Lake Batur is one of Bali’s most captivating spots, offering a mix of stunning scenery, cultural richness, and unique traditions. When deciding which experience to pursue, you’ll find options that range from exploring ancient cemeteries and sacred temples to enjoying boat rides and waterfall visits. Our favorites include the Kintamani: Trunyan Village Cemetery Tour, which combines cultural insights with scenic boat rides, and the Explore Lake Batur with Royal Songan Cruise, perfect for a peaceful day on the water. These tours stand out for their authentic encounters and memorable scenery.
If you’re interested in combining natural beauty with spiritual traditions, the Bali: Trunyan Village & Lake Batur Sunset Boat Tour offers a striking sunset experience paired with local cultural stories. For those seeking a comprehensive day of waterfalls, temples, and local crafts, the Visit Two Spectacular Waterfalls & Sacred Temples provides an 8-hour journey through Bali’s iconic sights. Below, we break down each tour to help you find your ideal match.
1. Kintamani: Trunyan Village Cemetery Tour
Starting with a tour rated 5/5 based on 9 reviews, the Kintamani: Trunyan Village Cemetery Tour offers an immersive experience into Bali’s unusual burial customs. It lasts between 2 to 6 hours, making it flexible for travelers with limited time or those wanting a deeper dive into local culture.
This tour is notable for its exploration of Trunyan Cemetery, where human remains are treated differently from typical Balinese cremations. You’ll enjoy a scenic boat ride across Lake Batur, which alone is worth the trip, providing views of Mount Batur and the surrounding volcanoes. Once on land, you’ll visit Pancering Jagat Trunyan and learn about the Mepasah system, a traditional method where the dead are laid in bamboo huts without cremation, creating a hauntingly peaceful atmosphere. The experience includes a local restaurant stop, giving you a taste of authentic Bali cuisine.
This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers interested in cultural anomalies and scenic boat rides. The guides are often locals from Terunyan, offering genuine insights. The flexibility of pickup locations, including Seminyak, Ubud, and Sanur, makes it accessible for most visitors. A quick walk and a boat ride are all it takes to step into a mysterious and memorable tradition.
Bottom Line: If you’re curious about Bali’s most unique funeral customs combined with beautiful scenery, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated cultural adventure.
2. Bali: Visit Two Spectacular Waterfalls & Sacred Temples
For a full-day exploration, the Visit Two Spectacular Waterfalls & Sacred Temples is a solid choice. It covers Tukad Cepung and Goa Raja Waterfalls, along with visits to Kehen Temple and Pura Mengening, combining natural beauty and spiritual sites.
This 8-hour tour is designed for those who love nature and history. The waterfalls are distinctive—Tukad Cepung features a cave-like opening that creates a natural spotlight effect, while Goa Raja is known for its lush surroundings and the cave-like formations that make it feel like stepping into a secret world. The temple visits add spiritual depth, especially Kehen Temple, which is renowned for its impressive architecture and ancient significance.
Highlights include a traditional coffee plantation stop, where you can sample Bali’s famous coffee and tea. The tour emphasizes local culture and scenic vistas, making it perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, spirituality, and local flavor. The guide offers insights into Balinese customs, and the itinerary’s flexibility allows for a leisurely pace.
This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a mix of walking, sightseeing, and cultural encounters. It’s a great choice if you want a comprehensive day exploring Bali’s key natural and spiritual sites in one go.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a mix of waterfalls, temples, and coffee tasting packed into a manageable day.
3. Bali: Trunyan Village & Lake Batur Sunset Boat Tour
Celebrated for its breathtaking sunset views, the Bali: Trunyan Village & Lake Batur Sunset Boat Tour offers an unforgettable evening experience. It combines a guided tour of Trunyan Village’s traditional funeral customs with a scenic boat ride across Lake Batur to witness the sunset over Mount Batur.
This 8-hour tour begins with a boat trip across the lake, providing stunning views of the caldera, volcanic slopes, and Mount Batur’s summit. On reaching Trunyan, you’ll learn about their unique burial practices—bodies are stored openly in bamboo cages without cremation, creating a surreal setting. As the day winds down, you’ll witness a spectacular sunset that makes the entire caldera glow with warm hues, perfect for photography and quiet reflection.
The tour’s highlight is the opportunity to deeply understand local traditions from guides who are either locals or deeply familiar with the customs. This tour is ideal for cultural enthusiasts and sunset lovers. It’s a bit more relaxed, allowing you to savor the moment as the sky changes colors over Bali’s volcanic landscape.
Bottom Line: If watching sunset over the caldera and exploring an unusual burial tradition appeals to you, this tour strikes the right balance of scenery, culture, and tranquility.
4. Explore Lake Batur with Royal Songan Cruise
For those who prefer a short, peaceful escape, the Royal Songan Cruise offers an hour-long cruise across Lake Batur. It’s a simple but scenic experience that showcases the volcanic scenery and tranquil waters of this highland lake.
This cruise allows you to soak in views of Mount Batur and spot the mysterious Trunyan Village from afar. The cruise is notably quiet and relaxing, making it ideal for travelers who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a moment of calm in the natural landscape. It’s a good option for families or anyone pressed for time but eager for a taste of Bali’s volcanic highlands.
The cruise’s simplicity doesn’t diminish its appeal—it’s an intimate way to experience the lake without extensive walking or planning. The views are especially striking during early morning or late afternoon, when the light casts a warm glow over the caldera.
Bottom Line: If a brief, peaceful boat ride with excellent views is your goal, this cruise provides a quick yet memorable experience of Lake Batur.
How to Choose
When deciding between these experiences, consider your interests, time, and budget. If you’re fascinated by Bali’s unique funeral traditions and want a more immersive cultural experience, the Kintamani: Trunyan Village Cemetery Tour is a top pick. For travelers craving natural beauty and spiritual sites, the Waterfalls & Temples tour offers a well-rounded day.
If your focus is on spectacular scenery and sunset views, the Trunyan Village & Lake Batur Sunset Boat Tour is ideal. For a short and serene experience, the Royal Songan Cruise provides a peaceful way to enjoy Lake Batur’s calm waters.
Consider your fitness level and interests—some tours involve walking and boat rides, while others are more relaxed. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Lake Batur offers a diverse array of tours that appeal to different types of travelers. For a cultural journey into Bali’s unusual funeral customs, the Kintamani: Trunyan Village Cemetery Tour is a standout. Nature lovers and spiritual seekers will appreciate the combination of waterfalls, temples, and scenic vistas found in the Waterfalls & Temples itinerary.
For a more romantic or sunset-focused experience, the Sunset Boat Tour delivers calm, inspiring views. Meanwhile, those short on time or seeking a peaceful escape will value the simplicity of the Royal Songan Cruise. Whichever you choose, booking early and planning your trip around Bali’s weather will ensure you make the most of your stay.
Enjoy your adventure on Bali’s stunning Lake Batur, and don’t forget to pack your camera!