North Central Bali

• Danau Bratan: A picturesque crater lake famous for the iconic Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, set against lush mountains and often enveloped in mist.

  • Bedugul:
  • Candikuning:
  • Munduk:
  • Pankasari:

• Gunung Batukau: Bali’s second-highest volcano, known for its dense forests and the revered Batukaru Temple nestled on its slopes.

  • Jatiluwih Rice Fields:
  • Puru Luhur Batukau:

• Gunung Batur: An active volcano offering popular sunrise hikes with panoramic views over the caldera and Lake Batur below.

  • Batur and Kintamani:
  • Danau Batur:
  • Penelokan:
  • Penulisan:

Highlights

• Lake Bratan: Has the finest setting in North Central Bali. It’s the island’s second largest lake and has the lofty Bratan and Catur mountains looking on.

• Lake Bratan Temple: Sits on the banks of the lake in Bedugul and is one of Bali’s most photogenic images, with its multi-tier roof.

• Bedugul: Is the main town on Lake Bratan, surrounded by mountains and boasting Bali’s nicest botanical gardens, a fine golf course, and Lake Bratan Temple.

• Lake Batur: Is perfect for cool escapes from coastal areas, located as it is under the guise of mounts Batur and Abang. The trekking up here is great.

• Bali Botanical Gardens: Are just up from Bedugul in Candikuning and are known for their striking foliage and massive stone statue.

• High Season: July to August, late December to early January
• Low Season: February to March
• Shoulder Season: April to June, September to early December

North Central Bali enjoys a tropical climate with two primary seasons: a dry season from April to October and a wet season from November to March. The region’s mountainous terrain means it often experiences slightly cooler and wetter conditions than the southern parts of Bali, especially in the highlands. Temperatures generally range from 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F), but the humidity fluctuates significantly between seasons.

For dolphin-watching in Lovina, early mornings year-round offer the best conditions, regardless of the season, as this is when dolphins are most active near the shore. If you plan to visit waterfalls like Sekumpul, the rainy season can actually make the experience more impressive, as the increased water flow creates a dramatic display. However, be cautious as trails can become slippery, and it’s best to wear appropriate footwear.

• High Season: (July to August, late December to early January) - The high season in North Central Bali aligns with school holidays and the peak of the dry season, making it the most popular time for tourists. During July and August, as well as around Christmas and New Year, the weather is at its best, with clear skies and a lower chance of rain, providing perfect conditions for outdoor activities like hiking, dolphin watching, and waterfall visits. While the weather is ideal, the region sees an influx of visitors, which means higher prices for accommodations and potentially larger crowds, especially in popular spots like Lovina and Gitgit Waterfall.

• Shoulder Season: (April to June, September to early December) - The shoulder season offers some of the best times to visit North Central Bali, with fewer tourists, mild weather, and generally stable conditions. April to June is particularly pleasant, as the dry season begins and the landscape remains lush from the previous rains, creating beautiful scenery for those exploring the outdoors. September to early December can also be a good time to visit, though there’s a higher chance of rain in November as the wet season approaches. Prices are often lower, and attractions are less crowded, making this an appealing choice for travelers looking for a more relaxed experience.

• Low Season: (February to March) - February and March mark the end of the rainy season and are the quietest months for tourism in North Central Bali. These months see the highest rainfall and the highest humidity levels, with rain typically falling in heavy afternoon showers. This season can make outdoor activities challenging, as trails become muddy and waterfalls are harder to access. However, if you don’t mind a bit of rain, the low season offers a tranquil experience with significantly fewer tourists and lower accommodation rates. It’s a good time to enjoy the lush green scenery and peaceful ambiance of the region, especially in indoor attractions or in quiet beach areas like Lovina.

Festivals & Events

• February: See out the end of the New Year holiday at the Kuningan Ceremony.

• March/April: Hari Raya Nyepi is the Lunar New Year in Bali, otherwise known as a day of silence and not the time to party.

• June: Bedugul sees the annual Usaba (harvest) celebrations where locals don fine garb and symbolize the bathing of the gods. The Kite Festival is also on about this time.

• July: Fine performances and exhibitions adorn accompany Bali Arts Festival; a month-long event.

• August 17: Eat, drink and be merry on Indonesia’s Independence Day.

• September: One for Bali’s Muslims is Ramadan; a month of daytime fasting.

• Scenic driving: Is awesome along the mountain roads of the Munduk area and to Banyuatis village.

• Trekking: Amid the lofty inner region of Bali where high volcanoes and pristine crater lakes await.

• Golf: Can be played at over 3,700 feet at the Bali Handara Kosaido Golf and Country Club, with forests and crater lakes looking on.

• Birdwatching: In North Central Bali has dozens of recorded species to take in, including some rare ones.

• Water sports: On Lake Bratan, including speedboats, jet-skis, and parasailing; or go easy in a row boat.

• Hot springs: At Angseri, near Bedugul, are topnotch.

• Forest fun: At the Bali Treetop Adventure Park in the botanical gardens of Bedugul, with zip-lines, bridges, and jumps for young and old.

Most visitors to North Bali arrive via Ngurah Rai International Airport, which is located in the vibrant city of Denpasar. Most parts of North Central Bali can be reached in an hour or so from Denpasar’s large bus station and buses and other local transport connect most towns and cities in this region.