North Bali Tour Review: Waterfalls, Temple, and Hot Spring

Planning a trip to Bali? Well, you just might want to think about escaping the South Bali crowds. Like, what about checking out North Bali for a change? A tour combining cascading waterfalls, a serene Buddhist temple, and natural hot springs? Sounds appealing, huh? Well, it did to us, that’s for sure! We hopped on a tour hitting these spots, and here’s what we discovered, so that you can be prepared.

Why North Bali Is Seriously Worth Considering

So, when you hear “Bali,” what usually pops into your head? Kuta’s wild beaches, Seminyak’s upscale bars, that sort of thing, right? Yet, North Bali presents quite a contrast. This area is usually overlooked. That area of the island is far quieter. Plus, it features incredibly lush landscapes. Think volcanic lakes, picturesque rice terraces, and those incredible waterfalls Bali is very well known for. We needed a change of pace and, really, an opportunity to witness a completely different side of the island. The North looked pretty ideal.

The North is really attractive for lots of things, I’d say. Maybe you’re interested in avoiding big crowds, right? Perhaps you’re wanting to discover more traditional Balinese culture. Perhaps, it’s that you’re searching for nature that feels completely untouched. So, a tour of North Bali could just be a top pick for your Bali itinerary. After all, we really wanted to swap out those bustling beaches for something way more authentic and rejuvenating.

Our First Stop: Captivating Waterfalls

Okay, we had to decide between a few different waterfall options on our tour. In the end, we chose Gitgit Waterfall, which seemed like one of the most famous and easily accessible ones in the area. Like, getting there involved a bit of a walk. Think trekking through a forest. The reward at the finish, though? Really, worth it. Trust me.

Now, as we got closer, the roar of the waterfall grew louder. Honestly, when we reached Gitgit, it was gorgeous. Picture this: clear, cool water tumbling down a steep cliff, all enclosed by dense, rich greenery. You know, it felt kind of magical. Naturally, we had to take a dip in the pool right at the bottom of the falls – absolutely refreshing, especially on a hot day. Even more, there’s something incredibly calming and very, very grounding about being surrounded by all that natural beauty. So, that first stop began the tour really well, don’t you think?

Other Waterfall Options

So, what if Gitgit doesn’t really catch your interest? No stress. North Bali is overflowing with a whole bunch of other terrific waterfalls. Aling-Aling Waterfall, like, offers up adventurous cliff jumping (only if you’re brave, obviously). Sekumpul Waterfall? One of Bali’s most majestic, seriously. It features a collection of falls cascading side by side. Consider these spots if you’re planning your tour, since they might suit your interests, so to speak, just a bit better. I guess it all boils down to just how daring you really feel and just how much walking you’re prepared to do!

Second Stop: Brahma Vihara Arama – Bali’s Serene Buddhist Temple

From the thundering sounds of the waterfall, we went to something much calmer, in a way. This time, the Brahma Vihara Arama. I suppose, this is Bali’s only Buddhist monastery, too. It offers a really unique contrast to the Hindu temples you usually see all across Bali. Built on a hillside, the temple gave us breathtaking views of the northern coastline.

Well, the layout features a number of meditation areas, tranquil gardens, plus impressively gold-plated statues. It has that peaceful vibe the second you step foot onto the grounds. Taking a walk all around the complex felt so calm, honestly. The design is really special and gives a really special sense of harmony. So, that it’s very perfect if you’re looking for a break from all of the action in South Bali.

Respectful Temple Visits

It is very, very important to remember that the Brahma Vihara Arama is, you know, a sacred site, right? It’s necessary to dress modestly. As a matter of fact, that tends to be the same case whenever visiting any holy place in Bali. Dress how you usually do, so you’ll fit right in! When we visited, that meant that we had to make sure our shoulders and knees were appropriately covered. Like, it is possible to borrow a sarong when you get there, so you don’t need to worry about being unprepared, I would argue. It’s all part of that Balinese respect for culture.

