Munduk Bali is an unspoilt mountainous paradise offering a tranquil escape from mass tourism and an insight into local life on the island.
Located in Northern Bali, Munduk is a nature lovers paradise. This mountainous region is a true hidden gem, rarely visited by tourists who favour the coastal towns in the South.
I discovered Munduk whilst searching for less travelled areas on Google Maps after quickly growing tired of the chaotic streets of Kuta and Ubud. I only knew of one person who had travelled to this part of Bali so I knew that this would be a good place to visit to escape the crowds.
To be honest, I came here with no expectations but instantly fell in love with this mountain village surrounded by the most beautiful nature.
Within this guide, I will show you what Munduk has to offer from immersing yourself in local culture to trekking to the most incredible waterfalls.
Best Time to Visit Munduk
As you will be spending most of your time outdoors whilst visiting Munduk, it is best to visit during the dry season which runs between May and October.
However, as Munduk is located at altitude, the weather tends to be cooler and there is a higher chance of rainfall than other areas of Bali.
You should definitely pack a raincoat or at least a poncho when heading out for the day in Munduk or at least be sure to check the weather forecast. I visited in late June and experienced many heavy showers despite it being the middle of dry season!
How to Get to Munduk
Munduk is located in North Bali, a less visited region of the island.
As it is a less popular destination, fewer companies offer shared transport. However, it is still accessible by minivan and taxi. Just be prepared for the winding roads that lead into the village.
I recommend using Perama Tour to book your minivan ride to Munduk. They are a very reliable company who you can contact through Whatsapp to arrange transportation. You can reach Munduk from Canggu, Kuta, Sanur, Ubud and Lovina.
Where to Stay in Munduk
Although Munduk is a less touristy area, there is no lack of accommodation here. There is something for all budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels with infinity pools to budget guesthouses offering an insight into local life.
Great Option for Backpackers: Guru Ratna Homestay
I really recommend staying here if you are looking for a local Indonesian homestay in a great location.
The rooms are basic but have a really local feel to them which I absolutely loved. Something about this place felt really homely and peaceful. In our block there were two rooms, two bathrooms and a patio area (which was great for my yoga practice!)
One of the best things about this homestay is the beautiful sunset view that you get to experience from your doorstep. In fact, you can even stand on the rooftop of the restaurant and watch the sun go down directly ahead!
This homestay costs under £10 for a double bed with a shared bathroom for two people. Breakfast is also included (eggs, fruit, coffee and tea). I stayed here for 3 nights and thoroughly enjoyed my stay.
An Escape into Nature: Bugo Camp Glamping
For those of you looking for a true escape, Bugo Camp offers a comfortable glamping experience with a beautiful view of the countryside.
Bugo Camp is hidden gem in Munduk but is really only suitable for those who can drive a motorbike due to its awkward location.
Here you will be able to fully relax and disconnect. The owners are also lovely, we were provided with a free Indonesian breakfast!
If you have a motorbike, you will be in a great location to explore all parts of Munduk. To reach the nearest restaurant on foot you will need to walk around 1 hour (unfortunately we came across many aggressive dogs so I highly advise you to rent a bike).
The price per night is around £12 for a small pod for two people.
How to Get Around Munduk
The most convenient way of travelling around Munduk is by motorbike if you can drive one. If not, hiring a driver for the day will be the most effective way of getting around. Taxis are also available but Grab/Gojek is unavailable in this area.
I recommend hiring a bike with Munduk Rental with Delivery Scooter. It is owned by the friendliest family and the bikes are in great condition and modified to handle the steep winding roads of Munduk. They can deliver the bike to your hotel which is very convenient. Expect to pay 80,000 IDR (£4.00) per day. You can also book a taxi/driver for the day with this company.
Please only consider renting a motorbike in Munduk if you are very experienced as the roads are very steep and have sharp bends. Also remember to carry your international driving permit.
How Long to Stay in Munduk
Whilst you will find a lot of information online recommending just a day trip to Munduk, it is essential to stay here for at least 2 days to discover all that Munduk has to offer.
There is so much to see in Munduk and the distances between activities tend to be quite large. I personally recommend spending at least 2 nights and 3 days in Munduk.
The Best Things to Do in Munduk
Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall
Personally, these were my favourite waterfalls that I visited in Munduk Bali. Still considered a hidden gem, Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall consists of 4 different waterfalls all within close distance of one another.
A short 20 minute walk into the jungle brings you to the most tranquil waterfalls surrounded by nature with barely anyone in sight!
Unlike other waterfalls in the area, a ticket costs just 40,000 IDR (£2.00) per person and allows you to visit all four waterfalls. Be sure to include this in your itinerary as it is one of the most beautiful and peaceful spots in Munduk.
Munduk Rice Fields
Although Munduk’s local rice fields are small compared to others in Bali, they are very pretty especially during sunset.
These rice paddies are easily accessible from the village by foot. Once you arrive, there is a small path which takes you through the rice fields. Entrance is free!
