Are you looking for a place to escape the crowds and chaos of Bali’s popular tourist spots? Do you want to experience the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the island’s northern region? If so, then Munduk is the perfect destination for you!
Munduk is a small village nestled in the lush green mountains of North Bali, surrounded by waterfalls, temples, swings, and plantations. It is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, who can enjoy hiking, swimming, sliding, jumping, and swinging in the scenic landscape. Munduk also offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Bali, with its ancient lake temples, clove plantations, and local warungs.
In this article, we will show you the top things to do in Munduk, how to get there, where to stay, and when to visit. We will also share some tips and tricks to make the most of your trip to this hidden gem in the jungle of Bali.
How to get to Munduk
Munduk is located about 70 km from Denpasar, the capital city of Bali, and about 50 km from Ubud, the cultural hub of the island. The best way to get to Munduk is by renting a scooter or a car, which will give you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. You can also hire a driver or join a tour, but be prepared to pay more and follow a fixed itinerary.
The drive to Munduk is an adventure in itself, as you will pass through winding roads, stunning views, and charming villages. Along the way, you can stop at some of the attractions that are not too far from Munduk, such as the Jatiluwih rice terraces, the Bedugul botanical garden, or the Gitgit waterfall.
Some tips for driving to Munduk are:
Make sure you have a valid international driving license and insurance.
Check the condition of your vehicle and fill up the gas tank before you leave.
Use Google Maps or a GPS device to navigate the route and avoid getting lost.
Drive carefully and slowly, especially on the narrow and steep roads.
Watch out for traffic, animals, and pedestrians on the road.
Park your vehicle in a safe and secure place, and don’t leave any valuables inside.
Where to stay in Munduk
Munduk has a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. You can choose from cozy guesthouses, traditional villas, luxury resorts, or even coffee plantations. Here are some of the best places to stay in Munduk, based on their location, view, amenities, service, and price:
Munduk Moding Plantation:
This is the ultimate place to stay in Munduk if you want to splurge on a lavish and romantic getaway. Munduk Moding Plantation is a coffee plantation that offers spacious and elegant suites and villas, with private jacuzzis, fireplaces, and balconies. The highlight of this place is the infinity pool, which overlooks the jungle and the ocean. You can also enjoy the spa, the gym, the restaurant, and the coffee tour. The price ranges from $200 to $400 per night, depending on the season and the room type.
Sanak Retreat Bali:
This is another great option for a relaxing and comfortable stay in Munduk. Sanak Retreat Bali is a boutique resort that features wooden bungalows, with cozy beds, outdoor bathrooms, and stunning views of the rice fields and the mountains. You can also enjoy the pool, the yoga, the massage, and the restaurant. The price ranges from $100 to $200 per night, depending on the season and the room type.
Aditya Homestay Munduk:
This is a budget-friendly and family-friendly option for a stay in Munduk. Aditya Homestay Munduk is a guesthouse that offers simple and clean rooms, with hot water, wifi, and breakfast. The best part of this place is the friendly and helpful staff, who can arrange tours, transport, and activities for you. You can also enjoy the garden, the terrace, and the common area. The price ranges from $10 to $20 per night, depending on the season and the room type.
The best time to visit Munduk
Munduk has a tropical climate, which means that it is warm and humid throughout the year. However, there are some variations in the weather and the crowds, depending on the season. The best time to visit Munduk is from April to October, which is the dry season. During this time, you can expect sunny days, clear skies, and cool nights. This is also the peak season for tourism, so you can expect more visitors and higher prices.
The worst time to visit Munduk is from November to March, which is the rainy season. During this time, you can expect cloudy days, heavy rains, and muddy roads. This is also the low season for tourism, so you can expect fewer visitors and lower prices.
The best time of the day to visit Munduk and its attractions is early in the morning, when the sun is not too hot and the crowds are not too large. You can also enjoy the beautiful sunrise and the misty atmosphere. Some attractions, such as the lake temples and the golf course gate, are especially popular for sunrise photos.
