Bedugul

Bedugul offers you a rejuvenating mountain escape in central Bali, sitting 1,500 meters above sea level. You’ll find three stunning crater lakes: Beratan, Buyan, and Tamblingan, with the iconic floating Ulun Danu Beratan Temple as the area’s centerpiece. It’s just a two-hour drive north from Denpasar, making it perfect for a day trip or longer stay. The cool climatelets you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing, and visiting the sprawling Bali Botanic Garden. You can also explore the local market for fresh strawberries and mountain-grown produce. There’s much more to discover in this peaceful mountain paradise.

Key Takeaways

• Bedugul is a mountain lake resort area in Bali, located 1,500 meters above sea level with cool weather year-round.
• The area features three crater lakes (Beratan, Buyan, and Tamblingan) and the iconic floating Ulun Danu Beratan Temple.
• Located 50 kilometers north of Denpasar, Bedugul is accessible via a 2-hour drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport.
• Bedugul Market offers fresh local produce, especially strawberries, while the Bali Botanic Garden showcases rare orchids and medicinal plants.
• Best visited between April and October during dry season, with temperatures ranging from 14-24°C (57-75°F).

About Bedugul: Bali’s Mountain Lake District

A cool mountain breeze welcomes you to Bedugul, a stunning highland region in central Bali. Perched 1,500 meters above sea level, this invigorating escape offers relief from the coastal heat with temperatures ranging from 14-24°C.

You’ll find yourself surrounded by three crater lakes: Beratan, Buyan, and Tamblingan. As you explore Bedugul Bali, you’ll discover why it’s a favorite mountain retreat. The iconic Ulun Danu Beratan Temple seems to float on Lake Beratan’s surface, creating perfect photo opportunities in the misty morning light.

The Bedugul weather stays cool year-round, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. Your Bedugul travel guide wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the area’s main attractions. The massive Bali Botanic Garden lets you wander through rare orchids and medicinal plants.

The local market bursts with fresh strawberries and vegetablesgrown in rich volcanic soil. You can spend your days hiking around the lakes, trying water sports, or exploring traditional villages.

Whether you’re seeking spiritual connections at ancient temples or craving adventure in the mountains, Bedugul’s natural beauty and cool climate offer the perfect highland escape.

How to Get to Bedugul

Reaching Bedugul is straightforward once you’re in Bali. From Ngurah Rai International Airport, you can get there in about 2 hours by car or taxi. The distance is roughly 50 kilometers north of Denpasar, following well-maintained mountain roads.

You’ve got several transportation options to choose from. Rent a scooter if you’re comfortable maneuvering mountain roads and want complete freedom to explore. Book a private car with a driver for a hassle-free journey – most hotels can arrange this for you. Join a guided tour if you want to combine transport with stops at various attractions along the way.

The most direct route takes you through Denpasar and follows the Denpasar-Singaraja highway northward. You’ll pass through Mengwi and climb steadily into the mountains. The roads are winding but well-marked, making wayfinding relatively easy.

If you’re coming from Ubud, the journey takes about 1.5 hours. From Lovina Beach in the north, expect a 1-hour drive.

Plan your trip for early morning to avoid traffic and catch the clearest mountain views before the afternoon mist rolls in.

Top Attractions in Bedugul

The enchanting mountain region of Bedugul offers several must-see attractions that draw visitors year-round. At the top of your list should be Pura Ulun Danu Beratan, the iconic floating templethat sits gracefully on Lake Beratan. You’ll find this 17th-century temple is perfect for both spiritual reflection and photography.

Don’t miss the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases Bali’s traditional farming methods. You can walk through these stunning green terraces and watch local farmers at work.

The Bali Botanic Garden is another highlight where you’ll discover thousands of plant species across 157 hectares of well-maintained grounds.

For a taste of local life, head to Bedugul Market. You can sample fresh strawberries and buy local vegetables grown in the region’s rich volcanic soil. The market’s bustling atmosphere gives you a genuine glimpse of daily mountain life.

The three crater lakes – Beratan, Buyan, and Tamblingan – offer various activities. You’re free to try water sports, take a peaceful walk along the shoreline, or simply enjoy the cool mountain air while taking in the views.

