Tabanan Bali has long been known as an authentic escape from the hustle and bustle of South Bali. With its lower population density and beautiful natural landscapes, this region has increasingly attracted both tourists and long-term residents seeking a quieter way of life. As more people choose to settle here, new lifestyle destinations continue to emerge, including Nuanu, the growing area around Kedungu Beach, and the charming Kaba-Kaba Village. What were once traditional Balinese villages are gradually transforming into vibrant residential communities filled with villas in Tabanan, cafés, restaurants, schools, shops, and sports and wellness centers.

You may be one of the many people considering a move to this part of Bali, drawn by the promise of a slower lifestyle and a welcome escape from the daily traffic of Canggu. In this guide, I’ll share my recommendations for the best things to do in Tabanan Bali so you can slow down and enjoy the more peaceful side of the island.

Tabanan, Bali, one of the most authentic regions in Bali

I’ve been living near Tabanan for more than five years, and it remains my favorite area in all of Bali. One of my favorite things to do when I have plenty of time on my hands is to drive toward Tabanan town. As I pass through the quiet traditional villages along the way, I can’t help but admire the intricate Balinese gates and beautifully carved walls. Everything feels authentic and remarkably well preserved. I love seeing the spacious family compounds, the peaceful roads, and the calm atmosphere that surrounds them. The journey itself already feels refreshing, even before reaching destinations like Bedugul, Tanah Lot, or the emerald-green rice terraces of Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. In the mornings, my husband loves taking our daughter to Kedungu Beach or Nyanyi Beach to play in the sand and watching surfers chase the perfect waves. Both beaches are known for black sand and tend to be far less crowded compared to Pererenan Beach and Batu Bolong Beach, making them feel much more peaceful and relaxing.

That is why I’ve always found it surprising that Tabanan is still considered one of Bali’s underrated destinations. Most travelers continue to base themselves in Canggu, Uluwatu, Seminyak, and Ubud. But with rapid development taking place across Tabanan, I’m not sure how much longer this part of Bali will remain as peaceful and untouched as it is today.

Stretching along the Bali western coastline toward the island’s central highlands, Tabanan is one of the eight regencies of Bali. Often referred to as the “rice bowl of Bali,” Tabanan is known for its vast and iconic terraced rice paddies that define much of the region’s landscape.

For decades,Tabanan has been home to some of the island’s most famous landmarks, including the iconic Tanah Lot Temple, cool mountain town of Bedugul, and the UNESCO-recognized Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. Yet beyond these well-known attractions, relatively few visitors spend much time exploring Tabanan itself. As a result, many parts of the regency have remained authentic and largely untouched by gentrification, at least until recently. If you’re looking for a place that still feels like the real Bali, surrounded by pristine natural scenery, and offering experiences far from the usual tourist trail, Tabanan Bali is one of the best places to visit and stay on the island.

Getting to Tabanan is relatively easy from Bali’s most popular tourist areas. Depending on where you are staying and which part of Tabanan you plan to visit, the journey can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours. The most convenient way to get there is by private car, scooter, or ride-hailing apps (Grab or Gojek). If you are staying in Canggu, Tabanan is just next door. Areas such as Nyanyi Beach and Kedungu Beach can be reached in around 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Tabanan town is approximately 45 to 60 minutes away.

From Uluwatu, the journey is longer because you need to pass through much of South Bali. Reaching southern Tabanan usually takes 2 to 3 hours, depending heavily on traffic conditions. If you are visiting Bedugul or Jatiluwih, add another 1 to 1.5 hours. Meanwhile, Ubud is well connected to central and northern Tabanan. The drive to Tabanan town generally takes 1 to 1.5 hours. Destinations such as Jatiluwih and Bedugul can be reached in about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Things to see & do in Tabanan, Bali

1. Discover the beauty of Tanah Lot Temple beyond sunset

Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop amidst crashing waves, Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s most iconic sea temples and a must-visit cultural destination near Canggu. Dedicated to the guardian spirits of the sea, the ancient Hindu shrine dating back to the 1600’s offers a breathtaking setting, especially during sunset when the silhouette of the shrine glows against the sky. While the site is popular with tourists, it remains a deeply spiritual place for locals, who continue to visit for prayer and ceremonies. Just a 30-minute drive from Canggu, Bali, Tanah Lot offers a powerful reminder of Bali’s enduring spiritual traditions.

