18 Unmissable Things to do in North Bali

Looking for all the best things to do in North Bali? We’ve got you covered! In this guide, I share all of the top places to see in the North of Bali. As well as where to stay, how to get around, and all of our top tips! 

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North Bali at a Glance

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North Bali Guide – Where to Stay

Lovina

Lovina is the main tourist town in the North of Bali, famous for black sand beaches and dolphin spotting. You’ll find many types of hotels in Lovina, ranging from budget hostels to high-end resorts. We stayed at Hotel Suma and would highly recommend it. 

Check rates and availability for accommodation in Lovina here. 

Munduk

If you consider yourself more jungle lover than beach, Munduk is an ideal choice in Northern Bali. Set around 45-minutes South of Lovina, the area is lush, green, and quiet, boasting some of Bali’s most instagrammable hotels. Like the Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort & Spa. 

Check rates and availability for accommodation in Munduk here.

Seririt

Further West of Lovina is Seririt – A beachside town that rarely sees any tourists and is relatively close to all the top things to do in North Bali. We stayed at the beautiful Mayo resort. 

Check rates and availability for accommodation in Seririt here.

You can also compare all North Bali accommodation options here. Or by using the Map below:

Booking.com

North Bali Itinerary – Things to do in North Bali

Captivating waterfalls, volcanic beaches, and stunning religious sites make up the best things to do in North Bali. Here are 18 ideas to help you plan your trip.

1. Sekumpul Waterfall

Many describe this waterfall as the most impressive in Bali, and there’s no doubt that the momentous triple falls are a sight to behold. 

With water cascading from an almighty 80-metres high into the lagoon below, and dense green vines adorning the cliff face, it feels like a scene straight out of Avatar. 

For more information, check out our complete guide to visiting Sekumpul Waterfall.

Book a tour here: Sekumpul Waterfall Tour

2. Fiji Waterfall

Just minutes away from Sekumpul Waterfall lay the majestic Fiji Falls. Set in the same lush jungle environment, it’s equally as impressive. 

Our only complaint about the Sekumpul and Fiji waterfalls is the steep entrance fees. It’s not so bad if you visit the viewpoint at 20,000 IDR/pp. 

However, a recent regulation, insists that a guide must accompany visitors who want to trek to the bottom of the waterfalls. The result: A steep fee of 200,000 IDR/pp.

3. Gitgit Waterfall

At a tremendous height of 35-metre, Gitgit is one of the tallest and most powerful waterfalls in Bali. 

Set in a real jungle paradise environment, Gitgit has all the feels of an off-the-beaten-path adventure. When, in fact, it’s located an easy 15-minute walk from the main road. 

The falls provide an ideal spot to take a dip, chill out, and admire nature. However, we would encourage you to visit early to avoid the crowds. The entrance fee for Gitgit is 20,000 IDR/pp. 

Book a tour here: Gitgit Waterfall Tour

Tip: You can read everything you need to know about this waterfall in our complete guide to Gitgit Waterfall. 

4. Aling Aling Waterfall

If you’re seeking a real adventure in North Bali, you absolutely cannot miss Aling Aling Waterfall. 

Famed for its impressive collection of waterfalls, countless natural pools, water slides, and daredevil cliff jumping opportunities, this is one of our favourite things to do in North Bali.

With so much to see and do at Aling Aling, it would be easy to spend an entire day here and not get bored. 

It’s important to mention that if you want to take part in cliff jumping at Aling Aling and all the other adventurous stuff, you will need to pay for a guide. It’s an absolute necessity here for your own safety. 

Book a tour here:  Aling Aling Waterfall Tour

Tip:You can read everything you need to know about this waterfall in our complete guide to Aling Aling Waterfall. 

5. Munduk Waterfall

Munduk waterfall is one of the lesser-known waterfalls in North Bali and not ideal for swimming; however, if you’re in the area, it’s worth stopping by all the same. 

Located in the mountainous region of Munduk, you can expect an impressive waterfall amid lush jungle conditions. It’s highly likely you’ll have the place all to yourself. 

It’s an easy trek to reach the falls. Enjoy the leisurely pace and serene conditions before making your way to Banyumala Waterfall, which is next on our list.

6. Banyumala Waterfall

Making quite a name for itself on the North Bali Waterfall route, Banyumala is an impressive set of falls in the mountainous region of Munduk. This hidden gem is quickly becoming one of the top things to do in North Bali. 

If you don’t mind the relatively difficult trek to reach Banyumala Falls, your reward will be a striking double waterfall cascading down a vine infested cliff face. The falls have formed a crystalised natural pool at the bottom, ideal for cooling off after the arduous trek down. 

Book a tour here: Banyumala Waterfall Tour

7. Mount Batur for Sunrise

Next up on our North Bali Guide is to hike Mount Batur – a 1700 metre high active volcano. The best time to do this is the early hours of the morning so you can watch sunrise at the top.

I have to admit, getting out of bed to make our way to base camp at 2 am was less than appealing. However, the magical moment of experiencing sunrise atop an active volcano was the ultimate reward. 

If you are to drag yourself out of bed for only one sunrise during your time in Bali, I strongly suggest it be this one. 

Book a tour here: Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking Tour 

Tip: You can read everything you need to know about this hike in our complete guide climbing Mount Batur for sunrise. 

8. Dolphin Spotting

Many are excited to learn that dolphin spotting is one of the popular things to do in North Bali! I mean, who doesn’t want to see these majestic & playful animals in their own habitat.

There is, however, a fine line between ethical and unethical animal tourism; so please do your research before booking a tour. I recommend this article.

