Bedugul Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and local culture and customs of Bedugul with this comprehensive travel guide. Includes hiking and biking routes, food scene, transportation options, and more.


Bedugul Travel Guide: A Comprehensive Tour Guide

Located in Central Bali, Bedugul offers travelers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and thrilling outdoor adventures. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a history buff, Bedugul has something to offer everyone. In this travel guide, we provide a comprehensive tour of Bedugul, including must-visit places, best things to do, local customs, and travel logistics.

Introduction to Bedugul

Bedugul is a popular tourist destination in Bali famous for its beautiful temples and scenic rice paddies. Located at an elevation of over 1200 meters, Bedugul has a cooler climate compared to other parts of Bali. The area is surrounded by three mountains - Mount Bratan, Mount Buyan, and Mount Batukaru. Bedugul is an ideal destination for exploring Bali’s natural beauty, culture, and adventure activities.

List of Places to Visit in Bedugul

When it comes to touring Bedugul, there are several places worth visiting. Here are some must-visit cultural and natural attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: A stunning temple located on the shores of Lake Beratan, this temple is considered Bali’s most photographed attraction.

  2. Taman Ayun Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 17th century, the temple is known for its beautiful gardens and royal quarters.

  3. Bali Botanical Garden: Sprawled over 157 hectares, the garden has over 2000 species of plants and trees, including Indonesia’s rarest orchids.

  4. Bali Museum: The museum showcases Bali’s rich culture and history with its vast collection of traditional Balinese art and artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Bedugul: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Lake Bratan: A crater lake surrounded by lush green hills, Lake Bratan offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

  2. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: The UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most picturesque spots in Bali and offers travelers spectacular views of the iconic rice paddies.

  3. Gitgit Waterfall: A majestic waterfall located in the middle of a dense forest, it’s the perfect spot for a refreshing dip.

  4. Mount Batukaru: The second-highest mountain in Bali, it’s one of the most popular hiking spots among travelers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bedugul

Bedugul is surrounded by beautiful mountains and lush rainforests, making it an ideal destination for adventure junkies. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes:

  1. Bedugul to Munduk: A scenic 15-kilometer route that takes you through dense forests, rice paddies, and remote villages.

  2. Batukaru Jungle Trekking: A challenging trek that takes you through dense forests, and the summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

  3. Lakes and Waterfalls Trek: A refreshing trek that takes you through scenic lakes and waterfalls.

  4. Jatiluwih Rice Paddy Cycling Tour: A leisurely cycling tour that takes you through the iconic rice paddies of Jatiluwih.

Best Things to Do in Bedugul: Activities and Tours

Apart from the natural and cultural attractions, Bedugul offers several other exciting activities, such as:

  1. Water Sports: Try your hand at water sports, such as jet skiing, parasailing, or banana boat rides, at Lake Beratan.

  2. Bali Treetop Adventure Park: A perfect destination for adrenaline junkies, the park offers zip-lining, rope bridges, and other thrilling activities.

  3. Quad Biking and ATV Riding: Explore the surrounding countryside on four wheels and enjoy a thrilling ride through the forests and rice paddies.

  4. Sunrise Trekking: Watch the sunrise from the summit of Mount Batur, a popular trekking spot in Bali.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bedugul

Here’s a 7-day itinerary for exploring Bedugul’s cultural and natural attractions:

Day Activities
1 Taman Ayun Temple, Bali Botanical Garden
2 Gitgit Waterfall, Lake Bratan
3 Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, Bali Swing
4 Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Bedugul Traditional Market
5 Sunrise Trekking at Mount Batur, Hot Springs
6 Bali Treetop Adventure Park, Munduk Waterfall
7 Bali Museum, Tanah Lot Temple

Food and Drink Scene of Bedugul

Bedugul’s food scene is a mix of traditional Balinese and international cuisines. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Sate Lilit: A traditional Balinese dish made with minced meat seasoned with spices and herbs, wrapped around a bamboo stick.