I’ve been to Tanah Lot Temple many times, not only to see the temple or witness the sunset, but also because I genuinely enjoy walking around the area. One thing I’ve missed since leaving the city is having proper sidewalks. Many places in Bali still don’t have wide or comfortable pedestrian paths, which makes simple walks difficult. That’s why Tanah Lot has become one of the places where my husband and I can enjoy long, peaceful walks together. The entire complex is surprisingly pleasant to explore on foot, especially in the late afternoon when the sea breeze starts to cool the area down.

Tanah Lot is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Entrace tickets for foreign visitor cost IDR 75.000 for adult and IDR 40.000 for children. For Indonesian citizens, the fee are IDR 30.000 for adult and IDR 20.000 for children. Children under 5 years old can enter free of charge.

2. Wandering through the emerald Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Bali has many terraced rice fields, but Jatiluwih rice terraces are the largest. Once a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site candidate, Jatiluwih rice terraces is a destination you can visit if you fancy trekking among breathtaking scenery, looking for a wonderful photo or video opportunities, or want to spend time away from the island’s crowded situation south.

Located 700 meters above the sea level, the Jatiluwih rice terraces comprise over 600 hectares of rice fields that follow the flowing topography of the Batukaru mountain range. These are maintained by a traditional water management cooperative known as subak, which dates back to the 9th century. The cooperative itself eventually won recognition as a dominant factor in Bali’s ‘cultural landscape’ entry on the heritage list.

Jatiluwih rice terraces is located at Penebel district in Tabanan Bali. To get here, I drove for 1 hour and 18 minutes from Canggu. I was pretty amazed by the scenery I saw once we entered Jatiluwih village. As far as the eye can see, a beautiful view of contoured rice terraces surrounds from all sides. 5 mountains from the Batukaru mountain range appear towering over us. The cool breeze of Bali highlands swept our bodies & mind. After exploring the rice terraces, we sat down at one of the restaurants along the main road. There’s something incredibly relaxing about sipping a cup of hot tea while soaking in the beautiful scenery around us. Moments like this are exactly why I love spending time in this part of Bali.

To visit Jatiluwih rice terraces, you need to buy entrance tickets at the main checkpoint before entering the village. It’s IDR 75.000 for foreign visitors and IDR 25.000 for Indonesian citizens. And iff you have more time, you can consider to visit nearby attractions as well: Yeh Hoo waterfalls, Angseri natural hot springs, Luhur Batukaru temple, Bali Botanical Garden, and Beratan lake in Bedugul.

3. Unwinding at the natural pools of Angseri Hot Spring

A wonderful way to relax after spending hours walking around the Jatiluwih rice terraces is by soaking in Angseri natural hot springs. It’s a tranquil, mineral-rich geothermal oasis in Tabanan Bali. This tranquil hot spring in Tabanan is tucked away among lush jungles, emerald rice terraces, and traditional villages, offering a peaceful and affordable escape from Bali’s busier tourist areas.

What makes Angseri Hot Spring unique is its naturally warm water, which has a soft milky-green color due to its high sulfur and mineral content. The hot spring features two open-air public pools, one for adults and a shallower one for children. If you’re prefer a more priviate and secluded experience, there are also enclosed cabin areas with bamboo walls available for small groups. One of the things I love most about this place is its natural setting. The hot spring sits right beside a waterfall, allowing visitors to alternate between soaking in the warm mineral water and cooling off under the refreshing waterfall.

If you’re looking to visit a destination with a strong local atmosphere, then Angseri hot springs is definitely worth visiting. It can get busy on weekends with local families, so I would recommend coming on a weekday if you want a quieter and more relaxing experience. The entrancecfee is IDR 50.000 for foreign visitors and IDR 10.000 for Indonesian citizens. Make sure to bring cash, along with your own towel and soap, to make your visit more comfortable.

