If you’ve ever wanted to discover a side of Bali that feels more like stepping back in time rather than into a busy tourist hotspot, Bangli might be just what you’re looking for. Nestled in the heart of Bali, this is a region often overlooked in favor of the island’s more famous destinations.
If you’re prepared to venture off the beaten path, Bangli is a place to discover a rich history and culture, as well as stunning natural beauty. From highland villages, volcanoes and crater lakes to sacred temples, and hot springs, Bangli offers opportunities for both adventure and investment. Here’s what we think makes Bangli so special.
An Untouched Slice of Bali
Unlike the bustling tourist destinations of Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu or Ubud, Bangli still manages to maintain an air of tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere on the island. The pace of life is slower, the landscapes are unspoiled, and there’s a sense of timelessness that attracts visitors looking to escape the crowds and the traffic jams.
Bangli’s has managed to avoid over-commercialization for the time being, and is a haven for those looking to connect with nature, enjoy stunning views, and immerse themselves in the quieter side of Balinese life and offers a refreshing contrast to the more tourist-heavy parts of Bali.
Batur and Beyond: Nature’s Place in Balinese Beliefs
When most people think of Bali, they think beaches and surfing, right? But Bangli is all about mountains, valleys, waterfalls and lakes that make you feel like you’ve entered some kind of nature documentary.
The big draw here is Mount Batur, an active volcano that offers sunrise treks that are out of this world. It also holds cultural significance for the local Balinese as it’s one of the four primary sacred mountains on the island and a place of spiritual purification.
Then there’s Lake Batur, a place of legend. It’s also Bali’s largest lake, and is nestled in a massive caldera surrounded by picturesque villages like Penelokan and Toyabungkah. According to Balinese mythology, Mount Batur and Lake Batur are considered a pair, representing the balance of male and female energies; Mount Batur symbolizing the male aspect and Lake Batur the female. This balance is central to Balinese cosmology.
Trunyan: A Cultural Experience Like No Other
Nestled on the shores of Lake Batur, is the Bali Adat village of Trunyan; one of Bali’s most unique and intriguing destinations. Unlike the rest of the island, the people of Trunyan follow ancient animistic traditions that predate Hinduism. One of the most striking aspects of Trunyan culture is their distinctive burial practice.
Rather than cremating their dead, as is customary in Bali, the people of Trunyan place the bodies of the deceased beneath a banyan tree, where they are left to decompose naturally. Remarkably, despite the bodies being exposed, there is no foul smell, a phenomenon the locals attribute to the magical powers of the banyan tree.
While Trunyan might not be everyone’s cup of tea, it does provide a rare glimpse into an ancient culture that has remained largely untouched by modern influences. It’s a reminder of Bali’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, with customs that vary significantly from one region to the next.
Spiritual Pit Stops
Bangli has got some serious spiritual vibes. The temples here aren’t as crowded as places like Uluwatu, Tanah Lot and Besakih, but they’re just as impressive. Pura Kehen, for example is definitely worth a visit. It’s smaller than some of the island’s more famous temples but just as awe-inspiring.
Pura Kehen dates back to the 11th century and is dedicated to Brahma, the creator in Hinduism. Its architecture is a blend of ancient Balinese craftsmanship and intricate stone carvings, making it a masterpiece of religious design.
The temple’s entrance is marked by a steep set of stone steps, guarded by stone statues of mythical creatures. Once inside, visitors are greeted by a magnificent 11-tiered meru which is the temple’s main shrine. The lush surroundings, ancient banyan trees, and serene atmosphere make Pura Kehen a peaceful sanctuary for worship and reflection.
Hidden Waterfalls on the Road Less Travelled
Bangli is home to several hidden waterfalls that are perfect for those with a taste for adventure, making you feel like you’re exploring some of Bali’s best-kept secrets. For example, the Tukad Cepung Waterfall is nothing short of magical. You don’t just stroll up to it; you trek through a canyon and emerge into this otherworldly scene where the waterfall cascades down in soft rays of sunlight.
Then there’s Sekumpul Waterfall, which is a bit more off the beaten track but totally worth the effort. With its seven cascading falls surrounded by thick jungle, it’s the kind of place where you might even forget about your phone for a minute and just appreciate the moment.
A short trek through the jungle brings you to the stunning waterfall of Tibumana, where a curtain of water plunges into a clear pool below. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, picnicking, or simply relaxing in the cool mist of the falls. Penglipuran Waterfall is another. Located near the traditional village of Penglipuran, it offers a tranquil setting for a refreshing dip and a more intimate experience with Bali’s natural beauty.
Stepping Back in Time
One of the best-preserved traditional villages in Bali is Penglipuran, which offers a unique glimpse into the island’s past. It’s famous for a strict adherence to traditional Balinese architecture and customs, with houses arranged in a straight line along a central pathway.
The village’s charm lies in its simplicity. It’s immaculately clean, and the sense of community is palpable. It’s one of those places where you immediately feel like you’ve stepped into a picture postcard; perfectly kept traditional houses, narrow stone paths, and a sense of peace that feels almost unreal. It’s also considered one of the cleanest villages in the world. You won’t find any cars, motorbikes, or even plastic waste here; it’s like a sustainable living masterclass.
Sideman is also worth a visit. Nestled in lush green valleys, Sideman is known for its traditional weaving, terraced rice fields, and spectacular views of Mount Agung. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and has a rich cultural history, as it was once home to the famous German painter and musician Walter Spies, who found inspiration in its natural beauty. His time here helped shape Bali’s image as an artistic and spiritual haven.
Why Bangli Might Just Be Bali’s Next Big Thing
Let’s talk about why Bangli is also starting to catch the eye of investors. It’s a part of Bali that’s managed to stay under the radar, but with more people tired of the traffic chaos and craving peace and quiet, Bangli is starting to shine as a place for sustainable tourism and eco-friendly developments. Land prices here are still reasonable, especially compared to the more saturated areas further south.
As Bali continues to develop, Bangli remains a relatively affordable region for investors looking to create projects that align with the island’s environmental goals. And with the government’s initiatives to incentivize projects that support the island’s environmental goals and push for infrastructure development in more remote regions of Bali, Bangli is set to see some growth in the coming years.
Think eco-resorts, wellness retreats, and boutique accommodations that offer a more personal and sustainable experience. It’s that perfect balance of being ahead of the curve but still feeling like you’ve discovered something untouched.
So, What’s the Takeaway?
Bangli is for the traveler who’s looking for more than just beach bars and busy streets. It’s for those who want to reconnect with nature, dive into Balinese traditions, and maybe even find a slice of Bali that still feels authentic. It’s special because it offers a side of Bali that remains deeply connected to its cultural roots and natural beauty.
Whether it’s the awe-inspiring landscapes of Kintamani, the spiritual sanctuaries of Pura Kehen, or the cultural richness of Trunyan and Penglipuran, Bangli has something for every traveler seeking to explore the heart of Bali. For those looking to invest in Bali’s future while preserving its traditions, Bangli represents an exciting frontier where opportunity and authenticity go hand in hand.
So next time you’re thinking about Bali, consider skipping the usual hotspots and giving Bangli a try. Trust us, it’s worth it.