Third Stop: Banjar Hot Springs – Nature’s Relaxing Spa

Our very final stop for this tour? I’m going to go with, it had to be one of the most looked forward to moments, in a way. That meant a visit to the Banjar Hot Springs. In short, imagine soaking in warm, mineral-rich water right in the heart of the jungle. That water comes from natural springs and, it might be worth noting, it’s very well known for all its therapeutic properties.

You know, after all that sightseeing, the hot springs were absolutely fantastic. Now, the pools aren’t super fancy, it is true, but that honestly adds to their charm, arguably. The water had a cozy warmth. Also, it made our tired muscles so much better. It might just be worth being aware that, naturally, the springs are really popular with local people. And with tourists, to be honest! Getting there earlier in the day is one of the smartest moves, if you want a more private type of experience. This spot proved a nice ending to a day exploring North Bali, as I see it.

Hot Spring Etiquette

Basically, before you leap right into the Banjar Hot Springs, there’s a handful of stuff you may want to take note of, right? First, take a shower. I mean, you’ll want to shower off any lotions. Or maybe, sunscreen that you’ve got on your body. It is almost vital to keep that water pure. Secondly, if you’ve got long hair, I would advise tying it up. Doing this can keep it out of the pools, too. Thirdly, and maybe I could be wrong, you probably should stay hydrated, okay? You may get very dehydrated very fast due to the hot water.

Tour Logistics: Transport, Timing, and Cost

Now, that you’ve got an inkling about the destinations, alright, what about discussing the practical stuff, huh? Getting to North Bali from the southern part of the island normally needs, like, a two-to-three-hour drive, as a matter of fact. Because of this, doing a tour is almost the most convenient option for plenty of tourists. I think you’ll find the majority of tours often include round-trip transportation right from your hotel.

Full-day tours are very normal. Very normal indeed. Also, that normally includes a personal driver who knows all the areas super well. Costs usually swing around depending on things like group size, any included extras and how luxurious you really want your trip to be, you know? If you want something easier, just book right through your hotel, don’t you think? The prices tend to be higher in that scenario, right? In short, for budget travelers, I would say use online search engines to see what kind of things there are, what’s not included and what other customers think. This tends to be best.

Packing the Right Gear

What will you need? That seems a very good question, too it’s almost essential that you prepare for all sorts of weather conditions. What about packing layers, so you’re set for when the weather turns chilly, like in the mountains? Very important indeed, too it’s almost more important than packing only, you know, for one type of condition. You should plan on swimming too! Take swimming outfits, right? Bring a towel with you. Should you intend to visit holy spots, ensure you have acceptable garments, I think that’s pretty essential, wouldn’t you? I think, with a touch of foresight, your vacation will go even easier.

Food Stops: Where to Eat

I might go with saying food may be one of the best ways that one is able to familiarize themselves with some other culture. It’s very common that any Bali North trip does have food. So you won’t need to be worried, there! What sort of thing would a tourist consider as they get ready to munch away at genuine regional dishes?

There might be times when your tour stop happens near to a local “warung”. It will serve Balinese cuisine. Trying the native food from nearby can be pretty rewarding for somebody visiting, generally speaking. If there’s one specific food anyone may try? Attempt to eat “lawar.” People can prepare food, but lawar only appears only near Bali. People like to saute it when mixing up meats and spices.

Some Good Advice for Potential North Bali Visitors

Trips can still be better, I mean, provided one plans in advance, right? If trips happen outside the popular dates? Trips happen even easier! Visiting the northern regions may just offer some of that. If not as big, but Bali has its wettest and driest periods too! Be ready for any conditions as it can also play a large effect on one’s day tour.

Booking beforehand is really one solid idea when you seek cheaper fees with good reliability. Talk to tour groups from before if you have certain needs during vacation! They might know of some neat tourist areas! Are tourists sensitive towards bugs? So, using repellant may not be optional. It can really help tourists to enjoy what is near!