Things to Do in Bedugul

Surrounded by misty mountains and cool air, Bedugul offers diverse activities for every type of traveler. You’ll find endless opportunities to explore this highland retreat at your own pace.

Start your day with a peaceful paddle on Lake Beratan. Rent a canoe or join a parasailing session for an adrenaline rush over the water. If you’re into hiking, trek the trails around Lakes Buyan and Tamblingan. The paths are quiet and perfect for spotting local wildlife.

Visit the Bedugul Market early to grab fresh strawberries and local vegetables. You can also pick your own strawberries at nearby farms. The Bali Botanic Garden lets you wander through rare orchids and medicinal plants at your leisure.

For a cultural experience, join a traditional cooking class using local ingredients. Learn about the ancient subak irrigation system at Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, where you’re free to walk between the paddies.

Don’t miss the coffee plantations, where you can taste different varieties of local coffee.

Photography enthusiasts will love capturing the morning mist over the lakes, especially around Ulun Danu Beratan Temple when it appears to float on water.

Best time to Visit

Most travelers find April through October ideal for visiting Bedugul. During these dry season months, you’ll experience clearer skies and less rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities and photography at the iconic Ulun Danu Beratan Temple.

Even in the dry season, pack a light jacket or sweater. Bedugul’s mountain climate means temperatures stay cool, ranging from 14-24°C (57-75°F). Morning mist is common but usually clears by mid-morning, offering great photo opportunities.

You can still visit during the wet season (November to March), but expect daily rainfall. The rain typically comes in short bursts and creates a mystical atmosphere around the temples and lakes. You’ll find fewer crowds during these months.

For the best temple views, arrive early between 6-8 AM before tour buses arrive. If you’re interested in the traditional market, visit between 7-10 AM when produce is freshest.

Plan your water activities on Lake Beratan for midday when temperatures are warmest. Consider visiting mid-week rather than weekends to avoid local tourist crowds, especially during Indonesian holidays.

Where to Stay

After planning your visit dates, finding the right accommodationin Bedugul will shape your mountain getaway experience.

You’ll find options ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury mountain resorts scattered around Lake Beratan and the surrounding highlands.

If you want to wake up to lake views, book a room at one of the waterfront hotels near Ulun Danu Temple. These properties often feature traditional Balinese architecture and provide easy access to water activities.

For a more secluded stay, look for eco-lodges tucked into the hills near the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces.

You’ll find most budget accommodations in central Bedugul, close to the traditional market. These guesthouses offer basic amenities and put you within walking distance of local restaurants and shops.

For a unique experience, consider staying at one of the boutique hotels inside the Bali Botanic Garden area.

Many properties offer free parking, Wi-Fi, and breakfast featuring local fruits and dishes.

During peak season (July-August), it’s smart to book at least two months ahead, especially for lakeside properties.

Most accommodations can arrange transportation and tours to nearby attractions.

Local Food and Dining

Bedugul’s cool mountain climate shapes its unique culinary scene. You’ll find that local restaurants serve fresh vegetables and fruits grown in the region’s fertile volcanic soil. Unlike coastal Bali, the dishes here often feature warm, hearty ingredients suited to the mountain weather.

You can sample traditional Balinese cuisine at local warungs, where you’ll discover dishes like sayur urab (blanched vegetables with coconut) and sup jamur (mushroom soup). Many restaurants around Lake Beratan offer fresh lake fish prepared with local spices.

Don’t miss the Bedugul Market, where you can buy just-picked strawberries, mountain-grown coffee, and exotic spices. You’re free to wander the market stalls and bargain with vendors for the best prices. Local farms welcome visitors to pick their own strawberries, and you’ll find several coffee plantations offering tastings of authentic Balinese coffee.

For a unique dining experience, try the restaurants near Ulun Danu Temple that offer views of the lake while you eat. They serve both local specialties and Western options. Most places are casual, and you won’t need reservations except at upscale resort restaurants.

Tips for Visiting Bedugul

Don’t miss the local market, but arrive before noon for the freshest produce. Bargaining is expected, so start at half the asking price. Bring a reusable bag for your purchases.

Stay hydrated despite the cooler climate, and wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the botanical gardens and rice terraces.

Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the temple’s history and agricultural practices. They’ll help you access areas tourists often miss.