If you are looking for a destination that offers both natural beauty and cultural diversity, then Tabanan is the place for you. Tabanan is a regency in Bali, Indonesia, that is often overlooked by tourists, but has so much to offer. From stunning waterfalls to ancient temples, from lush rice fields to delicious local dishes, Tabanan has something for everyone.
In this article, we will introduce you to the best places to visit in Tabanan, and how to plan a trip there. We will also tell you the best time to visit Tabanan, and the best ways to experience its culture and cuisine. Whether you are a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or a foodie, you will find Tabanan to be a hidden gem of Bali that will surprise and delight you.
The Best Places to Visit in Tabanan
One of the main attractions of Tabanan is its waterfalls. Tabanan has some of the most scenic and instagrammable waterfalls in Bali, each with its own unique features and charm. Here are four of the best waterfalls to visit in Tabanan:
Sing Sing Angin Waterfall
Sing Sing Angin Waterfall is one of the most popular waterfalls in Tabanan, and for a good reason. This waterfall is located in the village of Antapan, about 30 minutes drive from Tabanan city. It is named Sing Sing Angin, which means "windy waterfall" in Balinese, because of the strong breeze that blows near the waterfall.
Sing Sing Angin Waterfall is a two-tiered waterfall, with a height of about 15 meters. The water flows from a small stream into a natural pool, where you can swim and relax. The waterfall is surrounded by green trees and plants, creating a refreshing and serene atmosphere.
Some tips and recommendations for visiting Sing Sing Angin Waterfall are:
- The best time to visit Sing Sing Angin Waterfall is in the morning, when the sun shines through the trees and creates a beautiful rainbow effect on the water.
- The entrance fee to Sing Sing Angin Waterfall is 10,000 IDR (about 0.7 USD) per person, and you can also rent a locker for 5,000 IDR (about 0.35 USD) to store your belongings.
- You should wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as you will need to walk for about 10 minutes from the parking area to the waterfall. You should also bring a swimsuit, a towel, and a change of clothes if you want to swim in the pool.
- You should be careful when swimming in the pool, as the water can be deep and cold. You should also avoid swimming near the edge of the waterfall, as the current can be strong and dangerous.
Blahmantung Waterfall
Blahmantung Waterfall is one of the highest and most impressive waterfalls in Tabanan, and in Bali. This waterfall is located in the village of Pujungan, about 45 minutes drive from Tabanan city. It is also known as Pupuan Waterfall, as it is part of the Pupuan area, which is famous for its scenic rice terraces.
Blahmantung Waterfall is a single-tiered waterfall, with a height of about 100 meters. The water plunges from a steep cliff into a rocky basin, creating a powerful and majestic sight. The waterfall is surrounded by lush forest and coffee plantations, creating a natural and peaceful atmosphere.
Some tips and recommendations for visiting Blahmantung Waterfall are:
- The best time to visit Blahmantung Waterfall is in the rainy season, from November to March, when the water volume is at its peak and the waterfall is more spectacular.
- The entrance fee to Blahmantung Waterfall is 15,000 IDR (about 1 USD) per person, and you can also hire a local guide for 50,000 IDR (about 3.5 USD) to show you the way and tell you more about the waterfall and the area.
- You should wear sturdy shoes and clothes, as you will need to hike for about 30 minutes from the parking area to the waterfall. The trail can be slippery and steep, so you should be careful and follow the guide's instructions. You should also bring a raincoat, an umbrella, and a waterproof bag, as it can rain anytime in the area.
- You should not swim in the basin, as the water is very deep and cold, and the rocks are sharp and slippery. You should also keep a safe distance from the waterfall, as the spray can be strong and wet.
Pengempu Waterfall
Pengempu Waterfall is one of the most secluded and tranquil waterfalls in Tabanan, and in Bali. This waterfall is located in the village of Cau, about 20 minutes drive from Tabanan city. It is also known as Taman Sari Waterfall, as it is part of the Taman Sari area, which is a natural conservation park.
Pengempu Waterfall is a multi-tiered waterfall, with a height of about 20 meters. The water flows from a small stream into a series of pools, where you can swim and relax. The waterfall is surrounded by bamboo trees and ferns, creating a cozy and romantic atmosphere.
