Bali: Bedugul Temple, Banyumala Waterfall, UNESCO Rice Terrace

REVIEW · ULUN DANU & HIGHLAND TEMPLES

Bali: Bedugul Temple, Banyumala Waterfall, UNESCO Rice Terrace

5.0 · 40 reviews From $39 Operated by Dewata Memories Tours · Bookable on Viator
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Three Bali stops, one smooth plan. This private tour takes you beyond Seminyak comfort zones into Bali’s cooler highlands, with a scenic drive that makes the day feel like more than just moving between sights. I especially like the pickup and drop-off coverage from multiple areas, and the fact that you’re not wrestling with navigation on winding mountain roads.

I also love how the route mixes three very different “Bali moments” in one outing: temple views at Ulun Danu Bratan, a rainforest walk to Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, and then UNESCO-listed Jatiluwih rice terraces with mountain scenery. If you’re lucky with your driver—people often highlight Santanu—the explanations about culture and what you’re seeing can turn quick stops into something that actually sticks.

One thing to watch: entrance fees and waterfall essentials are not included. Budget extra for the IDR 180,000 admission amount, and plan for a towel/extra cloth if you want to swim at Banyumala.

Key Things to Know Before You Go

Bali: Bedugul Temple, Banyumala Waterfall, UNESCO Rice Terrace - Key Things to Know Before You Go

  • Private pacing: you can spend your time where you want, instead of being rushed on a fixed group schedule
  • Highlands scenery en route: the drive is part of the experience, not just a transfer
  • Banyumala is walk-to-see: expect a rainforest stroll and bring swim-ready gear if you plan to get wet
  • UNESCO Jatiluwih views: rice terraces plus a backdrop of Mount Batukaru are the payoff
  • Easy logistics: air-conditioned vehicle, parking fees handled, and bottled water provided

Why This Private Highlands Route Beats DIY on Bali

This tour works well if you want countryside Bali without the hassle of planning every turn. You’re traveling from the beach area (Seminyak) toward Bedugul-style highland scenery, where roads feel slower and traffic can be unpredictable. Having a driver who handles the driving means you can relax, look out the windows, and actually notice the scenery changes as elevation climbs.

The private format matters, too. It’s “only your group,” so you’re not stuck waiting for slow walkers or trying to keep up with the fast ones. In particular, the reviews lean hard on smooth timing and the sense that the driver keeps things organized, including letting you decide how long you want at each stop.

The day is also built around pacing. Each main stop is roughly 45–50 minutes, which is long enough to see the highlights and take a breather, but short enough that you don’t lose half your day to any one location.

Ulun Danu Bratan Temple: Lake Views and Classic Highland Atmosphere

Bali: Bedugul Temple, Banyumala Waterfall, UNESCO Rice Terrace - Ulun Danu Bratan Temple: Lake Views and Classic Highland Atmosphere
Ulun Danu Bratan Temple is the first big visual hit. You’ll start with an 8:30-ish departure from your hotel area (the tour starts at 8:00 am), then ride into the mountains and highlands for a scenic drive. The temple sits on a plateau above a lake, so it has that postcard feel where water, sky, and greenery all show up together.

Plan for about 45 minutes at this stop. That’s not a long time, so treat it like a “see the best angles, then settle” moment. If you’re the type who likes photos, get your angles early, then use the remaining time for a slower wander and quiet time by the lake side.

A practical note: admission tickets are not included here. That doesn’t ruin the value, but it does mean you’ll want to be ready with cash or whatever payment method the site expects on arrival. Budgeting for the tour’s stated IDR 180,000 admission amount will keep you from feeling annoyed mid-day.

Banyumala Twin Waterfalls: Rain Matters, and So Does Your Towel

Bali: Bedugul Temple, Banyumala Waterfall, UNESCO Rice Terrace - Banyumala Twin Waterfalls: Rain Matters, and So Does Your Towel
Next you’ll head to Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, where the vibe shifts from temple lake views to rainforest shade. The experience here is less about standing still and more about walking—there’s a pleasant stroll in a lush rainforest before you reach the falls.

You get about 50 minutes total at this stop. For most people, that’s perfect timing: long enough for the walk, time to view the falls, and—if you want to—time to cool off in the water. One of the most praised parts of this day is that the waterfall feels like a place you can actually enjoy, not just look at from a distance.

Two practical considerations:

  • The falls are known as “twin,” but the effect can depend on conditions. The description hints that after rain, you may have a better chance of seeing the waterfalls at their best.
  • Swims are common, but towel and extra cloth are not included. If you want to change out of damp clothes afterward, you’ll be glad you brought a small towel or an extra layer.

If you skip swimming, you’ll still enjoy it—just focus on the walk and the cooling relief under the canopy.

Jatiluwih Green Land (UNESCO Rice Terraces): Big Views, Short Time

Bali: Bedugul Temple, Banyumala Waterfall, UNESCO Rice Terrace - Jatiluwih Green Land (UNESCO Rice Terraces): Big Views, Short Time
Jatiluwih is the third stop, and it’s the one that turns the day into a long-look kind of finale. You’ll spend about 50 minutes here at the rice terraces, which are part of the UNESCO Rice Terrace highlight of this experience.

What makes it special is the combination of scale and calm. Rice terraces are visually dramatic, but they also feel peaceful when you’re not racing the clock. You’ll also have the fresh atmosphere that comes with open highland spaces and wide views. The backdrop includes Mount Batukaru, so the scenery has depth, not just flat green patterns.