4. Exploring the artistic side of Bali at Nuanu Creative City

Nuanu is an integrated ecosystem spread across 44 hectares in Beraban Village, Tabanan, Bali, around 30 minutes north-west of Canggu and an hour’s drive from Denpasar. It’s more than just a trendy tourism destination in Tabanan Bali, Nuanu is a creative ecosystem where nature, art, technology, and lifestyle blend harmoniously together.

There are plenty things to do and places to spend time within Nuanu. If you’re looking for something beyond the typical beach club in Bali, head to Luna Beach Club. Set right in front of Nyanyi Beach, this tropical architectural showpiece of bamboo and glass blends cutting-edge design with a massive, day-to-night island playground atmosphere. There are plenty of ways to spend your time here, from relaxing on massive daybeds and swimming in multiple pools to tackling the large water slide and enjoying spectacular fire shows, live DJs, and diverse dining options spread across several unique zones. One unique feature you shouldn’t miss is Utopia Cave Club. To reach it, you’ll take a thrilling ride down into a luminescent cave bar hidden beneath the beach club. Inside, you’ll find an infinity-edge pool overlooking the ocean, paired with a vibrant VIP party atmosphere.

On another visit, my family and I explored Pacha Alpacas, home to a charming alpaca exhibit set within a beautifully designed and sustainably environment; Aurora Media Park, an interactive jungle trail featuring digital art installations and light projections; and Magic Garden, which features lush botanical displays alongside a beautiful enclosed butterfly habitat.

Nuanu Creative City is also home to Oshom Bali, a luxury beachfront sanctuary inspired by the beauty of wabi-sabi design. Responding to the growing concern among Bali residents about the lack of comfortable public pedestrian spaces, Nuanu continues to develop its green spaces so people can enjoy quality time with friends, family, children, and even pets in a more walkable and community-oriented environment.

5. Slowing down on Nyanyi Beach and Tabanan’s quiet coastline

As the beach around Canggu becomes busier and more commercial, many people have started looking further west toward places like Nyanyi, Kedungu, Yeh Gangga, and Balian Beach. Each area has its own personality, but they all share a slower, more nature-driven atmosphere compared to southern Bali.

Nyanyi Beach, the beach we visit most often, especially in the mornings. Located just beyond Pererenan, close to Tanah Lot Temple, and right in front of Luna Beach Club, Nyanyi Beach has black sand, rice fields, and a peaceful village atmosphere. I rarely see large crowds here. Most of the visitors are locals, families with children and and couples doing pre-wedding photoshoots. The atmosphere is calm, making it perfect for an afternoon stroll or daydream while witness the sun sets.

Kedungu Beach, sits slightly north of Nyanyi and has become increasingly popular among surfers and long-term residents. Compared to Nyanyi, Kedungu feels more rustic and local. There are fewer large developments, more open rice fields, and a stronger village atmosphere. I find Kedungu Beach quite popular among Balinese hence it often gets too crowded in the afternoon.

Yeh Gangga Beach, a lesser-known black sand beach located in Yeh Gangga Village, Tabanan Bali. It’s a true hidden gem in Tabanan Bali. When I went there, the beach was almost empty, and the atmosphere is serene and peaceful. There are some rustic warungs alongside the beach adding the its village atmosphere.

Balian Beach, Located much further north in western Tabanan, Bali, around 1.5–2 hours from Canggu depending on traffic. The moment you arrive, Bali feels different. The roads become quieter, the air cooler, and tourism less dominant. It has long been known as a surf town with a strong old-school Bali feeling. The waves attract surfers from around the world, but the atmosphere remains relaxed and unpretentious.

6. Escaping to the cool Highland retreat of Bedugul

Bedugul is a scenic highland resort area located in the mountains of northen Tabanan, Bali. Sitting around 1,500 meters above sea level, the area enjoys a cool alpine climate with temperatures ranging between 15–24°C, making it a refreshing escape from Bali’s tropical coastal heat. Although Bedugul is still considered somewhat underrated compared to the busy areas of South Bali, it has long been a favorite weekend getaway for locals looking to escape the heat and crowds. The area offers a wide range of accommodations, from lakeside villas and glamping sites to mountain hotels tucked away in nearby Munduk.

