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When you hear Bali, it’s often associated with the bustling beaches of south Bali, the cultural heart of Ubud, and the vibrant Nusa Dua among others. These places are known for their tourist crowds, shopping extravaganza, and exuberant nightlife. Munduk however, is tucked away in the northern highlands of Bali, untouched, peaceful with a charm of its own.
8 Things to do in Munduk
1. Visit waterfalls around Munduk
Munduk is a region in the central highlands of Bali, Indonesia, known for picturesque landscapes and a collection of stunning waterfalls that cascade through lush, tropical greenery. We hired a bike to go around and visit a few. We had only one day in Munduk, so we could only do Banyuwana Falls which is a collection of 4 waterfalls.
If you have an extra day or 2, craft an itinerary dedicated to chasing waterfalls, combining both renowned and lesser-known hidden gems like Banywana and Banyumala falls. The conditions and accessibility may vary, in terms of how little hikes are required for some of them, and some are very close to the main road and more accessible. We spent aout 1.5 hrs in Banyuwana as it had 4 waterfalls and a small hike up and down.
Here's a quick itinerary you can follow.
Day 1: Banyuwana falls, Banyumala falls, Sekumpul falls
Day 2: Nung Nung Falls , Leke Leke Falls
Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply someone in search of serenity, all the waterfalls around Munduk offer a delightful escape into the heart of Bali's verdant landscapes.
2. Ulun Danu Bratan
Ulun Danu Bratan also known as Pura Ulun Danu, is a Hindu water temple located on the shores of Lake Bratan. It is a beautifully landscaped temple with a botanical garden, boating options around the lake, tourist-friendly shopping, and a café by the lake. Plan a visit to the temple in the early hours of the morning or early afternoon, to avoid the crowds. The temple creates a stunning reflection of itself on the calm waters of the lake which is a sight for sore eyes.
3. Take a tour of the local coffee estates
We lived in an Airbnb with a great view and a coffee estate, so we really didn’t have to go too far looking for it.
4. Meet a Luwak, Try the Luwak coffee, and get a complimentary coffee tasting.
Most coffee estates make their own Luwak coffee and offer a tasting service. A tasting session costs about 50,000 IDR. The cost includes 1 cup of Luwak coffee and a tasting tray with the other varieties of coffee and green tea the estate produces and sells.
More often than never, you will also be able to say hi to the Luwak at the estate.
“Luwak coffee is a unique twist the regular coffee experience. It involves a fascinating process where coffee beans consumed and excreted by luwaks (civets), undergo a tranformation in PH levels and flavour.. The beans are collected carefully fromt hr Luwak's poop - cleaned, dried, roasted and processed to produce luwak coffee, known for its smooth and distinctive taste. ”
5. Live in a place with a beautiful view to wake up to!
There are several places on booking.com or Airbnb that you can choose from. Camp with style in those perfect white glamping tents, or cozy up in a wooden A frame. And if you're feeling a bit fancy, opt for luxury resorts that basically redefine the whole vacation game.
6. Visit a hydrangea farm
Set against lush landscapes and rolling hills, the organized rows of hydrangea bushes create a visually appealing pattern. Scenic pathways wind through the fields, providing visitors with opportunities to stroll, take in panoramic views, and capture photographs. The farms are locally owned, and the owners are extremely hospitable and will love to show you around. Alternatively, you can talk to your stay host to arrange a visit to nearby farm.
7. Try the exotic local food, and fruits from the local market
8. Click some Instagramable pictures - Swing, Handara gate, Wanagiri hills
Bali Swings can be found in many places around the Wanagiri hills. A nominal fee is charged for a picture on the swing. The Handara Gate is actually just a giant Balinese gate to a private property that has recently caught up on Instagram for its pictures. You will find it on your left when you ride from Wanagiri Hills to the Ulun Danu temple.
We didn't do the whole checklist of Instagram spots; instead, we immersed ourselves in the essence of the place. We just vibed with the place - basked in the beauty of nature, indulged in delicious local cuisine, and relished the perfect weather. But what truly made the experience unforgettable was the warmth of the people we encountered.
One can comfortably spend 3 days in Munduk , 2 days chasing waterfalls, and another day visiting the Ulun Danu temple, the local market - try the local fruits and cuisines, and just hang around coffee estates and hydrangea fields.
