If you’re planning a trip to Bali and want to visit a hidden gem that’s off the beaten path, Sumampan Waterfall may be just what you’re looking for. This breathtaking waterfall is tucked away near Ubud in Bali provides an idyllic escape for nature lovers who want to experience Bali’s natural beauty away from the crowds. In this complete guide to Sumampan Waterfall, I’ll go over everything you need to know to plan your visit, including how to get there, the best time to go, what to bring, and more.
Where is Sumampan Waterfall?
Sumampan Waterfall is only 8 kilometers to the south of Ubud. I did this trip on my way back from Kanto Lampo Waterfall. You can find the exact location on Google Maps.
How to Get to Sumampan Waterfall
Getting to Sumampan Waterfall is very easy, and you have a few options depending on your preferred mode of transportation. Here are three popular ways to get there:
Scooter
If you’re comfortable riding a scooter, this can be a fun and affordable way to get to Sumampan Waterfall . You can rent a scooter from various rental shops in Bali for around IDR 60,000 – IDR 80,000 per day (approximately USD 4 – USD 6). Be sure to wear a helmet, and make sure your scooter is in good condition before you hit the road.
Local taxi
Private taxis are widely available in Bali, and you can easily hire one to take you to Sumampan Waterfall but you really don’t need it because it’s so close. You should instead use Gojek or Grab. These are Ubers in Indonesia. You can choose to ride on a scooter behind the driver. I am sure the drivers accept rides on scooters from Ubud to Sumampan Waterfall.
Rent a car and driver
Renting a car can be a comfortable and convenient option, especially if you’re traveling with a group. You can rent a car for around IDR 800,000 – IDR 1,200,000 (approximately USD 55 – USD 85) for a full day. This will include drop off and pick up for your car at your hotel and they include the cost for the drivers.
Directions to Sumampan Waterfall
From Ubud
From Ubud, take Jl. Raya Sakah then head to Jl. Raya Kedewatan. Follow this road for about 9 kilometers, and turn right when you reach the brass sign marked “Begawan Giri Temple.” You’ll find Sumampan Waterfall approximately 1 kilometer past the temple.
From Canggu
From Canggu, head north on Jalan Raya Canggu then turn right onto Jl. Raya Desa Tumbak Bayuh. Follow this road for around 13 kilometers, turn right on the main road of Jl. Raya Payangan & Penatahan, and then turn left when you reach the brass sign marked “Begawan Giri Temple.” You will find Sumampan Waterfall approximately 1 kilometer past the temple.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sumampan Waterfall is during the dry season from May to September. Since you have to cross the river to get to the waterfall it is dangerous when the flow is very strong after rains. There were very few people here during the day time when we went so I dont think it matters what time you come here you will still find it empty.
Entry Fee and Timings
The waterfall is open from sunrise to sunset everyday. 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 10,000 and there was no parking fee when I went in December 2022.
Experience at Sumampan Waterfall
Reaching the waterfall
I came to Sumampan Waterfall because I had gone to Kanto Lampo in the morning and there were so many people there that I got annoyed and left. I searched for lesser known waterfalls and saw Sumampan Waterfall was close by so I drove my scooter here. When I got to the waterfall there were only five locals and one scooter parked near the entrance. There was a nice old man who pointed at the sign for the waterfall and asked me for the entrance fee. He then said to leave the scooter under his hut so it wont get wet if it rained.
Hiking down the cliff
I set off down the path. The path goes through the jungle and fields for 100 meters before there is a big cliff and you have to climb down some really steep stairs cut on the side of the mountain. The mountain had some beautiful carvings on the side which I was confused about if they were ancient or recently made by the locals. I definitely need to find the answer to this.
Walk near river
When I reached the bottom of the cliff I saw that there were a couple locals that had crossed the river to the waterfall by using a rope that was tied across the river. The river looked very full so I decided to not cross it but just click pictures from across the river. I took a walk on my side of the river and saw some more carvings. I dipped my feet in the water and sat for a while before heading back up.
At the entrance I had two coconuts at the warung which were very very cheap and then went back to Ubud. This was a much better experience than the one I had at Kanto Lampo Waterfall.
Things to Carry
- Backpack: The hike down is very steep so it’s good to have a bag to put everything inside.
- Water Bottle: There is a nice warung where I had a coconut right outside the gate so you won’t be stuck without water if you forget to bring some.
- Snacks: I always keep some nuts in the bag cause I get grumpy when I am hungry.
- Swimwear: Since swimming is allowed at the waterfall, make sure to wear swimwear underneath your clothes.
- Towel: Carry your quick-drying travel towel to dry off after swimming.
- Insect Repellent: A little bit of mosquito repellant will save you from irritating bug bites.
- Sunscreen: Put on SPF 50 before leaving your hotel.
- Water Shoes: Wear water shoes for the trek. They are comfortable and great for walking on slippery rocks.
- Camera: Get ready to capture some amazing shots of your visit.
Can You Swim at Sumampan Waterfall?
Yes, you can swim at the waterfall and also at the river but the current and the power of the river is very strong so be careful and hold on to the rope if you cross across it.
Is Sumampan Waterfall Appropriate For Small Kids?
No. The hike to and from the waterfall is very steep and not suitable for small children. The river is also very powerful and children cannot go near it because of the slippery rocks and strong currents.
Is It Worth Visiting Sumampan Waterfall in 2023?
Definitely! Sumampan Waterfall is an undiscovered gem that nobody knows. I only saw locals and one other couple here during my two hours there. The untouched feel makes it a must-visit location in Bali.
