Gembleng Waterfall is a beautiful calm waterfall near Sidemen in Bali. The waterfall is my personal favorite because it has two tiers of natural infinity pools. I have never seen a waterfall with infinity pools like this before. The waterfall is far from Ubud so most people don’t make the journey here and it stays quiet. The infinity pools look over the jungle and make for the most amazing shots. This guide to Gembleng Waterfall has all the information you need for the perfect trip to Gembleng Waterfall.
Where is Gembleng Waterfall?
Gembleng Waterfall is east of Sidemen. It takes 30 minutes to get here from Sidemen and 2 hours to get here from Ubud. You can find the exact location on Google Maps.
How to Get to Gembleng Waterfall
By Scooter
Renting a scooter is a popular way to get around Bali. It’s also much cheaper than any other alternative. Scooter rentals can be found throughout Bali and they cost around IDR 60,000 to IDR 80,000 (approximately USD 3.50 to USD 5.50) per day. I’ve found that longer term rentals are usually cheaper. Checkout my guide to renting a scooter in Bali so you don’t get scammed like I did.
Local taxi
For those who prefer a hassle-free journey, local taxis like Gojek or Grab are readily available in Bali. These are Ubers for Bali. You can ask for a scooter or car depending on what you prefer. Hop into one of these comfortable rides and let the driver navigate the roads while you sit back and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Private car charter
If you prefer a more luxurious and convenient option, renting a car with a private driver is a fantastic choice. This is a great choice for people who are traveling in bigger groups. Prices for a full day rental range from IDR 800,000 to IDR 1,200,000 (approximately USD 55 – USD 85).
Directions to Gembleng Waterfall
From Ubud
To reach Gembleng Waterfall from Ubud, start by heading east on Jalan Raya Ubud towards Jalan Tirta Tawar. From there, continue straight onto Jalan Suweta until you reach the junction with Jalan Raya Payangan. Take a left turn onto Jalan Raya Payangan and continue on this road until you reach the signboard for Gembleng Waterfall. Follow the sign and take the appropriate turn to reach your destination.
From Sidemen
If you’re coming from Sidemen, begin by heading west on Jalan Raya Sidemen towards Jalan Desa Tebola. Continue straight on this road until you reach the junction with Jalan Raya Semarapura. Take a right turn onto Jalan Raya Semarapura and continue until you reach the intersection with Jalan Raya Payangan. Take a left turn onto Jalan Raya Payangan and follow the signboards to reach Gembleng Waterfall.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit any waterfall in Bali is from April to October during the dry season. From November to March it rains pretty much every day and the water flows very strongly for it to be safe in many places.
Entry Fee and Timings
There is no entry fee for the waterfall. It’s a sacred site for the locals so there is still no entry fee but as a foreigner you should be respectful and make a donation of at least IDR 20,000. The waterfall is open from 7am to 5pm.
Experience at Gembleng Waterfall
Once you get to the parking lot, you will need to climb up for around 10 minutes to get to the part of the waterfall with the pools. The path has concrete steps and is not very difficult to climb. You will see the narrow stream flowing alongside you as you make your way up. There are a few routes on the way up where you can go and check out the view from the mountainside.
As you continue on up, you will finally get to the part of the waterfall with the two pools. The waterfall first flows into a small blue pool right at the top and then flows down to a second pool 10 meters down. This second pool is the infinity pool that looks over the forest.
You can get into the pool by scrambling over the rocks next to it. These were very slippery so don’t go shooting off the cliff into the forest. It’s a very chill place with just a few locals. I didn’t see any tourists here around 3pm so I don’t think you need to make an early morning excursion out here.
There is also a small warung up at the top with local food and drinks. They only take cash so you will need that with you. Once you’re done it’s a short walk back to the parking lot. A lot of other temples and art villages are close to here so I would recommend visiting one of those on your way back.
Things to Carry
- Cash – You will need to pay for the donation at the gate in cash and also if you want to buy anything from the warung at the waterfall.
- Sunscreen – The Bali sun is very intense on the ride over to the waterfall but please make sure its bio biodegradable and does not harm the water ecosystem.
- Water shoes – these were so handy when I had to climb over the slippery rocks at the pool and I wasn’t worried about getting my shoes wet.
- Biking – to get into the pool with.
- Snacks – there is only a small warung here so protein bars and nuts are good to have with you if you get hungry.
Can you Swim at Gembleng Waterfall?
