Alright, let’s talk about Banjar Hot Spring—or as the locals call it, Air Panas Banjar. If you’re out in North Bali looking for something to do besides waterfalls and temples, this little thermal soak spot is basically Bali’s version of nature’s spa day. I went there thinking it was gonna be one of those quick 30-minute things—you know, jump in, take a pic, jump out. Nope. Stayed for hours. Got wrinkly fingers and everything.
I get it, hot springs aren’t for everyone. Especially if you’re the type who’s more about beach clubs and Bintang beers in Seminyak. But hear me out—Banjar Hot Spring isn’t just about the water. It’s about slowing down for a sec. Taking in the jungle, chatting with friendly locals, and just letting your body melt into this mineral-rich water that’s been bubbling from the ground for who knows how long.
And best part? It’s not fancy. No overpriced spa robe, no Instagram gimmicks. Just warm volcanic water, mossy stone pools, and a vibe that’s so chill you’ll probably forget you’ve been wearing wet clothes for two hours straight.
Where Exactly Is Banjar Hot Spring? (Spoiler: It’s Not Near Ubud)
Let’s get one thing straight—Banjar Hot Spring isn’t in the tourist triangle of Ubud–Canggu–Seminyak. You’re looking at Lovina territory here, way up in North Bali. It’s about 10km southwest of Lovina Beach, tucked into the hillside near Banjar village in Buleleng Regency.
The drive is… well, let’s just say it’s Bali. You’re gonna pass rice fields, roosters on the road, and probably a bunch of kids waving at your scooter like you’re a celeb. It’s a little winding the closer you get, but not dangerous or anything. Definitely scooter-friendly if you’re used to driving in Bali’s countryside.
From Ubud or Canggu, it’s a haul—about 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic. But if you’re already up north doing the whole Gitgit Waterfall, Brahmavihara-Arama Buddhist Monastery, or Munduk circuit, then yeah, it’s totally worth the extra pit stop. Some people even pair it with Lovina dolphin tours early in the morning, then swing by the hot springs after to warm up. Smart move, honestly.
Banjar Hot spring location:
What’s The History Behind Banjar Hot Spring?
So here’s a little nugget of info that most folks totally miss—Banjar Hot Spring has been around since the Japanese occupation of Indonesia during World War II. The Japanese soldiers apparently built the first version of the pools for their own use, tapping into the area’s naturally warm sulfuric water. Over time, the locals kinda took over and turned it into a communal bathing area.
Fast forward a few decades and now it’s a semi-developed, government-maintained spot that still feels authentic. You’ll see a good mix of local families, school kids, older aunties in floral swimwear, and yes—some tourists—but mostly chill ones. The whole vibe is low-key. No one’s yelling or blasting music. Just soft splashes and the occasional squeal when someone finally dips in for the first time.
There’s a bit of spiritual belief tied to the water too. Locals say it has healing powers thanks to the sulfur and minerals, especially for stuff like joint pain, skin issues, or just general fatigue. Not gonna lie, my back felt amazing after soaking there, and I wasn’t even trying to “heal” anything. So maybe there’s something to it.
If you’re into cultural experiences, you might enjoy learning more about Traditional Bali Performing Arts and how they’re still alive in village ceremonies today.
What’s the Actual Experience Like? Pools, Temperatures, the Whole Deal
Okay, so the layout is simple but smart. There are three main pools:
- Main Pool (Upper Level) – This is the biggest and busiest one. It’s got these dragon-head spouts pouring hot water straight onto your neck and back. Honestly, it’s the best DIY massage you’ll get for 20K IDR. Water’s warm but not scalding—around 37 to 39°C (that’s 98 to 102°F if you’re wondering). Perfect for a long soak.
- Lower Pool – This one’s a bit cooler, quieter, and great if the upper one’s full of chatty folks. It’s more relaxed, and you can actually float around without bumping elbows.
- Upper Pool (Behind the Wall) – Smaller and hotter. This one’s kind of hidden behind a stone wall and usually less crowded. Locals love it. If you want the warmest experience, head here first before your body gets too comfy.
The whole place is surrounded by trees, vines, and this lush jungle garden feel. You’ll see dragonflies, hear birds, and yeah—sometimes you’ll get leaves falling into the water. Nature’s bath bomb, if you will.
How Much Does Banjar Hot Spring Cost?
Alright, here’s the good news—it’s super affordable.
- Entrance Fee: IDR 20,000 for adults (that’s like $1.25 USD), and IDR 10,000 for kids
- Parking Fee: IDR 2,000 for scooters, IDR 5,000 for cars
- Locker Rental: Around IDR 5,000–10,000 if you wanna stash your stuff safely
- Changing Rooms & Toilets: Included in the ticket, nothing fancy, but functional
There’s no time limit either. You can soak as long as you want, though most folks stay an hour or two. Just be mindful during weekends or school holidays—it can get pretty packed with local families.
What Should You Bring to Banjar Hot Spring?
