Twin Lakes Bali: Lake Buyan & Lake Tamblingan Travel Guide (2025)

Nestled in the cool highlands of North Bali, the Twin Lakes—Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan—are a breathtaking natural attraction offering scenic beauty, tranquility, and fresh mountain air. Surrounded by dense rainforest and lush hills, these crater lakes are lesser-known compared to Bali’s southern hotspots, making them a peaceful escape from the crowds. Whether you’re looking for a serene viewpoint, a quiet trek through nature, or a stop along a highland road trip, the Twin Lakes promise a rejuvenating experience in Bali’s green heart.

Table of Contents:

• TripAdvisor Ratings and Reviews
• What Did Visitors Like?
• What Did Visitors Not Like?
• Pro Tips to Keep in Mind
• The Basic Things to Know
• Deep Dive into Finer Aspects
• Other Things to do Near
• Hotels Near Twin Lakes
• Restaurants Near Twin Lakes
• The Final Verdict
• FAQs

Tripadvisor Rating of Twin Lakes 

Tripadvisor Rating: 4.3 ( 21 Reviews)

• Excellent: 13
• Very Good: 4
• Average: 2
• Poor: 1
• Terrible: 1

Visitors consistently praised the serenity, scenic viewpoints, and untouched natural surroundings. While some noted the limited facilities and unpredictable weather, the overall experience left travelers with a sense of calm and awe, making it a highly recommended spot for nature lovers.

What Did Visitors Like About the Twin Lakes?

Travelers were pleasantly surprised by the untouched charm and natural surroundings of the lakes.

• Stunning viewpoints: The roadside viewpoints along the Munduk-Bedugul route offer jaw-dropping views of both lakes, especially at sunrise. Visitors often stop here for panoramic photos and peaceful moments.
• Cool mountain climate: Unlike Bali’s hot coastal areas, the cooler temperatures around the lakes provide a refreshing break, especially in the midday sun.
• Bird’s nest photo spots: Many tourists enjoyed the quirky photo installations, like giant swings and bird nests, available at various stops along the way—ideal for Instagram-worthy shots.
• Peace and solitude: Unlike crowded beaches or temples, the Twin Lakes area remains quiet and relatively undeveloped, giving it an authentic and serene vibe.
• Trekking and nature walks: Nature lovers appreciated the forested trails between the lakes, including the trek from Lake Buyan to Lake Tamblingan, which passes through dense jungle and temples.

What Did Visitors Not Like About the Twin Lakes?

While the lakes are beautiful, a few aspects left some visitors wanting more.

• Limited facilities: Some travelers noted the lack of restrooms, food stalls, or proper signage in the more remote areas, especially near Lake Tamblingan.
• Fog and weather changes: Due to the elevation, the weather can shift quickly—fog sometimes obscures the view, especially in the afternoon or during the rainy season.
• Entrance fees at photo spots: While the viewpoints are free, several of the photo props like swings or nests charge a small fee, which some found unnecessary or overpriced.
• Difficult access without a vehicle: Public transport is almost nonexistent in the area, so it can be hard to reach without renting a scooter or hiring a driver.

Pro Tips to Keep in Mind About the Twin Lakes

A little preparation goes a long way to enhance your experience here.

• Visit early in the morning: This is when the skies are clearest and crowds are minimal—perfect for uninterrupted views and great lighting for photos.
• Bring a jacket or layers: It gets chilly, especially in the morning or if you’re staying until sunset. A light jacket is a must.
• Carry snacks and water: There aren’t many food options around, so it’s wise to bring some supplies with you if you’re exploring or hiking.
• Hire a local guide if trekking: For those planning to hike between the lakes or explore the jungle trails, a guide can be helpful for both navigation and safety.
• Watch out for monkeys: At some viewpoints, monkeys may approach visitors looking for food—don’t feed them, and keep your belongings secure.

The Basic Things to Know About the Twin Lakes

Before you head into Bali’s highlands, it’s useful to know a few essentials about the area.

• Location: The Twin Lakes are located in North Bali, between Munduk and Bedugul. They sit side by side in ancient volcanic craters and are surrounded by rainforests and hills.
• Getting there: The easiest way to visit is by renting a scooter or hiring a driver, as public transport is limited in the area. The journey from Ubud takes about 2–2.5 hours.
• No central entrance: Unlike many tourist spots, there’s no single entrance gate or ticket booth—visitors can stop at multiple viewpoints or trails freely, though photo spots may charge small fees.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (April to October) is ideal, with early mornings offering the clearest skies and least fog. Rainy season often brings mist and slippery trails.

Deep Dive into the Finer Aspects of the Twin Lakes

Beyond the views, the Twin Lakes offer quiet spiritual spots, nature immersion, and local culture.

Lake Buyan – Calm and Accessible

Lake Buyan is the more accessible of the two, with better roads and viewpoints. Visitors can enjoy lakeside spots, quiet picnic areas, and photo ops without needing a hike.

Lake Tamblingan – Mystical and Sacred

Lake Tamblingan is known for its spiritual atmosphere. Surrounded by forest and home to ancient temples like Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan, it’s considered sacred and still used for traditional ceremonies.

Jungle Trekking Trails

A guided trek through the rainforest between the lakes is a highlight for nature enthusiasts. The trail includes mossy paths, old temples, and an optional traditional canoe crossing at Tamblingan.

Scenic Viewpoints & Photo Stops

Several popular stops along the main road offer breathtaking aerial views of the lakes. Some include handmade swings, bamboo nests, and platforms designed for photography, though small fees may apply.

Other Things to Do Near the Twin Lakes

There’s more to explore in the surrounding area if you want to make a full day trip.

Munduk Waterfalls

Just a short drive away, you’ll find several beautiful waterfalls like Banyumala Twin Waterfalls and Munduk Waterfall—great for a dip or photos.

Bali Handara Gate

One of Bali’s most Instagrammed locations, this traditional Balinese gate is about 20 minutes from the lakes.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

A floating temple on Lake Beratan, it’s a serene and iconic cultural site well worth a visit after your lake exploration.

Wanagiri Hidden Hills

Famous for its photo props like bird nests and heart-shaped swings, this viewpoint overlooks the lakes and is especially popular with Instagrammers.

Hotels Around Twin Lakes

Here are 5 hotels near Twin Lakes (Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan):

Restaurants Near Twin Lakes

Here are some great dining options near Twin Lakes: 

The Final Verdict

The Twin Lakes are a must-visit for those seeking a quieter, more nature-centric side of Bali. Whether you’re road-tripping through the highlands or searching for a peaceful sunrise spot, the lakes deliver stunning beauty without the crowds. Their mystical atmosphere, cool climate, and scenic trails make them an ideal escape for adventurers, photographers, and peace seekers alike.

FAQs About Twin Lakes Bali (Lake Buyan & Lake Tamblingan)

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Do I need to pay an entrance fee to visit the Twin Lakes?

There is no general entrance fee for the lakes themselves, but some viewpoints or photo spots may charge a small fee (usually under IDR 30,000).

Are the Twin Lakes suitable for families or elderly visitors?

Yes, the roadside viewpoints are very accessible and family-friendly. However, jungle treks between the lakes may not be suitable for elderly travelers or those with limited mobility.

Can I swim in the Twin Lakes?

Swimming is not common here due to the sacred nature of the lakes and the lack of designated swim areas. It’s more of a place to enjoy nature and views than for water activities.