THE 7 BEST WATERFALLS NEAR UBUD, BALI

If you are looking for the best waterfalls near Ubud, Bali, you have come to the right place. We have spent a lot of time adventuring in Ubud over the years, and chasing waterfalls is one of our favourite pastimes. In this guide, we advise everything you need to know ahead of visiting the 7 best Ubud Waterfalls. Including entrance fees, how to get there, opening times, & more. 

It’s no secret that Bali is home to some spectacular waterfalls. Set in the heart of the Balinese jungle, they are our favourite place to escape to when we need a retreat from the bustling tourist hubs.

After exploring all of the Bali waterfalls, some of our favourites are in or around Ubud. Of course, not all of them are quiet & peaceful, which is why we’ve put together this list. To help you choose the best Ubud waterfalls to visit.

The list includes all of the popular waterfalls, the best waterfalls to swim in, and the waterfalls suitable for taking little ones. As well as the hidden gems that very few people know about. So let’s get to it.

The 7 Best Waterfalls Near Ubud

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The 7 Best Ubud Waterfalls at a Glance

I go into quite a lot of detail in this article regarding each of our favourite waterfalls.  So if you’re short for time, here they are at a glance:

1. Tibumana Waterfall
2. Tukad Cepung Waterfall
3. Nungnung Waterfall
4. Leke Leke Waterfall
5. Kanto Lampo Waterfall
6. Tegenungan Waterfall
7. Sumampan Waterfall

Waterfall #1: Tibumana Waterfall

Tibumana is not only one of the best waterfalls near Ubud, but one of the best in Bali. Until recently, the majestic falls were considered somewhat of a hidden gem. However, after an influencers photo went viral, the picturesque location shot to Insta-fame.  

Despite its newfound popularity, Tibumana is well worth a visit. It is accessible via an easy 10-minute hike, so it’s suitable for all ages and capabilities. The straightforward trail leads you through the jungle, making for the perfect mini-adventure for little ones.

This is also a great waterfall for swimming, and the refreshing pool is the ideal spot to cool down on a hot day. There are even local guys who hang out nearby watching over the safety of visitors so that you can swim with confidence alongside friends or family.

Entrance Fee: 10,000 IDR

Best Time to Visit: Early Morning 

Time Required: 1-2 Hours

Opening Times: 6 am – 6 pm

Need more information for this Ubud Waterfall? Check out our guide for Tibumana waterfall here.

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Waterfall #2: Tukad Cepung Waterfall

Drive 30-minutes North of Tibumana Waterfall, and you will find Tukad Cepung Falls. Again, it’s lesser-known than other waterfalls in Ubud; however, the Instagram game is rapidly changing that. Nevertheless, it’s one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali and an essential addition to your Ubud itinerary. 

The highlight of these falls is the incredible sun rays that shoot into the canyon around 10 am on a sunny day. These rays create a magical scene as they hit the waterfall, and many consider the location to be one of the most instagrammable spots in Bali.

The hike to reach the falls is easy. The trail follows a scenic jungle area involving 100 or so stairs down into the canyon. From there, you have to wade through water and around obstacles to find the waterfall.

Entrance Fee: 15,000 IDR

Best Time to Visit: To catch the sun rays, you should arrive before 10 am.

Time Required: 1-2 Hours

Opening Times: 6 am – 5 pm

Need more information for this Ubud Waterfall? Check out our Guide to Tukad Cepung Waterfall here.

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Waterfall #3: Nungnung Waterfall

Nungnung is one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in Bali. Located at the heart of the island, it makes for an adventurous day trip from Ubud. It involves a strenuous 500-step hike to reach the falls, where you can swim, relax, and enjoy nature. 

The drawcard for most visitors at Nungnung is the sheer force of the falls. This waterfall is a 60-foot force to be reckoned with! Although it is permitted to swim at these falls, you do so at your peril. Getting caught up under that pummeling water is not a fight you can count on winning.  

With this in mind, you will also want to take extra care of your electrical items such as phone and camera when visiting Nungnung. We could feel the splashback from what must have been 30m away, so it pays to have a waterproof bag to take with you.

Entrance Fee: 10,000 IDR

Best Time to Visit: Early Morning.

