Lush jungle scenery, volcano views and a cool climate make it the best place for a moody mountain getaway. With its innovative eco-boutique hotels, nature and outdoor activities it’s a place that should be on your radar when visiting Bali! This 2-Day Munduk Travel Guide will give you an overview of this unique area of Bali and how to plan and spend a 2-day getaway.
This 2-Day Munduk Travel Guide will cover everything you need to know when visiting this region of Bali, including photo locations and other cool things to do in the area. Keep reading for the must-visit sites in Munduk and information on transport, accommodation, food and more.
(Updated: November 2024)
A Brief Overview of Munduk
The lush mountain region of Munduk is still one of the most underrated places in Bali.
Every time I want to escape the heat and sun in Canggu or Uluwatu I make sure to go up north to Munduk. There’s something about this place that not many people heard of but that gets more and more popular. A bit off the beaten track, it allows for some real jungle adventure that likely requires your warm sweater.
Especially in the rainy season, this is a great destination as it only adds to the atmosphere. Sure there are limited trendy restaurants and coffee shops, but an array of waterfalls and in-nature-immersed hotels and resorts that are providing you with an unforgettable experience.
Furthermore its fantastic for watching the sunset over Bali’s northern coast.
How to Get to Munduk
The best way to reach Munduk is with your own car or scooter. Hiring a Balinese driver for the trip is great if you don’t know how to drive a scooter or if the often crazy traffic just overwhelms you.
Getting a driver for a full day will cost you about 550.000 IDR (30 USD). If you intend to stay multiple days, you might be able to negotiate with him to also drive you back to your hotel.
To drive with your own scooter might give you the most freedom and most of the places I recommend visiting are based on a scooter road trip.
Cost to hire a scooter for one day: starting at 50.000 IDR (3 USD)
Munduk is also a perfect location to go on day trips to Lovina, Pemuteran or Buleleng. To start planning your trip to North Bali, check my Travel Guide North Bali + The Best Things to See and Do.
SIM Card and Internet Munduk
Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at the airport to stay connected during your stay in Bali. Multiple providers offer affordable data plans, allowing you to access the internet and navigate the island conveniently.
Alternatively, I’d suggest purchasing an eSIM to stay in touch with people and share your pretty pictures while on the go!
Best Time to Visit Munduk, Bali
The best time to visit Munduk is in the dry season from April/May to September/October. Bali has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season (April to September) and the wet season (October to March). However, even on those rainy days, it’s going to be a cosy trip and when you have a cabin stay booked!
Munduk Bali: Best 6 Things to See & Do
When you start your journey to the north, I highly encourage you to make a detour through the World Heritage Site of Jatiluwih. This area is well known for its stunning valleys of rice terraces. It’s also where you can find one of my favourite cafes with some stunning ricefield views – Batu Karu Kopi.
1.) Jungle Experience Stay at Munduk Cabins
If you want a different experience for your stay in Bali I highly recommend these modern cabins with views of the valley and volcanos. Munduk Cabin’s beautiful interior, amenities such as a jacuzzi, unique fireplace to roast marshmallows (yes you heard right!) and the beautiful green garden is one special place.
2.) Capture the Sunrise at Tamblingan Lake
Moving on to one of my favourite temples to visit for sunrise. Tamblingan Lake and Temple are just a 15-minute drive from most accommodations around Munduk. If you’re into travel photography I highly recommend you visit this place for sunrise.
If you like adventures, I recommend booking a combined Jungle Trekking & Canoeing Tour to make the most out of visiting Tamblingan Lake. Visiting this highland lake crater volcano and exploring it in an active way has to be part of your Bali itinerary!
The misty lake, the morning dew on the grass and the temple covered in golden glow make it an amazing photo location. If you’re up for a unique shot, you can rent one of the boats and go out into the lake yourself too.
Entry: free. Parking by donation
3.) Stop at the Twin Lakes Viewpoint
Visiting the Twin Lakes is just a must on every trip to Munduk. Generally speaking, the views are better in the morning, as fog and clouds roll in most afternoons.
There are lots of local restaurants around the area, each having a little hut on the edge to have a nice view while eating. From there, it’s also a great starting point if you want to visit the Banyumala Twin Waterfalls and others!
If you’re into waterfalls, temples and lakes I recommend booking this nature-focused Twin Lakes and Temple Tour. Exploring the nearby Tamblingan Temple, hiking to waterfalls and enjoying this unique scenic point with a Balinese guide is ideal for an adventure day!
Are you planning a trip to North Bali? Check out my North Bali Guide with the 16 most amazing places to visit!
4.) Visit Bedugul, the Scenic Mountain Village
No trip to Munduk would be complete without a stopover in Bedugul. One of the most popular spots is the Ulun Danu Temple, one of Bali’s most sacred sites. I’d suggest coming here early in the morning, to avoid the crowds.
