The most beautiful waterfalls in Bali

Tucked away in the village of Tembuku in Bangli Regency, Tukad Cepung Waterfall is one of Bali's most unique hidden gems. A 50-minute drive from Ubud or 40 minutes from Sidemen, this natural wonder offers an adventurous experience that’s well worth the trek. To reach the waterfall, you’ll embark on a 15-minute hike through a lush forest trail, descending steep steps before wading through shallow waters and rocks. The journey itself feels like stepping into a secret world, with sunlight filtering through the canyon’s narrow walls, creating an ethereal atmosphere.

While the water may be too shallow for swimming, the real magic lies in the breathtaking view. At a popular photo spot, you can stand atop a boulder in a cave, bathed in golden light beams that give the scene an otherworldly glow. Do note, however, that the rugged terrain might not be ideal for the elderly or those with mobility issues, making it a better fit for adventurous travellers seeking to explore Bali's more offbeat beauty.

Tegenungan Waterfall is likely the first name that comes up when talking about Bali’s waterfalls - and for good reason. Also known as Blangsinga Waterfall, it’s one of the largest waterfalls on the island, standing tall at 15 to 20 metres. Tegenungan Waterfall is located in the heart of Sukawati in Gianyar and is fed by the Tukad Petanu River, which flows all the way from the Kintamani Batur volcano through Ubud and down to the Blahbatuh village.

Its cascading waters are a sight to behold, and visitors can swim in the natural pool at the base, making it a perfect spot to cool off. The surrounding lush greenery also adds to the waterfall’s dramatic appeal. While you’re there, don’t miss a visit to Omma Day Club opposite the waterfall. It boasts sweeping views of the landscape and an iconic Bali swing, making the day club an ideal spot to relax after the trek.

Leke Leke Waterfall is a lesser-known secret in the lush Tabanan Regency of North Bali. About an hour's drive from Ubud, this waterfall feels like a world apart, offering an oasis of tranquillity amid the island’s busy tourist spots. As you approach, you'll wind through scenic roads flanked by rice paddies before trekking down through a dense jungle to reach the fall.

Unlike the larger waterfalls, Leke Leke’s narrow stream plunges into a small, crystal-clear pool surrounded by dense greenery. It's a serene spot that feels almost otherworldly when you first glimpse it. For the best experience, visit around 7 am to have the waterfall all to yourself. It’s perfect for soaking up the quiet beauty. 

Be mindful of the weather though - rain can make the descent slippery, adding a bit of adventure to your visit. But once there, you’ll find basic amenities like changing rooms by the falls and a warung near the car park, serving local snacks and drinks.

Kanto Lampo Waterfall, or Air Terjun Kanto Lampo, is celebrated for its striking rock formations, where water cascades elegantly down the cliffside. Like many of the island’s most stunning landscapes, it’s the result of fierce volcanic activity in Bali. 

The waterfall’s easy-to-reach location, just 20 minutes from Ubud, has made it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The trail is well-marked, and although you’ll need to wade through some shallow water, the walk is manageable and scenic. Tip: bringing water shoes is a good idea for the short hike.

Once you arrive, you'll be greeted by the calming sound of water rushing down the volcanic rocks. The serene surroundings are perfect for a relaxing dip in the pool at the base, but do be cautious during stronger water flows. And while Kanto Lampo is far from a hidden gem right out of an Eat, Pray, Love scene, its popularity means you'll have access to warungs, refreshments, and clean facilities.

Goa Raja directly translates to "Cave of the King," so you know that you’re in for a majestic experience. Hidden away in the lush jungles of Bali, this waterfall offers a unique spectacle, with water cascading from towering rock formations into a small, spring-fed pool below. The early morning is the best time to visit, as the sun rises over the ridgeline, casting golden rays through the waterfall, making the entire scene even more magical. 

To reach the falls, you'll wander along a scenic trail, crossing rustic wooden bridges over a flowing stream. Two sights await you at the trail's end: a smaller waterfall that spills into a man-made pool that blends seamlessly with its surroundings, and the main waterfall that falls from a cliff through a rock wall. 

Though the pool at the base isn’t deep enough for swimming, it’s perfect for a quick, refreshing dip in the cool, emerald-tinted water.

Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall is a unique trail of four waterfalls hidden in Bali’s central highlands, away from the usual tourist hotspots. The trail, named after its most impressive waterfall, winds through a lush, wooded area surrounded by tropical fruits and vibrant flowers. It almost feels like you’re in LOTR’s Valinor. 

The first waterfall along the trail features a single stream that flows over a cave entrance, offering a unique opportunity for behind-the-waterfall photos. Just beyond, Bhuana Sari impresses with a sprawling wall of water cascading through lush green foliage, feeding two splash pools separated by a rocky ledge.

Banyu Wana Amertha itself flows in two to four streams, depending on the rainfall, with a small bridge providing a scenic vantage point. Its splash pool is perfect for a refreshing dip, though the mountain water can be quite chilly. Right next to it is the fourth waterfall, a smaller twin sharing the same pool, giving you yet another reason to go chasing waterfalls (sorry, TLC).

The Banyumala Twin Waterfalls are among the most breathtaking in Bali, despite their name suggesting just two falls. Instead, you'll be treated to multiple streams cascading down a lush rock face, converging into a crystal-clear pool below. Located in Bali’s north-central highlands, about 30 minutes from Munduk, the falls are nestled near the scenic Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan. 

Getting to the falls is an adventure of its own. It’s a 15-minute walk from the car park through forested terrain. The path, made up of earthy steps, can be slippery, so we’d recommend sturdy hiking shoes instead of flip-flops. A bamboo handrail offers extra support as you descend. Given its distance from Bali’s busier tourist spots, you'll likely have this peaceful oasis all to yourself, especially if you arrive early in the day.