Let me tell you about my trip to Tegenungan Waterfall, one of the most popular and Instagrammable spots in Bali. It’s a must-see for sure, but there are a few things I wish I’d known before visiting. So if you’re planning a trip there, you’re in the right place. I’ll share my experience, tips, and a couple of mistakes I made along the way.
First Impressions: Getting to Tegenungan Waterfall
Tegenungan Waterfall is located in the village of Kemenuh, about 30 minutes by car or scooter from Ubud. If you’re coming from Ubud, it’s an easy ride, but be prepared for some winding roads and traffic. I was staying in Ubud at the time, so I rented a scooter for the day. If you’re not comfortable riding a scooter (trust me, Bali traffic can get intense), hiring a driver is a great alternative. Actually, my second trip to Tegenungan was much smoother because I booked a private car with a driver through my rental service—no parking worries, and the private driver even recommended a great spot for lunch afterward!
Here’s a tip: go early in the morning. I made the mistake of going around 11 a.m. the first time, and it was packed with tourists. I had to wait to get a good spot for photos, and it was super hot by that time. If you can, get there around 8 a.m. when the crowds are smaller, and the light is perfect for photos.
The Hike Down: What You Need to Know
Once you arrive, you’ll need to buy a ticket. The entrance fee is affordable—around IDR 20,000 (less than $2 USD), which is pretty reasonable considering how stunning the place is. After you pay, you’ll start the trek down to the waterfall. And by “trek,” I mean a lot of stairs. The walk isn’t too difficult, but if you’re not used to climbing steps or you’ve got bad knees, take it slow. I’ve seen people, myself included, underestimating the hike back up. Believe me, it’s steeper than it looks when you’re sweating in Bali’s heat!
I would recommend wearing good shoes. I wore flip-flops the first time (rookie mistake), and they didn’t provide much grip on the slippery steps, especially when I got closer to the water. Bring sneakers or water shoes if you plan on swimming. Speaking of which…
Swimming at Tegenungan Waterfall
Swimming here? Absolutely worth it. The water at Tegenungan is refreshingly cool, especially after sweating your way down all those stairs. There’s a natural pool at the base of the waterfall where you can wade or fully swim. Just be aware that the water can be murky at times, depending on the season and rainfall. The first time I visited, the water was crystal clear, but when I returned after a rainy spell, it was brown and less inviting for a swim.
One thing I loved was standing near the waterfall and feeling the mist on my face. It’s super refreshing! If you’re into photography, this spot is great for capturing action shots. Just make sure your camera or phone is waterproof or protected by a case, because the mist is no joke. I ended up soaking my phone case by accident, but luckily, the phone survived!
Things I Wish I’d Known Before Going
Here’s where I share a few things I wish I’d known before my first visit:
- Bring a towel and a change of clothes. I thought I’d only be dipping my feet, but I ended up going for a swim because the water was too tempting. I didn’t have a towel with me, and had to air-dry on the steps, which wasn’t ideal.
- Be careful where you step. The rocks can be slippery, especially near the base of the falls. I saw a few people, including myself, lose their footing and fall (luckily, no injuries). Take your time when moving around the rocks.
- Respect the local culture. You’ll notice that some Balinese locals use this waterfall for spiritual purposes. I once saw a ceremony taking place when I visited. It’s important to be respectful of any religious practices or offerings you might see around the site.
- Don’t forget cash. The entrance fee is cash-only, and so are most of the little shops and warungs (local food stalls) nearby. There are some vendors selling drinks, snacks, and souvenirs at the top, and it’s nice to grab a coconut or a cold drink after the hike back up.
Photography Tips for Tegenungan Waterfall
If you’re a photography buff, Tegenungan offers endless opportunities for great shots. Like I said earlier, arriving early is your best bet for avoiding crowds, but here are a few other tips that I picked up:
Avoid midday light. The lighting gets super harsh as the sun climbs higher. Early morning or late afternoon is your best time for those soft, golden tones that make your photos pop. I learned this the hard way, after snapping a bunch of overexposed shots with bright sunlight bouncing off the water. Not ideal.
Bring a wide-angle lens. If you’re shooting with a camera, a wide-angle lens will help you capture the full majesty of the waterfall and surrounding greenery. With a smartphone, try using panorama mode if you want to fit everything in.
Play with the mist. If you like those dramatic misty waterfall shots, stand closer to the falls and shoot against the sunlight. Just make sure you don’t drench your camera!
The viewpoint at the top. Before heading down the stairs, there’s a fantastic viewpoint overlooking the waterfall. It’s a great spot to snap a photo before you even begin the descent.
Is Tegenungan Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Despite the touristy vibes and crowds during peak hours, Tegenungan Waterfall is a beautiful spot that deserves a visit. It’s easy to get to, not far from Ubud, and offers a nice mix of nature and adventure. If you’re looking to cool off, take photos, or simply enjoy the sound of crashing water in a lush setting, this is the place for you.
However, if you’re after something a bit more secluded, there are other waterfalls in Bali like Tibumana or Kanto Lampo that are less crowded and just as stunning. That being said, Tegenungan is perfect if you’re in the Ubud area and want something convenient without straying too far.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Tegenungan Waterfall?
Timing is everything when it comes to visiting Tegenungan, and I learned this firsthand after a couple of visits at different times of the year. If you’re wondering about the best time to go, it’s important to consider both the weather and the crowds.
