Things to Do in Bangli, Bali: Beyond the Usual Tourist Trail

Most travelers planning a trip to Bali usually head straight to Ubud, Seminyak, or Canggu. These areas are so dominant that many people don’t realize Bali still has one regency that’s almost completely overlooked: Bangli.

What makes Bangli unique is its status as the only regency in Bali without a coastline. The entire region sits in the highlands. It’s surrounded by mountains, crater lakes, and lush plantations. While other tourists chase sunsets on the beach, Bangli offers sunrises over a volcanic caldera. While South Bali is packed with beach clubs, Bangli offers cool, crisp air instead. Its traditional Bali Aga villages still strongly uphold their customs.

This is why travelers growing tired of the South Bali crowds are gradually turning to Bangli. This article explores various things to do in Bangli, Bali. It covers cultural sites, traditional villages, the panoramic views of Kintamani, and the experience of cruising across Lake Batur.

Overview of Bangli: Geography, Culture & Climate

Bangli is a region located in the center of Bali. It borders Buleleng, Karangasem, Klungkung, Gianyar, and Badung. Most of the region lies at an elevation of 100 to 2,000 meters above sea level. Due to its highland location, the temperature in Bangli is very cool, especially at night.

From a cultural perspective, Bangli has a long history as a royal center. It features numerous historic temples that still stand strong today. Its cultural traditions have been passed down through generations. This region was also home to the Bali Aga community, the indigenous people of Bali. They lived here before the influence of the Majapahit Empire reached the area.

Bangli is closely linked to the Kintamani Bangli area and Lake Batur. Administratively, both are located within Bangli Regency.

For anyone putting together a personal Bangli travel guide, this is the first step. Understanding the geography and culture of this region will help before exploring its destinations one by one.

Read Other Interesting Articles:

• Mount Batur Jeep Tour: Catch the Best Sunrise in Bali
• Tan’s Estate: Best Things to Do in Kintamani 

Top Things to Do in Bangli, Bali

Explore the Kintamani & Lake Batur Area

Kintamani & Lake Batur Area | tansestate.com

One of the most iconic things to do in Bangli, Bali, is enjoying the panoramic views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur. Both can be seen from Kintamani. This area was formed by the volcanic activity of Mount Batur. That activity created a massive caldera with a crater lake inside.

The most popular viewpoint is Penelokan, a small village whose name means “place to see.” From here, visitors take in the entire caldera in one sweeping view. The active volcano sits on one side, with the blue-green lake on the other. Some activities worth trying:

• Sunrise hike to the summit of Mount Batur
• Soak in natural hot springs at the foot of the mountain
• Take a geopark educational tour about the history of the eruption
• Hunt for landscape photos along the main road in Kintamani

Visit Kehen Temple

Kehen Temple Bali | tansestate.com

Unlike Kintamani, which highlights nature, Kehen Temple offers historical depth. Located in Cempaga Village, this temple is known as one of the oldest in Bali. It’s nicknamed “Little Borobudur” due to its tiered structure.

Kehen Temple has close ties to the Kingdom of Bangli. The temple’s architecture is divided into three tiered courtyards, known as tri mandala. Dozens of steps lead up to the main courtyard. The courtyard also features an ancient banyan tree that’s hundreds of years old, serving as a striking visual landmark. Its walls are adorned with ancient Chinese ceramics — evidence of historical trade ties. Its serene atmosphere makes Kehen Temple well worth adding to your itinerary.

A Walk Through Penglipuran Village

Penglipuran Village, Kintamani, Bangli, Bali | tansestate.com

Penglipuran is the answer to where to visit in Bangli, Bali. This traditional village consistently ranks among the cleanest villages in the world. It serves as a real-life example of how traditional Balinese urban planning is preserved amid modernization.

Every house in this village follows the “angkul-angkul” concept. These are uniformly ornamented gates lining the main street, which stays free of motorized vehicles. At the edge of the village lies a bamboo forest. It serves as both a conservation area and a source of materials for the local community. Daily life for the villagers continues as usual, even amid tourist visits.

Discover Trunyan Village

Trunyan Cemetery Bali | Cemetery at Trunyan Village | tansestate.com

For travelers seeking a less-explored cultural experience, Trunyan Village on the eastern shore of Lake Batur offers something unique. This village is accessible only by water. That’s why it’s often called one of the most geographically isolated villages in Bali.

Trunyan is home to the Bali Aga people. Unlike most Balinese, who practice cremation, the people of Trunyan do things differently. They place the deceased in an open area beneath the Taru Menyan tree. This tree is believed to naturally neutralize the odor of the body. The uniqueness of this tradition makes Trunyan one of the clearest examples of Bali’s true hidden gems.

Explore the Batur UNESCO Global Geopark

Museum Batur Geopark | tansestate.com

Batur’s designation as a UNESCO Global Geopark since 2012 adds an educational dimension to the area. Several geopark information centers explain the history of the eruptions and the formation of the caldera. The volcanic landscape, with its solidified lava flows, serves as a natural laboratory rarely found elsewhere.

Unique Experience: Royal Songan Cruise at Tan’s Estate

Cruise on Lake Batur | Royal Songan Cruise | Tan’s Estate | tansestate.com

After exploring temples, traditional villages, and viewpoints, there’s one experience left to try. It offers a completely different perspective on Lake Batur.

Until now, tourism in Kintamani has been synonymous with enjoying the view from above. The Royal Songan Cruise at Tan’s Estate changes that. It takes travelers on a journey across the lake, directly from the water’s surface. Over the course of 90 minutes, the boat passes the caldera’s most iconic landmarks. These include Mount Batur, Mount Abang, Jati Segara Temple, Trunyan Village, and the Statue of Dewi Danu.

