Tabanan is a Regency in central Bali, best-known for its nature, especially its UNESCO recognized tea plantations. Tabanan occupies about 15 percent of Balinese land. It is still a newly recognized destination for travellers and has only recently become home to several large luxury resorts. As Tabanan is known for its natural landscape, popular activities revolve around nature or Balinese culture.
Bali experiences a peak in visitors to the area during Christmas and New Year’s, as many escape winter in their homeland for Bali’s warm weather. Here are some things to do in Tabanan, Bali!
1. Jatiluwih Green Land
Located at the foot of Mount Batukaru, these 600 hectares (1482.6 acres) of rice fields were once a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site Candidate. Their traditional water management system or “subak” dates all the way back to the 9th century. Take an hour or two to stroll through the beautiful terraces and treat yourself to the spectacular views, without the hassle of avoiding peddlers.
The rice field is located about 700 metres (2296.6 feet) above sea level, so enjoy the breeze, as you stroll through. Once you make it to the highlands, you will definitely be amazed at the sloping fields that extend far beyond the eye can see.
Jatiluwih Green Land
Address: Jatiluwih Village | JTB Office, Tabanan 82152, Indonesia
2. Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
This seaside temple sits on the west bank of Lake Bratan. Ulun Danu Bratan, literally meaning ‘the source temple of Lake Bratan’, is a picturesque Hindu temple and definitely a sight to behold, especially with the backdrop of a sunset. Built in 1633, Ulun Danu Bratan was where worshippers of the Mengwi Kingdom gave their offerings to the lake and river goddess Dewi Danu, to keep the main source of water for irrigation, thriving. The temple is located 1,200 metres (3,937 feet) above sea level, so you can expect a bit of a chill.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Address: Jl. Raya Candi Kuning, Tabanan 82191, Indonesia
3. Bali Butterfly Park
Observe many different and beautiful species of butterflies in their natural habitat, at the Bali Butterfly Park. The park is located on 3000 square meters (32,291.7 square feet) of sprawling grounds. The staff are very well informed, friendly and are equipped to handle crowds. Besides butterflies, there are also other insects one can interact with, along with well-maintained displays and exhibits of other species, such as the Bali Peacock.
Bali Butterfly Park (Taman Kupu-Kupu Bali)
Address: Jl. Batukaru | Br. Sandan Lebah. Kel.Sesandan, Tabanan 80351, Indonesia
Website: Bali Butterfly Park
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4. Blemantung Waterfall
One of the lesser-known waterfalls in Bali, Blemantung Waterfall is hidden and tucked away within some of the country’s coffee growing plantations. Visitors can enjoy the spray of the 50 metre (164 foot) high waterfall, whilst enjoying the quiet accompanied by the scent of coffee in the air. The green that grows on the rocks gives the waterfall a green tinge to it, making it a pretty photo opportunity! As this waterfall is not as popular as others in Bali, chances are you will find yourself here alone, so enjoy this rare moment.
Blemantung Waterfall
Address: Pujungan, Pupuan, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82163, Indonesia
5. Angseri Hot Spring
Usually frequented by locals, the Angseri Hot Spring is a small, sulfuric hot spring, with a little waterfall. The locals swear by a dip in the pool to soothe aching muscles and joints. However, the place is known to have overcharged tourists, so it’s best if you have a local friend to go with you!
Angseri Hot Spring
Address: Desa Angseri, Kecamatan Baturiti, Tabanan 96143, Indonesia
6. Hidden Garden Agriculture
A family-run plantation, Hidden Garden Agriculture offers private tour packages, where you get to learn about how to grow produce, organically. The tour will bring you around the beautiful plantation and after that, you’ll get to taste about 12 different cups of tea or coffee, including the famous Luwak coffee. Visitors that have stopped here have praised the experience for being educational and unique. This is one stop you will definitely not regret!
Hidden Garden Agriculture
Address: Jl.denpasar-bedugul, 82191 Tabanan
Website: Hidden Garden Agriculture
7. Ride off-road on ATVs
Sign up at Aussie Bali Adventures to have a unique off-road experience, riding ATVs! You get to customize your experience, so whether it be riding on the safe paths of the beach or through water and rice fields, you can be sure to have some thrill and excitement. Make the most of your Bali experience, by signing up for an ATV package now!
Aussie Bali Adventures
Address: Jl. Legian no. 128, Tabanan 80361, Indonesia
Website: Aussie Bali Adventures
8. Luhur Batukaru Temple
Luhur Batukaru Temple is a Hindu temple, located on the slopes of Mount Batukaru and built in the 11th century. Mount Batukaru also happens to be Bali’s second-highest volcano. Luhur Batukaru is one of the nine “kayangan jagat” in Bali, meant to guard the people of Bali from evil spirits. As such, this makes Luhur Batukaru one of Bali’s key temples. As it is a sacred place of worship, do remember to observe the rules of the site.
Luhur Batukaru Temple
Address: Jalan Raya Batukaru, Wongaya Gede, Penebel, Wongaya Gede, Penebel, Kabupaten Tabanan, Bali 82152, Indonesia
Visit Tabanan today!
If being constantly surrounded by lush greenery and nature is your idea of a holiday, then Tabanan is the perfect place for you! Take a break from the crowded and hectic city life and immerse yourself in what nature and history has to offer, by trying out these activities on your trip to Bali.