Lake Tamblingan

About Lake Tamblingan

Written by the Bali Saku Raba local team · Last verified September 2026

Lake Tamblingan is a highland lake in Munduk, Buleleng, North Bali, set beneath Mount Lesung and surrounded by forest. It is one of the three lakes associated with the northern caldera landscape, alongside Lake Buyan and Lake Beratan. The cool air, mist, quiet shoreline, and many temples around the lake make it a destination for nature, culture, and reflective travel.

Local cultural and environmental sources describe Tamblingan as a lake whose landscape has not been developed like a modern resort area. Its value lies in the relationship between water, forest, temples, village history, and traditional activity. Visitors should therefore approach the lake as a protected and sacred environment, not as an unrestricted recreational playground.

What to see and do

Viewpoints and lakeside areas offer changing perspectives across the water and forest. On a clear day, the hills may appear sharply defined; mist can create a quieter, more atmospheric scene. Traditional boats or guided lake activities may be available in designated areas, but confirm current management, safety, and environmental rules before booking. Do not assume that every shore or trail is open.

Lake Tamblingan gallery image 1
Lake Tamblingan — gallery image 1

The surrounding forest contains numerous temples and shrines connected with the area's history and spiritual life. Some are active or restricted. Stay on permitted paths, do not enter courtyards without permission, and ask before photographing ceremonies, offerings, or worshippers. A local guide can explain the difference between a visitor viewpoint and a sacred area.

Forest and water safety

Highland weather changes quickly. Bring a rain layer, warm clothing, sturdy shoes, water, and a torch if staying near the lake after dark. Trails can be muddy, slippery, or difficult to follow. Keep away from steep edges, unstab

Lake Tamblingan gallery image 2
Lake Tamblingan — gallery image 2
le ground, and the water during poor weather. Children should remain close to an adult.

Do not swim, fish, light fires, or launch a boat unless current local rules explicitly allow it. Keep food secured and do not feed wildlife. Take all rubbish out, use approved camping areas, and never wash with soap in the lake or streams. If a guide or local manager advises postponing a trip, follow that advice.

Planning a Munduk route

Lake Tamblingan is in the highlands of Buleleng and is reached by winding roads. Lake Buyan is the neig

Lake Tamblingan gallery image 3
Lake Tamblingan — gallery image 3
hbouring lake landscape, while Banyumala Waterfall offers a separate forest and waterfall visit. Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is another Bedugul destination but requires its own time. Check distances, trail access, weather, and transport before building the itinerary.

Confirm current boat, trekking, camping, parking, and entrance arrangements locally. Avoid promising clear skies, a particular wildlife sighting, a fixed trail duration, or complete solitude. Respect local communities and the conservation status of the Buyan–Tamblingan landscape.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Lake Tamblingan?

Lake Tamblingan is in the Munduk area of Buleleng Regency, North Bali, beneath Mount Lesung.

Why is Lake Tamblingan special?

It is a cool, forested highland lake with a strong cultural and spiritual setting, many surrounding temples, and limited modern shoreline development.

Can I take a boat on the lake?

Traditional boats or guided activities may be available, but confirm current local rules, safety arrangements, and permitted areas first.

Can visitors swim?

Do not assume swimming is permitted or safe. Follow current environmental and local guidance and stay out of the water during poor conditions.

What should I bring?

Bring warm and rain protection, sturdy footwear, water, sun protection, and a torch if visiting near dusk or camping in an approved area.

Are the temples open to tourists?

Some temples or shrines may be active or restricted. Ask local guides or attendants and never enter sacred areas without permission.

Lake Tamblingan is best enjoyed quietly and responsibly. Protect its forest and water, respect the temples around the shore, and let local conditions guide every activity.

What to See & Do at Lake Tamblingan

Bali's most sacred crater lake — no resorts or development on its shores
Traditional dugout canoe trips through morning mist across the lake
Ancient clan temples visible from the water — accessible only by boat
Dense primary forest with exceptional birdlife along the shore trail
Part of a twin lake system with Buyan — UNESCO-adjacent landscape

What to Know Before You Go

Canoe Hire a canoe with a local paddler — they know the lake, the temples, and the birds
Timing Be on the water at 6:30am for the mist — it clears quickly after 8am
Trek The forest trek from Munduk to the lake (45 min) is more rewarding than the road approach
Respect Temples on the lakeside and accessible by boat are active — dress appropriately and ask before entering

