If you are looking for a quieter side of Bali away from the busy beaches and crowded tourist areas, the highlands around Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan are worth exploring.

Located in the cool mountain area of Wanagiri and Bedugul in North Bali, these two lakes are known as Bali's famous Twin Lakes. The surrounding rainforest, mountain scenery, traditional villages, and beautiful waterfalls make this area one of the best places in Bali for travelers who enjoy nature and peaceful outdoor experiences.

The area is not only about the famous lake views. You can also explore jungle trails, discover hidden temples, enjoy a traditional canoe experience on Lake Tamblingan, and visit several beautiful waterfalls around Wanagiri.

Buyan and Tamblingan: Bali's Twin Lakes

Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan are two volcanic lakes surrounded by green mountains and tropical forest.

From several viewpoints around Wanagiri, you can enjoy beautiful views of the two lakes surrounded by misty hills and dense greenery.

The cool mountain air makes this area very different from the warmer coastal areas of Bali.

For travelers who want to experience Bali's natural landscape, the Twin Lakes area is a great place to slow down, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful highland atmosphere.

Exploring the Wanagiri Highland Area

Wanagiri is more than just a viewpoint for photographing the Twin Lakes.

The surrounding area is covered with rainforest, small villages, mountain roads, and natural attractions. It is also home to several waterfalls that can be combined with a visit to Buyan and Tamblingan.

This makes Wanagiri a good destination for a nature-focused day trip from other parts of Bali.

Jungle Trekking Around Lake Tamblingan

One of the most interesting ways to experience the area is by exploring the rainforest around Lake Tamblingan.

Unlike simply visiting a viewpoint, jungle trekking takes you deeper into the natural surroundings.

The trails pass through:

• Tropical rainforest

• Large trees and jungle plants

• Traditional forest paths

• Hidden temple sites

• Mountain scenery

• Quiet areas away from the main tourist roads

A local trekking guide can explain the plants, local traditions, and cultural meaning of the forest along the way.

The experience is especially enjoyable for travelers who want to see a more natural and peaceful side of Bali.

Traditional Canoe Experience on Lake Tamblingan

Another special experience around Lake Tamblingan is crossing the lake by traditional wooden canoe, locally known as a Pedahu.

The canoe is operated by a local oarsman and does not use a motor.

As you cross the calm lake, you can see the surrounding rainforest and mountains from the water.

The quiet atmosphere makes the canoe ride one of the most memorable experiences in the Twin Lakes area.

For visitors interested in combining the canoe ride with jungle trekking, Tamblingan offers a very different experience from Bali's more commercial tourist attractions.

Waterfalls Around Wanagiri

One of the biggest advantages of exploring the Wanagiri and Twin Lakes area is that several beautiful waterfalls are located nearby.

You do not have to visit only the lakes. Depending on your time and interests, you can combine the Twin Lakes with one or more waterfalls.

Banyumala Twin Waterfall

Banyumala Twin Waterfall is one of the most famous waterfalls in the Wanagiri area.

Two main streams cascade down a green cliff into a natural pool surrounded by tropical vegetation. The waterfall is known for its beautiful jungle setting and refreshing mountain atmosphere.

The walk down to the waterfall involves a descent through the forest, so visitors should be prepared for a walk and the climb back up afterward.

For photographers and nature lovers, Banyumala is one of the highlights of North Bali.

Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall

Another beautiful waterfall area near Wanagiri is Banyu Wana Amertha.

Interestingly, Banyu Wana Amertha is not simply one waterfall. The area consists of several waterfalls along a jungle trail, with different cascades and pools to explore.

The lush green surroundings and flowing water make this area especially attractive during the wetter months.

Pucak Manik Waterfall

Pucak Manik Waterfall is another lesser-known waterfall in the Wanagiri area.

It is a good option for travelers looking for a quieter nature experience. The waterfall area is surrounded by forest and requires a walk downhill, followed by a climb back up.

Its location between other waterfall attractions makes it possible to include Pucak Manik when exploring the wider Wanagiri waterfall area.

More Waterfalls and Natural Attractions

The Wanagiri highlands are home to more natural attractions than the three waterfalls mentioned above.

Depending on weather, road conditions, available time, and your interests, other waterfalls and nature spots around North Bali can also be included in a customized trip.

This is one reason the Wanagiri–Twin Lakes area is interesting for travelers who prefer nature, waterfalls, and less crowded places.

A Perfect Combination of Lakes, Jungle and Waterfalls

The best thing about this area is that you do not have to choose between the lakes, jungle, and waterfalls.

A day around Wanagiri can combine several experiences, such as:

Twin Lakes viewpoint → Tamblingan jungle trekking → traditional canoe ride → Banyumala Waterfall

Or, depending on your preference:

Twin Lakes → Banyu Wana Amertha → Pucak Manik → other Bedugul attractions

The exact combination can be adjusted according to your available time and physical condition.

When Is the Best Time to Visit?

The highland area around Buyan and Tamblingan is generally cooler than southern Bali.

Morning is a good time for enjoying the lake scenery because the air is usually cooler and the mountain atmosphere can be beautifully misty.

For waterfalls and trekking, it is also better to allow enough time rather than trying to visit too many places in one day.

During rainy weather, some forest and waterfall trails can become slippery, so proper footwear is recommended.

What to Bring

If you plan to explore the lakes, jungle, and waterfalls, bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Light outdoor clothing

• Extra clothes if you plan to swim

• Sunscreen

• Mosquito repellent

• Hat or cap

• Drinking water

• Camera or smartphone

• Small cash for local entrance fees and personal expenses

CLICK HERE for jungle and waterfall trekking, and Ulun Danu  Temple Bedugul tour package.

Exploring Tamblingan with a Local Guide

If your main interest is the Tamblingan jungle trekking experience, joining a local guide can make the experience more meaningful.

The guide can explain the forest, local plants, hidden temple sites, and the cultural importance of Lake Tamblingan.

It is also possible to combine the trekking and traditional canoe ride with other attractions around Bedugul and Wanagiri.

Want to Explore Tamblingan More Closely?

If you are interested specifically in the jungle trekking and canoe experience at Lake Tamblingan, see our complete Tamblingan Jungle Trekking Bali Tour for the itinerary, inclusions, and booking details.

The Twin Lakes area is much more than a photo stop. With rainforest, traditional canoe rides, waterfalls, mountain scenery, and cultural attractions, Buyan, Tamblingan, and Wanagiri offer one of Bali's most rewarding highland nature experiences.

Private Car Hire with Driver in Bali

If you’re planning a trip and need a reliable car rental with an experienced driver, contact BaliBestDayTour. We provide well-maintained vehicles, free Wi-Fi, parking, and drinking water for your comfort. Our flexible Bali tour packages can be customized to your preferences, combining scenic nature, cultural attractions, and adventurous activities.

Make your Bali vacation unforgettable with our Buyan and Tamblingan Jungle Trekking tour. Book today and experience Bali’s hidden highland beauty.