Tegenungan Waterfall is one of the most visited waterfalls in Bali. It sits just outside central Ubud in Gianyar Regency, which makes it an easy stop for almost any itinerary. The water stays clear for most of the year, and the pool below the falls stays open for swimming. Because of its easy access and dramatic scenery, Tegenungan Waterfall has become a favorite for both first time visitors and returning travelers.
This guide covers everything you need before you go. You will find current entrance fees, opening hours, on site facilities, the best photo spots, and honest visitor feedback so you know exactly what to expect.
| Height | About 15 meters |
| Steps to the base | Approximately 200 steps |
| Entrance fee | IDR 20,000 to 30,000 per person (confirm on site) |
| Opening hours | 06:30 to 18:30 WITA, daily |
| Distance from Ubud | About 20 minutes by car |
| Distance from Denpasar | About 45 minutes by car |
What Makes Tegenungan Waterfall So Popular
Tegenungan Waterfall draws crowds for a simple reason: it delivers a powerful, photogenic waterfall without a long trek into the mountains. The falls sit on the Petanu River, one of the longest rivers in Bali, which begins high on the slopes of Mount Batur and winds through Tampaksiring, Ubud, and Blahbatuh before reaching the coast. Local communities have long treated the river as sacred, and it remains a place for meditation and quiet reflection.
The waterfall also carries a second name. Locals call it Kemenuh Waterfall, after the village that sits closest to the site. Meanwhile, the name Tegenungan comes from the road that most visitors take to reach it. Because the falls stay outside the highlands, swimming and getting close to the water feels far more approachable than at most other waterfalls in Bali.
In recent decades, Tegenungan Waterfall has grown from a local water source into one of Gianyar’s most visited attractions. Local authorities and village communities now manage the site to balance tourism with conservation, which is part of the reason the stairs, railings, and swimming areas stay well maintained even as visitor numbers keep climbing. Kemenuh Village itself has long been known for Balinese wood carving, so the area around the waterfall carries cultural weight well beyond the water alone.
Blangsinga Waterfall or Tegenungan Waterfall?
This waterfall actually carries two names because two villages manage access from opposite sides. Visitors who arrive through Kemenuh Village know it as Tegenungan Waterfall, since the Pekraman Village of Tegenungan manages that entrance. Visitors who arrive through Saba Village in Blahbatuh instead call it Blangsinga Waterfall, managed by the Blangsinga Pekraman Village.
Access differs slightly between the two routes. The Tegenungan side requires a longer flight of stairs, while the Blangsinga side involves fewer steps. Either way, both paths lead to the same waterfall and the same pool below.
Because the Tegenungan route sits closer to Ubud and offers easier access, most tourists choose this side. As a result, the waterfall is more widely known as Tegenungan Waterfall, even though both names describe the exact same destination.
How to Get to Tegenungan Waterfall
Tegenungan Waterfall sits in Kemenuh Village, Sukawati District, Gianyar Regency. From central Ubud, the drive takes around 20 minutes. From Denpasar, plan for roughly 45 minutes, and from Kuta, expect closer to 1 hour and 30 minutes depending on traffic.
There is no public transport that runs directly to the site, so most visitors arrive by scooter, private car, or ride hailing apps such as Grab or Gojek. If you prefer not to navigate Bali’s roads yourself, booking a car rental with driver gives you a comfortable and stress free way to reach the waterfall and combine it with other stops nearby.
Once you arrive, follow the main road toward Ubud and watch for signage pointing toward the waterfall. Because the site itself is not visible from the road, you will need to descend a long staircase to reach the riverbank below.
Tegenungan Waterfall Attractions
Tegenungan Waterfall offers more than just a single view. Several distinct attractions make it worth spending time here rather than rushing through a quick photo stop.
The beauty of the waterfall
The main draw is, of course, the waterfall itself. After descending roughly 100 meters of stairs, you will reach a wide basin fed by a powerful, steady flow. Cool mist fills the air near the base, and the surrounding cliffs and greenery frame the scene beautifully.
