Singaraja is Bali’s second-largest city and oddly, rather like the biggest city on the island, Denpasar, it doesn’t really get as many visitors as it deserves.
Our guide to Singaraja will help you decide whether you should visit Singaraja on your Bali holiday.
We’ve got all you need to know about what to do, where to stay, the best places to eat and more.
Where Is Singaraja?
Singarja is in North Bali, and it’s closest to the tourist destination of Lovina Beach.
It’s far from the beaches of the South and the main beach clubs and offers a very different experience to visitors than Kuta or Canggu or even Ubud.
How To Get To Singaraja?
There are very few airport transfers to this area simply because it’s so far from the airport, hotels have to charge for the service on top, and it’s not very price competitive when compared to a Grab or Gojek or a private car.
So, your main options for getting to Singaraja include:
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Ride-sharing apps – you may need to wait a little while to find a driver willing to take you this far using Grab or Gojek, but they will probably represent the best value for money if you want to drive straight to Singaraja with no detours
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Private car and driver – this is going to cost slightly more than ride-sharing, but probably not that much more. The advantage is that you can stop on the way to the Singaraja area and enjoy your time in the rice fields a little more en route
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Scooter/motorcycle – we never recommend this mode of travel. It seems like great value, but the reality is that it’s hard to be road-legal, and if you’re not legal, your insurance is worthless. Bali’s roads are poorly maintained, and local traffic conditions are dangerous. It’s better to take a car and avoid a trip to the local hospitals in our book.
How To Get Around Singaraja?
If you only intend to stay within the city, then you will be fine using ride-sharing apps or even walking to places (the traffic in the port town Singaraja is more manageable than it is elsewhere in Bali for pedestrians).
Otherwise, you should consider using a private car and driver who can help you explore North Bali to the fullest.
You could also consider arranging a tour of North Bali (you can do this through the Bali Res Centre mentioned in the FAQs below).
What’s The Best Time Of Year To Visit Singaraja?
There’s no bad time of year to visit Bali or Singaraja, for that matter. The local rice fields look best in the wet season, but it’s hotter and a little more humid at that time of year, and it rains more often (though not so much that it stops you from having a good time).
The dry season offers cooler weather, a bit less rain and more sun, but the cost of flights and accommodation tends to rise due to Bali being more popular at that time of year.
What To Expect In Singaraja Town Centre (Inc. Some Local History)
Singaraja was once the colonial capital of all of the Lesser Sunda Islands and, of course, of North Bali during the Dutch colonial occupation of the archipelago.
It’s the second largest city in the country after Denpasar, and while most visitors to the island will never venture to the city, even on day trips, it’s an ideal place to explore the history and culture of Bali, Indonesia.
The city has very cosmopolitan influences, and in addition to the signature of Dutch architecture throughout the city, you can find Chinese temples, Arab quarters and more.
It’s also home to a pair of universities, and it’s the influx of students that makes this a vibrant and exciting place to see.
18 Best Things To See & Do In And Around Singaraja
There are plenty of things to do in this city and the surrounding area, including outdoor activities and much more:
Gedong Kirtya Museum
One of the most popular things to do in Singaraja is this museum, which is all about the preservation of “lontar”, that is, scripts that were recorded on palm leaves.
You can also find some interesting 10th-century bronze inscriptions inside. Finally, there’s an extensive collection of manuscripts generated during the colonial era.
Where Is It? Jl. Veteran, Paket Agung, Kec. Buleleng, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81118, Indonesia
Yudha Mandalatama Independence Monument
This very iconic monument on the main road running through the town was built to commemorate the death of a local freedom fighter, who was killed by gunfire from a Dutch gunship in the struggle for independence.
Where Is It? Independence Monument, V3WQ+MMQ, Jl. Pelabuhan Buleleng, Kp. Bugis, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81114, Indonesia
Air Sanih Hot Spring
About a 15-minute drive from the town, this popular hot spring has been visited as a tourist attraction since the 1930s.
The warm volcanic water is thought to come from Lake Batur, and there are some great views of the sea from this site.
Where Is It? W6C8+VR3, Jl. Singaraja-Amlapura, Bukti, Kec. Kubutambahan, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81172, Indonesia
Gitgit Waterfall
This is one of the tallest and most popular waterfall sites on the island, and the natural swimming pools here are perfect for taking a dip in after a hike into the jungle.
Where Is It? Jl. Raya Bedugul – Singaraja, Gitgit, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Pura Meduew Karang
This large temple complex is about 12 kilometres out of town and is well-known for its size and incredible statues.
It’s dedicated to Batara Meduwe Karang, “the lord possessing the land,” and is meant to preserve the fertility of local fields.
Where Is It? Kubutambahan, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81172, Indonesia
Pura Beji
This is a fantastic example of the Northern Balinese temple architecture and would have been built during the reign of Pasek Sakti Batu Lepang.