The top things to do in Munduk
Munduk has a lot to offer for travelers who are looking for fun and adventure in nature. Here are the top things to do in Munduk, with subheadings for each attraction:
Sekumpul Waterfall
Sekumpul Waterfall is the most impressive and majestic waterfall in Munduk, and perhaps in Bali. It is actually a cluster of seven waterfalls, with the main one being a double drop of 80 meters. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green jungle, creating a stunning contrast with the white water.
To reach Sekumpul Waterfall, you will need to hike for about an hour from the parking lot, passing through rice fields, villages, and stairs. The hike is moderately challenging, but rewarding. You will also need to pay an entrance fee of 20,000 IDR per person, and optionally hire a guide for 150,000 IDR per group. Beware of the scams and touts who may try to charge you more or sell you unnecessary services.
Once you reach the waterfall, you can swim in the refreshing pool, take photos, or just admire the beauty of nature. Make sure to bring a change of clothes, a towel, and a waterproof bag, as you will get wet from the spray of the water.
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Temple is one of the most iconic and sacred temples in Bali. It is located on the shores of Lake Bratan, the second largest lake in Bali. The temple was built in the 17th century to honor the goddess of the lake, who is believed to control the irrigation and the fertility of the land.
The temple is composed of several shrines and pavilions, with the most famous one being the 11-roofed meru that appears to float on the water. The temple is also adorned with colorful flowers, statues, and flags, creating a picturesque scene.
The best time to visit the temple is early in the morning, when the sun rises behind the mountains and illuminates the temple. You can also enjoy the calm and serene atmosphere, before the crowds and the vendors arrive. You will need to pay an entrance fee of 50,000 IDR per person, and wear a sarong and a sash, which are provided at the gate.
Handara Golf Course
Handara Golf Course is not only a place for golf enthusiasts, but also for Instagram lovers. The reason is the famous gate that marks the entrance of the golf course, which has become a popular spot for taking photos. The gate is a large and elegant structure, with Balinese carvings and ornaments. It is framed by the green hills and the blue sky, creating a stunning backdrop.
The best time to visit the gate is early in the morning, when the sun is not too harsh and the queue is not too long. You can also enjoy the misty and mystical atmosphere, which adds to the charm of the gate. You will need to pay an entrance fee of 30,000 IDR per person, and wait for your turn to take photos. You can also hire a photographer or use a tripod, but be mindful of the time and the space.
Aling Aling Waterfall
Aling Aling Waterfall is the most fun and adventurous waterfall in Munduk, and perhaps in Bali. It is not just a waterfall, but also a natural water park, where you can slide, jump, and splash in the water. The waterfall is about 35 meters high, and splits into two streams, creating a slide and a jump. The slide is about 12 meters long, and the jump is about 5 meters high.
To enjoy Aling Aling Waterfall, you will need to hire a guide, who will provide you with a life jacket, a helmet, and instructions. The guide will also accompany you to the waterfall, and help you with the slide and the jump. You will also need to pay an entrance fee of 125,000 IDR per person, which includes the guide and the equipment.
Once you reach the waterfall, you can have fun and adrenaline in the water, or just relax and watch others. Make sure to bring a change of clothes, a towel, and a waterproof bag, as you will get wet from the water.
Banyumala Waterfall
Banyumala Waterfall is one of the most serene and beautiful waterfalls in Munduk, and perhaps in Bali. It is a hidden gem that is not too crowded or touristy, unlike some of the other waterfalls in the area. The waterfall is about 15 meters high, and forms a natural pool at the bottom, where you can swim and relax.
To reach Banyumala Waterfall, you will need to hike for about 20 minutes from the parking lot, passing through a dirt road, a bamboo bridge, and a forest. The hike is easy to moderate, but can be slippery and muddy after the rain. You will also need to pay an entrance fee of 20,000 IDR per person.
Once you reach the waterfall, you can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the place, or take photos of the stunning scenery. Make sure to bring a change of clothes, a towel, and a waterproof bag, as you will get wet from the spray of the water.