Time management helps here. With only about an hour, you’ll want to choose:

  • a viewpoint where you can take in the full terrace spread, then
  • a second path for a closer look (if you feel like walking).

The entrance/admission fees for this stop are not included either, so again, make peace with paying on the ground. It’s normal for Bali sites, and for this day tour the total admission amount is clearly stated.

Transport, Comfort, and the Driver You’ll Actually Remember

Bali: Bedugul Temple, Banyumala Waterfall, UNESCO Rice Terrace - Transport, Comfort, and the Driver You’ll Actually Remember
This is a private tour with an English-speaking driver who accompanies you all day. That’s a big deal in Bali. Even when you’ve done a lot of Bali trips, having someone interpret what you’re seeing adds a layer you miss when you’re just reading signs.

The reviews strongly highlight a guide experience that feels fun and informative—people call out Santanu by name. They also mention that he gave plenty of information about the city, culture, and Bali, and that he made the whole day feel smooth rather than chaotic. When a driver keeps explanations natural (not like a script) and your stops feel un-rushed, the experience stops being “transport to attractions” and becomes a real sightseeing day.

Comfort-wise, you’ll have a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, plus bottled mineral water during the ride. The tour also includes all parking fees and local tax, so there are fewer small expenses popping up during the day.

Price and Value Math for a $39 Private Day

Bali: Bedugul Temple, Banyumala Waterfall, UNESCO Rice Terrace - Price and Value Math for a $39 Private Day
At $39.00 per person, the headline price is easy to swallow—especially because you’re not just buying a car transfer. You’re paying for:

  • private pickup and drop-off in areas like Seminyak, Legian, Kuta, Jimbaran, Sanur, Tanjung Benoa, and Nusa Dua (plus Ubud)
  • an air-conditioned vehicle
  • a driver for the whole day
  • parking fees and local tax
  • bottled water

What’s not included is where you should plan your budget: all entrance/admission fees (the tour states a total of IDR 180k per person) plus food and drink. Also, if you plan to swim at Banyumala, you’ll likely want your own towel/extra cloth since those aren’t included.

So is it good value? For me, yes—because the day’s structure avoids the typical Bali DIY pain: finding parking, guessing timing, and spending mental energy on navigation. If you price out a private driver for a full highlands day, the tour’s offer tends to look fair, especially with pickup coverage from the Seminyak area.

What to Pack for This Day (So You Don’t Get Stuck Waiting)

Bali: Bedugul Temple, Banyumala Waterfall, UNESCO Rice Terrace - What to Pack for This Day (So You Don’t Get Stuck Waiting)
Because the day includes a temple stop and a waterfall where swimming is possible, your packing list is simple but worth thinking through. Here’s what you’ll appreciate bringing:

  • A small towel or quick-dry cloth for Banyumala
  • Swimwear under your clothes (if you want to get in the water)
  • Light layer for the highlands drive (mountain air can feel cooler than beach areas)
  • Cash for admission (entrance fees aren’t included; IDR 180k is stated)
  • Water and snacks if you don’t want to decide on food mid-ride (food isn’t included)

Also, wear shoes you trust for uneven paths. The Banyumala part includes a rainforest stroll, so solid traction will help you enjoy the walk instead of thinking about footing.

Who Should Book This Tour (and Who Might Skip It)

Bali: Bedugul Temple, Banyumala Waterfall, UNESCO Rice Terrace - Who Should Book This Tour (and Who Might Skip It)
This tour is a strong match if you:

  • want private pacing instead of joining a packed group
  • care about a day that mixes temple, waterfall, and UNESCO rice terraces
  • prefer letting someone else drive so you can focus on views and photos

It’s also ideal if you’re staying in or near Seminyak and don’t want to spend time arranging local transport for Bedugul-area stops.

You might consider a different option if you prefer long stays at fewer places. Each highlight gets about 45–50 minutes, so this isn’t for travelers who want to spend half a day only at one terrace viewpoint or linger for hours at the waterfall.

Should You Book This Bedugul–Banyumala–Jatiluwih Route?

If you want an efficient, scenic Bali day that’s not only about seeing places but also about getting oriented by a real guide, I think this is book-worthy. The best reason is the combination of smooth logistics and a private, flexible pace—plus the variety of scenery: lake temple views, rainforest waterfall time, and then UNESCO rice terraces with mountain backdrop.

If you’re the type who doesn’t like surprises, just be ready for the reality of entrance fees not included and bring waterfall gear if you plan to swim. Do that, and you’re set for a day that feels well planned without feeling rigid.

FAQ

What sites are included on this Bali tour?

The tour focuses on Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, and Jatiluwih Green Land (UNESCO Rice Terrace).

How long is the tour?

The duration is about 8 hours.

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 8:00 am.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

Yes. Pickup and drop-off are included from Ubud and many areas in southern Bali, including Seminyak.

What is the price per person?

The price is $39.00 per person.

Are entrance fees included?

No. Admission fees are not included, and the tour states total entry fees are IDR 180,000 per person.

Is food included?

No. Food and drink are available to purchase, but they are not included.

Will I have a private driver or shared group?

This is a private tour/activity with only your group participating, and your driver will accompany you all day.

What is included besides transport?

Included items are an air-conditioned vehicle, private pickup and drop-off in the listed areas, parking fees, local tax, and bottled mineral water.

cancellation policy? – FAQ

Is there free cancellation?

Yes. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time.