Sekumpul Waterfall
Sekumpul Waterfall is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Indonesia and the tallest in Bali. It is encompassed within dense jungle and greenery providing a beautiful landscape.
It is located 1 hour from Munduk and is easily accessible by bike or car. Due to its remote location, it is quieter than other waterfalls in Bali.
Unfortunately this waterfall has been taken over by local mafia who insist on paying between 150-250k per person to hike down to the bottom with a tour guide. For backpackers this is a ridiculous price so I suggest only viewing the waterfall from the top for 20k (£1.00) per person unless you have a higher budget.
Wanagiri Coffee Plantation
One of my favourite activities in Munduk was the coffee tasting and tour run by a lovely local family at Wanagiri Coffee Plantation. The surroundings of the plantation are beautiful, we came across mango, passion fruit and avocado trees!
The tour only costs 50k (£2.50) per person and the coffee tasting is an additional 50k per person. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and gave us an insight into local life and culture in Bali.
There are many types of local coffee to try here from Luwak Coffee to Wine Coffee (yes, it actually tastes like red wine!). I really encourage you to visit this local business, it was the best coffee plantation tour that I have had so far in Asia.
Brahmavihara Arama Temple
This stunning temple is located in the mountains near Lovina in the North of Bali. It is the largest Buddhist temple in Bali and offers serenity to its visitors. Entrance is only 25.000 IDR (£1.20)
It is approximately 40 minutes by car/bike from Munduk. Personally, this was my favourite temple that I visited in Bali as it is still very authentic and untouristic (if you have visited Bali you will know that many temples have been turned into more of a tourist attraction than spiritual ground).
Twin Lake
I was massively surprised to find a landscape like this within Bali! These twin lakes can be viewed from the main road above which offers a beautiful panoramic view. There are multiple viewpoints and a few restaurants overlooking the lake, I recommend taking a stop at one of these when passing by.
Another option is to do a trekking tour which takes you into the surrounding jungle.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Ulun Danu Temple was built in 1633. It is used for offerings and ceremonies for the Balinese River Goddess: Dewi Danu.
As one of the most popular temples in Bali, I was expecting a lot more from this Hindu temple. Unfortunately, the entire site feels much more like a ‘theme park’ than a temple. There are many spots for Instagram photos with an additional fee to access each area.
It is still a very pretty and unique temple situated on a lake. The entrance fee is 75.000 IDR (£3.60)
Subuk Rice Fields View
A great free viewpoint to visit if passing by the area. You can park your bike on the side of the road and have a quick look at these beautiful rice fields before continuing your journey. This area is actually surrounded by rice fields and there are many opportunities for stunning panoramic views.
Gunung Sari Garden
Backpackers Recommendation: Get your famous Bali swing photo here instead of in Ubud for free, with no queue!
I was so happy to stumble across this viewpoint on my way to Sekumpul Waterfall. Here, you will have a spectacular view across the jungle and mountains of Munduk and the chance to swing above the incredible landscape. You only need to leave a donation to visit!
Golden Valley Waterfalls
An impressive waterfall in the jungle, reached by a short ten minute walk from the main road.
I recommend parking at the little shop for 2000 IDR by the Eco Cafe sign. Entrance to the waterfall itself is free – a rarity in Bali!
You also have the option to hike to the Red Coral Waterfall from here. There are 5 waterfalls on this trail which takes approximately 3 hours to complete.
Backpacker Restaurant Recommendations
Munduk was my favourite place for Indonesian food in Bali. There are many lovely local restaurants with great prices and a variety of Indonesian dishes. They also love their desserts here which for me is always a bonus!
Warung Enjoy Cafe 2 Munduk
This is a lovely restaurant overlooking rice fields and the jungle.
The prices are very reasonable, a meal costing on average £2 – £3.
I recommend trying the Nasi Goreng with lemongrass and coconut rice.
Warung Genitri
Another Warung with a great view across Munduk with great value food and huge portions.
Expect to pay between £2 and £3 for a meal here.
Guru Ratna Homestay Warung
A local warung within Guru Ratna Homestay offering a range of local Indonesian dishes.
My favourite thing about this warung is their delicious desert menu. The boiled bananas in coconut milk with local spices are delicous, as well as their fried banana.
Warung Makan Neriki
This warung offers spectacular views across the twin lake and is a great place to enjoy a drink and lunch.
Their jungle juice tea is amazing with many spices and flavours.
Expect to pay between £2 – £3 for a meal.
Should I Prioritise Munduk on My Bali Itinerary?
In my opinion, Munduk is a must visit in Bali. It is still very remote and undiscovered by the masses of tourists who flock to Bali.
I would imagine that Munduk is similar to Ubud before it was developed into a tourist destination. There is so much to discover in Munduk from picturesque temples to cascading waterfalls surrounded by vibrant jungles.
Here, you can escape the crowds of Bali and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while being immersed within nature. I had no idea that somewhere like this exists within Bali and it really is a must see whilst it is still so untouched by tourism.
There is 1 comment
Great, informative blog on such a beautiful area. Helpful tips.
Enjoyed reading this, very good stuff, appreciate it.