Located on the northwestern shore of Danau Batur, the largest lake in Bali, Toya Bungkah is a resort village that features three revitalizing hot springs, a black-sand beach, and stunning panoramas of the surrounding massive caldera. It is also the main base from where to climb Mt Batur.
Known to soothe muscle pains, the sulfurous hot springs are fed by volcanically heated water from under the lake. They are open daily and an entrance fee is charged. The public air panas behind Amertha are free however, as the villagers use these shallow pools to wash their clothes and cows. As there is lots of trash around, you might not feel like bathing here.
Also called Balai Seni Toya Bungkah, the art center serves as a retreat for studying the arts. Situated above the hot springs, it comprises an amphitheater and a dance academy. Here you can watch the local dances or occasional shadow puppet theater (wayang kulit) at no cost. Spread out among lovely tranquil gardens, there are various comfortable rooms and bungalows offered for rent.
Getting There & Away
The only access into the caldera is via Penelokan, which is five miles from Toya Bungkah. From Penelokan, you can drive down to the lakeside and turn left to Toya Bungkah. You can get here by bemo or hitch to Kedisan and then take a boat or walk an hour to Toya Bungkah. Regular buses leave from Denpasar to Penelokan (2 hours, 30 minutes to 3 hours).
Things to Do
Toya Bungkah Attractions
- Air panas
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Fed from volcanically heated water, these sulfurous hot springs are
known to soothe muscle aches.
- Balai Seni
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The art center contains a dance academy and an amphitheater where
you can watch various performances.