Being a native Californian, I was pleasantly surprised by Ubud’s diverse landscape. Far removed from the familiar barren deserts and scattered chaparral scenery, I was instead greeted with sweeping rice terraces, an abundance of greenery, the occasional monkey dangling from the trees, and hidden gems like the Tegenungan waterfall. The Tegenungan Waterfall is one of the few waterfalls found in Bali, but is arguably becoming the most popular tourist attraction. It is part of the Petanu River flowing along the village of Kemenuh, and a short drive from Ubud.
A short fifteen minute drive from the village of Ubud is all it takes to visit the majestic Tegenungan Waterfall, a gushing fall where visitors can swim in the pools below or lounge on chairs close-by. Adventure-seekers can climb their way up to the middle level of the falls or opt for trekking all the way up to the top of the falls.
Upon arriving at Tegenungan Waterfall, you will need to pay an entrance fee of 10,000 IDR (price at the time of this posting) to gain access. After paying a nominal fee, you will then pass by a number of different street vendors, eager to get your attention in hopes you’ll buy their delicacies. Some sell clothing, others sell food in case you are in need of replenishment before you begin your hike. Walk past the vendors until you reach a set of stairs leading downwards. Follow the stairs downward, veering left when you reach the fork. Left will take you to the waterfall and the right will lead you to a temple.
After making your way down quite a few flights of stairs, you will finally reach your destination: The Tegenungan Waterfall. Pose in front of the comical sign that reads “Don’t worry be sexy, but not naked”, take a swim in the shallow waters beneath the falls, or pay to take a nap on one of the lounge chairs near the falls. Once you’ve had your swimming or basking in the sun fix, you can then choose to cross a small stream and continue up more steps to reach the middle and upper part of the falls or turn back around.
If you do choose to continue up the falls, wear proper footing as the rocks are wet and slick. I mistakenly wore flip flops and almost tripped a number of times. Additionally, be prepared to spend another 5,000 IDR (price at the time of this posting) to gain access to the upper part of the falls.
Whether you choose to explore the upper parts of the falls or stick to swimming in the water below, you will need to climb your way back up the stairs to complete your adventure. Your thighs and legs will be burning upon completion but I can assure you it is worth it in the end.
Tegenungan Waterfall Tips
Tip #1: Arrive earlier in the day to avoid crowds. Peak times are around lunch time.
Tip #2: Remember to tip your guide! Although it is fun for you to see the falls for the first time, they do this on a regular basis and are climbing up and down hundreds of steps for your enjoyment.
Tip #3: The waterfall is unfortunately not handicapped accessible. To visit the waterfall you must climb up and down 172 stairs.
Tip #4: You can visit the Tegenungan Waterfall without a guide, however if you are interested in having a guide show you around I would highly recommend Bali Volcano Trekking . This was just one stop on a well-planned all day tour we took.
Tip #5: Wear shoes with good traction for slippery/technical parts of the trail and the stairs. Also bring a pair of flip flops once are at the waterfall.
