Bali: Handara Gate, Banyumala Waterfall & Ulun Danu Temple Tour
Photo stops at Handara Gate, jungle walk to Banyumala waterfall, lakeside Ulun Danu temple views and Wanagiri swings
You’ll walk through mountain mist at Handara Gate, feel cold spray from Banyumala waterfall deep in Bali’s jungle, swing above Lake Buyan at Wanagiri Hidden Hills, and end by the quiet waters of Ulun Danu Beratan Temple. Local guides share stories along the way, and you’ll probably leave with more photos than you planned.
Step-by-step itinerary
Visit Bali's iconic photo spots
- Photo at Handara Gate
- Walk to Banyumala Waterfall
- Swim and relax at waterfall
- Take photos at Wanagiri Hidden Hills
- Visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
What’s included
Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned minivan, bottled water along the way, all entry fees for each site (Handara Gate, Banyumala Waterfall, Wanagiri Hidden Hills, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple), plus a local lunch before heading back through Bali’s highlands in the afternoon.
Times
- Every day 07:00 08:00
Before you book
Operated by Hire Bali Driver
Prices and times updated 4 days ago
Traveler reviews
The experience
The first thing I saw was the mist curling around Handara Gate. Our driver Ketut grinned as he handed me a bottle of water. “You’ll need this.” He wasn’t kidding. The air felt cool but heavy with that sweet, earthy smell you only get in Bali’s mountains. There were a few other travelers waiting for their turn at the gate (it’s a thing, apparently), but nobody seemed rushed. I tried to mimic the pose everyone does here, hands pressed together, but my friend started laughing and honestly, I looked like I was about to apologize to the whole island. Still, the backdrop with those smoky hills is something else.
After that, we bumped along winding roads toward Banyumala waterfall. The path down is kind of slippery, not dangerous if you’re steady on your feet, just watch out for mossy stones (I nearly lost a flip-flop). The sound of water gets louder as you go. It’s almost like static in your ears until suddenly you’re there and it’s this wild rush pouring into a pool so clear you can see every pebble. Some people swam. I just sat on a rock with my feet dangling in and let the spray hit my face. It smelled green, if that makes sense? Like wet leaves and river stones.
Wanagiri Hidden Hills was next: swings over the lake, those giant bird nests everyone posts on Instagram. I thought it’d be cheesy but actually…it was fun. Locals showed us how to get the best angle (“Smile but don’t look down!”). There was a breeze off the lake and someone selling tiny fried bananas wrapped in newspaper: still warm when we ate them. Oh, and there are dogs everywhere here, just kind of napping under benches or trotting after tourists hoping for snacks.
The last stop was Ulun Danu Beratan Temple floating on its own little patch of lake. It felt quieter than I expected: maybe because clouds were rolling in and everything looked softer somehow. Our guide told us it’s dedicated to Dewi Danu, goddess of water. He lit some incense and let us wander around while he chatted with one of the gardeners about tomorrow’s weather (rain again). I took too many photos but honestly none really caught how peaceful it felt standing there watching ripples move out from the temple steps.
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Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 11 years). Children under 4 can't be included in the booking.
How long does this Bali Instagram tour take?
The tour covers several locations in North Bali and typically takes most of a day including travel time from your hotel.
Is hotel pickup included in this day trip?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included as part of your booking.
Can I swim at Banyumala waterfall?
Yes, swimming is allowed at Banyumala waterfall. Just bring suitable footwear for slippery rocks.
Are entrance fees covered?
All entrance fees are included in the tour price.
Is lunch provided during this Bali tour?
A local lunch is included during your day trip itinerary.
What should I wear for visiting waterfalls and temples?
Wear comfortable walking shoes or sandals with grip; bring a change of clothes if you plan to swim; cover shoulders for temples.
How difficult is the walk to Banyumala waterfall?
The walk involves descending a jungle path that can be slippery: moderate fitness is recommended.
Bali: Handara Gate, Banyumala Waterfall & Ulun Danu Temple Tour
8h · EN · at your hotel
from US$ 65 per person
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