The locals believe it helps to ensure the productivity of the local rice paddies.
Where Is It? Jl. Raya Sangsit, Sangsit, Kec. Sawan, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81171, Indonesia
Banjar Hot Springs
This is, for our money, the best hot springs (see our Best Bali Hot Springs Guide for more ideas) in the area as it offers some pleasant tropical gardens to relax in and an onsite restaurant and spa.
Where Is It? Jalan Banjar, Banjar, Kec. Banjar, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81152, Indonesia
Air Terjun Sambangan (Aling Aling Waterfall)
This must be one of the most popular things to put on Instagram in this corner of Bali.
It’s a lovely waterfall with a very pleasant pool for swimming in at the base of the falls.
Where Is It? Dinas Banjar Anyar, Jl. Raya Desa Sambangan, Banjar, Sambangan, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Pura Dalem Jagaraga Temple
This temple bears witness to the struggles of the local people against the Dutch invaders.
2,700 Balinese and 400 Dutch colonists perished at a battle on this site. And Jagaraga now means “guard yourself” in Balinese!
Where Is It? Jagaraga, Sawan, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81171, Indonesia
Lemukih Waterfall
It may be one of the less visited falls in the area, but it’s no less spectacular, and if you invest the effort to visit – you’re going to get great photos.
Just watch out for scammers in the area who will try and sell you a much inflated-price ticket. Just buy at the entry booth.
Where Is It? dinas buah banjah, Lemukih banjar, Kec. Sawan, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81171, Indonesia
Kroya Waterfall
This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls that we’ve ever seen, and you’re going to really enjoy your time here.
It’s also an amazing place to experience cliff jumping and sliding down the waterfall itself!
Where Is It? Sambangan, Sukasada, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Busungbiu Rice Terrace
This is not one of Bali’s most famous rice terraces, and that means, if you visit, you may have it all to yourself.
Come at the right time of year (during the second half of the rainy season), and your photographs will be spectacular.
Where Is It? QX38+JVX, Jl. Mayong-Gunungsari, Bestala, Kec. Seririt, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81153, Indonesia
Ling Gwang Kiong Chinese Temple (Buddhist Temple)
This Buddhist temple has no entry fee and it’s one of the most striking buildings in the area.
It’s a testament to the Balinese people’s willingness to incorporate other cultures into their own.
This is one of the most interesting temples on the island at Chinese New Year.
Where Is It? JL. Erlangga, No. 63, Kampung Anyar, Buleleng, Kp. Bugis, Kec. Buleleng, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81114, Indonesia
Pucak Manik Waterfall
It’s a hard walk to this majestic waterfall, but that means there are far fewer visitors here than at some of the other local falls.
If you want amazing photographs, then you’re sure to get them here.
Where Is It? Jalan Pucak Manik, Wanagiri, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Tenun Ikat (Weaving)
The local cloth is “Ikat”, which is a form of cotton and is made all over Singaraja.
One of the best places to watch this cloth being woven is at Tenun Ikat, you can buy some material or even learn how to make your own too!
Where Is It? Jl. Bekisar No.1, Baktiseraga, Kec. Buleleng, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81116, Indonesia
Handara Golf
This is the second best-known golf course in Bali, and the entrance gates to the club are Instagram-famous.
If you want to play golf in Bali, you won’t want to miss out on Handara.
Where Is It? Q535+6P, Desa Singaraja-Denpasar Pancasari Sukasada, Desa Jl. Raya Singaraja-Denpasar, Pancasari, Kec. Buleleng, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Where To Stay In Singaraja
There are some great places to stay in and around the city, and some of the best options include the following:
Ciliks Beach Garden
These privately owned villas on the coast offer open, airy rooms and amazing views. The Western-style breakfast is excellent, too.
Where Is It? Jl. Raya Air Sanih, Kubutambahan, Kec. Kubutambahan, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81172, Indonesia
Singaraja Hotel
If you want to be in the centre of the city, this is your best bet. They cater to everybody from backpackers to businessmen.
Where Is It? Jl. Surapati No.12 14, Kp. Baru, Kec. Buleleng, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81113, Indonesia
Villa Manuk
This pleasant villa complex near a rice terrace has lovely ocean views and is within walking distance of a nearby village.
Where Is It? Dusun Manuksesa, Desa Bebetin, Bebetin, Singaraja, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81171, Indonesia
Handara Golf & Resort Bali
This is probably the most luxurious option in this part of the island, and, of course, it gets you priority access to the golf course.
Where Is It? Q535+6P, Desa Singaraja-Denpasar Pancasari Sukasada, Desa Jl. Raya Singaraja-Denpasar, Pancasari, Kec. Buleleng, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Frangipani Beach Boutique Hotel
Right on the beach, you can’t beat the value for money offered by this pleasant family-run hotel.