Yes this is a great waterfall to swim at. There is a beautiful infinity pool that overlooks the forest here. You can climb into the pool and it’s big enough that two people can sit side by side in the pool. A natural jacuzzi in the jungle!
Is Gembleng Waterfall Appropriate for Small Kids?
Yes. It’s a great waterfall for kids too. The hike from the parking lot is very small and not steep at all. Kids will be able to walk alongside you without getting tired. The pools are also shallow and small so they are safe for children. This is one of the best waterfalls in Bali to bring kids to.
Places to Stay in Sidemen
Luxury : Wapa Di Ume Resort
This resort is called the hidden gem in east Bali. It has a two tiered infinity pool where you can have a floating breakfast. They also have private pools which they will fill with flowers on your request. Their service, cuisine and rooms are exemplary. Their spa treatments are wonderful with the best trained masseuse.
- Price: From $350.
- Booking.com link
Mid-Level : Patal Kikian
Patal Kikian has beautiful rooms that overlook Mt Agung and the beautiful fields in Sidemen. The rooms come with a gorgeous bath and beautiful furnishing. The outdoor swimming is a area of tranquility where you can relax after a day sightseeing. Romantic dinners next to the pool can be arranged on request.
- Price: From $110.
- Booking.com link
Budget : Bukit Luah
A comfortable and clean property for the budget conscious travel whose main purpose is to see the attractions in Sidemen. They have a bicycle service and free private parking. It’s a great place to make your base in Sidemen.
- Price: From $30.
- Booking.com link
Things to do Near Gembleng Waterfall
This beautiful palace used to be the home of the king here before it was converted into a museum for everyone to enjoy. The entire property has stone carvings and waterways that showcase the talent of the local people.
Salt Farming in Kusamba Beach
Farmers in Kusamba Beach gather water from the ocean everyday and sprinkle it onto the day rocks to extract sea salt from them. This is an old tradition that few people know how to do today. Kusamba Beach is one of the last places on earth where sea salt farming is practiced.
Tirta Gangga Temple
Dedicated to the Goddess Ganga who plays a huge role in Hindu mythology, this temple has beautiful pools and streams all around. You can find koi in the pond or have a picnic in one of the many gardens that are lovingly tended by the people here.
Tenganan Village
Tenganan is known as one of the last authentic Balin villages where the traditional way of life is still preserved. The people live in traditional huts and create art which has been passed from generation to generation for thousands of years.
Waterfalls Near Gembleng Waterfall
Jagasatru Waterfall
This is a 40 meter tall waterfall that most people have never heard of. It has a pretty pool under it where you can swim and relax. The flow of the water is very chill so no worries about kids either. The perfect place for a family excursion.
Tukad Cepung is a unique waterfall in a cave in Bali. You see the waterfall once you get to the entrance of the cave. The sunlights look really beautiful during noon as it filters through the top. This makes for some very stunning photos.
For my adrenaline junkie, rush over to white water rafting at Telaga Waja River where you will find some heart pumping rapids. The course takes a few hours to complete and then you get to have lunch next to the water. The perfect morning in my opinion.
Tour Options in Sidemen
Cooking Class with 5 Balinese Dishes
How about you try to learn the dishes you have been tasting during your trip in Bali? During the class you will go to the market to buy fresh ingredients, pick some veggies from the garden and then make five dishes that you will eat for lunch.
Taman Ujung Palace, Candidasa and Sidemen Village Tour
The complete tour of Sidemen that also includes going to the Ujung Water Palace and the seaside town of Candidasa that has a fresh water lagoon. You will get to see the local people and immerse yourself in the culture on this tour.
Telaga Waja White Water Rafting with Lunch
The ultimate white water rafting adventure on Telaga Waja River. You start by doing a 7 mile course and then be rewarded by a delicious lunch at the end of it. It’s the perfect tour for those that love adventure and thrill on their vacation.
Conclusion
Gembleng Waterfall is my favorite waterfall on the island and for good reason – it has a very chill hike and two beautiful infinity pools. There is never any crowd here and you can enjoy yourself in peace. I would recommend making the trip here from Ubud and better yet Sidemen if you go there. Sidemen, Bali is a great addition to any itinerary and with waterfalls like Gembleng around, you will love your time here.
Checkout Other Bali Posts
Munduk Waterfall Trek Complete Guide
Suwat Waterfall: Natural Pool Waterfall Near Ubud
Lake Tamblingan Jungle Trek and Canoeing
