When you think about Bali, you think about the sun, sand and sea, right?
Yes, Bali has some of the best beaches in the world, and the sea is nothing short of amazing, but there’s another natural spectacle on the island.
Away from the beaches, hiding amongst the northern villages, forests, hills and volcanoes lay four majestic lakes.
There is something special about the lakes in Bali, they play an important part in the island’s ecosystem, as well as the livelihoods and religion of its inhabitants.
It is both awe-inspiring and chaotic the way that volcanoes can create such destruction yet such natural beauty at the same time.
In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about these four sacred lakes: Lake Batur, Lake Beratan, Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan.
Lake Batur
The largest lake, Lake Batur, is located in Kintamani, Bangli Regency. It sits in the caldera of the active volcano, Mount Batur, which was formed over the years by volcanic eruptions.
This stunning crater lake, surrounded by the overlooking peaks of Mount Batur and Mount Abang, is the largest of the four lakes in Bali by far, with a surface area of around 16 km². For comparison, that’s big enough to fit more than 100 standard AFL pitches inside!
The water inside is filled by rainfall and underground springs, and it’s an important water source for Bali, providing most of the water for the island’s irrigation system, it’s also an important fishing source. For this reason, the lake is surrounded by small villages.
On the edge of the lake sits the floating water temple, Pura Ulun Danu Batur, one of the 9 temples dotted around Bali, directional temples, which are said to bring protection to the island. Dedicated to the goddess of the lake, Dewi Danu, and the god Vishnu, this temple was rebuilt in 1926 after a volcanic eruption destroyed the original temple and village!
Most visitors visit the lake after ascending Mount Batur, often for the popular sunrise trek. We did this, and it was well worth it. The drive is about 2 hours from Canggu and 1 hour 30 from central Ubud. Although the highest peak is 1,717 metres, from the beginning of the sunrise trek is only about 500 metres. It took us about two hours to ascend, then about one hour to get back down.
There is a longer trip available, which involves a jungle hike right from the bottom, which takes about 4 hours. This would be a full day trip up and back down again
On a clear day, you can see the peaks of both Mount Rinjani, Lombok, to the east, and Mount Raung, Java, to the west. If you’re on the sunrise trek make it up in time, you can see the sun coming up behind Lombok, which is a truly amazing sight. Definitely bring your camera, and even a drone if you have one (drone laws in Bali are pretty relaxed).
We enjoyed the chilly weather and fresh air at the top in the morning, it made a change from the heat of the cities and beaches, the walk and views might not be so enjoyable in the rainy season though.
It’s become a bit more commercialised than the rest, and some water sports are available, such as jet skiing, which isn’t good for promoting eco-tourism. Some of the surrounding restaurants are great though.
Lake Beratan
Lake Beratan, (or Lake Bratan as it’s often spelt) is the island’s holiest lake, deeply connected to the island’s spiritualism.
Sitting high in the misty mountains of Bedugul, in the heart of the island’s farming area, this lake offers a great spiritual retreat for those wishing to escape the bars and the beaches.
The most famous feature of this lake is without doubt the floating temple, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, and the ancient temple dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of lakes and rivers. The holy waters are believed to provide life-giving powers to the surrounding rice paddies.
Lake Beratan is considerably smaller than Lake Batur, with a surface area of about 3.8 km². The smaller size makes it one of the best lakes for exploring, it’s the epicentre of Bali’s central highlands.
Twin Lakes
The Twin Lakes of Lake Tamblingan and Lake Bayun, possibly the most famous lakes, are situated in central Bali, in the highlands of Munduk. Along with Lake Bratan, these once formed one large crater lake, but activity from the nearby volcanoes has separated them over time.
Although the two lakes are separate bodies of water, they are very close to each other and share the same volcanic caldera, hence the name Twin Lakes. In fact, although they’re separated on the surface, they are connected underground by a natural water system.
The lakes are overlooked by several volcanic peaks and surrounded by lush, misty forests. The outstanding surrounding mountains are of course popular trekking locations, and there’s a lot to be seen in the area, including coffee and clove plantations and the nearby Pancasari Village and its community pool, where you can see the local lifestyle.
Twin Lakes Viewpoint is a favourite tourist attraction, with a fantastic view of these beautiful lakes from above, as well as the surrounding villages and coffee plantations.
Lake Buyan
Lake Buyan is slightly larger than its twin lake, Tamblingan, with a surface area of around 2.5 km². It sits next to a dense forest full of plants and wildlife, including monkeys. The area is less developed than that of Lake Bratan and makes for great trekking and ecotourism.
There’s a camping ground there, Buyan Lake Camping Ground, which is never too busy, and what it lacks in facilities it makes up for in peacefulness and a connection with nature.
The Hidden Hill Wanagiri viewpoint has some stunning scenery and is a popular Instagram location.
Lake Tamblingan
Situated on the north slope of Mount Lesung, Lake Tamblingan is smaller and more mystical than its twin, Lake Buyan. The waters are said to have healing properties, in fact, Tamba translates to medicine, and Elingan means “reminder of spiritual power”.
There are a number of temples around the shores of Lake Tamblingan, but not all of them are open to foreigners, so be sure to check before you enter.
We saw locals rowing traditional wooden canoes over the lake, as well as a few people stand-up paddle boarding.
Tamblingan Lake is near the Munduk Village area, and it’s worth checking out the nearby Bukit Mungsu market.
Other Lakes
There are several other lakes in Bali and bodies of water that might be considered such, these include:
Lake Yeh Malet – a small lake in Eastern Bali, often overlooked by passing tourists. This is no major attraction, but makes for a nice stop. You can watch the local fishermen and admire the lush greenery.
Lake Unda – a seasonal lake in the Klunkung Regency, formed by the flow of the Unda River, this lake plays a vital role in irrigation, supporting the surrounding rice paddies.
Lake Muara – this hidden gem is known for its serene atmosphere and diverse birdlife, great for nature lovers. This is a wetland lake, as opposed to the volcanic crater lakes.
FAQs
What Is The Tallest Volcano In Bali?
At a height of 3,148 metres above sea level, Mount Agung is the tallest peak in Bali by nearly a kilometre.
At 2,276 metres, the second tallest is majestic Mt Batukaru, an extinct volcano in the untouched Batukaru Nature Reserve, a bit south of Tamblingan Lake and Lake Buyan. This area is another favourite for adventure seekers and those looking to seek out untouched native flora and fauna.
Mount Abang, located near the largest lake, Batur, is the 3rd tallest, at 2,151 metres.
Mount Catur, which overlooks Lake Buyan, stands at 2,096 metres tall.
Mount Batur Is Still An Active Volcano, Is It Safe To Climb?
Yes, of course, it is safe to climb!
While Mount Batur is technically still active, it’s been inactive since its last eruption in the year 2000.
The Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) consider this volcano safe for travellers. They monitor volcanic activity constantly, and would not allow access if there were signs of danger.
Final Thoughts On Bali’s Lakes
Bali’s lakes offer a unique and peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the towns and beaches, allowing you to connect with nature and clear your thoughts.
Whether you’re seeking the physical achievement of trekking to the lakes, a connection with nature, or beautiful views and photos, the lakes in Bali offer all of this without being too difficult to access.
The unspoiled and untouched beauty of the famous lakes in Bali is unmatched on the island, and only at these heights can you experience 360° views from above.
We’d recommend going to see at least one of the lakes when you visit Bali.
You’ve read the guide, now go and see for yourself.
