With a steep hike down that most people prefer to avoid, Nungnung Waterfall in Bali is a hidden gem that is still relatively unknown. Nungnung Waterfall is a thundering waterfall of epic proportions that cascades down from a huge height. It is one of the tallest and most powerful waterfalls in Bali. I was sweetly surprised by the lack of crowds and the lush jungle all around the waterfall. It felt like stepping into a Ghibli movie and I could not have loved it more.
This blog has all the details you need to visit Nungnung Waterfall including timings, entry fees, how to get there and best time to visit.
Where is Nungnung Waterfall?
Nungnung Waterfall is between Ubud and Lake Beratan in North Bali. It is closer to Lake Beratan than to Ubud. You can do this waterfall from Ubud as well since it only takes 1 hour from there. You can find the exact location on Google Maps.
How to Get to Nungnung Waterfall
Nungnung Waterfall is not too far from Ubud and it takes 1 hour to get here from Ubud and 1.5 hours to get here from Canggu. Since the best time to visit the waterfall is in the morning, I recommend you spend a few nights in Ubud, and visit this as part of your Ubud trip.
Bali roads are very hectic and I have noticed it takes me at least 1.5 times the time that Google Maps shows for scooters when I am driving alone.
Scooter
Renting a scooter in Bali is a convenient way to explore the island. It gives you the freedom to go anywhere as you please. Scooter rentals are available at various shops in Bali, and prices range from IDR 60,000 to IDR 80,000 per day (approximately USD 4 – USD 6). My guide to renting a scooter in Bali has all the details you need to safely rent a good scooter in Bali.
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 Nungnung Waterfall
From Ubud
- Start by heading north from Ubud towards the town of Petang.
- Continue on the main road (Jalan Raya Petang) until you reach the village of Petang.
- In Petang, look for signs pointing towards Nungnung Waterfall.
- Follow the signs and turn right onto Jalan Raya Nungnung.
- Continue along Jalan Raya Nungnung until you reach the entrance of Nungnung Waterfall.
From Canggu
- Begin by heading east from Canggu towards the city of Denpasar.
- Take the main road (Jalan Raya Kerobokan) and continue until you reach the junction with Jalan Raya Batu Bolong.
- Turn left onto Jalan Raya Batu Bolong and continue straight.
- At the junction with Jalan Raya Semer, turn right and continue on Jalan Raya Semer.
- Follow the road as it merges onto Jalan Raya Munggu.
- Continue along Jalan Raya Munggu until you reach the intersection with Jalan Raya Seseh.
- Turn left onto Jalan Raya Seseh and continue until you reach the village of Petang.
- In Petang, you will find signs guiding you towards Nungnung Waterfall.
- Follow the signs and turn right onto Jalan Raya Nungnung.
- Continue along Jalan Raya Nungnung until you arrive at the entrance of Nungnung Waterfall.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Nungnung Waterfall is during the dry season from May to September. Since the waterfall is a huge one, going during the dry season is also fine and there will be lots of water in the waterfall at this time too. Going in March and April is the best option because the waterfall still has a huge flow of water and there is much less chance of rain.
Entry Fee and Timings
The waterfall is open from 9am to 4pm everyday. The best time to arrive is during the morning so you have the waterfall all to yourself. There is a good chance that you will have the waterfall all to yourself because most people hate climbing down the 500 steps to the waterfall early in the day.
The entrance fee is IDR 20,000 and the parking fees is IDR 2000.
Experience at Nungnung Waterfall
Drive to Nungnung Waterfall
Nungnung Waterfall is within the beautiful forested hills north of Ubud. As you leave Ubud on your scooter you will notice that the markets on the side of the road will turn into steep rice fields and rolling hills stretching towards the horizon. I was very excited because I had recently been to some crowded waterfalls which I didn’t particularly enjoy so I was hoping this would be a good experience.
Hike to waterfall
When you get to the parking lot you immediately notice that there aren’t many cars there at 9am. I paid the parking fees and started the descend down the stairs. The stairs were not as bad as many bloggers had made it seem. They are just steep in some places but 500 steps is nothing if you workout everyday.
Exploring the waterfall
I made it down in 15 minutes and walked over the bridge to the waterfall. The waterfall itself is huge. I think it was one of the biggest I have seen in Bali. The mist comes very far from where the water crashed on the rocks. I didn’t swim in it because I prefer calmer waters but a local couple was swimming near one end so I assumed it would be safe.
I sat there for 10 minutes, walked around the area for a bit and then climbed back up. The climb up took about 30 minutes which made sense because I got tired in the middle and took a small break. It’s a pretty cool waterfall and I liked that there were only three people there.
Can You Swim at Nungnung Waterfall?
Yes, you can swim at the waterfall but the current and the power of the falls is very strong. You should stay away from the main falls and swim near the edge of the pool for the safest experience.
Things to Carry
- Backpack: I packed a sturdy backpack to carry all my essentials for the day like sunscreen etc.
- Water Bottle: I made sure to bring a reusable water bottle. I filled it up before leaving and added some electrolytes as well.