For the ultimate Munduk experience, I recommend this full-day culture and nature tour visiting the famous Ulun Danu Temple, Tamblingan Lake and the stunning Banyumala Twin Waterfalls!
Bedugul is also known for all its fresh veggies and fruit. Every day, the local women are selling all kinds of crackers, nuts and especially strawberries, alongside the roads. Taking home a pack of strawberries is something I always do when I’m in the area. It’s a nice thing to do to support locals.
On that note, don’t miss out on the Hot Chocolate House where you can enjoy strawberry fondue and warm up with a hot chocolate!
5.) Go on a Picnic at Rumah Gemuk Wedding Venue
Another highlight of Bedugul, the Rumah Gemuk wedding venue on top of a hill. It overlooks the Beratan Lake and is a stunning venue, not only to get married at. They offer a lovely picnic setup for up to 4 people in their garden area. You’re surrounded by beautiful plants and the picnic includes a variety of items to choose from. We enjoyed some tasty green juice, two main dishes and even had some Spanish churros as a dessert!
Price for the picnic starts at 18 US$ for 2 people
Stunning Wedding location in Bedugul – Rumah Gemuk
6.) Visit Banyumala Waterfall
Going on an adventure to one of the waterfalls should be a must when in Munduk. There are at least four waterfalls nearby – each one special in its own way. We decided to visit Banyumala Waterfall as it seemed to be the easiest one. It was a 15-minute drive to the entry and another 25-minute walk down some well-preserved wooden stairs. Banyumala’s Twin Falls has a fantastic big swimming hole at the bottom, ideal for a swim.
If you want to combine Munduk’s best sights in one day, I recommend booking this private culture & nature tour. In all comfort, your Balinese driver will show you around this fascinating part of the island so you can immerse yourself in the culture.
Entry: 30.000 IDR for foreigners
Other waterfalls nearby are Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall, Golden Valley Waterfall and Melanting Waterfalls.
Munduk, Bali: Other Cool Things To Do
- Buy fresh flowers straight from the farm & support Balinese vendors
- Practice landscape photography
- Buy a day-pass at the Insta-famous Munduk Moding Plantation and try their coffee
- Book on a thrilling cycling adventure tour at the Twin Lakes
- Combine your 2-day Munduk trip with an tour to Lovina to watch with dolphins
Best Hotels Munduk Bali – Where to Stay
Munduk’s Luxury Hotels:
Munduk Cabins – (454US$ / night) – if you’re looking for a luxurious escape surrounded by nature, you’ve got to check out Munduk Cabins. Imagine waking up to stunning mountain views and lush greenery all around. The cabins are super cozy and decked out with all the modern comforts you could want. It’s like a dreamy retreat in the middle of paradise!
Munduk Moding Plantation – (340 US$ / night) – you’ve got to see Munduk Moding Plantation – it’s seriously something else. Picture this: stylish villas nestled within a coffee plantation, with infinity pools overlooking the most breathtaking views. It’s the ultimate luxury getaway with a touch of nature’s charm.
Sanak Retreat – (225 US$ / night) – If you’re craving some peace and quiet, Sanak Retreat is the place to be. It’s tucked away in this quaint village surrounded by rice terraces and gardens – talk about tranquil! You can stay in these cute cottages, do some yoga, or just soak in the serene vibes. It’s like stepping into your own little haven of relaxation.
Medium Range Hotels:
Munduk Farmhouse (35 US$ / night) – if you’re on a budget but still want a cozy spot to crash, Munduk Farmhouse is perfect. It’s got this rustic charm to it, with comfy rooms overlooking the countryside. Plus, the views are unreal! It’s simple, laid-back, and totally affordable – just what you need for a chill getaway.
Munduk Clove House – (30 US$ / night) – Munduk Clove House is this cute little guesthouse surrounded by rice paddies and clove plantations. It’s super cozy and welcoming, and the rates are totally budget-friendly. You can kick back, enjoy the peaceful vibes, and explore the nearby sights without breaking the bank. It’s like a home away from home in Munduk!
BOOK A STAY IN THE BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN MUNDUK
Munduk might have not been on your radar and maybe your travels in Bali won’t be long enough to make it up there but if you have time, I highly recommend visiting. If this Munduk Travel Guide was helpful, share it and put it to practice when in Bali. Any questions, feel free to reach out!
Have you read my other articles on what to do in Bali and beyond?
One of the best trips for divers to take from Bali : Budget Scuba Diving in Komodo – What You Need To Know
My favorite beaches to visit in Uluwatu: Bali Uluwatu – The Best Beaches To Visit
Visit Amed with my Ultimate Amed Guide: Best Things to See & Do
What to do in Bali, Adventure Edition: Mount Batur Sunrise Hike
When in Bali you should also visit its neighboring island Sumba: Sumba, The 20 Most Amazing Places to See
Women Travel Essentials I Can’t Live Without
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