Bali: Beratan Lake Temple, Rice Terraces & Waterfall Day Trip

Summary

Beratan’s lakeside temple and green rice fields with cool mountain air

You’ll step into cool mountain air at Beratan Lake temple, wander through lush forest to a hidden waterfall, and gaze across endless Jatiluwih rice terraces. With local stories from your guide and lunch overlooking green hills, this Bali day trip feels both peaceful and quietly surprising.

What’s the experience like?

We were already winding up those narrow roads before I’d even finished my first coffee — you know that feeling when the city just drops away and suddenly it’s all misty hills? Our driver, Wayan, kept pointing out little shrines tucked between the trees. He laughed when I tried to say “Pura Ulun Danu Beratan” right (I definitely didn’t). The lake was wrapped in this light morning haze, and the temple looked like it was floating. There was incense in the air, mixed with something earthy from the water. I didn’t expect it to be so quiet — just a few locals making offerings, moving slow.

After that we headed further north. The waterfall part surprised me — there’s this short trek through damp forest where you can hear water before you see it. My shoes got muddy but nobody cared. The sound of it was huge but not harsh, if that makes sense. Wayan waited at the top while we scrambled down; he said he comes here every week but still likes watching people’s faces when they see it for the first time.

The Jatiluwih rice terraces were next — honestly, I’d seen photos but standing there is different. It’s just green everywhere, layered like steps into the hills. We had lunch overlooking the fields (nasi campur — spicy sambal that made me cough and laugh at myself). The breeze felt cold after so much sun back in Seminyak. Someone nearby was playing old pop songs on a radio; kind of weirdly perfect background music for a UNESCO site.

I keep thinking about how gentle everything felt up there compared to Kuta or Legian. Even the drive back was quiet — everyone sort of drifting off or staring out at all that green. So yeah, if you want a Bali day trip with temples and rice fields but also some space to breathe, this one sticks with you longer than you’d think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit temples and natural sights in Bali

• Pick up from designated area
• Visit Beratan lake side temple
• Trek to and view northern Bali waterfall
• Explore Jatiluwih rice terraces
• Visit Taman Ayun temple

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Bali day trip?

Yes, pickup is included from most areas like Legian, Kuta, Seminyak, Ubud, Canggu, Sanur and more.

What temples are visited on this tour?

You’ll visit Pura Ulun Danu Beratan (the lakeside temple) and Taman Ayun Temple.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

Yes, lunch is included as part of your day trip experience.

How long is the walk to the waterfall?

The trek to the waterfall takes about 15 minutes through forest paths.

Are infant seats available in the vehicle?

Specialized infant seats are available upon request for families traveling with small children.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health due to walking/trekking sections.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from most Bali areas in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver-guide. Entry fees are covered for all temples and attractions. Bottled water is provided throughout and you’ll enjoy a local lunch overlooking Jatiluwih’s rice terraces before heading back in the afternoon.