What sets this experience apart is its cultural element. On board, visitors are treated to a live performance of “The Tale of Balingkang.” The narrative tells the story of a Chinese merchant, Kang Cing Wie. He fell in love with Princess Balingkang, the daughter of a Balinese king. This tale brings to life the history of the Batur region, once the center of the Balingkang Kingdom. The kingdom maintained trade ties with China since the 9th century.

This experience is perfect for couples seeking a romantic moment. It also suits families wanting to introduce their children to Balinese history, and travelers looking for something exclusive. For anyone planning a Bangli day trip in Bali, this cruise makes a great finale. It leaves a far more memorable impression than simply stopping at a viewpoint.

Food & Culinary Scene in Bangli

The cool highland air gives the cuisine a distinct character compared to coastal Balinese dishes. It’s warmer and richer in spices. Fresh tilapia soup from Lake Batur is a must-try. So is Bangli’s signature babi guling, which features spicier seasoning than versions from other regions.

The warungs along Kintamani’s main road generally set up tables facing directly toward Lake Batur and Mount Batur. No discussion of Bangli’s cuisine would be complete without mentioning Kintamani coffee. The volcanic highlands here provide ideal soil conditions for Arabica coffee, giving it a lighter, more acidic flavor profile.

Day Trip Itinerary: Bangli in One Day

Planning an efficient Bangli day trip in Bali requires a clear route. Here’s a realistic itinerary based on your starting point.

• Starting from Ubud: Ubud is the most ideal departure point, about 1–1.5 hours from Bangli.
• Starting from Seminyak / Canggu: Add an estimated travel time of about 1.5–2 hours to the itinerary above. This accounts for the greater distance and potential morning traffic. It’s recommended to depart around 5:30–6:00 a.m.
• Starting from Bali Airport: Some travelers land at Ngurah Rai and want to go directly to Bangli. For them, the road trip takes about 2–2.5 hours. This option suits those with a long layover. It also works well for travelers intentionally making Bangli their first stop before continuing to other areas in Bali.

How to Get to Bangli from Ubud, Seminyak, and the Airport

• From Ubud: about 25–30 km, takes 1–1.5 hours
• From Seminyak/Canggu: about 50–60 km, takes 2–2.5 hours
• From Ngurah Rai Airport: about 60–70 km, takes 2–2.5 hours

Travelers generally have three options. Renting a car with a driver is the most popular choice. The road to Kintamani is full of steep inclines and sharp turns, so local experience helps. Renting a motorcycle offers more flexibility but requires extra caution. A fully guided private tour is the third option. Local drivers know the challenging terrain well. They can also provide useful cultural context throughout the journey.

Travel Tips for Visiting Bangli, Bali

• Best time to visit: the dry season (April–October) offers the best visibility for Mount and Lake Batur views
• Clothing: bring a jacket or warm clothes, as temperatures in Kintamani can be much cooler than on the Bali coast
• Weather: pack a lightweight rain jacket, since highland weather can change quickly
• Cash: many small shops and parking areas in rural areas don’t yet accept digital payments
• Visitor etiquette: wear a sarong and shawl when entering temples and respect restricted areas, especially in Trunyan. Always ask permission before photographing local residents

Conclusion

Amid the popularity of Ubud, Seminyak, and Canggu, Bangli stands as proof that Bali still holds many unexplored facets. History at Kehen Temple and authentic community life in Penglipuran and Trunyan all come together here. So do the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Kintamani. Add its status as a UNESCO Global Geopark, and the picture is complete. Bangli becomes a destination far richer than just a “transit point” on the way to Kintamani.

For travelers seeking a different side of Bali beyond the southern coast, Bangli deserves serious consideration. Adding it to your itinerary is a move worth making. This Bangli travel guide shows that this landlocked regency offers a depth of experience hard to find elsewhere.

To cap off your trip in the most memorable way, cruise across Lake Batur with the Royal Songan Cruise at Tan’s Estate. Don’t miss this chance. It combines panoramic views of Mount Batur, the legend of Balingkang, and the luxury of an exclusive cruise. This experience is the best way to see Kintamani from a different perspective. It’s the perfect finale to your adventure exploring the real Bangli.

FAQ

What are the best things to do in Bangli, Bali?

Some of the most recommended things to do in Bangli, Bali, include enjoying the panoramic views of Kintamani and visiting Pura Kehen. Exploring Penglipuran Village is another highlight. You can also learn about Bali Aga culture in Trunyan and cruise Lake Batur on the Royal Songan Cruise.

Is Bangli worth visiting in Bali?

Yes, absolutely. Bangli offers a combination of historic cultural sites and authentic traditional villages like Penglipuran and Trunyan. It also has world-class natural scenery in Kintamani.

What is Bangli famous for?

Bangli is known as the only regency in Bali without a coastline. It’s also home to Kintamani, Lake Batur, Pura Kehen, and Penglipuran Village.

Can I visit Kintamani and Penglipuran in one day?

Yes. Both destinations sit relatively close to each other within the Bangli region. You can combine them into a single day trip itinerary along with Kehen Temple.

How many days should I spend in Bangli?

For the main highlights, one full day is sufficient. If you want a sunrise trek and a relaxed visit to Trunyan, plan for more time. Two days and one night will give you a more complete experience.

Is Bangli cooler than Ubud?

Yes. The Kintamani area in Bangli sits at a much higher elevation than Ubud. That means temperatures stay consistently cooler, especially at night and in the early morning.

Is Bangli suitable for family travel?

Absolutely. Many activities in Bangli are designed to be family-friendly with a relaxed pace. This includes visits to traditional villages and the Royal Songan Cruise.