What Our Guests Say

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RussiaKudo90

RussiaKudo90

Google Review

5

I’m happy to leave this review because I know Made personally, and I can honestly say he’s one of the best guides and kindest people you’ll meet in Bali. What makes him special isn’t just his deep knowledge of the island – though that alone is impressive. He knows all the hidden gems, the best times to visit popular spots, and always has interesting stories behind every temple and rice terrace. But more than that, he genuinely cares about the people he’s with. He doesn't treat it like a job; he treats it like he's showing his own friends around his home. I’ve seen how he goes out of his way to make sure everything runs smoothly, how he checks in on comfort and safety, and how he handles any little issue with a smile. He's reliable, patient, and incredibly warm-hearted. If you're looking for someone who will not only show you beautiful places but also make you feel welcome and looked after – Made is your guy. I truly hope this comment helps him, because he absolutely deserves more recognition. Thank you, Made, for being the amazing person and guide that you are! 🙏🇮🇩

A month ago
Leah Davidson

Leah Davidson

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5

The Best Tour Guide in Bali! We honestly couldn’t recommend Made enough! From start to finish, he was absolutely fantastic and went above and beyond to make our trip around Bali so special. Before we even arrived, Made’s communication was amazing. He helped us plan our whole trip, gave us fantastic advice and recommendations, and really took the time to understand what we wanted to see and do. He made everything so easy and stress-free for us. Throughout our trip, Made looked after us incredibly well. He picked us up, took us to all the different places we wanted to visit, and even showed us some amazing places we probably wouldn’t have found ourselves. His knowledge of Bali is incredible — he knew so much about every place we visited and was always happy to explain things and answer our questions. What really stood out to us was how kind, caring and genuine Made was. He didn’t just feel like a tour guide; we genuinely felt like we were being looked after by a friend. He always made sure we were comfortable, safe and enjoying ourselves, and nothing ever felt like too much trouble. Everyone in his team was also absolutely fantastic. They were friendly, professional and made us feel so welcome throughout our trip. Made played such a huge part in making our Bali holiday so memorable. If you’re looking for someone who is reliable, knowledgeable, kind and genuinely cares about giving you the best possible experience, we would 100% recommend him. Thank you so much, Made, for looking after us and helping us have such an amazing time in Bali. We’ll definitely be recommending you to anyone visiting Bali — and hopefully we’ll see you again one day! ❤️🇮🇩

A month ago
Max Maxvik

Max Maxvik

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5

Excellent, the driver is responsible, punctual, drives well, knows a lot of places to relax, the sights of Bali, speaks Russian, English and Chinese well.

A month ago
Софья Меркулова

Софья Меркулова

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5

Очень советую Мади в качестве гида. Он организовывал нам тур на Нусу Пениду, у него много друзей, который организуют вам все что угодно за очень выгодную плату. Мади очень дружелюбный и улыбчивый человек, он знает русский язык, поэтому с ним можно разговаривать и узнавать многое про Бали. Я его всем советую в первую очередь, он может показать вам весь остров и организовать туры на другие соседние острова и вулканы. Спасибо ему большое, нам очень понравилось с ним проводить время. Советуем вам выбрать именно его за его труд, старания и доброжелательность Мади, спасибо тебе ❤️

7 months ago
GEDE BMTHAMV

GEDE BMTHAMV

Google Review

5

Thanks a lot

8 months ago
Валерия Келейникова

Валерия Келейникова

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5

Thank you for a great day in Ubud, Madi 🙏🏻 We really enjoyed our cozy and interesting trip)

A year ago
Р М

Р М

Google Review

5

No written review.

A year ago
Bakhtiyar Azagov

Bakhtiyar Azagov

Google Review

5

Thank you for hospitality! We enjoy our travel in Bali with you Excatly Mr Burteh! He is best tour guide and driver in Bali. Mr Murteh is local, thats why he has to much information about Bali Perfect

