Bali Car-Charter: Amazing North Bali Tour

Exploring North Bali in Comfort and Style

If you’re after a day of stunning scenery and cultural sights in Bali’s less-trodden north, this private North Bali tour for around $40 offers a fantastic value. Starting from Ubud or South Bali, a personal driver will whisk you away in a comfy air-conditioned vehicle, so you can skip the hassle of self-driving and focus on soaking in the views. The tour hits Handara Gate, Tamblingan Lake, Munduk Waterfall, Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist Monastery, and Banjar Hot Springs, making it a well-rounded day of natural beauty and spiritual serenity.

Two things we especially love about this experience: First, the personal touch of a private driver, allowing you to customize timing and focus on your interests. Second, the diverse mix of stops — from lush lakes to waterfalls and hot springs, each place offers unique photo opportunities and authentic local flavor.

A possible consideration is the long drive back from the northernmost points, which might eat into your day or lead to tired legs. However, for those who love scenic journeys and fewer crowds, this is a small trade-off. This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy nature, photography, and cultural sites without the stress of navigating themselves. It’s perfect if you appreciate a flexible, guided experience that balances sightseeing with comfort.

Key Points

• Private Tour: Only your group, ensuring personalized service and flexible timing.
• Stunning Photo Opportunities: Iconic gates, lakes, waterfalls, and temples perfect for memorable pictures.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup, and drop-off included.
• All-Inclusive Value: Entrance fees and lunch are included, making it easy to budget.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: From spiritual sites to lush landscapes, there’s a well-rounded experience.
• Ideal for Relaxed Sightseeing: Less rushing, more enjoying each stop at your own pace.

A Deep Dive into the North Bali Adventure

This tour packs in a lot of Bali’s natural and cultural treasures into an 8 to 10-hour window. It’s a great way to see the north without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect and why these spots matter.

Starting with the Iconic Handara Gate

Your day begins with a visit to the Handara Iconic Gate, a place Instagram lovers flock to for its picture-perfect backdrop. Surrounded by lush greenery and framed by a traditional Balinese gate, this location offers a quintessential Bali shot. It’s a popular spot for travelers wanting that iconic Bali photo, and you’ll understand why once you see it. The green scenery, the exotic architecture, and the mountainous background make this a place you’ll want to linger.

While admission isn’t included, the gate itself is free to view, and your driver will ensure you get your shot—possibly more than one—without the crowds of larger tour groups. Many reviews highlight how stunning the scenery is and how easy it is to take beautiful photos here, making it a true highlight.

Exploring the Tranquil Tamblingan Lake

Next, you head to Tamblingan Lake, one of Bali’s less commercialized but equally beautiful lakes. Located about 4,000 feet above sea level, it’s surrounded by traditional rice paddies, coffee plantations, and vegetable farms. This area offers a glimpse into Bali’s agricultural roots, away from tourist-heavy spots.

What makes Tamblingan special? It’s not just the scenery but the religious significance—local villagers fish, farm, and ferry visitors by dugout canoe to 31 nearby temples. It’s an authentic slice of Balinese life that many travelers overlook. If you love quiet, scenic spots, Tamblingan offers a peaceful break from more crowded destinations.

The Enchanting Munduk Waterfall

About 20 km from Bedugul, Munduk Waterfall is a favorite Bali attraction for nature lovers. Located in a village perched at an altitude of 800 meters, the cool mountain air makes this an ideal spot for refreshment. The waterfall’s cascading water gives visitors a chance to enjoy Bali’s lush, green landscape up close.

Travelers often describe Munduk as beautiful and refreshingly cool, especially after a warm drive. It’s a relatively short stop—about an hour—but enough time to take photos and enjoy the natural setting. As one reviewer noted, Munduk’s waterfall is one of the most popular sights in Bali.

Spiritual Peace at Brahma Vihara Arama

A highlight for many is Brahma Vihara Arama, Bali’s largest Buddhist monastery. Built in 1970 and withstanding earthquakes and restorations, this peaceful complex offers a different perspective of Bali’s spiritual landscape. The colorful stupa, the surrounding hillside setting, and the quiet ambiance make it worth a visit.

This stop offers a chance to appreciate Bali’s religious diversity and enjoy some serene contemplation. Visitors often comment on the beautiful temple grounds and how it’s a less crowded alternative to Bali’s Hindu temples.

Relaxation at Banjar Hot Springs

Ending your day with Banjar Hot Springs provides a relaxing contrast to the morning’s sightseeing. The natural hot springs are set in a lush, tropical environment, and modern facilities make the experience comfortable. Many reviews praise the peaceful atmosphere early in the morning, before crowds arrive, and the chance to soothe tired muscles.

The hot springs are a favorite among both locals and visitors, thanks to their soothing warmth and scenic setting. Entry isn’t included, but the hot springs are well-maintained, and you should allow around an hour for this stop.

Additional Pass-By Highlights

On your journey, you’ll also pass by notable sites like botanical gardens, temples, hills, waterfalls, and beaches, depending on your route. These picturesque views contribute to the feeling of a well-rounded day and give you plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

The Guide and Transportation

Your driver, often experienced and knowledgeable, acts as both chauffeur and guide, sharing insights at each stop. Many travelers have praised guides like Ketut and Gita for their punctuality, friendliness, and helpful suggestions—sometimes even adjusting the itinerary based on local conditions.

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the long drives, and hotel pickup and drop-off makes this tour hassle-free. Price-wise, with entrance fees and lunch included, it’s a good value considering the personalized service and the wide range of sights covered.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you enjoy nature, photography, and cultural sights without the stress of planning, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a relaxed day that includes both scenic beauty and spiritual spots. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an authentic and comfortable exploration of North Bali will find this trip rewarding.

Given the glowing reviews about the knowledgeable guides and the stunning vistas, you’ll likely leave with plenty of memorable photos and new insights into Bali’s diverse landscape and traditions.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This North Bali tour offers a fantastic combination of scenic stops, cultural insights, and relaxed pace. The private setup ensures you won’t be rushed and can tailor the day to your interests. The included transportation, entrance fees, and lunch mean you can enjoy a smooth experience without extra planning, making it excellent value.

It’s perfect for travelers who want to see Bali’s mountain lakes, waterfalls, temples, and hot springs in one comprehensive day, especially if they appreciate knowledgeable guides and a bit of flexibility. The long drive might be a downside for some, but for those who love scenic routes and fewer crowds, it’s a worthy trade-off.

In sum, this tour is an excellent choice if you’re after an authentic, scenic, and culturally rich experience that captures some of Bali’s best natural sights in one go, all while traveling comfortably in privacy.

FAQs

Is this tour private?
Yes, this is a private tour. Only your group will be in the vehicle, allowing for personalized pacing and stops.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, a professional driver, entrance tickets to attractions, and lunch. Personal expenses are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Does the tour pick up from all over Bali?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from Ubud and South Bali hotels and villas, including popular areas like Seminyak, Sanur, Canggu, Jimbaran, and Uluwatu.

Are entrance fees included?
The total price is all-inclusive, covering entrance fees and lunch, so there are no surprise expenses during the day.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a camera, and comfortable clothing. Dress smart casual as a respectful outfit for temples and monasteries.

Can the itinerary be customized?
The tour offers flexible timing based on your requests, and guides may suggest modifications, especially if there are local holidays or traffic considerations.

This private North Bali tour combines natural splendors with cultural depth and is a great day out for anyone wanting an authentic look at Bali’s less-touristy side. With thoughtful planning, friendly guides, and scenic stops, it’s a good investment for a memorable Bali experience.