Explore Bali Tours
Some of the coolest tours in Bali include the Instagram Highlights Tour which takes you to the most photogenic places on the island. Another very popular tour is the Mount Batur Sunrise Tour. You can even do the highlights for Ubud in a single day.
Sumampan Waterfall FAQs
What is the best time to visit Sumampan Waterfall?
The best time to visit Sumampan Waterfall is during the dry season from April to October in the afternoon.
How much does it cost to visit Sumampan Waterfall?
Entrance to Sumampan Waterfall costs IDR 10,000.
Are there any safety precautions to keep in mind?
Just be careful of the current in the river. Always hold on to the rope that is tied across the river when you cross it.
Can I explore Sumampan Waterfall on my own?
Yes, Sumampan Waterfall is open 24 hours a day, and you can explore it at your leisure.
Places to Stay in Ubud
Luxury Hotel: Kastara Resort
Kastara Resort is a gorgeous property that is dipped in luxury. With a la carte continental breakfast overlooking the lush Ubud jungles this property has everything you could wish for. Their infinity pool hangs over the jungle and each room has its own cute little bath tub. The traditional music performances and exemplary service just adds to the charm.
- Price: From $180.
- Booking.com link
Mid-Level Hotel: Merak Village by Prasi
A beautiful resort in the middle of the forest that you will love to stay at. Their infinity pool and gardens are perfect for relaxing. Their rooms are beautifully decorated and their food is equally delicious. They even do floating breakfast if you ask!
- Price: From $60.
- Booking.com link
Budget Hotel: Joglo Organik Guesthouse
A conveniently located property that has comfortable and clean rooms. All Ubud attractions are very close by and can be reached easily within 10 minutes on a scooter. They have great views, a pretty pool and good breakfast.
- Price: From $40.
- Booking.com link
Things To Do Near Sumampan Waterfall
Ubud Monkey Forest
The Ubud Monkey Forest is the home of the cutest monkeys in Bali. You will find monkeys with their babies, playing in the water and eating bananas everywhere here. You can even take selfies with them here!
Ayung River Rafting
Trek through the dense tropical rainforest and whitewater raft down the Ayung River, an experience that is sure to be unforgettable.
Ubud Palace
Always wanted to know how the Balinese royals lived? This historical palace near Ubud where the royal family lived at one time is one of the finest examples of Balinese architecture. You can also enjoy traditional dances here every evening.
Campuhan Ridge Walk
If you can’t find time to go all the way to Tegallalang rice terraces then make your way to the hike along the Campuhan Ridge. It has rice fields all around, palm trees growing in the distance and the gentle Ayung River flowing by it. There are a couple really good restaurants here too.
Begawan Giri Temple
Begawan Giri Temple, also known as Pura Pucak Mangu Temple, is an ancient temple located in Payangan on a hilltop that offers panoramic views of the surroundings.
Waterfalls Near Sumampan Waterfall
This is a beautiful thundering waterfall with a pretty pool at its bottom. It also has a cave behind the waterfall that makes for stunning photos. If you go early you can get this waterfall all to yourself.
Tegenungan Waterfall
Tegenungan Waterfall is only a few kilometers from Ubud and is easy to access. It’s an incredible site with waterfall spray creating a cooling mist over the surrounding areas. There are a few photo spots created by locals that make for pretty pictures.
A huge waterfall that will soak you in its mist, this one should not be missed. The waterfall is so beautiful that a few people have also had their weddings here. This is one for the adventure seekers!
Tour Options in Ubud
Ubud Waterfall, Rice Terraces & Monkey Forest Private Tour
This tour is perfect for all the nature enthusiasts out there. You will be taken to the stunning Tegenungan Waterfall, where you can admire its breathtaking beauty and take a refreshing dip. After that, you’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Tegalalang Rice Terraces and see how rice is grown the traditional way in Bali. The final stop is the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where you can interact with friendly monkeys up close.
Ubud ATV Quad Biking Adventure Guided Tour
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, then this tour is perfect for you. You’ll ride through the picturesque Balinese landscapes on an ATV and explore the beauty of Bali’s countryside in a unique way. The tour takes you through rice fields, traditional villages and lets you witness stunning sights that you might not have otherwise seen.
Ubud All-Inclusive Tour with Optional Lunch
This is a full-day tour, which takes you to some of Bali’s most popular attractions in and around Ubud. The tour is designed to give you a holistic experience of Bali’s culture and its people. You will explore the famous Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, visit Taman Ayun Temple, see stunning rice terraces, and visit a local market to experience Balinese culture up close.
Ubud Quad Bike Jungles, Rivers, Waterfalls, Caves
Another ATV adventure tour for enthusiasts that takes you through Bali’s jungles, rice fields, rivers and caves on board an ATV. You’ll get to explore some of the most beautiful and remote parts of Bali. The tour includes a pick-up from your hotel, some refreshments and lunch.
Ubud Full-Day Instagram Highlights Tour
This tour is exactly what it says – an Instagram Highlights Tour. If you’re an avid social media user and love to capture beautiful moments to feed your Instagram, this tour is perfect for you. You will visit some of Bali’s most famous and scenic spots that are perfect for photoshoots and selfies. Some of the highlights include the Bali Swing, Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Pura Tirta Empul, and the famous Handara Gate.
Conclusion
Sumampan Waterfall is one of the best natural attractions Bali has to offer. The beauty of the waterfall, combined with its tranquil atmosphere, will leave you spellbound. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends and family, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.
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