Bali’s dry season (April to October) is generally the best time to visit Tegenungan Waterfall. The weather is sunny, the waterfall isn’t too powerful (but still gorgeous), and the water tends to be clearer, which makes swimming more appealing. During the dry season, the paths are less slippery, and you’re more likely to have blue skies for those Insta-worthy shots.
I visited once in July and it was perfect—warm but not scorching hot, and the water had this beautiful emerald hue. Since I went early in the day, the place wasn’t too crowded, and I managed to grab a peaceful spot by the waterfall to relax for a while.
Then there’s the rainy season (November to March). Now, this is when things get a little unpredictable. The waterfall becomes much more powerful, and it can be thrilling to witness it in full force after heavy rains. However, the water also tends to turn brown and murky because of all the sediment being washed downstream. If you’re after that crystal-clear water, the rainy season might disappoint in that regard. Plus, the stairs and rocks around the waterfall can get pretty slippery. I once went during December and, while the waterfall was impressive in size, I ended up drenched in both rain and waterfall mist—not the best combo if you’re not prepared.
Still, if you’re into photography, visiting during the rainy season can offer some dramatic shots of the waterfall at its peak power. Just bring a poncho, waterproof bags, and maybe some hiking sandals with a good grip.
Avoiding the Crowds
As I mentioned earlier, Tegenungan can get packed, especially during the peak tourist months of July and August. My first visit was in August, and I didn’t arrive until mid-morning. Bad idea. By the time I got there, the stairs were already buzzing with tourists, and finding a quiet spot near the falls was nearly impossible.
If you’re looking for a peaceful experience, early mornings are your best bet. Try to get there before 9 a.m. Most people are still at breakfast or on their way from Ubud or Kuta, so you’ll have a better chance at enjoying the waterfall with fewer people around. Another option is visiting later in the afternoon. Around 4 or 5 p.m., the crowds start to thin out as people leave to catch sunsets at Bali’s many beaches.
And if you’re visiting during the off-season (like February or March), the crowds will naturally be smaller, though the weather might not be as predictable. A little drizzle isn’t too bad though, especially if you prefer the quieter, more serene atmosphere that comes with fewer tourists.
Local Food and Souvenirs Around Tegenungan
One of the things I loved about Tegenungan Waterfall is that it’s not just about the waterfall itself—there’s plenty to explore around the area. At the top of the stairs near the entrance, you’ll find a few small stalls selling snacks, cold drinks, and souvenirs. These little warungs are the perfect place to grab a refreshing coconut or some pisang goreng (fried bananas) after your hike back up the stairs.
I made the mistake of skipping breakfast before one of my trips, and by the time I climbed back up, I was starving. Luckily, I found a small local warung where I tried nasi goreng (fried rice) with a view of the surrounding jungle. It was simple but delicious, and it gave me the energy boost I needed after swimming and walking around. Definitely give the local food a try—it’s a nice way to support the local community, and you get a taste of authentic Balinese cuisine.
The souvenir stalls are also worth checking out. You’ll find a mix of typical Bali items like sarongs, wooden carvings, and jewelry. I bought a handmade bracelet as a little keepsake. Prices are generally fair, but don’t be afraid to bargain a little—it’s expected, and the locals are friendly about it. Just keep it light-hearted and respectful.
Exploring Nearby Attractions
Tegenungan Waterfall is a great destination in itself, but if you’re like me and love squeezing in a few more stops on a day trip, you’ll be happy to know that there are some fantastic nearby attractions.
- Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave): This is a beautiful and historic temple located just about 20 minutes away from Tegenungan. The temple dates back to the 9th century and features ancient carvings, a bathing pool, and a cave that you can enter to see a small shrine inside. It’s a peaceful and spiritual place, perfect for some quiet reflection after the excitement of the waterfall.
- Bali Bird Park: If you’re into wildlife, this park is home to hundreds of exotic bird species from Indonesia and around the world. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Tegenungan, and it’s a great spot to visit if you’re traveling with kids or just love nature.
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces: Another famous spot, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces are a must-see if you’re in the Ubud area. It’s only about 40 minutes from Tegenungan and offers a completely different kind of scenery. The layered rice paddies are an iconic Bali sight, and walking through them is a peaceful experience. You can also try the famous Bali swing here for some breathtaking views (and photos, of course!).
To sum it all up, Tegenungan Waterfall is definitely worth a visit if you’re in Bali, especially if you’re staying in the Ubud area. The lush surroundings, cool water, and easy accessibility make it a great option for a day trip. Whether you’re looking for a quick dip, a place to take amazing photos, or just a peaceful spot to escape the hustle and bustle of Bali’s busier tourist areas, Tegenungan delivers.
If I were to do it all over again, I’d stick to my golden rule of arriving early to avoid the crowds and intense midday heat. I’d also come prepared with proper footwear and a towel because I know I can never resist taking a dip in that inviting water.
And hey, even if you’re just in it for the photo op, Tegenungan Waterfall doesn’t disappoint. You’ll walk away with stunning pictures and some great memories. Just don’t forget to take a moment to soak in the beauty and tranquility of the waterfall in real life—it’s even more spectacular than it looks on Instagram.
Safe travels and happy exploring!
Check also: Celuk Village Bali