Munduk Swing
Munduk Swing is one of the most exhilarating and exciting things to do in Munduk, and perhaps in Bali. It is not just a swing, but also a viewpoint, where you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the twin lake, the mountains, and the jungle. The swing is located at the Wanagiri Swing, which is a complex of several swings and platforms, each with a different height and angle.
To enjoy Munduk Swing, you will need to pay an entrance fee of 150,000 IDR per person, which includes unlimited access to all the swings and platforms. You will also need to wear a safety harness and follow the instructions of the staff. You can also hire a photographer or use a tripod, but be mindful of the time and the space.
Once you get on the swing, you can feel the adrenaline and excitement as you soar above the ground, with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. You can also take photos of the stunning scenery, or just admire the beauty of nature.
Munduk Viewpoint
Munduk Viewpoint is one of the most panoramic and scenic spots in Munduk, and perhaps in Bali. It is a place where you can enjoy the spectacular view of the lake, the mountains, and the monkeys. The viewpoint is located at the top of a hill, which overlooks the Lake Buyan and the Lake Tamblingan, the twin lakes of Bali. The viewpoint is also home to a troop of friendly and curious monkeys, who may come to greet you or steal your food.
To reach Munduk Viewpoint, you will need to drive or hike for about 15 minutes from the main road, passing through a dirt road and a forest. The drive or hike is easy to moderate, but can be slippery and muddy after the rain. You will also need to pay an entrance fee of 10,000 IDR per person.
Once you reach the viewpoint, you can enjoy the panorama and scenery of the place, or take photos of the stunning view. You can also feed and interact with the monkeys, but be careful and respectful of them. Make sure to bring some snacks, water, and a camera, as you will want to stay there for a while.
Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan Temple
Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan Temple is one of the most mysterious and charming temples in Munduk, and perhaps in Bali. It is located on the shores of Lake Tamblingan, the smallest and most secluded lake in Bali. The temple was built in the 10th century to honor the god of the lake, who is believed to protect the Tamblingan civilization, an ancient kingdom that once ruled the area.
The temple is composed of several shrines and pavilions, with the most prominent one being the 11-roofed meru that stands on the water. The temple is also surrounded by dense forest, creating a mystical and peaceful atmosphere.
The best time to visit the temple is early in the morning, when the sun rises behind the mountains and reflects on the water. You can also enjoy the calm and serene atmosphere, before the crowds and the vendors arrive. You will need to pay an entrance fee of 20,000 IDR per person, and wear a sarong and a sash, which are provided at the gate.
You can also take a boat ride around the lake, which will give you a different perspective of the temple and the scenery. The boat ride costs 50,000 IDR per person, and lasts for about 30 minutes.
Banyuatis Coffee Plantation
Banyuatis Coffee Plantation is one of the most aromatic and tasty places to visit in Munduk, and perhaps in Bali. It is a place where you can learn about the history and culture of coffee in Bali, and taste some of the finest and rarest varieties of coffee in the world. The plantation is located in the village of Banyuatis, which is known for its high-quality coffee production.
To enjoy Banyuatis Coffee Plantation, you will need to join a tour, which will take you around the plantation, the processing area, and the tasting area. The tour costs 50,000 IDR per person, and lasts for about an hour. You will also get a complimentary cup of coffee at the end of the tour.
During the tour, you will learn about the different types of coffee beans, such as arabica, robusta, and luwak. You will also learn about the traditional methods of harvesting, roasting, and grinding the coffee beans. You will also taste some of the coffee varieties, such as Bali coffee, ginseng coffee, vanilla coffee, and the famous luwak coffee, which is made from beans that have been eaten and digested by a civet cat.
Munduk is a hidden gem in the jungle of Bali, where you can experience the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the island’s northern region. It is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, who can enjoy waterfalls, temples, swings, and plantations. Munduk also offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Bali, with its ancient lake temples, clove plantations, and local warungs.
If you are looking for a place to escape the crowds and chaos of Bali’s popular tourist spots, then Munduk is the perfect destination for you. Book your trip to Munduk today, and discover the wonders of this amazing place.
Don’t forget to share your experience with us, or comment on this article if you have any questions or suggestions. Thank you for reading, and happy travels!
