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When is the best time to visit Bali?

The dry season (May to October) is the easiest for first-timers: sunny, less rain, best for surfing on the west coast. July-August is peak and busier. The wet season (November to April) is cheaper and still has plenty of sunny days, with rain usually coming in short afternoon bursts.

How many days do I need in Bali?

We recommend at least 7 days for a first trip, and 10-14 days to include Nusa Penida or the Gili Islands properly. Anything under 5 days means a lot of transport and not much downtime, especially if you also want Ubud.

Which area is best to stay in Bali?

There is no single best area. Canggu is great for surf, cafes and nightlife; Ubud for culture, jungle and yoga; Uluwatu for cliffs and serious surf; Seminyak for beach clubs and shopping; Sanur for calm beaches and Nusa Penida access. Most first-timers split their trip across 2-3 areas.

Do I need a visa to visit Bali?

Most nationalities can get a Visa on Arrival (VoA) for 30 days, extendable once for another 30 days. You can also apply online (e-VoA) before you fly. For stays longer than 60 days, consider a B211A visit visa. See our visa + SIM guide for details.

Is it safe to rent a scooter in Bali?

Scooters are the fastest way around, but Bali traffic is intense and accidents are common for inexperienced riders. We recommend a private driver for first-timers or longer trips, scooters only if you already know how to ride. Check insurance and always wear a helmet.

Banyumala Twin Waterfall — Visitor Guide, Fees & Tips

Banyumala Twin Waterfall is two separate falls dropping side-by-side over a shared basalt cliff into a single wide pool in the forests near Tamblingan Lake, north Bali. The twin character makes it visually distinct from every other waterfall in Bali — most waterfalls are a single drop, but at Banyumala you can photograph both falls simultaneously from the pool bank. It sits in Wanagiri village in Buleleng Regency, at altitude, which keeps it cool and green year-round.

About Banyumala Twin Waterfall

The Banyumala River drains the high-altitude Tamblingan crater lake complex — one of the few undeveloped lakes in Bali. The result is some of the cleanest river water you will find in the region. The surrounding forest is secondary growth jungle with dense ferns, mossy boulders, and tall timber trees creating a canopy over the pool. At 400–500 metres altitude the air temperature is noticeably cooler than the coast.

Region: Buleleng Regency, Wanagiri village, near Tamblingan Lake, 25 km west of Singaraja

Height: Both falls approximately 25–30 m each

River: Banyumala River, draining the Tamblingan crater lake area

Access involves a descent of approximately 100 steep concrete steps from the car park. The steps are well-maintained but narrow in sections — allow slower walkers to pass. There is no guide requirement, which makes this one of the rare north Bali waterfalls you can visit fully independently. No changing facilities exist below — come in swimwear under your clothes. Drone flying is not permitted in this area as it disturbs the forest ecosystem.

Vibe: Remote and green. Less touristed than south Bali equivalents. The twin falls into a shared pool feel theatrical. Very photogenic from the near bank.

Difficulty & Trail

Moderatedifficulty rating

A 10–15 minute descent on steep concrete steps from the car park. Some sections are sharp and narrow. Fit visitors find it straightforward. The climb back up is a reasonable workout. No river crossings. Total visit time 1–1.5 hours.

Entrance Fee

Rp 30,000 per person (2025 rate). Parking Rp 5,000.

Best Time to Visit

Rainy season (November–March) for maximum flow when both falls run at full power simultaneously. Dry season is cleaner and safer for the steps. Morning arrival (08:00) preferred — fewer people and the falls catch side-light from the east.

Can You Swim Here?

Yes. The shared pool is one of the most swimmable pools among Bali's north-coast waterfalls. Wide, relatively calm, and cool. Watch for slippery boulders at the entry points into the pool.

How to Get There

From Ubud

65 km, approximately 2–2.5 hours via Bedugul highlands.

From Canggu

78 km, approximately 2.5 hours via Bedugul.

From Denpasar

75 km, approximately 2 hours via the northern mountain road.

The most convenient way to reach any Bali waterfall is by private driver or scooter. If you need help booking a reliable driver, message us on WhatsApp.

What to Bring

Swimwear — the pool is excellent
Grip shoes or sandals for the steep steps
Quick-dry towel
At least 1 litre of water each — there is no food below
Waterproof phone case
Insect repellent for the jungle walk

Combine With Nearby Attractions

Sekumpul Waterfall (40 min drive east) — the two most spectacular north Bali waterfalls as a full-day pair

Tamblingan Lake and twin crater lake trekking (20 min drive west)

Munduk Waterfall (30 min drive west) — easier waterfall, good for a third stop if energy allows

Lovina Beach (45 min north)

Photography Tips

The classic shot is both falls in one wide-angle frame from the near bank — get this at 08:00–08:30 before other visitors arrive.

Long exposure from the pool bank: 1/4–1/8 sec smooths the falls into ribbons of white against the dark canyon rock.

Get waist-deep in the pool for a wide shot looking back up at both falls together — scale is spectacular.

Evening golden hour (16:00–17:00) in dry season catches warm orange light on the top of the falls — rare and beautiful.

Scams & Guide Pressure

Banyumala does not have the aggressive guide pressure found at more popular sites. The access road passes through farming land where local residents may wave or point — this is generally friendly, not a demand. The entrance fee collection is official. A small waung at the car park sells basic drinks and snacks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the twin falls always running simultaneously?

In rainy season (November–March) both falls run at full strength. In dry season (June–September) the right-side fall may reduce significantly. October is the transition month and varies by year.

Is Banyumala suitable for non-swimmers?

Yes. You can wade in the pool without fully swimming. The visual impact is the main draw — standing at the edge and watching both falls is impressive even if you do not swim.

How does Banyumala compare to Sekumpul?

Banyumala is easier to reach (no guide required, shorter descent) but less dramatic than Sekumpul. If time allows, visit both in the same day — they complement each other well.

Can a car reach Banyumala?

Yes. The road to the car park is paved, though narrow in places. A standard car handles it fine. The access road from the main Bedugul-Singaraja highway is signed.

Is there food at Banyumala?

A basic warung at the car park sells cold drinks and snacks. There is nothing below at the falls themselves. Nearest proper food options are in Munduk or Bedugul town.

How long should I budget for Banyumala?

1.5–2 hours covers the descent, a swim, photos, and the climb back up. If combining with Sekumpul, plan for a full 8-hour day from Ubud.

Planning to visit Banyumala?

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Banyumala Twin Waterfall — Visitor Guide, Fees, Tips