Suitable for swimming
The pool beneath the falls stays clear for most of the year, which makes it a popular spot for a quick swim or a simple dip. Changing facilities are available nearby, and lifeguards monitor the area for safety. During the rainy season, however, the water discharge increases and visibility drops, so it is best to skip swimming and simply enjoy the view instead.
Photo spots
Tegenungan Waterfall offers several distinct photo spots, including the upper viewpoint, the mid level cliff, and the base of the falls. Most visitors agree that the mid level cliff delivers the best angle, since it frames the full drop of water behind you.
Cliff jumping
For travelers looking for an adrenaline boost, jumping from the surrounding cliffs is possible. That said, this activity carries real risk since no rescue staff are stationed at the jump points. If you are inexperienced, it is best to skip this and enjoy the waterfall from safer ground instead.
The glass bridge
Since November 2022, a 188 meter Glass Bridge has connected Kemenuh Village and Blangsinga Village directly above the gorge. Suspended high above the valley floor, it stands out as Indonesia’s first glass bridge and one of the longest in Southeast Asia. Multiple layers of reinforced glass support the walkway, so it stays sturdy even though crossing it feels like walking on air.
Because the bridge sits so close to Tegenungan Waterfall, many visitors combine both stops into a single half day trip. If you want the full experience, our glass bridge guide covers ticket prices and what to expect before you cross.
Height of the waterfall
Tegenungan Waterfall stands about 15 meters tall. Because it sits outside Bali’s highlands, visitors can approach and even swim near the base far more easily than at taller, more remote waterfalls elsewhere on the island.
Activities You Can Do at Tegenungan Waterfall
Beyond simply admiring the view, Tegenungan Waterfall offers a handful of activities that make a visit worth the trip down and back.
Take a dip in the pool
Even when the water runs a little higher during the rainy season, the pool below the falls still offers a refreshing place to cool off. The water stays cool year round, which makes it especially welcome after the walk down.
Capture photos with a scenic background
Tegenungan Waterfall provides plenty of Instagrammable backdrops. Whether you are traveling with friends or family, this is a natural spot to capture a few lasting photos of your trip.
Enjoy the view
Surrounded by shady forest and constant mist, the area offers a peaceful escape from Bali’s busier tourist zones. Many visitors simply sit near the base and take in the sound of rushing water.
Watch the sunrise
Arriving early in the morning rewards visitors with soft light and a much quieter atmosphere. The combination of sunrise and cascading water creates one of the more memorable moments you can catch at the site.
Bathe in natural spring water
Close to the main waterfall, a natural spring feeds a smaller shower area that locals have used for generations. Many visitors stop here to cool off, especially during Bali’s hottest afternoons.
Facilities, Opening Hours, and Ticket Prices
Tegenungan Waterfall comes equipped with enough infrastructure to keep a visit comfortable, whether you plan a quick stop or a full afternoon.
Facilities
- Large parking area for cars and motorbikes
- Natural spring showers for rinsing off after a swim
- Local food stalls and small cafes, including the popular Bumbu Asli near the top of the stairs
- Souvenir and gift stalls
- Toilets and changing rooms, though changing facilities may carry a small extra fee
- Basic lodging options for visitors who want to stay overnight nearby
Omma Day Club
For visitors who want to skip the stairs, Omma Day Club sits right beside the waterfall and offers a lift straight down to its infinity pool and restaurant. Guests can swim while looking directly at the falls, order from a full food and drink menu, and relax on daybeds or gazebos. Keep in mind that the day club charges separately from the waterfall entrance fee and often requires a minimum spend on food or drinks, so budget accordingly if you plan to stop by.
Opening hours
Tegenungan Waterfall welcomes visitors daily from 06:30 to 18:30 WITA. Morning visits between 7:00 and 9:00 AM offer the coolest weather and the smallest crowds. If mornings do not fit your schedule, arriving around 16:30 gives you a quieter, golden hour alternative.
