Best of Central Bali: Waterfall, Elephant Cave & Rice Fields

Are you looking for a guided tour around the best spots of Central Bali? If so, you’ve come to the right place! Here is a comprehensive guide to all the natural and cultural attractions in the area, complete with information on the best way to experience them. Specifically, we’ll review the top waterfall, Elephant Cave and rice fields in Central Bali. Read on to find out more about these wonderful tourist spots!

Visit the Magnificent Blahbatu Waterfall

Prepare to be amazed by one of the most beautiful attractions in Central Bali: Blahbatu Waterfall! This cascading waterfall is situated in a lush Balinese jungle, where it tumbles 60 meters from the top down into a stunning pool. The waters here are believed to have healing effects, making it a popular spot for swimming and relaxation. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to go for a refreshing dip in the pool or explore its surrounding wildlife. They recommend that you plan to spend at least one hour here, so that you can make the most of this natural wonder.

If you want to include a stop at Blahbatu Waterfall in your itinerary, GetYourGuide offers a guided tour that takes you there. During this 4-hour tour, an experienced guide will take you on a walking journey to discover more about the waterfall’s history, its surroundings and its spiritual significance for the Balinese people. The tour also includes transportation from your accommodation and morning refreshments, so you don’t have to worry about a thing!

Exploring Elephant Cave

Goa Gajah Elephant Cave is an ancient temple complex that dates back to the 11th century. It is situated on the Bedulu Valley foothills and offers visitors a unique chance to explore its many intricately carved doorways and rituals. Although the origin of its name is unclear, many believe that it is named after the elephant sculpture at its entrance.

During your visit to this mystical attraction, you’ll get to wander around its various chambers and experience its spiritual energy. You’ll also get to visit the bathing pools located inside its cave where pilgrims used to come to purify themselves. To make the most of your experience here, they recommend that you plan your visit around sunset, so you can see how this mysterious temple is lit up at night by its own landscaped gardens.

If you are visiting during this season, GetYourGuide also offers a guided tour that gives you more insights into its secrets and spectacular views from its self-guided step pools.

Take in the Beauty of Rice Fields

No Central Bali tour would be complete without taking in the beauty of its stunning rice fields! Known as Sawah in Indonesian, rice terraces have been an iconic feature of the Central Bali landscape since ancient times. During your visit, absorb their serenity while wandering through its terraced hills and thatched villages and get lost in their mesmerizing hue of brilliant greens and golden yellows.

If you would like some help exploring this area, GetYourGuide offers a comprehensive guided tour that takes you through various still-functioning Balinese villages. With expert insights from your friendly guide, you’ll learn more about Bali’s unique farming techniques as well as stories and customs from its rural communities. Afterward, join in on authentic local experiences such as accompanying farmers on some of their activities and try your hands at traditional Balinese cooking techniques!

Bottom line: An Unforgettable Experience

Exploring Central Bali is an unforgettable experience that’s worth every penny spent! From stunning waterfalls and ancient temples to lush rice fields and vibrant Balinese culture, Central Bali offers something for everyone. So if you’re feeling adventurous and up for an authentic travel experience, be sure to include Central Bali in your itinerary!

Ready for your Tour?

We hope this comprehensive guide has given you more information about the top waterfall, Elephant Cave and rice fields in Central Bali. Now that you’re ready for an unforgettable journey through this awe-inspiring part of the world, why not book an organized tour with GetYourGuide today. From expert local guides to hassle-free transportation planning, GetYourGuide has you covered!

An Insider’s Guide to Ubud, Bali: Exploring the Hidden Gems

Are you planning a travel itinerary to Ubud, Bali? If so, you’re in for a treat! This charming city nestled in the lush tropical forests of Central Bali is home to spectacular waterfalls, rice fields, and ancient temples. While most tourists flock to the popular landmarks, there are hidden gems that only locals know about.

Local Attractions: Uncovering the Unseen Wonders

Away from the tourist-packed streets, Ubud offers some mesmerizing off-the-beaten-path destinations. Tukad Cepung Waterfall, for instance, is a surreal cavern waterfall that requires visitors to wade through a stream and squeeze through rocky passageways to reach it. Another hidden wonder lies in the maze of Riung Rangda Rice Fields, with picturesque paddy terraces dotted with small garden shrines and charming farmer huts. Not to mention, the serene Pura Tirta Empul temple, known for its holy water sources and purification rituals.

Dining Spots: Savoring the Mouth-watering Cuisine

Ubud, Bali, is not only a paradise for eyes but also a culinary delight for foodies. The local cuisine is primarily inspired by traditional Balinese flavors and diverse Asian influences. You can sample some authentic Indonesian classics like Nasi Campur, Gado-Godo, and Sate, to name a few. For a sophisticated culinary experience, indulge in fine dining cuisine at Mozaic, overlooking the flourishing paddy fields. Or relish your meal at Locavore, a kitchen that emphasizes the use of locally sourced products.

Cultural Experiences: Letting the City’s Traditions Take You

Apart from the natural beauty, Ubud is famous for its historic, artistic, and cultural heritage. To get a glimpse of the local arts, visit the Ubud Palace and catch a captivating performance of classical Balinese dance. Alternatively, you can join a traditional batik or wood carving workshop and learn about the city’s creative arts. For a more immersive cultural experience, visit Pura Saraswati, a temple adorned with intricate carvings and lotus ponds, or attend a purification ceremony (melukat) at Tirta Sudamala temple.

Local History: Unveiling the City’s Fascinating Past

The history of Ubud goes back beyond the colonial era and is steeped in legends, myths, and tales. Did you know that the Ubud royal family traces its ancestry from the Bedulu kingdom, which ruled Bali in the 10th Century? Or that the Ubud Market was initially established as a village designated trading spot? Discover more fascinating tales at the Agung Rai Museum of Art or explore the Ubud Palace, where history comes alive through the displays of artworks, sculptures, and ceremonial objects.

Off-the-Beaten Path Suggestions: Experiencing the Eclectic Charm

While the city is famous for its iconic landmarks and attractions, Ubud also has some hidden eccentricities that will surprise and delight visitors. For instance, explore the bizarre collection of masks from around the world at the Don Antonio Blanco Museum. Or take a stroll through the verdant confines of Campuhan Ridge, stealing breathtaking views of the rice fields and mountain range. Additionally, you can join a spiritual yoga retreat in one of the city’s tranquil and secluded ashrams.

Experience the Authentic Ubud

Ubud, Bali, can be as peaceful or as adventurous as you want it to be. Explore the city from a local’s perspective to discover a wealth of hidden treasures, such as waterfalls, temples, and rice fields. Savor the burst of flavors in the local cuisine, immerse in the cultural traditions, and uncover the fascinating past that shaped the city. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a nature lover, Ubud is the perfect destination to experience the authentic spirit of Bali.