Some tips and recommendations for visiting Pengempu Waterfall are:
- The best time to visit Pengempu Waterfall is in the dry season, from April to October, when the water is clear and the weather is sunny.
- The entrance fee to Pengempu Waterfall is 10,000 IDR (about 0.7 USD) per person, and you can also rent a gazebo for 50,000 IDR (about 3.5 USD) to rest and enjoy the view.
- You should wear flip-flops and clothes that you don't mind getting wet, as you will need to cross a small river to reach the waterfall. You should also bring a swimsuit, a towel, and a change of clothes if you want to swim in the pools.
- You should be respectful of the local culture and religion, as the waterfall is considered a sacred place by the Balinese. You should not litter, make noise, or do anything that might disturb the harmony of the place.
Leke Leke Waterfall
Leke Leke Waterfall is one of the most instagrammable and unique waterfalls in Tabanan, and in Bali. This waterfall is located in the village of Antapan, about 40 minutes drive from Tabanan city. It is also known as Air Terjun Kipuan, as it is part of the Kipuan area, which is a cultural and spiritual center.
Leke Leke Waterfall is a single-tiered waterfall, with a height of about 10 meters. The water flows from a narrow gap between two rocks, creating a curtain-like effect. The waterfall is surrounded by a bamboo bridge, a swing, and a bird's nest, creating a fun and adventurous atmosphere.
Some tips and recommendations for visiting Leke Leke Waterfall are:
- The best time to visit Leke Leke Waterfall is in the morning, when the sun illuminates the waterfall and creates a beautiful contrast with the rocks.
- The entrance fee to Leke Leke Waterfall is 20,000 IDR (about 1.4 USD) per person, and you can also rent a locker for 5,000 IDR (about 0.35 USD) to store your belongings.
- You should wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as you will need to walk for about 15 minutes from the parking area to the waterfall. You should also bring a camera, a tripod, and a selfie stick if you want to take photos and videos of the waterfall and the props.
- You should be careful when using the props, such as the swing and the bird's nest, as they can be unstable and risky. You should also follow the rules and regulations of the place, such as wearing a helmet, a harness, and a life jacket when using the swing.
The Best Time to Visit Tabanan
Another factor that you should consider when planning a trip to Tabanan is the weather, climate, and seasons. Tabanan has a tropical climate, which means that it is warm and humid throughout the year. However, there are some variations in the weather, climate, and seasons in Tabanan, and they can affect the tourism and activities in the region.
Weather, Climate, and Seasons in Tabanan
The weather, climate, and seasons in Tabanan are influenced by two main factors: the monsoon and the elevation. The monsoon is the seasonal wind that brings rain and dryness to Tabanan. The elevation is the height above sea level that affects the temperature and rainfall in Tabanan.
The monsoon in Tabanan has two phases: the wet season and the dry season. The wet season lasts from November to March, and the dry season lasts from April to October. The wet season is characterized by high rainfall, high humidity, and low sunshine. The dry season is characterized by low rainfall, low humidity, and high sunshine.
The elevation in Tabanan ranges from sea level to over 2,000 meters above sea level. The higher the elevation, the lower the temperature and the higher the rainfall. The lowest elevation in Tabanan is the coastal area, which has an average temperature of 27°C and an average rainfall of 1,500 mm per year. The highest elevation in Tabanan is the mountainous area, which has an average temperature of 18°C and an average rainfall of 3,000 mm per year.
The Best Time to Visit Each Waterfall in Tabanan
The best time to visit each waterfall in Tabanan depends on your preference and purpose. Some people prefer to visit the waterfalls when they are at their fullest and most spectacular, while others prefer to visit them when they are less crowded and more accessible. Here are some suggestions on the best time to visit each waterfall in Tabanan, based on the weather, water level, crowd, and scenery:
Sing Sing Angin Waterfall: The best time to visit Sing Sing Angin Waterfall is in the morning, during the dry season. This is when the sun shines through the trees and creates a beautiful rainbow effect on the water. The water level is moderate, the crowd is minimal, and the scenery is stunning.
Blahmantung Waterfall: The best time to visit Blahmantung Waterfall is in the afternoon, during the wet season. This is when the water volume is at its peak and the waterfall is more spectacular. The water level is high, the crowd is moderate, and the scenery is majestic.