Ticket price
- Entrance to the main waterfall area: IDR 20,000 per person
- Access to the upper viewpoint: IDR 20,000 additional
- Car parking: IDR 5,000
Prices at Tegenungan Waterfall can shift depending on local management, and a few recent visitor reports mention a higher rate of around IDR 30,000 per adult. Bring extra cash and confirm the current price at the ticket counter, since there is no ATM on site.
Is Tegenungan Waterfall Worth Visiting?
Tegenungan Waterfall earns consistently strong reviews, though visitor experiences do vary depending on timing. Understanding both sides can help you plan a visit that matches what you are looking for.
What visitors love
Most travelers describe the waterfall as spectacular and well worth the walk down. Reviewers frequently mention clear water, dramatic cliffs, and the occasional rainbow forming in the mist. The affordable entrance fee and the small cafes near the entrance, especially Bumbu Asli, also receive frequent praise.
What to keep in mind
On the other hand, several visitors note that Tegenungan Waterfall gets crowded quickly, particularly around midday. The staircase back up can feel tiring in the heat, and water clarity drops noticeably after heavy rain. If a quieter, more secluded waterfall is what you want, visiting early in the morning or pairing your trip with a less crowded destination will help.
Our recommendation
Overall, Tegenungan Waterfall remains a worthwhile stop for most travelers, especially first time visitors to Bali. Arriving before 9:00 AM avoids the bulk of the crowds and gives you the best chance to swim in clear water and enjoy the site at its calmest.
Tips for Visiting Tegenungan Waterfall
- Arrive early, ideally around 7:00 AM, to avoid both heat and crowds
- If mornings do not work, aim for around 16:30 instead
- Prepare for roughly 200 steps each way, so build in extra time for the climb back up
- Wear trekking shoes or sturdy sandals to reduce the risk of slipping
- Bring a change of clothes and a small towel for after your swim
- Avoid visiting during heavy rain, since the water turns murky and paths can get slippery
- Follow posted safety guidelines, especially near the base of the falls
- Keep the area clean and avoid littering
Avoid standing directly under the strongest part of the waterfall spray, since the water discharge can be forceful. Stick to the designated swimming area instead.
Attractions Near Tegenungan Waterfall
Tegenungan Waterfall sits inside Kemenuh Village, a community long known for Balinese wood carving. Because of this, a visit to the waterfall pairs naturally with a handful of cultural and wildlife attractions nearby, so you can build a fuller half day out of the trip.
Kemenuh’s wood carving heritage
Kemenuh has produced skilled wood carvers for generations, and several workshops near the waterfall welcome visitors to watch artisans at work. Galleries such as Werochana Wood Carving display finished pieces, and many stalls sell carvings directly from the craftsmen who made them.
Goa Gajah Temple
About 10 minutes from Tegenungan Waterfall, Goa Gajah Temple draws visitors with its carved cave entrance, meditation chambers, and ancient bathing pools. The site dates back to the 9th century and remains an active place of worship, which makes it a meaningful stop for travelers interested in Balinese history.
Kemenuh Butterfly Park
A short drive from the waterfall, Kemenuh Butterfly Park houses a wide variety of butterfly species inside a landscaped tropical garden. The park makes a relaxed, family friendly stop if you want a break from stairs and swimming, and it pairs well with a morning visit to the waterfall.
Nearby Waterfalls You Can Visit in One Day
Bali is home to dozens of waterfalls, and several sit close enough to Tegenungan Waterfall to fit into the same day trip. Pairing your visit with one of these destinations makes for a fuller day of nature exploration.
Tukad Cepung Waterfall
For a completely different atmosphere, Tukad Cepung Waterfall delivers a dramatic cave setting in Bangli. Sunbeams pierce through the cave opening most mornings, creating a striking visual effect. The drive from Tegenungan Waterfall takes about 30 to 40 minutes, making it an easy second stop.