- Snacks: I had some nuts in my bag cause it’s always fun to eat those.
- Swimwear: Since swimming was allowed at the waterfall, I wore my bikini underneath my clothes.
- Towel: To dry off after swimming and to sit on while enjoying the mesmerizing views, I was carrying my quick-drying travel towel.
- Insect Repellent: To ward off any mosquitoes or bugs, I was wearing a little bit of mosquito repellant.
- Sunscreen: Definitely put on SPF 50 before leaving the hotel.
- Water shoes: I wore my water shoes for the trek. I love these because they are great for walking on slippery rocks, in the water and even on dry land.
- Camera: This is a great place to get some amazing shots and you should definitely carry your camera with you. 📸
Is Nungnung Waterfall Appropriate For Small Kids?
No. The hike to and from the waterfall is very strenuous and not suitable for small children. The waterfall is also very powerful and children cannot go near it because of the slippery rocks and strong currents.
Places to Stay in Munduk
Luxury: Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort and Spa
With a long picturesque infinity pool hanging over the jungle and villas that are dripping with luxury, this is the best place to stay in north Bali. They have a spa, restaurant and jacuzzi as well with views of the mountains and rice fields.
- Price: From $200 USD.
- Booking.com link
Mid-level: Puri Lumbung Cottages
A pretty resort decorated with Balinese interior this is a beautiful place for families and travelers to stay at. You can enjoy traditional Balinese massages and meditation classes here as well.
- Price: From $70 USD.
- Booking.com link
Budget: Lesong Hotel and Restaurant
Lesong Hotel and Restaurant is a charming hotel for the budget conscious travelers. They have traditional Balinese architecture and cozy rooms.
- Price: From $25 USD.
- Booking.com link
Things To Do Near Nungnung Waterfall
Nungnung Village
Nungnung Waterfall is located in the village of Nungnung, and taking some time to explore the village is a cool addition to the itinerary. You can interact with the locals, observe their traditional way of life, and learn about the local culture.
Tirta Taman Mumbul Temple
The Tirta Taman Mumbul Temple is a beautiful Hindu temple surrounded by a peaceful lake. You can walk around the temple complex, and look at the pretty Balinese architecture.
Aling-Aling Waterfall
If you’re up for some more waterfalls, consider visiting the nearby Aling-Aling Waterfall. This stunning waterfall is known for a natural water slide where you can slide down into a pool of water. You can also jump from cliffs and swim in the many pools along the way.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
The Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction in Bali. You can walk through the terraced rice fields, enjoy the scenic views, and fly your drone to capture some epic shots.
Batukaru Temple
Situated at the foothills of Mount Batukaru, the Batukaru Temple is one of Bali’s most important temples. This ancient Hindu temple is surrounded by the jungle and has a peaceful atmosphere.
Waterfall Near Nungnung Waterfall
The Banyumala Twin Waterfalls are two waterfalls that fall side by side. They are super cool to look at and the pool beneath them is a great place to swim because its really big and calm. It’s a great place for kids too because of its chill ambiance and water that only goes waist deep. This is one of my favorite waterfalls in Bali.
Munduk Waterfall
Munduk is another huge waterfall near Nungnung Waterfall that should be on your list. The waterfall is beautiful. It sits in a tall crevice inside the jungle and falls over some pretty impressive cliffs. You can go swim in the big pool below the waterfall or get some pics clicked on the viewpoint besides the waterfall.
Melanting Waterfall is an off the beaten path natural wonder that still not many people know about. It’s a stunning waterfall cascading down some jagged sharp rocks. The hike is also pretty awesome through the pretty Balinese jungles.
Tour Options in Munduk and Ubud
Munduk: Lake Beratan, Handara Gate, Waterfall & Swing Tour
Do a complete tour of all the top attractions in north Bali including Lake Beratan, Handara Gate, Banyumala Waterfalls and Wanagiri Hidden Hills.
Munduk: UNESCO World Heritage Sites Small Group Tour
A full day tour of the Royal Water temple of Pura Taman Ayun, Pura Ulun Danu Temple, Tanah Lot Temple and Jatiluwih rice fields.
Ubud: Floating Breakfast, Jungle Swing & Spa Tour
The tour starts with a floating breakfast in an infinity pool before going to the jungle swings above the rice fields and ends with a relaxing spa treatment.
Ubud Waterfall, Rice Terraces & Monkey Forest Private Tour
A tour of all the top attractions of Ubud including Tegenungan Waterfall, Tegalallang rice terraces and the Sacred Monkey Temple in the city.
Conclusion
Nungnung Waterfall is one of the last undiscovered waterfalls of Bali. Nungnung is a breath of fresh air. I loved having only one other couple there besides me so I could properly enjoy nature. I would love everyone to be able to experience the same thing!
Checkout Other Bali Posts
Bukit Cinta: Best Bali Viewpoint for Mount Agung
Tibumana Waterfall: One of the last hidden gems
Leke Leke Waterfall Bali: 2023 Guide
