Bali is blessed with natural beauty. At times it seems that everywhere you turn in Bali, there is another amazingly spectacular view to explore. Famous for its waterfalls, a trip to Bali is not complete without experiencing at least one or two of them. From calmer flowing falls to others that cascade from heights into plunge pools below, there is a waterfall experience to suit nearly everybody. There are many well-known falls including Tegenungan falls which are close to the tourist hubs of the south, and Git Git falls located in the far north of the island. And there are others which may not be as well known, but equally worth the effort of visiting. Taman Sari Waterfall and Natural Pool is one such place.
About Taman Sari Waterfall and Natural Pool
Opened in 2019, Taman Sari Waterfall and Natural Pool is a relatively new attraction. It is a family-owned and operated business located near the village of Siangan in the Gianyar region of Bali. Travel time is approximately 30 minutes from Ubud or 45 minutes from Sanur. As it opened to the public just prior to the pandemic, these falls are not yet on the international tourist radar, however, the locals were quick to discover them, and definitely seem to enjoy their time here.
How To Get To Taman Sari Waterfall and Natural Pool.
Driving from Ubud, north along Jalan Ngenjung Sari you will come across a signed parking area for Taman Sari Waterfall and Natural Pool on your left-hand side. Park your car or scooter here (free parking) and pay the 20000IDR entry fee (approx $1.40 USD or 1.95 AUD) at the ticket booth. Operating hours are 8 am – 6 pm seven days a week. There is a small warung located behind the ticket booth where you can purchase snacks and cold drinks.
Walking Down To The Waterfall
From the car park, you cross the road and head downhill for approximately 100 metres. You will come to a sign pointing to the steps that lead down to the falls. It takes about 5 minutes to navigate the stairs, firstly passing a small Balinese temple, Pura Empelan Gianyar, to your right. Continuing on you will pass a warung on your right. A little further down on your left, a small Holy Spring flows into a small fish pond. While the steps cannot be avoided (we genuinely think it’s impossible to avoid steps anywhere in Bali) the walk was never overly demanding and any slightly steeper sections had handrails to steady yourself if needed.
What To Expect At Taman Sari Waterfall And Natural Pool
Once at the bottom, the terraced waterfall itself is absolutely beautiful to behold. The first fall plunges down the cliff face into a small pool situated midway on the escarpment. This pool is deep enough to sit in and relax, however, the climb to this pool is fairly steep and can be quite slippery. So be careful if you want to go up here, though some great photo opportunities await those who make the climb! The water then flows from this pool, cascading into the main swimming hole below, before flowing over a man-made wall into the river below.
The Swimming Pool
This swimming hole itself is very easy to access and has an average depth of 1.5 metres. The water is refreshingly cool without being cold, and it’s quite easy to spend an hour or so in here without getting a chill. We definitely recommend making your way across the pool to swim under the falls, enjoying a natural massage as the waters fall over you. There are no strong currents to contend with in this pool, nor any apparent hidden nasties in the water to get caught on, which makes it quite safe for a swim. Adding to the safety aspect, there is a supervisor on watch at all times to assist anyone should the need arise.
If you’re looking for another great photo opportunity, carefully walk across the man-made wall and up the stairs on the far side. There are great views of the falls from here that should not be missed. Be careful though, this wall and the steps can be slippery. If in doubt, speak to the supervisor, and he will guide you safely across the wall.
Facilities At The Natural Pool
Lockers are provided for you to store your belongings in for a fee if required, otherwise, open-air racks are provided which keep your items off the ground and dry. There is also an open-air bala on a second level overlooking the falls. This is a great spot to escape the sun while taking in the views in front of you. The steps up to the bale are quite steep though, and some people may have difficulty accessing this spot.
If you find yourself getting thirsty or hungry, don’t forget the warung that you passed on your way down to the waterfall. This is only a couple of minutes walk from the swimming hole, making it an ideal spot to stop in for a cool refreshment or a snack. Being in a shady spot, with tables and chairs available, it’s an ideal escape from the heat of the sun for half an hour or so. Equally, it is ideally placed to grab a cold drink for your walk back to the car park.
What Should I Bring
It’s always easier to travel light when coming to places such as Taman Sari Waterfall and Natural Pool. And reading our 30 Best Travel Tips For Your Bali Holiday, will help you plan your days in Bali. Drinking water is essential, as it does get hot here, however cold drinks are available at the warung. Good walking shoes are advisable though the walk down is very doable in flip flops. Bring a beach towel if you’re going for a swim, as well as sunscreen and a hat for sun protection. Make sure you have your phone or a camera with you for the amazing photo opportunities available here. And don’t forget to bring some cash for a cold drink or snack in the warung. Oh, and a backpack or something similar definitely makes it easier to carry everything on your journey down to the waterfalls and back.
A Great Day Out
So there you have it. A great place that is currently slipping under the radar, however, it is quickly becoming better known and more popular with the local Balinese families. Undoubtedly once post-covid international tourism resumes, these falls, only 30 minutes from the heart of Ubud, will become more widely known and more popular with travellers. So it may pay to beat the crowds and become the first of your friends to put this great spot on your Bali travel itinerary.