Time Required: 2-3 Hours

Opening Times: 9 am – 4 pm

Need more information for this Ubud Waterfall? Check out our Guide to Nungnung Waterfall here.

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Waterfall #4: Leke Leke Waterfall

Leke Leke Falls is one of the least visited waterfalls near Ubud, but we both agreed it was one of the most beautiful. If you are heading out on an Ubud Waterfall Tour, you could tie this one in with a visit to Nungnung falls as they aren’t too far apart.

What struck us about Leke Leke, was how the falls sit nestled within a cove. With such perfect framing, it is every photographer’s dream. The water flow is calm and graceful, compared to other waterfalls in Bali. And the surrounding nature gives this spot a real peaceful feel.

The hike is one of the easier waterfall treks, so you could feel confident taking along little ones. This isn’t a waterfall for swimming, but you can walk through the falls to discover a hidden cave. Otherwise, it’s really just a spot to marvel nature. Nonetheless, I suggest making this waterfall a priority while it is still off the radar.  

Entrance Fee: 30,000 IDR

Best Time to Visit: Any time of day.

Time Required: 1-2 Hours

Opening Times: 7 am – 5 pm

Need more information for this Ubud Waterfall? Check out our Guide to Leke Leke Waterfall in Bali here.

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Waterfall #5: Kanto Lampo Waterfall

Kanto Lampo Falls is an especially popular waterfall near Ubud, as it is one of the best waterfalls in Bali for swimming. Water cascades down the stepped rockface from a modest 15 metre, making for quite the scenic view.  

The falls are quite unique in comparison to others on the island, so that’s a good excuse to check them out. We would only suggest that you visit early in the morning if you want to avoid the crowds.

With the hike to Kanto Lampo being only 5-minutes down some stairs, this is the perfect spot for a fun family day out.

Entrance Fee: 15,000 IDR

Best Time to Visit: Early Morning.

Time Required: 1-2 Hours

Opening Times: 6 am – 6 pm

Need more information for this Ubud Waterfall? Check out this guide to Kanto Lampo Waterfall here.

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Waterfall #6: Tegenungan Waterfall

One of the most accessible waterfalls near Ubud, Tegenungan is just a 30-minute drive from Ubud town centre. Tourism has well and truly caught on at this waterfall. As a result, numerous market stalls are pitched up at the entrance, which can be a bit of a turn off for many visitors.

Nevertheless, Tegenungan is an impressive fall that packs a punch. At the height of 15 metres, it isn’t all that high. However, the water flow can be that ferocious at times that it’s sometimes closed off to visitors. 

There isn’t much trekking involved to reach the falls, so you could certainly take along your little ones. It just may not be the best place to go for swimming, due to the sheer force of the pummeling water.  

Entrance Fee: 15,000 IDR

Best Time to Visit: Early Morning.

Time Required: 1-2 Hours

Opening Times: 6 am – 6 pm

Need more information for this Ubud Waterfall? Check out this guide to Tegenungan Waterfall here.

Waterfall #7:  Sumampan Waterfall

We will finalise this list with what is probably one of the most hidden waterfalls in Bali. Located in Sumampan Village, south of Ubud centre, it paths the way for Tegenungan Waterfall, so it is worth combining the 2 on a day trip from Ubud.

After stumbling on this waterfall purely by accident, we were surprised that we’d never heard of it. The trek feels as if you are trespassing through somebody’s home, followed by a beautiful viewpoint looking down upon the falls. Across the way, lush ricefields adorn the cliff from which the water cascades. It’s quite a spectacular view!

You have to trek down some pretty sketchy stairs to reach the foot of the falls. I wouldn’t attempt this with little ones or after it’s been raining as there isn’t much of a barrier to protect you. Nevertheless, it’s a gorgeous waterfall, where hanging vines and trees give it a real jungle vibe.

Entrance Fee: Donations Welcomed

Best Time to Visit: Any time

Time Required: 1 hour

Opening Times: 6 am – 6 pm

Need more information for this Ubud Waterfall? Check out our Guide to Sumampan Waterfall here.

One Day Ubud Waterfall Tour

If you wanted to explore all of the above waterfalls in one day, you could make it work. However, you would need to leave before sunrise and return after sunset to get around them all. If this is your plan, we would recommend the following itinerary.

