Munduk: 2 Days in the Heart of Bali’s Mountains

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Munduk: A Peaceful Retreat in the Heart of Bali’s Mountains

Munduk, a village perched in the mountains of northern Bali, is the perfect destination for travelers seeking untouched nature and authenticity. Far from the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots, it offers a peaceful setting where lush landscapes blend with a misty, serene atmosphere. Surrounded by dramatic waterfalls and terraced rice fields, Munduk is a refreshing escape, where the higher altitude brings a cooler climate—ideal for a break from Bali’s coastal heat.

Here, time seems to slow down, inviting you to fully reconnect with nature. Jungle hikes, visits to coffee plantations, and strolls along volcanic lakes reveal a more preserved and authentic side of Bali, far from the typical tourist trails.

We spent two days exploring Munduk and were completely charmed by its raw beauty and calming vibe. Discover our tips to explore this lesser-known region and make it an unforgettable stop on your Bali itinerary.

Getting to Munduk from Ubud: A Scenic Drive Through the Mountains

The journey from Ubud to Munduk takes around two hours and follows one of the most scenic routes in Bali. Leaving behind the island’s central rice fields, the road winds through hilltop villages and tropical forests, offering, on clear days, stunning views of Mount Batur. Along the way, you’ll find spectacular viewpoints overlooking the mountains and the lush surrounding landscape.

Practical tip: The route is beautiful, but narrow and winding, with some steep sections. It can be challenging to navigate by scooter, especially for less experienced riders. For a more comfortable journey—and to fully enjoy the scenery—we recommend hiring a private driver.

The Waterfalls of Munduk: A Deep Dive into Nature

Hiking in Munduk: Exploring Waterfalls in the Heart of the Balinese Jungle

To discover Munduk’s waterfalls, we followed a loop trail that combined easy hiking, tropical ambiance, and breathtaking scenery—perfect for immersing yourself in Bali’s natural beauty.

Our first stop was Golden Valley Waterfall, tucked slightly off the main trail. Facing the falls, an eco-café nestled in the greenery offers the perfect spot to enjoy a Balinese coffee or local breakfast, with the soothing sound of falling water in the background.

Next, we reached Laagan Waterfall, also known as Red Coral. It’s easily accessible and surrounded by dense vegetation. With its strong flow and lush setting, it’s an unmissable stop along the route.

The trail then continues to Melanting Waterfall, wilder and more secluded. Only the gentle rush of water breaks the silence here. It’s a peaceful atmosphere—ideal for a quiet break before moving on.

Finally, our hike ended at Labuhan Kebo Waterfall, our personal favorite. Less visited, it reveals a natural pool perfect for swimming. We lingered here for a while, embraced by the sounds of the jungle and the gentle murmur of the water, before heading back to Munduk.

This hike offered a truly immersive experience of Balinese nature—through dense jungle, plantations, and majestic waterfalls.

Practical Tips for the Munduk Waterfalls Hike:

Entrance fees: Entry to each waterfall ranges from 10,000 to 45,000 IDR, payable in cash.
Duration: Plan 3 to 4 hours if including Golden Valley, or 2 to 3 hours for the main three-waterfall loop.
Difficulty: Moderate trail with stairs and steep sections, which can be slippery after rain. A GPS app is helpful.
Gear: Wear good walking shoes, bring water, a swimsuit and towel for Labuhan Kebo, and a dry bag to protect your belongings.
Recommended stop: The Golden Valley Eco Café is an excellent place to start your day with a traditional breakfast overlooking the waterfall.

Other Waterfalls Near Munduk

If you’re looking to explore further, several remarkable waterfalls lie within a 30-minute drive from the village.

Banyumala Waterfall is one of the most impressive in Bali. Two parallel streams cascade into a large natural pool—ideal for a refreshing swim. The setting is both wild and serene, making the detour well worth it.

Nearby, Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfalls feature four distinct cascades tucked away in a lush green enclave. Each waterfall offers a different atmosphere—mossy walls, natural pools, and rich tropical vegetation. Less crowded than the main sites around Munduk, these falls provide a more peaceful, immersive experience in the heart of Bali’s nature.

Practical Tips:

Entrance fees: Between 30,000 and 50,000 IDR, payable in cash
Access: As these waterfalls are farther from the village, renting a scooter or hiring a private driver is recommended—perfect for enjoying the scenic drive
What to bring: Wear good walking shoes (some trails can be steep), and bring a swimsuit, as many of the falls have natural pools for swimming
Best time to visit: To avoid the crowds, go early in the morning

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan: A Floating Temple Between Sky and Water

Set on the shores of Lake Bratan and framed by misty mountains, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan appears to float gently on the water. This Hindu temple, dedicated to Dewi Danu—the goddess of water and lakes—is still an active place of worship, where Balinese come to offer blessings for their crops.

We arrived early, just as the morning mist was rising from the lake, cloaking the pagodas in a serene atmosphere. The air was filled with the scent of incense, and the silence was broken only by the soft chime of temple bells. As we wandered through the perfectly manicured gardens, we admired the stone carvings and thatched roofs—symbols of the elegance of Balinese architecture. Every angle revealed a new perspective of the temple and its near-magical reflection in the water.

After the visit, we strolled along the lakeside, discovering fresh viewpoints of the temple and the surrounding mountains. Some visitors choose to rent a traditional boat to admire the site from the water—a more immersive way to experience this iconic place.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit:

Arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the calm of the morning—ideally right at opening time
Take your time to stroll the paths, observe the architectural details, and witness the daily rituals
Extend the experience with a meal overlooking the temple—several restaurants line the lakefront

A Gourmet Break at a Coffee Plantation: Discovering Local Flavors

While in Munduk, we took the time to visit a coffee plantation—an immersive experience that offered a deep dive into the world of Balinese coffee, renowned for its rich and complex aromas. Walking through the terraced plantations, we followed each step of the production process, from hand-picking to roasting, while chatting with passionate farmers who carry on a time-honored craft.