A year ago
Elena Toroshniak

Elena Toroshniak

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5

Нам повезло, что знакомы с Маде. Это самый добрый и искренний человек на Бали

A year ago
Vit Mit

Vit Mit

Google Review

5

Путешествие на Бали – это всегда погружение в мир красоты, духовности и уникальной культуры. Но по-настоящему раскрыть душу острова, прочувствовать его магию можно только с опытным и увлеченным проводником. Нам в этом невероятно повезло – мы встретили Маде! Маде – не просто гид, он настоящий хранитель традиций и наследник балийской культуры. Он открыл нам не только знаменитые достопримечательности, но и тайные уголки острова, поделился своими знаниями о древних обычаях и верованиях. Благодаря Маде мы смогли: * Почувствовать энергетику священных храмов: Маде рассказал нам об истории и значении каждого храма, помог правильно провести церемонии и почувствовать связь с духовным миром Бали. * Погрузиться в атмосферу балийской деревни: мы побывали в гостях у местных жителей, познакомились с их бытом, попробовали традиционные блюда и даже приняли участие в мастер-классах по ремеслам. * Насладиться природными красотами: Маде показал нам живописные рисовые террасы, вулканы, водопады и секретные пляжи, где можно было отдохнуть от шума и суеты. Но самое главное – Маде подарил нам незабываемые эмоции, искреннее общение и теплоту. Он отвечал на все наши вопросы, учитывал наши пожелания и создавал атмосферу настоящего приключения. Мы безгранично благодарны Маде за это удивительное путешествие! Он помог нам открыть для себя настоящий Бали – остров Богов, красоты и гармонии. Если вы планируете поездку на Бали, обязательно обратитесь к Маде – он сделает ваше путешествие незабываемым!

A year ago
Галина Бардымова

Галина Бардымова

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5

Мадэ очень классный, дружелюбный и общительный, интересно рассказывает) Ждет когда нужно, в общем, очень приятный) рекомендую Можно обо всем договориться) если будет дождь, он сопровождает с зонтиком)

A year ago
Инна Звездина

Инна Звездина

Google Review

5

Спасибо большое, мы объехали за один день все прекрасные пляжи 😍 Остались очень довольны и будем рекомендовать друзьям 🙏🏻✨

A year ago
ЖАННА

ЖАННА

Google Review

5

Хотим от всего сердца поблагодарить нашего гида Маде. Наше путешествие по Бали было незабываемо! Благодаря вам мы познакомились с этой чудесной страной! Нас не только возили по районам, но и рассказывали историю Бали❤️ мы чувствовали себя в полной безопасности и полную заботу о нас. Благодарим и до встречи вновь на Бали🫶🏻

A year ago
Карина Ревазян

Карина Ревазян

Google Review

5

Veryyyy good

A year ago
Влад Хайбулин

Влад Хайбулин

Google Review

5

No written review.

A year ago
細野佳代子

細野佳代子

Google Review

5

No written review.

A year ago
Alex Alex

Alex Alex

Google Review

5

Очень рекомендую этого русскоговорящего балийца! 👍 Экскурсии с ним - это просто супер! 🤩 Он не только рассказывает интересные факты об острове и показывает самые красивые места, но и делится местными фишками, о которых не прочитаешь в путеводителях. 😉 Он очень внимательный и отзывчивый, с ним легко и приятно общаться.

2 years ago
Евгений Ширшин

Евгений Ширшин

Google Review

5

Маде добряк!) очень внимательный, и профессиональный гид! Уже много лет дружим с ним! Провез по всем уголкам прекрасного Бали! Хорошо говорит на русском и английском языках! Аккуратно водит машину! Очень адекватные цены на экскурсии!! Знает все вкусные и красивые места! Поможет со всеми вопросами на Бали, такие как аренда скутера, или аренда жилья! Встретит и проводит в аэропорт, если вы с ребенком то у Маде прекрасные дочки которые с удовольствием побуду няней!)) Всем рекомендую это агенство!!

2 years ago
Сергей Милых

Сергей Милых

Google Review

5

No written review.

2 years ago
Denise

Denise

Google Review

5

Made did an amazing job as a guide! Comfortable pick-up & drop-off, safe driving, very friendly & helpful, explained a lot while driving & visiting the spots. He knows a lot and is happy to answer any questions! He also brought local fruits for testing! Amazing day, thank you so much! 🙏🏼🫶🏼🧡

2 years ago
Stijn Heerze

Stijn Heerze

Google Review

5

Really nice and kind guide. Knows a lot about Bali. Also a very good driver.

2 years ago
Juliette Bos

Juliette Bos

Google Review

5

Very nice driver, good communication and good service. Perfect!

2 years ago
Nengah Negare

Nengah Negare

Google Review

5

This company is the best, good driver and pofesional guide, i am very enjoy visiting Bali island 👍👍👍

2 years ago
Ni Kadek Kardiasih

Ni Kadek Kardiasih

Google Review

5

Sakuraba give me best service treveling in bali. Thakyou very much for guide bali sakuraba

2 years ago

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