1.  Sumampan Waterfall
2.  Tibumana Waterfall
3.  Tukad Cepung Waterfall
4.  Kanto Lampo Waterfall
5.  Tegenungan Waterfall
6.  Nungnung Waterfall
7.  Leke Leke Waterfall

The Best Time to Visit Ubud Waterfalls

The best time to visit the waterfalls near Ubud is between April and June after the wet season. Due to the heavy rainfall, the waterfalls are at their most impressive during this time. That’s not to say they aren’t worth visiting in the dry season; however, they may not be as ferocious as what you can see in our photos.

Getting Around in Ubud

Like the rest of Bali, the best way to get around in Ubud is on two wheels. Being able to ride a scooter in Bali is a valuable skill. Not only will you save some serious cash, but you’ll get to experience a sense of freedom that’s hard to achieve without one. 

If you’ve never driven a scooter before, I don’t suggest trying it out for the first time in Bali. The roads are in good condition, but the Bali traffic can be intimidating to even the most experienced of drivers.  

On the other hand, if you are a safe and confident driver, cruising the scenic roads of Ubud is an adventure all on its own. To rent a scooter in Bali will set you back around 60,000 IDR per day. And it is usually possible to negotiate a discount if you rent for more extended periods.  

Of course, we advise exercising caution when driving in Bali. Always wear your helmet, and carry an international license should you be pulled over by the local police.

If renting a scooter isn’t an option, you can opt to use GoJek or Grab which work in the same way as Uber. You can even get motorbike taxis in Bali, which is a great way to avoid the inevitable traffic.  

Alternatively, if you need a driver for the whole day, this offer for a Private Car or Minibus Charter is highly competitive relative to local transport companies. Click the link to read thousands of positive reviews, check the latest prices, and to make a booking.

What to Pack for Ubud Waterfalls

These items should help make your visit to the waterfalls more comfortable.

• Comfortable shoes 
• Water shoes – We Recommend: Aleader 2 in 1 Hiking Shoes. Use code OURTASTEFORLIFE15 for 15% off your order
• Waterproof Bag – We Recommend: Waterproof Dry Bag-10L/20L/30L
• Bathing suit & towel – We Recommend: Microfiber Travel Towel

Travel Responsibly at Bali Waterfalls

When visiting the Bali waterfalls, it’s essential to be mindful of yourself and environmental impacts of tourism. Check out our article on becoming a responsible traveller. In the meantime, here are some things to consider when visiting the waterfalls near Ubud.

• Keep rubbish secure until you can dispose of it properly
• Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories.
• Pay attention to warning signs and make sensible judgements. Have fun, but stay safe.

Where to Stay in Ubud

Hostel – Puji Hostel and Bungalow – Set just a short 10-minute walk away from Ubud market, Puji Hostel and Bungalow offer comfortable dorm-style rooms in a picturesque location. The swimming pool overlooks sweeping rice fields, while guests can also enjoy the on-site restaurant and common area.

Budget Private – Gatra Ubud Inn – Located in the heart of Ubud, Gatra Ubud Inn is a traditional Balinese style property boasting a beautiful garden and comfortable rooms. All rooms come equipped with a private room and wifi is available throughout the property.

Luxury – Element by Westin Bali – After spending 4 nights at Element Westin Bali, we can highly recommend this stunning hotel in Ubud if you seek a touch of luxury.  

For more places to stay in Ubud, you can check the latest prices here. 

More on Bali

Are you planning a trip to Bali?  Don’t forget to check out these other articles to help with your trip planning!

10 Days in Bali – Ultimate Guide & Itinerary

Gay in Bali – 2019 LGBT Travel Guide

Bias Tugel Beach Bali – A Guide to Secret Beach

Aling Aling Waterfall – 2020 guide

Bali to Nusa Penida – Ferry & Speed Boat Guide

Sekumpul & Fiji Waterfalls in Bali – A 2019 Guide

Well, that concludes our guide to the best waterfalls near Ubud.  If you have any questions or feel we have missed anything, please reach out to us in the comment section below. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram here!

Stay Adventurous and Happy Travels!

Charlotte & Natalie x

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Last Updated on October 22, 2020 by Our Taste For Life

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