Discover Northern Bali: 2025’s Top Places to See

So, a lot of people think they know Bali, right? They picture the busy beaches of Kuta or the yoga studios in Ubud, you know. But actually, there is this whole other side to the island, a part that feels a bit more untouched and, frankly, a whole lot quieter. We are, of course, talking about Northern Bali. Honestly, going up north is like stepping into a slightly different world. That is that the vibe up here is just so much more laid-back. The landscape, too it’s almost a total change, with mountains that appear to touch the clouds and waterfalls hidden away in deep green jungles. Basically, if you are looking for an experience that’s a bit more about nature and local life, well, the north is probably where your heart will feel at home.

Munduk: A Cool Retreat in the Clouds

Okay, first, let’s talk about Munduk. Actually, as you drive up into the highlands, you can literally feel the air change. It gets just a little bit cooler, a little crisper, which is a really welcome feeling after the coastal heat. Munduk isn’t a town with, you know, a main strip of shops and bars. Instead, it is more or less a string of small villages spread out along a ridge. So, the main draw here is the staggering natural scenery. For example, you have these incredible twin lakes, Buyan and Tamblingan, that often sit under a soft blanket of mist in the morning. Frankly, it’s a view that makes you just want to sit with a cup of locally grown coffee and do nothing at all. As a matter of fact, coffee and clove plantations are everywhere here, and the sweet, spicy smell often hangs in the air.

Anyway, getting out and walking around is what Munduk is really about. There are so many trails that take you through rice paddies and past some truly beautiful waterfalls that are, in a way, less crowded than their southern counterparts. You might want to check out Melanting or Red Coral Waterfall. The walk to them is almost as pretty as the falls themselves. It is that feeling of being completely surrounded by green that is just so refreshing. At the end of the day, the pace of life here is slower. People you meet on the paths will actually smile and say hello. It feels very, very genuine, you know, like you are getting a small peek into a more traditional side of the island. Honestly, it’s the perfect place to just recharge your batteries.

Lovina Beach: Serene Sands and Playful Dolphins

So, when you hear “beach” in Bali, you probably think of golden sand, right? Well, Lovina sort of flips that idea on its head. The beaches here are made of black volcanic sand, which is a bit different and very beautiful in its own way, especially in the soft light of sunrise. Now, the ocean here is typically much calmer than in the south because it’s protected by reefs. That makes it almost perfect for swimming and just floating around without getting knocked over by big waves. Obviously, the main thing Lovina is famous for is the dolphins. Getting up before dawn to go out on a traditional outrigger boat, a jukung, is pretty much a rite of passage here. As the sun starts to peek over the horizon, you’ll likely see pods of dolphins jumping and playing in the water. Seriously, it’s a pretty magical sight to see.

But Lovina is more than just a one-trick pony. The area has a really relaxed, almost sleepy, seaside town atmosphere that is quite appealing. In the evenings, you can find some great little seafood restaurants, or warungs, right on the beach where you can, you know, eat with your toes in the sand. And because the water is so calm, it’s also a decent spot for snorkeling right off the shore. You can find some small patches of reef with colorful fish. As I was saying, it’s not just about the dolphins. It’s about the quiet mornings, the gentle waves, and a community that feels, in a way, a world away from the island’s more hectic spots. To be honest, it is a very charming place to spend a few days unwinding.

Sekumpul Waterfall: A Trek to a Powerful Giant

Alright, let’s be clear: getting to Sekumpul Waterfall is a bit of an effort, but it is absolutely worth every single step. Honestly, this isn’t just one waterfall; it’s a collection of at least seven of them, all pouring down a lush, jungle-covered cliff face. In fact, many people say this is the most spectacular waterfall in all of Bali, and frankly, they might be right. The name “Sekumpul” actually means “a group,” which makes a lot of sense once you see it. The main falls are incredibly tall and powerful. The sound they make is just a deep rumble that you feel as much as you hear. And the spray, you know, it creates this constant mist that makes the whole area feel very cool and alive.

