A Complete Guide to North Bali: What to See and Do
Introduction
North Bali is often considered a "hidden gem" offering a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of South Bali, such as Kuta, Seminyak, or Canggu. If South Bali is about nightlife, luxurious beach clubs, and traffic jams, then North Bali is about tranquility, pristine nature, and preserved cultural authenticity. This region, largely encompassing Buleleng Regency, offers dramatic landscapes—from mist-shrouded mountains and vast coffee plantations to serene black sand coastlines where dolphins swim freely.
Visiting North Bali is not just an ordinary tourist trip; it is a spiritual and physical escape. Here, you will find a slower rhythm of life. The sound of vehicle horns is replaced by the gentle murmur of majestic waterfalls and the chirping of birds in the tropical forests. For adventurers, photographers, or those seeking inner peace, North Bali presents a more intimate and personal experience. This guide will take you through every corner of the northern part of the Island of the Gods, providing in-depth details about what makes this area so special and why you should include it in your next travel itinerary.
History & Background
The history of North Bali is inseparable from the role of Singaraja, which once served as the administrative capital of Bali and the Nusa Tenggara Islands during the Dutch colonial era until 1958. Due to its history as a major port, Singaraja has a unique character compared to other cities in Bali. Dutch colonial architecture can still be found in some corners of the city, harmoniously blending with traditional Balinese temples and humble fishing villages.
The name "Buleleng" itself originates from the name of the kingdom founded by I Gusti Anglurah Panji Sakti in the 17th century. He was a legendary figure who succeeded in uniting the North Bali region and even extended his influence to Blambangan in East Java. The courage and leadership spirit of the North Balinese people are reflected in their art and culture; for example, the energetic and dynamic Gong Kebyar gamelan style originates from this region.
Geographically, North Bali is separated from the southern part by a majestic range of central mountains, including Mount Batukaru and the Bedugul area. This geographical isolation has historically led North Bali to develop a slightly different dialect of Balinese—known for being more direct and firm—as well as traditions that remain strong despite the wave of modernization hitting the south. To this day, the region's economy still heavily relies on the agricultural sector, especially the production of cloves, coffee, and grapes, making it a food granary and a green lung for the Island of Bali.
Main Attractions
North Bali is home to some of the most iconic natural wonders in Indonesia. Here is a list of must-visit places:
1. Lovina Beach and Dolphin Watching
Lovina Beach is famous for its calm black volcanic sand. Its main attraction is the dolphin watching tour at sea during sunrise. Using a jukung (traditional boat), you will be taken to the middle of the sea to witness hundreds of bottlenose dolphins leaping out of the water. Besides dolphins, Lovina also offers excellent snorkeling spots with healthy coral reefs.
2. Sekumpul and Gitgit Waterfalls
The Buleleng region is nicknamed the "City of a Thousand Waterfalls." Sekumpul Waterfall is often called the most beautiful in Bali. Consisting of a cluster of waterfalls cascading from heights of up to 80 meters amidst lush forests, the scenery is truly magnificent. Meanwhile, Gitgit Waterfall offers easier access and has long been an icon of North Bali tourism with a stable water flow throughout the year.
3. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Although technically located in the Bedugul highlands (the northern border), this temple is the gateway to North Bali. The temple appears to float on Lake Beratan. Surrounded by mountains and cool air, this place is one of the most iconic photo spots in the world.
4. West Bali National Park & Menjangan Island
In the northwest corner lies West Bali National Park, which protects rainforest and savanna ecosystems. Off its coast is Menjangan Island, recognized as one of the best diving and snorkeling locations in Bali. Its crystal-clear waters and underwater walls teeming with colorful corals make it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts.
5. Beji Sangsit Temple and Maduwe Karang Temple
For architecture lovers, the temples in North Bali have a different carving style—more decorative, detailed, and sometimes humorous. Beji Temple in Sangsit is dedicated to the goddess of fertility, while Maduwe Karang Temple is famous for its relief carving of a person riding a bicycle with flowers as wheels, believed to be a depiction of the Dutch in the past.
6. Banjar Hot Springs
Located in the middle of a tropical forest, these natural hot springs feature dragon-shaped spouts that release warm sulfurous water. This place is very popular among locals for health therapy and relaxation after a day of exploration.
Travel Tips & Logistics
Planning a trip to North Bali requires slightly different preparations compared to South Bali.
- Transportation: The best way to explore North Bali is by renting a private car with a driver or riding a motorbike if you are brave enough to face the winding mountain roads. The journey from Ngurah Rai Airport to Lovina takes about 3 to 4 hours via the Bedugul route or the very scenic Pupuan route with its terraced rice paddy views.
- Best Time to Visit: The dry season between May and September is the ideal time. If you want to see dolphins in Lovina, the sea is usually calmest during these months. However, if you want to see waterfalls at their most magnificent, the end of the rainy season (March-April) is the right time, although you should be wary of slippery trekking paths.
- Clothing and Gear: Since you will be in a mountainous area (like Munduk or Bedugul), temperatures can drop significantly at night. Bring a light jacket or sweater. For trekking to waterfalls, make sure to bring shoes with good grip as the terrain is often steep and wet.
- Accommodation: Lovina is a popular base for tourists due to its complete facilities. However, if you are looking for a more "zen" experience, stay in the Munduk area. There are many boutique resorts and eco-lodges offering stunning views of valleys and coffee plantations.
Cuisine & Local Experiences
The cuisine in North Bali has strong and unique flavors. One dish that is a must-try is Siobak Singaraja. This dish consists of pieces of pork (or chicken) served with a thick, savory, sweet, and slightly spicy brown sauce, usually accompanied by pork crackling.
Additionally, don't miss Blayag Singaraja. This is a special dish consisting of ketupat (rice cakes) shaped like a rolled betel leaf, served with urap (mixed vegetables with grated coconut), shredded chicken, fried peanuts, and drizzled with a rich yellow spiced coconut milk sauce. Unlike the cuisine of South Bali, which may have been adapted to tourist tastes, the culinary offerings in Singaraja maintain the authenticity of their sharp spices.
For an authentic local experience, visit Pasar Anyar Singaraja in the morning. You can witness the bustling local trade and sample various traditional market snacks. Besides food, North Bali is also known as a producer of local wine (Hatton Wines has vineyards here) and high-quality robusta and arabica coffee from the Munduk highlands. Visiting a local coffee processing factory or simply sipping coffee at a cliffside cafe is an experience not to be missed.
Conclusion
North Bali is the answer for anyone longing for the authentic side of the Island of the Gods. With its unique combination of colonial history in Singaraja, underwater wonders at Menjangan Island, to the grandeur of waterfalls in Sekumpul, this region offers inexhaustible richness to explore. Although it requires more effort to reach, the reward is tranquility and natural beauty untouched by mass commercialization. North Bali is not just a destination; it is a feeling—a feeling of returning to nature, returning to tradition, and finding peace amidst a stunning tropical landscape. So, pack your bags and get ready to fall in love with this charming other side of Bali.