Here are the best lakes in Bali to visit on your holiday. If you’re not satisfied with just soaking in the beauty of Bali’s beaches, you can also give other things a shot, like hiking mountains and indulging in some luxurious accommodations available in Bali.
However, one thing you might have overlooked is that Bali hides some must-visit lakes during your vacation to Bali. These places are somewhat far from the city center, and most tourists usually want to spend their time in the bustling South Bali, which, let’s face it, is all about beaches and a few nightclubs.
Choosing to explore Bali’s lakes can be an exciting option to take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle. Furthermore, these lake areas in Bali tend to have a cooler climate, making them ideal for self-reflection.
Best Lakes in Bali
Here is a list of the best lakes in Bali.
1. Danau Beratan (Bedugul)
Danau Baratan or Lake Beratan is located in the Bedugul area of Baturiti, Tabanan Regency, and is one of the most frequently visited lakes. It’s no surprise because this lake offers some truly beautiful views. On the lakeshore, you’ll find the exotic Ulun Danu Beratan Temple. The 50,000 Rupiah banknote has even immortalized the temple and the lake, so most local tourists take pictures of them with the perfect backdrop.
In front of the temple area, there’s a beautiful garden adorned with various colorful flowers. Tall pine trees add to the lush and complete garden atmosphere. When the weather is clear, take a photo of the pine trees against the bright blue sky, and you’ll be amazed by the result. For those looking to enjoy a romantic atmosphere or just have some fun with friends at the lake, you can rent boats there.
Apart from Lake Beratan, plant and flower enthusiasts can also visit the Eka Karya Bedugul Botanical Garden. In this botanical garden, cars are allowed to enter, but those riding motorcycles must park them outside the garden. After enjoying the beauty and serenity of the botanical garden, you can visit Bedugul Market, where various fruits, especially strawberries, colorful flowers, corn cobs, snacks, and typical Balinese souvenirs are sold.
In the Bedugul area, there’s also a large Al-Hidayah Mosque for Muslims who wish to worship. The mosque is located on the side of the Denpasar-Singaraja Highway, right across from Lake Beratan. For those planning to stay overnight, there are several hotels available as accommodation options.
2. Danau Batur (Kintamani)
Danau Batur or Lake Batur is the biggest lake in Bali, nestled in the Kintamani District of Bangli Regency. This lake offers some seriously stunning and jaw-dropping views, especially when the sun is out – the water turns as blue as the ocean during the daytime. Sunrise views are equally breathtaking. Lake Batur sits within the caldera where Mount Batur once erupted. You can still see remnants of the volcanic eruption in the form of black stones at the base of this mountain. You can actually hike down and get up close to these rocks because there’s a road leading right to the front side of Mount Batur’s eruption area.
If you’re into photography, those monumental rock formations are a real treat, especially when you capture them with the backdrop of the mountains and Lake Batur. Along the lake’s edge, there are hot springs, hotels, and restaurants. If you have some extra time on your hands, consider renting a boat and crossing over to the traditional Bali village (Baliaga) in Trunyan. These folks are the original Bali residents and have very distinct customs compared to the rest of Bali, especially in how they handle their deceased – they don’t cremate them (ngaben), but instead, place them under a tree. Oddly enough, there’s no foul odor, which is a unique quirk of the village.
3. Danau Buyan
Danau Buyan or Lake Buyan is located in the Sukasada District of Buleleng Regency. While its views might not be as breathtaking as Lake Batur and Lake Beratan, this danau still has its own charm. It’s all about that cool and peaceful vibe, my friend. The facilities at this tourist spot are pretty basic for now, but let’s hope the local government steps up and makes this place even better so it can stand tall with the other lakes around.
Near the danau, you’ll find lots of cute monkeys along the Denpasar-Singaraja connecting road. Also, not too far from Lake Buyan, there’s the beautiful Yeh Ketipat Temple. If you’re into chasing waterfalls (not the TLC kind), you’re in luck because not far away in Gitgit Village, there are three crystal-clear waterfalls: Git-Git Waterfall, Tiered Waterfall, and Twin Waterfall. So, there’s plenty to explore around Lake Buyan too!
3. Danau Tamblingan
Lake Tamblingan (Danau Tamblingan) sits right next to Lake Buyan but falls under the jurisdiction of the Banjar Buleleng Regency. Even though it’s the smallest among the four lakes in Bali, don’t underestimate its charm. The views here are equally captivating. There’s also a temple nearby called Gubug Tamblingan Temple (Pura Gubug Tamblingan). Not far from Lake Tamblingan, you’ll stumble upon the beautiful Munduk village, nestled in some stunning hills. And guess what? There’s a pretty cool Munduk waterfall nearby too.
So, those are the must-visit danau when you’re vacationing in Bali!
Read also: Activities in Bali that You Can Do to Make It More Memorable
