Bali has many beautiful waterfalls. Some of which are famous and some not so. Sumampan Waterfall (Air Terjun Sumampan) is one of Bali’s lesser-known falls. This hidden gem can be found in the Gianyar Regency near Ubud.
Sumampan Waterfall is definitely worth a visit and in this complete guide, we will tell you why.
Where Is Sumampan Waterfall?
Sumampan Waterfall is located in a charming village near Ubud in Bali. Even though it is in close proximity to Ubud, it is nowhere near as busy as other waterfalls in this region.
Adress: Kemenuh, Sukawati, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80581
How To Get To Sumampan Waterfall
If you want to see Sumampan Waterfall, we would suggest you hire a private driver. Especially if you are staying in Canggu or Seminyak since the car ride from there takes about one hour, depending on traffic.
However, if you are staying in Ubud, you could rent a motorbike yourself if you are feeling up to it. The drive from Ubud is about twenty minutes.
To get to Sumampan Waterfall, you could also book a bike or car using Grab or Gojek.
What’s The Best Time To Visit Sumampan Waterfall?
The best time to visit Sumampan Waterfall would be at the end or after the rainy season. From February to June the waterfall will be more powerful as a result of all the rain.
However, make sure to check the weather app before visiting this waterfall. If there is a change of rain, you might want to reevaluate your plans.
To get to the waterfall, you will have to follow a trail and ascend about seventy steps. If it is raining or has been raining, these steps will get very slippery. Be careful when going down the stairs, even when it’s not raining.
If you are visiting Bali in the dry season, you can still visit this waterfall. It might be less powerful, but its beauty is the same.
Since Sumampan Waterfall is a hidden gem in Bali, it won’t be extremely crowded at any time of the day. But, to increase your chances of seeing this waterfall without any other tourists, we would suggest visiting early in the morning. If you are lucky, you’ll be the only person there!
What’s The Sumampan Waterfall Entrance Fee?
Currently, you will have to pay a small entrance fee to access Sumampan Waterfall. The entrance fee is 20k IDR. At the entrance, you can also donate some money in the donation box if you are feeling generous.
You will also find a parking area at Sumampan Waterfall. There’s no extra cost for parking your motorbike in this parking area.
What To Expect At Sumampan Waterfall Bali?
To get to the Sumampan Waterfall, you will have to follow a trail. This trail will start off with a walk through the lush greenery, giving a jungle vibe. Near the end of the trail, you will find steep steps. Be careful when ascending these steps.
You do not have to be extremely fit to make it down the steps, but if you are limited in mobility, you might want to reconsider. For footwear, we would suggest sneakers, but flip-flops will do as well.
Once you reach the bottom of the stairs, you’ll get a lovely view of Sumampan Waterfall. The waterfall is surrounded by plants, which make it seem like you are in the middle of the jungle.
If you want a closer look at the waterfall, you will have to cross the river. To make it to the other side of the river, you can walk through the stream using a rope to guide you.
The water levels in the river can vary from knee to waist height. Also, note that the current can be quite strong. The bottom of the river is covered in rocks and is a bit slippery as well, so wear slippers or water shoes while crossing the stream.
You do not have to cross the river to see the majestic falls, but if you do, it is totally worth it. Up close, the waterfall is even more impressive. Do not forget to take some pictures while you are there.
At the base of the cliff, you might notice some carvings on the rocks. These carvings were added to the rocks by local artist Nyoman Retana. The purpose of the carvings is to draw more tourists.
A fun fact about Sumampan Waterfall is that it is actually man-made. The waterfall was created by mistake when locals were building an irrigation system for their rice fields. That makes it unique among the best waterfalls in Bali.
Where To Stay Near Sumampan Waterfall?
Near Sumampan Waterfall you will find plenty of hotels and villas to stay. We collected some of the nicest stays within a kilometre of the waterfall.
Baliwid Villa Ubud – This villa offers a view of the rice fields and is the perfect stay away from all the crowds. The villa has two-person rooms as well as family rooms.
Hot Stone Club – This hotel is a bit more on the expensive side, but we think it is worth it. The rooms are stunning and there is a nice pool available for all guests.
Munay Villa – Another beautiful stay in the Gianyar Regency is Munay Villa. This villa is very close to the waterfall. You also have an option to rent bikes here and discover the area even better.
Kailash Suites – This four-star hotel is, like most hotels near Sumampan, beautiful. There is a pool and the whole hotel is surrounded by lush greenery. If you are feeling fancy, you can book a room with a big bathtub for ultimate relaxation.
Uma Budhas Guest House – This guest house is run by a lovely family who will go above and beyond to make your stay as pleasant as possible. There are four different rooms and a pool.
Where To Eat Near Sumampan Waterfall?
If you are a bit hungry after you visit Sumampan Waterfall, you do not need to worry. This neighbourhood has plenty of restaurants such as:
Nulana Coffee – Coffeebar Nulana is one of the few Western restaurants in the neighbourhood. If you are in the mood for avocado toast or pancakes, then this place is perfect for you.
Pizza Todesco – You can hardly go wrong with a nice Italian restaurant. Pizza Todesco is situated mere minutes away from Sumampan and serves some tasty pizzas.
Baliwid Warung – This warung is very close to the waterfall and has an amazing view of the palm trees. They serve delicious Indonesian meals for a good price.
Sate Medahan 8 – This bamboo restaurant is a real eye-catcher. Enjoy the great view while eating satay and sipping on a cold drink. Make sure to ask about the spiciness, as some of the dishes are quite spicy!
My G Warung – Another typical Balinese warung near Sumampan is My G Warung. They serve various dishes ranging from Indonesian to Mexican.
What To Do Near Sumampan Waterfall?
There are a great deal of things to do near Sumampan waterfall. Some of our most recommended spots for this area are:
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ATV Ubud – If you are looking for something more thrilling, the ATV adventure in Ubud is for you. Ride on different terrains and discover Ubud in a whole new way. The ATV ride is a fun activity for you and your friends.
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Uma Anyar Waterfall – If you have not had enough of waterfalls yet, you’ll be pleased to know there is another one not far from Sumampan. This place is absolutely stunning and belongs on your Bali itinerary
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Tegenungan Waterfall – This is a very popular spot in Bali so if you’re going here, prepare for crowds. If you want to see what all the fuss is about, we would suggest coming as early as possible.
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Kemenuh Butterfly Park Bali – If you want to experience nature in a different way, then the butterfly park is a nice option. There are many unique butterflies and the gardens are beautiful.
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Go to Ubud – Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali. Therefore, it is a must-see when you are on the island. Stop by one of Ubud’s temples or look for monkeys in the monkey forest. Ubud has lots to offer!
FAQs
Can You Swim Near Sumampan Waterfall?
Yes! It is possible to swim in the river. While swimming here, you should keep in mind that the current can be strong.
Is A Trip To Sumampan Waterfall Worth It?
Sumampan Waterfall is still one of the lesser-known falls in Bali. If you find yourself in the area, it won’t hurt to pay a visit.
Final Thoughts On Sumampan Waterfall
If you are looking for a hidden gem in Bali with few tourists, then Sumampan Waterfall is the place for you. The location of this waterfall is close to Ubud and, therefore, easier to visit than some other waterfalls.
If you add this waterfall to your Bali trip, you will find it to be one of the most majestic waterfalls the island has to offer. Always be thoughtful when visiting a waterfall and make sure Sumampan Waterfall remains clean.
