Exploring Bali doesn’t always have to involve crowds of tourists and the same-day trips everyone goes on. One of the options is to explore hidden and a bit harder-to-reach waterfalls, like Pangkung Bengkel.
How to get there, when to visit, and what to expect from this adventure – in our insider guide for you.
Pangkung Bengkel Waterfall: What It’s Like?
Truly hidden deep in the tropical rainforest, this “hidden waterfall” is one of the lesser-known natural beauties of the island.
It is a tall rocky formation surrounded by the forest with a natural pool at the bottom.
The waterfall has a nice water flow during the rainy season and very little water flowing during the dry season.
Where Is Pangkung Bengkel Waterfall?
The hidden waterfall of Pangkung Bengkel is tucked away in West Bali, in the small village of Bukit Tumpeng, in the beautiful green Tabanan regency.
Address: KTH AMERTA SARI Banjar, Bukit Tumpeng, Kec. Selemadeg Bar., Kabupaten Tabanan, Bali 82164, Indonesia
How To Get To Pangkung Bengkel Waterfall
It is best to book a private driver and tour guide to get to this waterfall. It is named “hidden” for a very good reason. Eka – one of the local residents has built the path and takes groups.
First of all, the location is pretty remote, and ordering a taxi will be challenging.
If you’re a confident driver and brought an international driver’s license with you, you can go on your rental car or bike, but keep in mind that a big portion of the route will go via the main road connecting the port and the Denpasar city so the traffic can be really heavy, and there can be a lot of big trucks.
Second, the trek to the waterfall itself is not for absolute beginners. You will need proper hiking shoes, clothes, and mosquito spray. Some parts of the path will be a handmade ladder leaned over the hilly ascent (not too steep). In total, it is no longer than 30 minutes.
Is There Any Entrancee Fee At Pangkung Bengkel Waterfall?
No, there is no entrance fee to get to the hidden waterfall of Pangkung Bengkel.
However, guided tours will vary in price, which can be from 100,000 IDR (10 AUD).
What To Do At Pangkung Bengkel Waterfall & Around
Even though this is a remote area you will find a few adventurous things to do!
Trekking & Sunset Watching
Of course, you will trek through the forest, explore Pangkung Bengkel Waterfall, and dip your toes into the refreshing waters of the hidden waterfall.
Not very far from the waterfall area there is a natural scenic point on the hill with stunning sunset and Indian Ocean views. There is a wooden platform with a tall tree – a perfect frame for a photo.
If you want to watch the sunset with a drink, there is also a simple bamboo cafe nearby with amazing views over the forest, sunset, and the ocean.
Surfing
The hidden waterfall of Pangkung Bengkel is actually not that far from a famous surf break – Balian Beach. It is a remote beach with good surfing conditions for experienced surfers. And also the only beach in Bali where every year locals spot a shark or two.
Despite sharks, surfing here is booming and still considered safe as shark appearance is very rare.
Venture Further West
If your trip is heading further west, you can visit Bunut Bolong Holy Tree after the hidden waterfall. It is a peculiar tree with a human-made passage through its trunk. If you’re not headed West, the tree will be a bigger stretch as it is around 40 minutes away from the waterfall.
Same case with Rambut Siwi Temple. It is one of the biggest Hindu temples in the area, sitting on a cliff and looking over the Indian Ocean. There will be no crowds of tourists here, but again, it is further west.
Make A Stop At Medewi
On your way to the hidden waterfall of Pangkung Bengkel, you should also swing by Medewi Beach – it is another popular surfing spot for intermediate surfers with some of the longest rides you can have! Plus the area has two nice resorts and a few food options.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Pangkung Bengkel Hidden Waterfall in Bali?
The best time to visit the waterfall is in the late afternoon during the rainy season – not too hot and you get the best lighting for photos, plus, the waterfall will actually have water.
End of April (the end of the rainy season) there is not much water flowing, but it is still really scenic and beautiful!
Even if you’re visiting during the dry season, you should visit the hidden waterfall of Pangkung Bengkel right after a big rain. Then it gets nice flowing water!
Where To Eat Around Pangkung Bengkel Hidden Waterfall?
As this is a remote area, the dining options are scarce.
On your way along the main road Jl Ray Denpasar – Gilimanuk port you will spot local eateries (warungs) here and there. They sell Indonesian and Balinese staples like nasi goreng (fried rice) or babi guling (suckling pig). The closest cluster of such warungs is near the rest area by Pantai Yeh Leh.
If you want a more restaurant-style experience, head to Balian Beach. There is a restaurant right on the beach and a few more simple cafes.
Cafes & Restaurants
Istana Balian Restaurant – a restaurant near Balian Beach with some vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
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Sunset Coffee Shop (right a few minutes away from the waterfall)
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Warung Pantai – right before the turn into the village from the main road. A buffet-style local restaurant with raving reviews.
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Pondok Pitaya – it is a hotel right on Balian Beach with a restaurant.
Where to Stay Around Pangkung Bengkel Hidden Waterfall?
There are no hotels or homestays within walking distance of the hidden waterfall of Pangkung Bengkel.
This part of Bali will either have villas or resorts grouped around major beaches like Yeh Leh or Balian. Both are within a 15-20 minute ride.
Hotel Options
Yama Balian – an upscale retreat and wellness center, hotel, and restaurant next to Balian Beach. It has a very modern and nature-inspired setting. The spa offers luxurious treatments, and access to sauna and ice baths.
Bali Hai Island Resort Restaurant Bar and Villas – beachfront resort around Yeh Leh beach with a pool, spa, bar, restaurant, and yoga classes.
Gubug Balian Beach – a hotel overlooking the Balian beach with a pool and close proximity to restaurants and a night market.
Final Thoughts On This Hidden Waterfall
Bali’s forests and jungles are home to so many adventures, and often, not all of them are equally explored.
If you are heading north or to the National Park, make a stop to enjoy the beauty of the hidden waterfall of Pangkung Bengkel.
Read more:
23 Best Waterfalls in Bali – Your Guide to the Island’s Hidden Gems
Tegenungan Waterfall – A Bali Favourite Day Trip Adventure
Gitgit Waterfall: A Complete Guide To Help You Visit Gitgit Waterfall