Book a tour here: Lovina Dolphin Tour

9. Black Sand Beaches

There are many black sand beaches in Bali. The black sand is said to have originated from Mount Agung – Bali’s most notorious volcano.

The volcanic shoreline stretches from the beautiful Amed beach, all along the East Coast and up to Seriret in the North. 

Lovina is the most popular black sand beach in North Bali. You’ll find various beachside bars and restaurants along this stretch as well as water sports and other activities. 

If you prefer somewhere a little quieter, you can head further west towards Seriret.

10. Banjar Hot Springs

There are various ‘natural’ hot springs dotted around Bali; however, most are unauthentic and incredibly touristic. 

We found Banjar Hot Springs to be the complete opposite, with mostly locals bathing in the cleansing waters of the holy springs.

The 38-degree hot springs are centuries old. The temperature of the water combined with the sulphuric properties is said to be excellent for your skin and health in general. 

Book a tour here: Banjar Hot Springs Tour  

11. Brahma Vihara Arama Monastery

One of our favourite hidden gems and unique things to do in North Bali, Brahma Vihara Arama Monastery is the only Buddhist monastery on the island. 

Set in the mountains of North Bali, the complex consists of various gardens, meditation rooms, and religious statues, as well as a striking view over the surrounding landscapes.

Perhaps the most impressive feature of the monastery is the replication of Borobudur Temple. Located in Java, Borobudur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest Buddhist Temple in the world. 

Tip: You can read everything you need to know about Brahma Vihara Arama Monastery here.

12. Ulun Danu Water Temple

There’s no denying the sheer magnificence of the Ulun Danu Water Temple. The ‘floating’ Hindu temple, built in the middle of Tamblingan Lake, is a Bali Instagram hotspot.

 It’s good to note that rising water levels influence the appearance of the temple. If there hasn’t been a lot of rain, the ‘floating’ effect isn’t as noticeable. 

Book a tour here: Ulun Danu Water Temple Tour  

13. Wanagiri Hidden Hills

If you’re on Instagram, the likelihood is you’ve come across the Wanagiri Hidden Hills on a few thousand separate occasions. 

The infamous Bali wwing and bamboo viewing platforms are rather gimmicky; however, there’s no denying that the stunning backdrop makes for a spectacular photo. 

Even if it’s for the view alone, it’s worth a visit if you’re in the area. Go on, do it for the ‘gram. 

Book a tour here: Wanagiri Hidden Hills Tour 

14. Immerse in Local Culture

One of the things we loved most about the North of Bali is being at the heart of traditional Balinese culture. Particularly in areas like Munduk and Seriret, you can find yourself in villages that rarely see tourists. 

We love stopping off in these places and buying a drink or a bite to eat, as you always end up getting way more from the exchange than just a refreshment. One of the most soul nourishing things to do in North Bali. 

15. Snorkelling & Scuba Diving

Some of the best snorkelling and scuba diving sites are in North Bali.

There’s Menjangan Island, which is famous for its drop-off and coral garden, and Tulamben Wreck, a sunken USS Liberty shipwreck. 

A diving day trip to Menjangan Island is quite a popular activity from the North of Bali. You can also stay over in the National Park for a unique Bali experience.

16. Bali Coffee Plantations

Due to cooler climates in the mountainous region of North Bali, it’s the ideal conditions for growing all kinds of fresh produce. Most of the island’s fruit and vegetables are grown in these areas, as well as the delicious Balinese coffee.

As a matter of fact, coffee plantations take up an unbelievably vast amount of space in the Munduk area. The biggest and most-popular plantation is the Munduk Moding Coffee Plantation.

17. Stay at Munduk Moding Plantation

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While we are on the subject of Munduk Moding Plantation, it’s worth mentioning the incredible hotel resort here. The pinnacle of the mountain top property is the infinity pool overlooking the landscapes of North Bali.

Rolling green hills and rice paddies stretch as far as the eye can see. Rise & Shine early for one of the best sunrise views in Bali. Check rates and availability for Munduk Moding Plantation here. 

18. Handara Gate

Last up on our North Bali itinerary is Handara Gate. The landmark is often mistaken for a religious site. When in fact, the picture-perfect gate is the entrance to a luxury golf course. 

Nowadays, entrepreneurial locals make a business from the gate alone, charging tourists 30,000 IDR for the ‘selfie’ ticket. 

Book a tour here: Handara Gate Tour 

Top Tips for North Bali

How Long to Stay in North Bali

We stayed in North Bali for almost a week. It isn’t necessary to be there that long, but we extended our visa at the Singaraja office, which meant we had to stay locally. 

You could probably cover most of the highlights over 2-3 days. But if you wanted to take your time, 4-5 days would be perfect.

Best Time to Visit North Bali

The best time to visit Bali will be in the dry season, which runs from April to late September. While there is always a chance of an odd rainy day, you generally see warm and dry conditions during this time. 

Having said that, the best time to visit the waterfalls in North Bali is usually between March and May just as the wet season is drawing to a close. 

It’s also worth mentioning that July and August are considered the high season in Bali, and consequently, prices are higher, and everything is busier.

Getting Around in North Bali

Unless you are confident on a scooter, getting around North Bali could prove a little tricky. With no public transportation, and from what we could tell, no Grab or GoJek, your only option is to hire a driver. 

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.

Enjoy These North Bali Attractions!

So there we have it, 18 unmissable things you should do when visiting the North of Bali. If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to reach out to us in the comments. Stay adventurous and Happy travels.

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