Pengempu Waterfall: The best time to visit Pengempu Waterfall is in the evening, during the dry season. This is when the water is clear and the weather is sunny. The water level is low, the crowd is low, and the scenery is cozy.
Leke Leke Waterfall: The best time to visit Leke Leke Waterfall is in the morning, during the dry season. This is when the sun illuminates the waterfall and creates a beautiful contrast with the rocks. The water level is moderate, the crowd is high, and the scenery is adventurous.
The Best Ways to Experience Tabanan Culture and Cuisine
Another aspect that makes Tabanan a hidden gem of Bali is its culture and cuisine. Tabanan has a rich and diverse culture and history, that differs from other regions in Bali. Tabanan also has a delicious and unique cuisine and local delicacies, that reflect the diversity and richness of the region. Here are some of the best ways to experience Tabanan culture and cuisine:
Tabanan Culture and History
Tabanan has a long and fascinating culture and history, that dates back to the 14th century. Tabanan was once a powerful kingdom, that ruled over most of western Bali. Tabanan was also the center of Balinese Hinduism, that influenced the art, architecture, and rituals of the region.
Some of the cultural and historical attractions in Tabanan are:
Tanah Lot Temple: Tanah Lot Temple is one of the most iconic and sacred temples in Bali. It is located on a rock formation in the sea, about 20 km from Tabanan city. It is dedicated to the god of the sea, Baruna, and is believed to be guarded by a giant sea snake. Tanah Lot Temple is best visited during sunset, when the temple is silhouetted against the sky and the sea.
Subak Museum: Subak Museum is a museum that showcases the history and culture of the subak system, which is a traditional irrigation system that manages the water and rice fields in Bali. It is located in the village of Kediri, about 10 km from Tabanan city. It displays various artifacts, tools, and models related to the subak system, and explains its philosophy and significance.
Alas Kedaton Monkey Forest: Alas Kedaton Monkey Forest is a forest sanctuary that is home to hundreds of monkeys and bats. It is located in the village of Kukuh, about 15 km from Tabanan city. It also contains a temple, Pura Dalem Kahyangan Kedaton, which is dedicated to the god of the forest, Shiva. Alas Kedaton Monkey Forest is best visited during the day, when the monkeys and bats are active and playful.
Tabanan Cuisine and Local Delicacies
Tabanan has a mouthwatering and distinctive cuisine and local delicacies, that reflect the diversity and richness of the region. Tabanan has a variety of dishes and snacks, that are influenced by the local ingredients, climate, and traditions.
Some of the best dishes and snacks to try in Tabanan are:
Nasi Campur:
Nasi Campur is a mixed rice dish, that consists of white rice, vegetables, meat, eggs, and sambal (spicy sauce). It is a staple dish in Tabanan, and can be found in many warungs (small eateries) and restaurants. It is usually served with a banana leaf, and eaten with a spoon and fork.
Lawar:
Lawar is a salad dish, that consists of chopped vegetables, meat, coconut, spices, and blood. It is a traditional dish in Tabanan, and is usually prepared for ceremonies and festivals. It is usually served with rice, and eaten with the hands.
Babi Guling:
Babi Guling is a roasted suckling pig dish, that is stuffed with spices and herbs, and cooked over a charcoal fire. It is a delicacy in Tabanan, and is usually reserved for special occasions. It is usually served with rice, lawar, and sambal, and eaten with the hands.
Jaja:
Jaja is a generic term for various kinds of sweets and snacks, that are made from rice flour, coconut, palm sugar, and fruits. They are a popular treat in Tabanan, and can be found in many markets and stalls. Some of the most common types of jaja are jaja bantal (pillow cake), jaja laklak (pancake), and jaja pisang rai (banana dumpling).
Tabanan is a hidden gem of Bali, that offers amazing waterfalls, culture, and cuisine. It is a destination that will surprise and delight you, with its natural beauty and cultural diversity. Whether you are a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or a foodie, you will find Tabanan to be a place that you will never forget.
If you are interested in visiting Tabanan, you can book a trip with Tripoto, the leading online travel platform that connects travelers with local experts and guides. Tripoto can help you plan your itinerary, arrange your transportation, accommodation, and tours, and provide you with the best tips and recommendations for your trip. You can also explore more attractions in Tabanan, and share your experiences with other travelers on Tripoto.
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