Where Is It? Jl. Kartika 99, Kalibukbuk, Anturan, Kec. Buleleng, Singaraja, Bali 81151, Indonesia
Sugi Gede Homestay
If you’re on a very tight budget, this attractive homestay is within walking distance of three of the local waterfalls!
Where Is It? Unnamed Road, Sekumpul, Kec. Sawan, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81171, Indonesia
Villa Bali Bening
This villa complex aims to deliver a “home away from home” atmosphere, and it’s very well set up for digital nomads.
Where Is It? P3M7+96G, Jl. Batugalih, Munduk, Kec. Banjar, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81152, Indonesia
The Barari Villas
If you want to get in touch with nature, this is a great place to stay, with some superb bird-watching nearby.
Where Is It? VJ29+J8R, Jl. Gumbleng Seririt, Sumberkima, Kec. Gerokgak, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81155, Indonesia
House Of Hobbit
All the buildings are named after hobbits at this charming resort with an amazing pool and garden area.
Where Is It? Pejarakan, Gerokgak, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81155, Indonesia
Where To Eat In Singaraja
Singaraja is a great place to indulge in some local food made by local people and to sample some interesting international fare, too. These are our favourite restaurants in the area:
Alam Sambangan
This is a great poolside restaurant where you can enjoy some excellent food from a variety of cuisines and then take a dip when you’re done.
Where Is It? Jl. Raya Desa Sambangan, Sambangan, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Warung Bambu Pemaron
If you’re in the mood for a tasting platter of all the best Indonesian dishes, this is where you want to go. They also offer cooking classes.
Where Is It? Jl. Hotel Puri Bagus Pemaron Pemaron, Pemaron, Kec. Buleleng, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81119, Indonesia
Warung Apple
Sensational local seafood within a short walk of the beach, you just can’t go wrong with the pleasant warung.
Where Is It? R2RG+4MH, Jl. Mawar, Kalibukbuk, Kec. Buleleng, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81151, Indonesia
Warung Tomat
If you’re in the mood for something Italian, this warung does great pizzas and the pasta is freshly made and super tasty.
Where Is It? Depan GOR Bhuana Patra, Jl. Udayana No.8, Banjar Jawa, Buleleng, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81114, Indonesia
Warung Lina
If you’re operating on a tight budget, this is an excellent place to be. The local food is served in generous portions for very low prices.
Where Is It? Jalan singaraja – seririt, Timur Pasar Kalibukbuk, Lovina, Anturan, Singaraja – Bali, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81151, Indonesia
Barclona Bar & Restaurant
A fantastic family-run place that specializes in the local catch. It’s the best place in North Bali to enjoy some Mahi Mahi.
Where Is It? Jl. Mawar, Kalibukbuk, Kec. Buleleng, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81151, Indonesia
Warung Pencar Bali Barat
A very pleasant seaside warung with an emphasis on fresh local produce and tasty seafood BBQ.
Where Is It? Jl. Singaraja-Gilimanuk, Penyabangan, Kec. Gerokgak, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81155, Indonesia
FAQs
Is Singaraja Worth Visiting?
Yes! The first thing you’ll notice about this city is just how different it looks and feels from the other cities and towns on the island.
It’s multi-ethnic, and the colonial houses and large ornate gardens here will have you hearkening back to a lost era of Balinese history.
It’s also the major production centre in Bali for high-quality silks plus the local Ikat cotton.
That means if you want great fabrics for a bargain price, you will find them in Singaraja.
What Is The Population Of Singaraja?
It depends on when the universities are in session, but the rough population of the city is 100,000 people.
That’s a pretty big city for Bali, even if it’s a small city when compared to much of the rest of Southeast Asia.
What Is The Climate In Singaraja?
It’s pretty much the same as the rest of the island’s climate. Hot and sunny all year round with two seasons (due to Bali being a tropical island).
Why Is Denpasar So Popular?
Denpasar isn’t that popular. In fact, most tourists in Bali never really take the time to explore the modern capital.
We think that’s a bit of a shame because Denpasar is an interesting and exciting place in its own right.
We’d also encourage everyone to visit Singaraja if they have time because it’s a super place to visit.
How Do You Book A Holiday In Singaraja?
We tell all travellers to Bali the same thing, you should book your villa, hotels, tours, etc., through the amazing Bali Res Centre.
This is a locally owned travel service that specializes in Balinese travel. Whether it’s your first time here or a repeat trip for a relaxing break, they can help you find the perfect itinerary at the right price for your needs.
Final Thoughts On Singaraja And North Bali
Singaraja is a very interesting place, and it deserves more visitors than it gets.
It’s a great place to stay if you want to plan a series of day trips out across the rest of this part of Bali, and it’s fascinating in its own right, too.
If you enjoy outdoor activities and peace and quiet, you’ll love Singaraja, and then, when you’re ready for something a bit more high-energy, we’ll be waiting to welcome you to FINNS in Canggu, the best beach club in the world.