The journey to get to the base of the falls is part of the whole adventure. First, you get a great view from a distance, which is amazing for photos. Then, you have to hike down a lot of stairs and cross a couple of small rivers. In other words, you will definitely get your feet wet. But being down in the canyon, looking up at these massive streams of water, is just a totally humbling experience. It makes you feel very, very small in the best possible way. There are often local guides who can help you, and at the end of the day, their help can be quite useful for navigating the paths safely. Still, it’s a raw, natural wonder that feels slightly off the main tourist track, and that’s precisely what makes it so special.

Air Panas Banjar and Brahmavihara-Arama: Soothing Body and Soul

Just a short drive from Lovina, you can find a couple of spots that are basically perfect for a half-day trip of relaxation. First up are the Air Panas Banjar, or the Banjar Hot Springs. Basically, these are public baths filled with naturally hot, sulfuric water that pours from the mouths of carved stone dragons, or nagas. The water is a bit greenish and has a distinct smell, but you know, that’s how you know it’s the real deal. Soaking in the warm pools is incredibly soothing, especially if your muscles are a little sore from hiking to waterfalls. There are three different pools, and the setting, surrounded by tropical gardens, is just lovely. It’s a very popular spot with both locals and travelers, so it has a nice, communal feel.

Then, just up the hill from the hot springs, you will find a place with a totally different kind of peace: Brahmavihara-Arama. This is the largest Buddhist monastery in Bali, and it’s often called a “mini Borobudur” because its design shares some similarities with the famous temple in Java. Honestly, it is a surprisingly serene place. You can wander through its different levels, admire the statues and the beautifully kept gardens, and look out over the hills all the way to the sea. The atmosphere is very contemplative. You can even sometimes see monks in their saffron robes. In some respects, visiting these two places back-to-back is a wonderful experience—first, you soothe your body in the healing waters, and then you quiet your mind in the peaceful monastery.

Pemuteran & Menjangan Island: Bali’s Underwater Paradise

Now, let’s head all the way to the northwest corner of Bali, to a little area called Pemuteran. Seemingly, this place is the heart of Bali’s conservation-minded tourism. The beach here is home to the world’s largest Biorock reef restoration project. In short, it’s a fascinating initiative where low-voltage electricity is used to help corals grow much faster. You can actually snorkel right off the beach and see these amazing underwater structures teeming with new life. The town itself is very, very low-key, just a single road with a handful of dive shops and quiet places to stay. Actually, the whole vibe is centered around a deep respect for the ocean.

The real prize of this region, however, is a short boat ride away: Menjangan Island. By the way, “Menjangan” means “deer,” and yes, you can sometimes see deer wandering along the island’s white sand beaches. The island is part of the West Bali National Park, so its marine environment is very protected. This is, without a doubt, one of the best places for snorkeling and diving in Bali. The water is almost always crystal clear, and you can expect to see incredible “wall dives” where the reef just drops off into the deep blue. The coral gardens are some of the most vibrant and healthy you’ll find, and they’re just swimming with all kinds of colorful fish. Seriously, it’s like dipping your head into a perfectly kept aquarium. It’s an absolutely unforgettable experience for anyone who loves the ocean.

“To be honest, Northern Bali showed me a side of the island I didn’t know existed. It’s where the pace slows down, the landscapes get bigger, and you kind of remember what travel is all about: discovery and genuine connection.”

• A Different Pace: Northern Bali is basically much quieter and more focused on nature than the south.
• Highland Beauty: Places like Munduk offer cool air, stunning lake views, and endless greenery.
• Unique Beaches: Lovina’s black sand and calm waters are perfect for a relaxing stay, and you know, the dolphins are a bonus.
• Powerful Nature: Sekumpul Waterfall is a real showstopper, a truly impressive natural wonder that’s worth the trek.
• Underwater Worlds: The area around Pemuteran and Menjangan Island has some of the healthiest reefs and clearest water for snorkeling and diving in Bali.

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