We invite you on an eventful journey through the mountainous Bedugul region — where ancient lakes, picturesque waterfalls, and one of Bali's most recognisable temples are hidden among cool tropical forests. In a single day we will see the famous Jatiluwih rice terraces, take photos at the Handara Gate, admire lakes Buyan and Tamblingan, and get to know the traditions of Balinese coffee or chocolate production.
What awaits us?
- Jatiluwih rice terraces
- Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
- The famous Handara Gate
- Viewpoint over lakes Buyan and Tamblingan
- A waterfall
- Luwak coffee plantation / chocolate factory
Tour Program
Departure from the hotel at approximately 07:00. We set off on an eventful journey through the central and northern parts of Bali.
Durian tasting
Our first culinary stop is a durian tasting — the famous tropical fruit known across Southeast Asia as the king of fruits. Behind its large spiky shell hides a tender flesh with a rich creamy taste and an unusual aroma.
Several varieties of durian are grown on Bali, differing in size, softness, sweetness, and intensity of flavour. During the stop you can try fresh ripe fruit and decide for yourself whether durian deserves its reputation as one of Asia's most unusual delicacies.
The durian tasting takes place subject to the availability of ripe seasonal fruit. The cost of the durian is paid separately and depends on the variety and weight you choose.
Jatiluwih rice terraces
Next we will visit the famous Jatiluwih rice terraces — one of the most beautiful natural and cultural landscapes on Bali. Their name is often translated as “truly beautiful”, and the phrase captures the first impression of the panorama perfectly.
Emerald rice fields descend in broad cascades down the hillsides to the foot of Mount Batukaru. The scenery here changes constantly: depending on the season you may see flooded fields, young green shoots, ripening golden ears, or a traditional harvest.
The Jatiluwih terraces are irrigated using the ancient Balinese subak system, which brings together farming, community organisation, and the island's spiritual traditions. The subak cultural landscape is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
You will have time to walk among the rice fields, see rural life on Bali, and take vivid panoramic photos.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
The next landmark is Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, located on the shore of the highland Lake Beratan in the Bedugul region. It is one of the main symbols of Bali and one of the most recognisable temples in Indonesia.
The temple complex was founded in the 17th century and dedicated to Dewi Danu — the goddess of water, lakes, and fertility. For centuries Lake Beratan has supplied water to the farmland of the central part of the island, which is why the temple holds special significance for Balinese farmers.
The main feature of the complex is its multi-tiered meru towers, built right at the water's edge. When the level of the lake rises, the temple appears to separate from the shore and float above the surface of the water. The cool mountain air, green slopes, and light mist give this place a particularly mysterious atmosphere.
The famous Handara Gate
We continue the excursion at the famous Handara Gate — one of the most popular photo locations on Bali. The monumental stone gate, surrounded by green mountains and dense tropical vegetation, looks like the entrance to an ancient temple.
In fact the gate was built as the ceremonial entrance to a golf resort. Yet thanks to its traditional Balinese architecture and picturesque mountain backdrop, it has become a landmark in its own right.
The gate is built in the candi bentar style — an entrance split in two, symbolising the balance of opposites. Here we will stop for beautiful photos against one of the island's most recognisable landscapes.
Viewpoint over lakes Buyan and Tamblingan
Next we will climb up to a viewpoint offering a panoramic view of two mountain lakes — Buyan and Tamblingan.
The lakes lie inside an ancient volcanic caldera and are surrounded by dense tropical forests. It is believed that they once formed a single body of water, but natural changes left them separated by a strip of land.
At this altitude the air becomes cooler, mist often drifts above the water, and the forest-covered slopes create a sense of untouched nature. This is one of the best viewpoints in Bedugul for panoramic photos.
Additional photo spots and photos with animals may be offered on site. Such services are optional and are paid separately.
Banyumala Waterfall
After the mountain lakes we will head to Banyumala Waterfall, hidden among the tropical jungles of northern Bali.
The name of the waterfall can be translated as “sacred water”. Unlike powerful single streams, Banyumala descends over a plant-covered cliff in many silvery cascades. At the foot of the waterfall there is a natural pool with cool, clear water where you can swim in suitable weather.
The path to the waterfall runs along a tropical trail and steps, so comfortable shoes are recommended for the excursion. It is also worth bringing swimwear and a change of clothes.
Luwak coffee plantation or chocolate factory
Guests can choose the final stop according to their own preferences.
At the coffee plantation you will get to know the traditions of growing and processing Balinese coffee and see coffee trees, cacao, and local spices. You will be told how the coffee beans are harvested, dried, roasted, and ground, and then offered a tasting of various kinds of coffee and herbal tea.
A special place belongs to the famous Luwak coffee, known for its unusual production method and mild taste. Tasting it is usually paid separately.
As an alternative you can visit a chocolate factory or a Balinese chocolate shop. Here guests will learn about the main stages of turning cacao beans into finished chocolate, will be able to taste different varieties, and can buy chocolate, sweets, and other sweet gifts.
The option you choose must be agreed in advance, as the coffee plantation and the chocolate factory are alternative stops.
After the program is complete we head back to the hotel. The approximate duration of the excursion is 12–13 hours, depending on the location of your hotel, traffic conditions, and the time spent at each location.
The tour price is given in Indonesian rupiah (IDR) per person
| Group size | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 | Rp 2.300.000 (~ $133) |
| 2 | Rp 1.150.000 (~ $66) |
| 3 | Rp 770.000 (~ $44) |
| 4 | Rp 580.000 (~ $33) |
| 5 | Rp 460.000 (~ $27) |
A standard minivan is provided for the tour. Upon request, we can arrange the following vehicles: Toyota Innova, Hyundai H1, Toyota Alphard, Toyota Hiace, Mitsubishi Xpander
Tour price includes:
- Transfers as per the itinerary. Pick-up from the areas of Uluwatu, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Tanjung Benoa, Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Canggu (the entire group must be at the same location). Other areas — upon request
- Russian-speaking/English-speaking guide-driver
- Parking fees and taxes
Not included in the price:
- Entrance tickets to attractions, durian tasting
- Meals
- Personal expenses
- Tips for the guide and driver (at your discretion).
- Insurance
What to bring:
- Comfortable shoes.
- Rain poncho.
- Swimsuit and towel.
- A warm sweater — it can be quite cool in the mountains, around +12°C.
- Cash for expenses (Indonesian rupiah).
Recommendations:
Children of any age are welcome on this tour when accompanied by parents.
