North Bali Day Trip: Waterfalls, Hot Springs & Temple from Celukan Bawang

Summary

Chill waterfalls, temple mist and black sand beaches up north

You’ll wander local markets near Bedugul with your guide, swim beneath Banyumala Twin Waterfall’s cool spray, soak in Banjar Hot Spring’s mineral pools among locals, and watch temple offerings float on Lake Beratan. This North Bali day trip leaves space for slow moments — it’s more about feeling than ticking boxes.

★★★★★★★★★★

4.79

(108 reviews)

What’s the experience like?

“You want to try the snake fruit?” our driver Kadek grinned, holding out this spiky thing at Pancasari Market. I was still half-awake from the drive out of Celukan Bawang Port — North Bali is quieter than the south, but it’s not sleepy. There’s this earthy morning smell everywhere, a mix of incense and wet earth after last night’s rain. We picked up some tiny bananas (Kadek called them “pisang susu”) and then kept going — I kept thinking how different it felt here, no crowds or honking scooters for once.

The walk down to Banyumala Twin Waterfall is a bit muddy, so don’t wear your fancy shoes. The sound hits you before you see it — not loud exactly, just steady. The pool at the bottom is cold enough to make you gasp but clear as glass. We swam until our fingers wrinkled. Someone had left an offering on a rock: bright marigolds floating in a little palm-leaf bowl. It’s funny how quiet everyone gets around waterfalls here; even the kids whisper.

Lunch was at a roadside warung near Wanagiri — nothing fancy, just fried rice and sweet iced tea. Our guide pointed out Lake Buyan and Tamblingan through the mist (“twin lakes,” he said), and I tried to get a photo but my lens fogged up. At Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, there were women in sarongs carrying baskets of fruit for offerings, moving so gracefully I felt clumsy just watching. The air smelled like cloves and river water. I didn’t expect to feel so calm there — maybe it’s the mountain air or just the way everything slows down for a minute.

We ended at Banjar Hot Spring, where sulfur steam curls off the pools and old men chat in Balinese while soaking up to their necks. My skin still felt warm hours later. On the way back toward Lovina Beach, we passed rows of black sand glittering in the late sun — I’d never seen volcanic sand before; it gets everywhere but somehow feels softer underfoot? Anyway, if you’re looking for a North Bali day trip from Celukan Bawang that doesn’t feel rushed or staged, this one surprised me in all the right ways.

5h–12h

Step-by-step itinerary

Top questions

How long does the North Bali day trip from Celukan Bawang take?

The tour typically lasts a full day, depending on your chosen itinerary and pace.

Is pickup included from Celukan Bawang Port?

Yes, private port pickup and drop-off are included for convenience.

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?

If you choose the Customize Itinerary option, entrance fees are not included and must be paid at each site.

Can I swim at Banyumala Twin Waterfall?

Yes, there is a natural pool at Banyumala Twin Waterfall perfect for swimming.

What should I wear for this North Bali tour?

Wear comfortable shoes for trekking to waterfalls; bring swimwear for hot springs and waterfalls.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No set lunch is included; you can stop at local warungs or restaurants along the route with your guide's help.

Are children allowed on this tour?

The tour is suitable for all ages; infants can ride in a pram or stroller if needed.

What languages does my driver or guide speak?

Your driver speaks English and will help explain local customs along the way.

What’s included

Your day includes private air-conditioned transport with bottled water throughout, English-speaking driver-guide support from port pickup to drop-off at Celukan Bawang. For standard itineraries (Options A–E), all logistics are handled; if customizing your route, entrance tickets are paid separately as you go along. Travel insurance is also included for peace of mind during your adventure north.