Bedugul is best known for the Pura Ulun Danu Beratan, one of Bali’s most iconic temples. Set on the edge of Lake Beratan, the temple appears to float on the water and is famously featured on the IDR 50,000 rupiah banknote. Pura Ulun Danu Beratan was built to honor the Goddess Danu, the goddess for lakes, rivers, and water. The temple complex consists of four sacred buildings. Besides visiting the temple itself, you can also stroll along the lakeside promenade or rent a boat to explore the lake from the water.

Beyond visiting the iconic temple and Beratan lake, you can also explore Bali Botanic Garden, have a picnic surrounded by nature, or simply slow down and enjoy the area’s cool, crisp mountain air. Nearby, you’ll also find Candi Kuning Market, a traditional market known for its fresh vegetables & fruits. Buying fresh vegetables and plants here are honestly one of my favorite things to do in Tabanan Bali since I find their produce to be fresher, bigger, and better quality to what I usually find in South Bali.

7. Visiting the peaceful monkey forest of Alas Kedaton

Forget visiting the crowded Ubud Monkey Forest. In Tabanan, Bali, there is a similar attraction called Alas Kedaton.

Alas Kedaton is a 12-hectare protected forest and nature reserve famous for housing a large population of wild, long-tailed macaques and the ancient Pura Dalem Kahyangan Kedaton, a unique megalithic Hindu temple. We visited the Alas Kedaton in Kukuh Village, Tabanan, Bali, as a fun weekend activity for our daughter. To explore the forest, visitors are accompanied by a guide who walks you through the area and explains the history of the site as well as the behavior of the monkeys.

The forest is home to roughly 2,000 grey long-tailed macaques that roam freely. The monkeys near the main courtyard are already accustomed to visitors and surprisingly not aggressive at all. However, once we entered the deeper part of the forest, our guide reminded us to be careful, not to touch and feed the monkeys there, as they are much less familiar with humans.

What surprised me most was how quiet the place felt. There were only a handful of visitors besides us, which made me wonder why more people don’t come here. Our guide explained that visitor numbers dropped drastically after the pandemic. For some reason, tour buses and travel agents stopped including Alas Kedaton Tabanan Bali in their itineraries. I find it quite sad since Alas Kedaton is actually a lovely place for a peaceful walk or to see monkeys up close, especially for those who don’t want to travel all the way to Ubud. That said, some parts of the area could definitely use restoration, particularly the row of old souvenir shops near the entrance, many of which now look abandoned.

Along the forest trail, we also came across a Balinese temple called Pura Alas Kedaton, which was built between the 12th and 13th centuries. This temple features a rare design with four entrance gates instead of the usual two. Another highly unusual characteristic is its inverted Tri Mandala layout. On our way back to the entrance, we also encountered several fascinating kalong (giant fruit bats). These bats are cared for by locals, and visitors are welcome to take photos with them if they wish.

Entrance ticket: IDR 20.000 for Indonesian citizens and IDR 30.000 for foreign visitors. Tip will be well appreciated by the guide.

8. Chasing the hidden beauty of Sing Sing Angin Waterfall

Bali has many stunning waterfalls indeed. But if you’re looking to visit some uncrowded waterfalls so you can have if for yourself, then opt to visit the waterfalls in Tabanan Bali. I’ve been to one of them during the journey to one of the lesser known destinations in Bali, Negara. On the way back home, I went to Sing Sing Angin Waterfall. It’s a humble, jungle-covered cascade where the falls aren’t very tall, making it very safe to stand directly under the refreshing streams. Sing-Sing Angin is located at Manikyang Village, Selemadeg, Tabanan Bali. To reach the waterfall, it’s very easy, being just a 2-minute walk from the parking area. And yes, it was incredibly quiet, we were the only visitors there at the time.

Tucked away in lush jungles and peaceful rural villages, other waterfalls in Tabanan Bali offer a perfect escape from the busier tourist hotspots.

