Bali: Batukaru Temple, Waterfall, and Rice Terrace Tour

Exploring Bali often means enjoying its beaches, but this tour offers a different side—where lush landscapes, sacred temples, and waterfalls take center stage. We’ve gathered insights from reviews and official info to give you a balanced, detailed look at what to expect from this full-day trip with SWAHA BALI TOUR.

What we love most about this experience? First, the chance to visit serene and spiritual spots like Batukaru Temple, away from the bustling tourist crowds. Second, the stunning vistas of the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO site that truly showcases Bali’s agricultural beauty. Lastly, the refreshing swim at Leke Leke Waterfall, which provides a wonderful way to end the day surrounded by nature’s tranquility.

A possible consideration is the pace of the day—with multiple stops and long drives, it’s quite a packed schedule. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and light adventure without feeling rushed. If you prefer a more relaxed or private experience, a customized or smaller tour might be better.

In summary, this tour combines Bali’s spiritual, cultural, and natural highlights into one day, making it ideal for those eager to see more than the usual beaches and nightlife. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to learn about Bali’s rice terraces, temples, and waterfalls with a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

Balanced mix of culture and nature: Visit sacred temples, lush rice terraces, and scenic waterfalls.
Authentic experiences: Learn about local spiritual practices and Bali’s famous coffee.
Photographic opportunities: Stunning vistas at Jatiluwih and the waterfall are perfect for photos.
Value for money: The full-day itinerary covers diverse sites for a reasonable price.
Well-organized schedule: Each stop is timed to maximize experience without feeling rushed.
Group size: Based on reviews, the experience feels comfortably paced with a friendly guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Bali: Batukaru Temple, Waterfall, and Rice Terrace Tour

Starting the Day – Convenient Pickup and Group Setting

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, with five pickup locations to choose from, including North Kuta, Tabanan, Gianyar, Legian, and Kuta. This flexibility helps travelers from different regions of Bali to join easily. Expect a comfortable ride in a well-maintained vehicle, often with a live English-speaking guide who offers insights about the day’s stops.

The group size tends to be moderate, making the tour intimate enough for personal interaction but large enough to keep the logistics smooth. Reviewers mention the guides as friendly and knowledgeable, often adding personal touches that enhance the experience.

Pura Luhur Batukaru – A Sacred Mountain Sanctuary

Your first stop is Pura Luhur Batukaru, a Hindu temple perched on the southern slopes of Mount Batukaru. Spending around an hour and a half here, you’ll feel the serenity that pervades the sacred grounds. Travelers loved how the temple is maintained with reverence, and the atmosphere is noticeably calm and spiritual.

Guides often explain that Batukaru Temple is one of Bali’s nine key monasteries, dedicated to the Goddess Mahadewa. She’s associated with the mountain and water, embodying the balance of nature and spirituality Bali holds dear. Visitors have noted that women during menstruation are not allowed to enter, an important cultural detail for those planning their visit.

From the temple, expect sweeping views of Bali’s lush landscape and the chance to soak in the tranquil vibe far from tourist hotspots. The peaceful surroundings make it a highlight for those interested in Bali’s spiritual side.

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces – UNESCO’s Living Landscape

Next, you’ll head to Jatiluwih, Bali’s largest rice terraces and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Around an hour is allocated here, enough to walk through the terraces, take photos, and appreciate the intricate irrigation system known locally as subak—a traditional method recognized for its sustainability and harmony with nature.

Reviewers often mention the breathtaking views, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light. It’s a photographer’s dream, with endless green terraces stretching to the horizon. We loved how the guides explain the importance of rice farming in Balinese culture, making the visit both visually and culturally enriching.

This stop is perfect for those interested in Bali’s agricultural traditions and scenic landscapes. Expect to see locals tending the fields, and you might even get a snippet of the ongoing rice planting or harvesting depending on the season.

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Coffee Plantation – A Tasty Break

Midday, the tour includes a visit to a local coffee plantation. Here, you can learn about Bali’s spice and coffee processing, including how the beans are harvested, roasted, and blended. Many reviews praise the tasting session—offering a variety of Bali’s renowned coffees, teas, and chocolates.

You’ll appreciate the chance to sample kopi luwak (civet coffee), along with other traditional brews that locals enjoy daily. Guides often point out the different spices grown in Bali, giving insight into their culinary and medicinal uses. Visitors find the experience both educational and delicious, often commenting on the friendly staff and the relaxed pace.

