Visiting the Bangli area in Bali, most tourists head to the beach. But the dense rainforest hides some true natural beauties, like this Bangkiang waterfall.
This unique waterfall stands surrounded by jungle and rice fields and is well known as a spot for taking pictures and enjoying serenity. It is also the main attraction of a small local village called Jelekungkang.
Many tourists have no idea this waterfall exists, but now you know about this natural secret and you can use our guide to plan your day trips around Ubud better.
Waterfall Bangkiang Djaran: What It’s Like?
Waterfall Bangkiang Djaran aka Dedari Waterfall or Air Terjun Dedari in Indonesian is a series of 3 connected waterfalls. The name Dedari actually means Angel in the local language.
It is a hidden gem for nature lovers chasing waterfalls all around Bali and still remains less crowded than other waterfalls close to Ubud. The village is so quiet, locals say you can hear the waterfalls from a one-kilometre distance!
Three Dedari Waterfalls
The first Waterfall is a mid-size towering waterfall about 20 meters tall with a natural pool at its foothills. It is the only waterfall out of the 3 that you can get really close to.
The second Waterfall aka ‘Little Brother’ flows directly from the natural pool of the first Dedari waterfall towards the Tukad Melangit River. Don’t miss it as it is directly
The third Waterfall is the farthest one and sits on the opposite side under a local temple, and you can actually see it from the first waterfall location. The water falls on huge rock formations down into the river, so this waterfall looks like a little cascade. You can cross a little bamboo bridge on the right of the 1st waterfall and trek through the forest to reach it.
Things To Know Before Visiting Bangkiang Djaran Waterfall
- Opening hours are 08.00 to 18.00, note that the Djaran waterfall isn’t open as early in the morning as many other waterfalls.
- The waterfall area will be more developed with time as the spot becomes more and more popular. The last time we visited, locals were building a new bridge. But, at the moment, there are no changing rooms, toilets, or showers there. Bring everything you need with you.
- Keep the water clean. Locals actually use water from this waterfall for their daily needs and there are pipes that carry the waterfall water to the fields. The water here is not considered holy so there are no water purification rituals offered like at some other waterfalls.
- Bring your swimsuit, on a hot day, the cold water of the pool is exactly what you need. Very refreshing. Kids will absolutely love it!
- You can come here even during the day. The path is well-shaded and the whole place is still pretty cool.
Where Is The Waterfall Bangkiang Djaran?
Waterfall Bangkiang Djaran is located in Jelekungkang village in Bangli Regency, Bali.
The location is about 1.5-2 hours drive from Canggu or the airport, and about 40 minutes from Ubud.
Address: Br Jelekungkang, Taman Bali, Kec. Bangli, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80752
How To Get To Waterfall Bangkiang Djaran?
There are 3 ways to get to the Bangkiang Djaran waterfall:
- Order a taxi through one of the online apps (Grab and Gojek are the most popular ones).
- Hire a private driver. It is a better option if you’re planning to visit several attractions in one day as some remote locations don’t really have taxi coverage.
- Rent your own scooter or car. To use this option, you should have an international driver’s license from your home country.
While following the Google Maps pin, you will pass through several Balinese villages like Sidan, Bunitin, and Taman Bali, then you will head east and finally arrive at Jelekungkang village.
The villagers know that people are coming to visit the waterfall, so you can simply follow signs on the sides of the road.
From the parking lot to the waterfall itself, there is no proper paved path yet, it is a short walk through rice paddies, so it can get muddy, especially during the rainy season.
At the waterfall itself, there are a couple hundred steps in total. All easy to walk.
To reach waterfalls you will actually go down in the valley, so you will spot waterfalls on your way from above.
Is There Any Entrance Fee At Waterfall Bangkiang Djaran?
There is no official entrance fee for this waterfall. However, every visitor is encouraged to leave a donation to help the village maintain the waterfall. There is a donation box where you can leave some money.
We’d say 10,000 to 20,000 IDR (1-2 AUD) will be considered a good donation.
The head of the village intends to use the donations to lay paved paths and add facilities to the area.
Safety Tips For Bangkiang Djaran Waterfall Visitors
- Wear proper shoes. This waterfall is not as well maintained as, say Ulu Petanu or Manuaba, and there is no dedicated clear path to it. You can get dirty and it will be too slippery in thongs going up and down the concrete steps or crossing a handmade bamboo bridge over the river.
- Mosquito repellent is a must as you will be in the real rainforest. Dengue fever is really dangerous and outbreaks are often during the rainy season (which is the best to come to this waterfall)
- If visiting with kids, be extra careful. The river gorge next to the third waterfall is really deep.
What To Do At Waterfall Bangkiang Djaran
Enjoy The Nature
Despite being there for years, this waterfall is not really discovered by foreigners, which is great as it still feels untouched and peaceful. The 500-meter trek to get there is an experience on its own (very easy though with barely any elevation) walking through a dense and lush forest.
You will most likely be here all alone, you can sit down, meditate, read, or simply breathe in the sweet fresh air.
There is a pipe with flowing water right next to the first Bangkiang Djaran waterfall to freshen up on a hot day.
Take Photos
There are a few nice spots here to take pictures. Anywhere in the forest, of course, as it just looks magical.
But the villagers also made a bamboo boat hanging over the forest where you can take pictures with a view.
Photos in the waterfall or on the big rock in the first waterfall are popular as well.
Make sure to take plenty of pictures, the location is super scenic and green.
Join A Tour
Some local tour guides organize tours around Ubud that include the Bangkiang waterfall.
Some of those tours are available online and they even include a group yoga class at the waterfall or a full day experience in the local village and jungles too.
Where To Eat Around Waterfall Bangkiang Djaran?
There are no warungs (local cheap eateries) or restaurants at the waterfall so bring your water and snacks and plan to have lunch back at Ubud or somewhere in between
Cafes Recommendations:
- Seniman coffee, Ubud to grab coffee and filling brekkie before heading to the waterfalls.
- Bebek Bengil Ubud for a very traditional Balinese meal – fried duck with rice.
- Donna – a modern restaurant in Ubud with a great food menu, cocktails, shisha, and desserts.
- The Seeds of Life Cafe will be best for vegans and vegetarians and it is right next to Ubud markets and the Royal Palace.
Where to Stay Around Waterfall Bangkiang Djaran?
Accommodation Options:
- Asli Bali Villa. The guests can simply walk to the waterfalls as this 3-star hotel is one of the closest options, located right in the village.
- Kubu Selat Villa And Glamping is a very affordable place to stay with Balinese-style little cabins, It is within 15-drive of the waterfall and close to the Bali Swing.
- UBUD VALLEY BOUTIQUE RESORT is located in between Ubud and Bangli and it will be a good option if you’re planning to explore the area for a few days.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Waterfall Bangkiang Djaran?
The best time to visit Bangkiang Djaran waterfalls is during the rainy season, November to April, but on a dry day, right after some rainfall.
The dry season doesn’t offer stunning views and the water level can get pretty low as Bali often suffers from droughts.
Final Thoughts On Bangkiang Waterfall
Bangkiang Waterfall is a real treasure for curious and adventurous tourists: no crowds, no lines, no entrance fee, and the best part? You can see 3 waterfalls and a river canyon in one location!
And getting there you get to see real rural Bali.