• Blahmantung Waterfall: Also known as Blemantung, this hidden gem drops 25 to 50 meters into a pristine pool surrounded by coffee and clove plantations. It requires a pleasant, moderate 400-meter walk but offers unmatched tranquility and very few crowds. Blahmantung Waterfall is located at Pupuan, Tabanan, Bali, roughly 1.5- to 2-hour drive from Denpasar and Kuta.
• Leke-Leke Waterfall: One of the most photogenic falls in the region. It features a narrow, 32-meter cascade tucked into a lush, green gorge. Reaching it requires a scenic and well-maintained 15 to 20-minute jungle trek. Leke-Leke Waterfall is located in Baturiti, on the way to Bedugul, making it a great stop to combine with your Bedugul trip.
• Yeh Ho Waterfall: Nestled amidst the world-famous Jatiluwih rice terraces, this quiet oasis is highly secluded. It features a multi-tiered cascade with a highly soothing atmosphere for those wanting to immerse themselves in authentic Balinese countryside
• Pengempu Waterfall: Located just north of the Sangeh Monkey Forest in Marga, Tabanan Bali, this calming, secluded waterfall is tucked inside a small cove.

9. Visiting a thousand of butterflies at Bali Butterfly Park

Another fun weekend activity idea is visiting Bali Butterfly Park or locally known as Taman Kupu-Kupu. Located in Sesandan, Penebel, Tabanan Bali, you can reach Bali Butterfly Park Tabanan within 1 hour drive from Canggu.

Bali Butterfly Park is a butterfly and insect conservation center. It is home to more than 900 butterflies from various species, along with a wide variety of other insects. The grounds cover a full hectare and nearly half of that area is dedicated to butterflies. You might also gonna find national and international researchers working with endangered species there. One of the highlights of the butterfly collection here includes the Barong butterfly, one of the largest Lepidoptera species, with a wingspan of more than 25 cm. Another feature you might find interesting here is a mini indoor museum where you can see preserved dried butterfly and insect species.

Entrance ticket: IDR 125.000 for foreign visitors and IDR 80.000 for Indonesian citizens.

10. Discovering the giant sleeping Buddha at Vihara Dharma Giri

Who would have thought that Tabanan Bali is home for a giant sleeping Buddha statue?

Built as a place of worship for Buddhist in Bali, Vihara Dharma Giri has also become a destination for visitors seeking tranquility, spiritual experiences, or simply a unique photography spot. The reclining Buddha statue, said to be the largest Bali stretches 10-meters horizontally. To reach the peacefully sleeping Buddha, you will need to climb quite a few stairs. Surrounded by mountains, jungle, and agricultural landscapes, Vihara Dharma Giri feels calm, sacred, and far removed from the busy tourist crowds of South Bali. It’s a beautiful place not only for sightseeing, but also for quiet reflection and meditation.

Located in Pupuan, Tabanan Bali, the giant Buddha statue was built in 2010 by taking the reference from Buddha reliefs in Mendut Temple in Magelang, Central Java. Visitors are required to donate as they wish, and wearing appropriate clothes upon entering the complex.

Living near Tabanan, Bali has been incredibly rewarding for me and my family. My husband and I both love quiet and peaceful surroundings, and living here allows us to enjoy the best of Bali, access to an international lifestyle and community, while still being close to some of the island’s most beautiful natural landscapes. Stay tuned, I’ll share my favorite cafes & restaurants in Tabanan next along with recommendations for hotels in Tabanan Bali including Bali Beach Glamping Tabanan.

Curious about my adventures in Europe and America ?. You can click the following links to see my traveling videos that have aired on Net TV :

1. Desa Hallstatt, Desa dengan Arsitektur Klasik di Pinggir Danau
2. Imutnya Park Guell, Dunia Fantasi Ala Gaudi di Barcelona
3. Ada Turki Mini di Bosnia Herzegovina
4. Nyobain Makanan Khas Bosnia, Kaya Rasa dan Pasti Halal
5. The Bean, Seni Kontemporer yang Ada di Film – film Hollywood

Want to help support my travel? Help me to visit 50 more countries and write more travel stories & guides by donating here

Watch my adventures & subscribe to my YouTube channel: The Island Girl Adventures