Nungnung Waterfall
Travelers looking for more of a challenge will find it at Nungnung Waterfall. Standing 50 meters tall and requiring a descent of around 500 steps, it delivers a powerful, mist filled reward for those willing to make the climb. The site sits in Badung Regency, roughly one hour from Tegenungan Waterfall.
Leke Leke Waterfall
Tucked into the river valleys of Tabanan, Leke Leke Waterfall offers one of Bali’s more peaceful waterfall experiences. The trail winds through jungle and across small wooden bridges before reaching the plunge pool below. Because it stays uncrowded even during peak season, our Leke Leke Waterfall guide is worth reading if you want a quieter contrast to Tegenungan Waterfall.
Banyumala Twin Waterfall
If a quieter swimming spot appeals to you, Banyumala Twin Waterfall in North Bali delivers two clear streams flowing side by side into a single pool. While the drive takes longer, our Banyumala Twin Waterfall guide walks through everything you need to plan the trip, and it pairs well with Tegenungan Waterfall if you want to compare a busy waterfall with a hidden one.
Ready for Your Tegenungan Waterfall Adventure?
Whether this is your first trip to Bali or your return visit, Tegenungan Waterfall deserves a spot on your itinerary. Between the natural spring showers, the swimmable pool, and the striking scenery, it offers a well rounded stop for almost any traveler. Just remember to time your visit early, bring proper shoes, and prepare for the climb back up.
Plan Your Trip with Bali Touristic
Ready to add Tegenungan Waterfall to your Bali itinerary? Our tour packages include comfortable transportation and knowledgeable local guides who know the best times and photo spots to make your visit smooth from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tegenungan Waterfall
How much is the entrance ticket to Tegenungan Waterfall?
The entrance ticket to the main waterfall area costs IDR 20,000 per person. Access to the upper viewpoint costs an additional IDR 20,000, and car parking costs IDR 5,000. Bring cash, since most transactions on site do not accept digital payment.
How many steps are there at Tegenungan Waterfall?
Visitors need to descend approximately 200 paved steps with handrails to reach the base of the waterfall. The walk down takes about 5 to 10 minutes, though the return climb feels more tiring, especially in the heat. Visitors heading to Omma Day Club can use a lift instead of the stairs.
What is the tallest waterfall in Bali?
Sekumpul Waterfall in Singaraja, Buleleng, holds the title at approximately 80 meters tall. Tegenungan Waterfall stands at only 15 meters by comparison, but its easy access from Ubud makes it a far more convenient stop for most travelers.
Where is Goa Raja Waterfall located?
Goa Raja Waterfall sits in Jehem Village, Tembuku District, Bangli Regency, in east central Bali. Also called King Cave Waterfall, it hides dramatically inside a large cave. The site sits close to Tukad Cepung Waterfall, so both fit comfortably into a single day trip.
Is Tegenungan Waterfall suitable for children?
Yes, Tegenungan Waterfall works well for families. Lifeguards stay on duty, and changing facilities are available nearby. That said, parents should supervise children closely near the water, since the roughly 200 step descent may prove difficult for very young kids or visitors with mobility issues.
Is Tegenungan Waterfall accessible by public transport?
No public transport runs directly to Tegenungan Waterfall. Most visitors reach the site by private car, scooter, or ride hailing apps such as Grab and Gojek.
Can I visit the Glass Bridge and Tegenungan Waterfall together?
Yes, since the Glass Bridge sits directly above the waterfall, most visitors combine both stops into a single half day trip. Crossing the bridge before or after your waterfall visit adds very little extra travel time.
How do I get to Tegenungan Waterfall from the airport?
Tegenungan Waterfall sits roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour from Ngurah Rai International Airport, depending on traffic. Booking an airport transfer service gives you a comfortable, hassle free way to reach the waterfall right after landing.