This stop adds flavor (literally) to your day, allowing you to relax and enjoy a true taste of Bali’s local produce. Plus, you get a chance to purchase some souvenirs to bring home.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple – The Iconic Floating Temple

After refueling, you’ll visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, set on the edge of Lake Beratan. This picturesque site is famous for its temple structures that appear to float on the water, especially during calm weather. The scenery here is truly breathtaking—mountains in the background, water lilies floating, and the serene atmosphere creating perfect photo moments.

Many travelers mention how peaceful and photogenic this spot is, making it a highlight of the day. As the temple is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the lake goddess, it holds significant spiritual meaning. Visitors are often struck by the harmony of nature and religion intertwined here.

Note that visiting at different times of day can offer varying views—early morning or late afternoon can avoid the mid-day crowds and give you softer light for photos.

Leke Leke Waterfall – A Refreshing Climax

The final stop is Leke Leke Waterfall, where you can enjoy a walk through the jungle, take a dip in the inviting waters, and snap some pictures of the cascading falls. Reviewers rave about the crisp, refreshing water and the lush surroundings—it’s a perfect spot to unwind after a busy day.

The walk to the waterfall is generally manageable, and some reviews mention that the area isn’t overly commercialized, maintaining its natural charm. Bring swimwear and a towel if you want to cool off—many find the experience invigorating. The waterfall’s beauty, with the greenery and flowing water, makes for great photos that truly capture Bali’s natural allure.

Return and Drop-Off

After a leisurely visit, you’ll be driven back to your accommodation, with the tour ending roughly around 7-8 pm depending on traffic. Reviewers appreciate the organized pickup and drop-off system, which makes the whole day stress-free.

Practical Details and Tips for the Tour

• Transport and Comfort: The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, and the schedule is tight but well-paced. Bringing comfortable shoes is a must, especially for walking around temples and rice terraces.
• What to Bring: Pack sunscreen, a hat, water, camera, swimwear, and a light jacket if you’re sensitive to air conditioning.
• Timing: The entire day lasts around 10 hours, with pickup starting in the late morning or early afternoon depending on your location.
• Group Size: With reviews indicating a friendly atmosphere, expect a small to moderate group, perfect for interaction without feeling crowded.
• Cost and Value: The comprehensive itinerary offers good value, covering multiple key sites in one day. Considering the transportation, guide, and entrance fees, most find it an efficient way to see North Bali’s highlights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an efficient, well-organized day exploring Bali’s cultural and natural highlights. It’s ideal if you enjoy learning about local traditions, seeing scenic landscapes, and avoiding the hassle of planning individual visits.

Couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate a mix of spirituality, lush scenery, and some light adventure will find this tour rewarding. Keep in mind the schedule is busy, so if you prefer a slower pace or private experience, you might consider customizing or choosing a different tour.

The Sum Up

This Bali tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s spiritual essence, agricultural beauty, and natural wonders. The stops at Batukaru Temple, Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, and Leke Leke Waterfall are particularly memorable for their stunning views and cultural significance.

The day’s structure is designed for travelers who want a comprehensive and engaging experience, with knowledgeable guides making the journey smooth and informative. Although the schedule is full, it suits those eager to see a variety of iconic sites in one go, without sacrificing depth or authenticity.

If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines Bali’s spirituality, lush landscapes, and refreshing nature, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially valuable for those wanting to learn about Bali beyond its beaches and nightlife, embracing the island’s tranquil, spiritual, and scenic side.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers transportation, a live English-speaking guide, entrance fees to the temples and sites, and tastings at the coffee plantation.

How long does each stop last?
Stops vary from about 1 to 1.5 hours, giving enough time to explore and take photos without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most stops are family-friendly, especially the waterfall and rice terraces, but check with the provider for specific age restrictions at temples.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing for walking and swimming, plus sunscreen and a hat. Women should be aware that temple entry may be restricted during menstruation.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, at the coffee plantation and possibly at other stops, there will be opportunities to purchase local products.

What if I want a more private experience?
This tour is generally conducted in a group, but you can inquire about private or customized options for a more tailored experience.

In essence, this Bali tour provides a vivid, memorable slice of the island’s rich tapestry—perfect for those eager to see its spiritual heart, lush landscapes, and natural beauty in one fulfilling day.

You can check availability for your dates here: