever seen a waterblow in person? Visit the hidden rock cliff in Nusa Dua to witness one of nature’s prettiest sights.

This natural phenomenon happens when waves hit the narrow space within the rock cliff where pressure builds, and water then blows up!

And remember; be careful to keep a distance to avoid getting wet.

16. Banah Cliff, Nusa Penida

The Banah Cliffs of Nusa Penida rise mightily out of the whirling ocean and are perhaps the most dramatic coastal cliffs in Bali.

Hundreds of metres high and draped in lush green vegetation, they make an astonishing sight seen from the water. When you’re standing on top of them, they are even more imposing with no barrier between you and the abyssal drop below.

Looking out from Banah Cliffs you’ll see an unusual rock formation – a pretty, tiny islet in the middle of nowhere, twisted into shape of an arch. Yet another mysteriously captivating wonder of Bali.

17. The Blue Lagoon, Nusa Ceningan

The crystal blue waters of Nusa Ceningan’s Blue Lagoon are the picture perfect ideal of an island paradise.

Most people come to simply admire the million dollar view, but a few adventure seekers and daredevil locals have claimed an overhanging ledge as a legendary cliff-jumping spot. (Cliff jumping is now prohibited due to safety reasons)

The stomach-turning 12 metre plunge into the surging ocean below is a rush you won’t forget in a hurry.

Unfortunately, do note that a few unsuspecting travelers have been washed off the ledge in rough weather, and local authorities actively discourage jumping.

18. Picnic with a Twist (or a Slant)

There’s nothing better than a picnic at the secret paradise known as Bukit Asah Bugbug, Karangasem.

This slanted hillside overlooks the ocean, giving you the perfect setting for a picnic with an interesting twist (or a slant)!

Yet another great romantic spot for lovers, this picnic spot is perfect for catching the sunrise – and panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, its coral reefs and small islands.

19. The Real Treasure of Suluban Beach

Everyone knows Suluban Beach to be a surfers’ paradise, but Suluban Cave might just be the real treasure here.

Looking almost like a movie set from the Pirates of the Caribbean series with its otherworldly glamour, Suluban Cave oozes both mystery and mystic.

Located directly under Uluwatu, the cave actually leads up to the beach near Uluwatu Temple, another incredible sea temple you should definitely visit too!

20. Visit the Broken Sea – Pasih Uwug

Pasih Uwug, also known as the broken sea, is one unique attraction in Nusa Penida that happens to be a cool geological phenomenon.

Why is it known as the broken sea? On first sight, you’ll see a natural arch created by the rock cliffs. The arch – or the hole in the rock cliff as some would say – actually used to be a cave!

The floor of the cave had collapsed, creating the arch we see today. The hole in the cliff has also allowed ocean waters to flow through – creating a gorgeous natural pool on the other side to marvel at, and even swim in!

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21. Soak in a ‘Jacuzzi’ on the Tegal Wangi Beach

Another wonder of nature that should not be missed – make your way to Tegal Wangi Beach. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by this gorgeous escape.

Ever wanted to soak in your private tub with an amazing view of the ocean? Tegal Wangi Beach gives you exactly that.

With little holes on the shore filled with seawater fresh from the ocean – you can be sure to have a comfortable soak in your beachy ‘jacuzzi’.

A romantic place to have a lovely date at; make sure to take lots of photos to commemorate the time spent with your loved one.

22. Mystery Boulder Beach – Yeh Leh

You probably wouldn’t have heard of the Yeh Leh Beach unless you are a local fisherman.

Located in Jembrana, just off the Denpasar-Gilimanuk highway, Yeh Leh is not decorated with soft white sand like your ideal beach.

Instead, thousands of boulders litter the shore, either covered in algae or washed clean by the waves. These mysterious rocks have been smoothed over for hundreds of years, leaving few clues about their origin.

The beach is actually easily accessible, and you can visit at low tide to see Yeh Leh in all its glory, with the boulders unearthed and many interesting marine animals caught in the rock pools.

And if you can, don’t miss its stunning sunset, which lights up every shining rock on the shore.

23. The Twin Lakes of Tamblingan and Buyan

With their serene, mystical beauty, these twin crater lakes sit side by side, split in the middle by a one kilometer stretch of forest.

The lakes are the life-source for the surrounding communities, and you may even see locals plying the waters in traditional dug-out canoes.

To view both lakes together, the best vantage point is from the top of the hill at Asah Gobleg Village.

Trekking the forests around the lakes, you’ll discover some of the most pristine natural habitats in Bali – home to lively troops of monkeys, squirrels and countless birds.

24. Drive (or no) through a hole in a tree: Bunut Bolong Tree

In the Manggissari village, located in the western part of Bali, stands yet another majestic tree that’s renowned for its supernatural powers.

But unlike the giant banyan tree that supposedly grants wishes, the Bunut Bolong Tree (meaning “tree with a hole in it”) has a far more ominous history.

The tree has roots on either side of a stretch of road, forming an archway that visitors can drive through. Brides and grooms are advised to refrain from passing through this way, though – legend has it that those who do will end up separated.

To protect people from the power of the tree, another road has been constructed next to it for believers to pass through.

But regardless of your belief in the legend, there’s nothing like a bit of risk to pique the adventurer’s interest, isn’t it?

25. Coffee-scented retreat – Blemantung Waterfall

Smack dab in the middle of the island, Blahmantung Waterfall gets few visitors, making the wonderfully scenic hike to the base a truly magical experience.

With a spectacular drop of 100 metres, it’s widely considered to be the highest waterfall in Bali.

Blahmantung is located conveniently within a walk from the picturesque farming village of Pupuan, home to some of central Bali’s most beautiful rice terraces.

Be sure to take a dip in the refreshing pool below and savour the tranquillity of one of Bali’s best off-the-beaten path attractions.

26. Adventure to seven falls – Sekumpul Waterfall

This hidden gem in the north of Bali is well worth the several hour drive from the main resorts, and the challenging walk from Sekumpul village down hundreds of steps and a river crossing.

‘Sekumpul’ actually means ‘group’, and during the rainy season, you’ll be greeted by a chain of up to seven falls.

All equally impressive, scattered across the high cliffs and cascading down amid emerald green highland forests.

After the long trek to get here, the chance to bathe beneath the falls will be a relaxing experience that can only be had here – one that soothes mind, body and soul.

27. The Natural Pool at Tembeling Beach, Nusa Penida

Update: This place is now closed due to landslide.

For the Balinese, Tembeling is a sacred place, used for rituals during the Keagamaan ceremony. In the forest, there are two hidden natural pools with water so clear that you can’t resist jumping into them.

Legend has it that they were discovered by a pregnant woman who was chasing a cow. Later on, locals used it as a source of drinking water. Nowadays, it has become a place sought by travellers craving for a swim in this unique secret spot.

But keep in mind that the big pool is for men and the small one for women only.

Continue walking to the very end and you will come to a beautiful rocky beach. You may very likely find yourself completely alone there.

Are there any more beautiful natural attractions in Bali we have missed? Let us know in the comment section below!

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