  2. Babi Guling: A delicious suckling pig roasted with coconut water and mixed with a blend of spices.

  3. Nasi Campur: A mixed rice dish topped with stir-fried vegetables, meat, and accompanied by a variety of side dishes.

  4. Sambal Matah: A traditional Balinese condiment made with chili, garlic, and shallots.

Local Beverages

  1. Arak: A traditional Balinese liquor made from distilled rice, coconut, or sugarcane.

  2. Bintang Beer: The most popular beer in Bali.

  3. Coconut Water: The ultimate thirst quencher during hot summer days.

Where to Stay in Bedugul: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bedugul has several accommodation options ranging from budget hostels to luxury villas. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Bedugul:

  1. Bali Handara Golf & Resort: A luxurious resort situated amid the lush green hills of Bedugul.

  2. Puri Candikuning Retreat: A beautiful guesthouse surrounded by stunning gardens and rice paddies.

  3. The Lovina: A beachfront resort located near Bedugul, offering panoramic views of the Bali Sea.

  4. Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort and Spa: A luxury resort nestled in the hills of Bedugul, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

What to Buy in Bedugul: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bedugul is known for its traditional textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Here are some best souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  1. Batik: A traditional Balinese fabric that is hand-dyed using a wax-resist technique.

  2. Wooden Carvings: Intricately carved wooden products, such as Buddha statues, masks, and sculptures.

  3. Traditional Ceramics: Hand-painted ceramics featuring traditional Balinese designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Bedugul

Balinese culture is steeped in tradition and spirituality. Here are some of the most important customs and traditions to keep in mind while visiting Bedugul:

  1. Dress modestly while visiting temples and other religious sites.

  2. Respect local customs and traditions, such as avoiding pointing with your feet or touching someone’s head.

  3. Greet locals with a smile and a polite greeting, such as “Om Swastiastu.”

Best Time to Visit Bedugul

The best time to visit Bedugul is from April to October when the weather is dry and sunny. This is the ideal time for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and water sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bedugul

Do:

  1. Do try local Balinese cuisine.

  2. Do respect Balinese customs and traditions.

  3. Do bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing for temple visits.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t leave your belongings unattended.

  2. Don’t disrespect traditional Balinese customs.

  3. Don’t forget to negotiate prices while shopping.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bedugul

Bedugul is considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s always a good idea to be cautious and keep an eye on your belongings while traveling.

Health in Bedugul

Travelers must carry mosquito repellent and follow basic hygiene practices while traveling to Bali. If you intend to partake in outdoor activities or hikes, ensure that you carry enough water and wear sunscreen to avoid dehydration and sunburn.

Getting to Bedugul: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bedugul is situated approximately 2 hours from Bali’s international airport. Here are some transportation options to get to Bedugul:

Airports Near Bedugul

  1. Ngurah Rai International Airport: Bali’s main international airport, located in Denpasar.

  2. Blimbingsari Airport: A domestic airport located in Banyuwangi, East Java.

Bus Stations Near Bedugul

  1. Ubung Bus Station: Located in Denpasar, it’s the main bus station providing long-distance services.

  2. Mengwi Bus Station: Located in Mengwi, it provides local bus services within Bali.

Other Options

  1. Private Taxi: Several private taxi operators offer services to Bedugul.

  2. Rental Cars and Motorbikes: Renting a car or a motorbike is a popular option among travelers.

How to Get Around in Bedugul

The best way to explore Bedugul is on foot or by bike. Taxis and rental cars are also readily available for travelers who prefer more comfortable transportation options. If you plan to visit several attractions in Bedugul, it’s advisable to hire a private driver to avoid navigating the narrow and steep roads in the region.

Where to Go Next from Bedugul: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bedugul is situated within driving distance from several popular destinations in Bali. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  1. Lovina Beach: A popular beach town located on Bali’s north coast, famous for dolphin sightings and coral reefs.

  2. Kintamani: A mountainous highland region known for its scenic beauty and trekking trails.

  3. Sanur: A charming coastal town famous for its lovely beaches and international cuisines.

  4. Ubud: Bali’s cultural heart, known for its art and handicrafts, and the town’s vibrant nightlife.

Conclusion

Bedugul is a charming destination that offers a unique blend of culture, natural beauty, and adventure activities. With this comprehensive guide to Bedugul, you can plan your trip well in advance, and explore this beautiful destination without any hassles. Be it adventure, culture, or relaxation, Bedugul has something to offer everyone.

Part of the Ulun Danu Temple complex at Lake Bratan, Bedugul, Bali Part of the Ulun Danu Temple complex at Lake Bratan, Bedugul, Bali Map of the Bedugul area Map of the Bedugul area Verdant rice terraces and valleys at Jatiluwih Verdant rice terraces and valleys at Jatiluwih Cloves drying by the roadside in Munduk Cloves drying by the roadside in Munduk Rice terrace at Restaurant Batukaru Rice terrace at Restaurant Batukaru