The tasting was a true sensory journey. Each local variety revealed subtle notes, ranging from cacao to warm spices. Among the highlights, the famous Luwak coffee is often showcased. However, it’s important to remain cautious, as not all plantations follow ethical practices—some still keep civets in captivity.

Practical Tips:

Take your time to sample different coffees and let yourself be surprised by the diversity of local flavors
Engage with the producers, who are often happy to share their knowledge and passion
Choose plantations that follow ethical practices, especially for Luwak coffee—look for those that collect beans from wild civets, not from animals kept in captivity
Compare prices before buying, as some plantations are more commercially driven than others

A stop at a coffee plantation is a wonderful way to experience a more intimate and authentic side of Bali—blending local craftsmanship, sensory discovery, and a peaceful moment in a stunning natural setting.

Walking Through the Terraced Rice Fields: Serenity and Sweeping Views

In Munduk, the terraced rice fields offer a timeless escape—far from the busier, more touristy spots of Bali. Just a short walk from the village center, these landscapes unfold in spectacular fashion, where the vibrant green of the paddies contrasts beautifully with the surrounding mountains. There’s no crowd here—only the sound of the wind rustling through the fields and the quiet rhythm of farmers working in harmony with the seasons.

Following the winding paths between the terraces, we felt as though we had stepped into a more authentic Bali—one untouched by tourist trails. At every turn, new perspectives revealed the sculpted beauty of the land, a living testimony to the ancestral know-how of Balinese farmers. The atmosphere is peaceful and immersive, perfect for a slow, contemplative walk.

Why Explore the Rice Fields of Munduk?

Munduk has no bustling town center or shopping streets—and that’s exactly what makes it special. There are no crowds, no towering buildings—just dirt paths, carved rice terraces, and a quiet, grounding atmosphere.

Walking through the rice fields means discovering a quieter, rural side of Bali—one that feels untouched and genuine. It’s a simple experience, yet deeply moving, where you walk at your own pace, lulled by the wind and the steady work of the farmers. A moment of pure authenticity

Explore the Volcanic Lakes of Buyan and Tamblingan: Between Mystery and Untouched Nature

Picture a misty lake at dawn, bordered by silent tropical forest, where only birdsong and the gentle ripple of water break the stillness. This almost dreamlike setting is home to Buyan and Tamblingan, two ancient volcanic craters now filled with tranquil water.

Located in a lesser-traveled region, these twin lakes offer the perfect backdrop for a peaceful walk, a traditional canoe ride, or simply a quiet moment of reflection. Their still waters mirror the clouds, light, and trees—creating a landscape that shifts beautifully throughout the day.

What makes these lakes so captivating is their atmosphere of deep calm. Photographers will be drawn to the partially submerged trees and the morning mist lingering on the surface, giving the place an almost otherworldly quality.

Exploring Buyan and Tamblingan means stepping away from the usual tourist paths and into a wilder, quieter side of Bali—where nature takes center stage and time seems to stand still.

Sunset Dinner in Munduk: Balinese Flavors with a Mountain View

After a day of exploration, sitting down to dinner with a view of Munduk’s mountains is the perfect way to end the day. As the sun sets, the sky turns golden, and the cool mountain air settles in, bringing with it a deep sense of calm.

The village’s restaurants—often perched on hillsides—serve simple yet flavorful Balinese cuisine, always with a view. Don’t miss local favorites like nasi goreng, a fragrant fried rice dish spiced to perfection, and bebek betutu, a slow-cooked duck wrapped in banana leaves.

This quiet, suspended moment offers a chance to savor local flavors while watching the last light fade over the valley.

Munduk, an Authentic Stop in the Heart of Bali

Munduk is an invitation to slow down, explore, and soak in a Bali that still feels untouched. Here, nature speaks softly—terraced rice fields, hidden waterfalls, volcanic lakes shrouded in mist. Far from the tourist bustle, this mountain village reveals another side of the island, where every path leads to discovery, and every moment invites reflection.

Whether you enjoy hiking, tasting local flavors, or simply savoring the silence, Munduk is an ideal retreat. From a swim beneath a waterfall to a walk through coffee plantations or dinner overlooking the mountains, each day flows at a gentler pace—but leaves a lasting impression.

It’s a quieter, more intimate Bali. The kind of place you plan to visit for just one night… and end up staying longer than expected.

Our guides to exploring Bali

Articles by destination

Want to explore different sides of Bali? Each region has its own rhythm, scenery, and atmosphere. To help you fine-tune your itinerary, we’ve dedicated a full article to each stop on our journey:

Ubud: A Blend of Culture, Rice Terraces, and Balinese Traditions
Sidemen: Far from the crowds, a deep dive into rural Bali
Gili Trawangan: The perfect island for snorkeling and laid-back vibes
Nusa Penida: Dramatic cliffs and unforgettable viewpoints
Uluwatu: Surf, temples, and sunsets over the ocean

Our 2-week itinerary in Bali

Looking for an overview to help structure your trip? Check out our complete two-week itinerary, designed to balance exploration, relaxation, and cultural immersion across Bali’s most beautiful destinations.

Plan your trip: our practical guide

Need concrete tips to organize your journey? Entry requirements, local transportation, budget, weather, useful advice… you’ll find all the essential information in our practical guide to planning a trip to Bali.

No matter how you like to travel, Bali has a thousand faces to discover. Whether your stay is focused on nature, culture, or pure relaxation, you’ll find everything you need here to plan a journey that truly reflects you.