Don’t overthink it, but here’s what you actually need:
- Swimsuit – This one’s obvious, but yeah, you gotta wear one.
- Towel – They don’t rent towels on-site, so bring your own unless you want to air dry like a lizard.
- Flip flops or water shoes – The floors can get slippery with moss, especially in the showers.
- Change of clothes – Unless you wanna ride back wet (been there, don’t recommend).
- Small bag for valuables – Or rent a locker.
Some folks bring soap and shampoo to rinse off after the soak since sulfur can stick to your skin. Personally, I don’t mind it. It’s like a souvenir you smell for half a day.
To avoid the stress of traffic and parking, go with a Bali car rental with driver – it’s the smartest move.
Is the Water Clean? What’s That Smell?
Yup, the water’s clean—but it does have a bit of a sulfur smell. Kinda like eggs. Not super strong though. And it’s flowing, not stagnant, so it’s constantly being refreshed by natural sources. The pools are drained regularly, and there’s a filtration system that keeps the water decent.
You might see some algae or moss on the stones, but that’s normal. It’s a natural spring, not a chlorinated resort pool. So don’t expect it to sparkle. But yeah, it’s safe to bathe in. People bring their kids, older folks go there for health reasons, so the hygiene level is totally acceptable.
Is There Food Around Banjar Hot Spring?
Yessir. Right outside the entrance there’s a line of warungs and local cafes. Most of them sell the usual stuff—nasi goreng, mie goreng, satay, coconut water, fried bananas, and so on. Prices are tourist-friendly but not ridiculous. Expect to pay around IDR 25K–40K for a decent meal.
My personal fave? There’s this one little stall near the back that sells hot tea with ginger and palm sugar—after a soak, that stuff hits different. You’ll feel warm all the way to your toes.
They also sell souvenirs like sarongs, wooden carvings, essential oils, and all the usual bits, but you don’t have to buy anything if you don’t want to. No pressure.
Is Banjar Hot Spring Good for Kids or Elderly Travelers?
Yep, totally family-friendly. The steps are manageable, the pools aren’t super deep (around waist to chest level), and there’s handrails where needed. I saw a grandma with her walking stick slowly ease into the water and stay in for over an hour—bless her. Meanwhile, a bunch of kids were giggling and splashing around nearby.
Only thing to watch out for is slippery tiles and the heat—make sure kids take breaks and hydrate. And maybe avoid peak sun hours since there’s limited shade inside the pool areas.
What’s The Best Time to Visit Banjar Hot Spring?
Honestly, mornings are magic. Come early—like 8 to 9 AM. That’s when the water feels fresh, the air’s cooler, and the crowd hasn’t rolled in yet. You might even get the whole pool to yourself for a bit. I’ve done that a couple times midweek, and it’s basically the closest thing to a free spa session in the jungle.
If you’re not a morning person, late afternoons are nice too—say around 4 PM. Just don’t go too late because the place closes at 6 PM, and they start cleaning up around 5:30.
Avoid Sundays if you can. That’s when it gets the most crowded with locals coming for their family outing.
Can You Shower After? Are There Decent Facilities?
Yes, and they’re decent. Not 5-star, but not scary either. There’s a block of changing rooms, toilets, and open showers right near the entrance. Water’s cold but refreshing after a hot soak. Don’t expect soap or mirrors or anything fancy. Just the basics.
You can rinse off and change clothes before heading out. The floors can get wet, so again—flip-flops are your friend here.
What’s Nearby? Make a Day Out of It
Banjar Hot Spring is just one part of a pretty cool northern Bali itinerary. Here’s what else you can squeeze into your day if you plan smart:
- Brahmavihara-Arama Buddhist Monastery – Just 5 minutes away. Super peaceful, with great views and a tiny Borobudur replica.
- Lovina Beach – About 20 minutes northeast. Great for dolphin watching at sunrise.
- Krisna Funtastic Land – A quirky little amusement park nearby. Good if you’ve got kids.
- Munduk Waterfalls – A bit further south but worth it if you’re already driving around.
- Gitgit Waterfall – If you wanna double up on hot and cold water therapy.
Honestly, if you’re already up in North Bali, it’s easy to hit 2–3 of these places in a single day. Just pack snacks, extra clothes, and maybe a power bank if you’re snapping pics all day.
Planning a trip? Consider hiring a Bali private driver for a hassle-free experience.
So… Is Banjar Hot Spring Worth It?
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path but still accessible, Banjar Hot Spring hits that sweet spot. It’s not a secret, but it’s also not overrun. It’s got that slow, local vibe that’s harder to find in the southern parts of Bali these days.
And let’s be real—after riding a scooter on Bali’s pothole-patchwork roads for days, your body’s gonna want that warm soak. It’s like hitting a reset button. The combo of heat, minerals, jungle air, and chill people? Yeah, it’s hard to beat.
Even if you’re not a “hot spring person,” this one might surprise you. Just show up, dip in, and let the water do its thing.
