Ultimate North Bali Tour Tanah Lot, Ulun Danu & Rice Terraces

Experience the Best of North Bali with the Ultimate Tour — Temples, Rice Fields, and Scenic Views

This full-day tour in Bali takes you through some of the island’s most iconic sights, starting with the historic Taman Ayun Temple and ending at the breathtaking Tanah Lot Sunset Temple. For just $29 per person, you’ll enjoy a well-paced journey lasting around 8 to 10 hours, with hotel pickup and private transportation included, making it a convenient way to cover a lot of ground in a single day. Your guides, like Widi and Agung, are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, turning what could be a typical sightseeing trip into an enriching experience.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances cultural highlights with natural beauty. The visits to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple and the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces give you a genuine taste of Bali’s spiritual and agricultural traditions, while stops at Wanagiri Hidden Hills and Handara Gate offer stunning photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy Bali’s lush landscapes. A second highlight? The flexible itinerary, allowing for some customization—perfect if you want to spend more time at a particular spot or explore nearby attractions.

A possible drawback? Since the tour is quite packed, you’ll spend a good chunk of the day riding in a vehicle, which might be tiring for some travelers, especially on hot days. But if you’re eager to see the highlights with a knowledgeable guide who can share stories and insights, this tour is an excellent value. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a well-organized route that covers both cultural landmarks and gorgeous scenery, with plenty of stops for memorable photos and brief explorations.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of cultural and natural attractions that showcase Bali’s diverse beauty
• Expert guides like Widi and Agung enhance the experience with local knowledge and personal stories
• Affordable price point offers great value for a full-day tour with hotel transfers included
• Flexible itinerary options allow some customization to suit your interests
• Admission fees are not included in the ticket price, so budget for a few extra dollars at each site
• Comfortable private transportation ensures a smooth ride across Bali’s scenic routes

A Detailed Look at the North Bali Experience

The Journey Begins Early in the Morning

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup between 7:00 and 8:00 am, a time that works well for avoiding the midday heat. Your group is typically small or private, depending on your booking, which means more personalized attention. The air-conditioned vehicle offers a comfortable ride as you leave Bali’s busy towns and head into the island’s quieter northern regions.

Taman Ayun Temple — A Crown Jewel of Royal Heritage

Your first stop is Taman Ayun, a 17th-century temple complex built as a family temple for the Mengwi Kingdom. It’s considered one of Bali’s most attractive and frequently visited temples, thanks largely to its beautiful moats, pagodas, and lush gardens. While admission isn’t included ($3 at the gate), the temple’s architecture and peaceful setting make it worth the extra cost. As one reviewer noted, the environment is breathtaking, and the guide will fill you in on its history and significance.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple — Iconic and Picturesque

Next, you’ll visit Ulun Danu Beratan, a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess of the lake, Ida Batari Dewi Ulun Danu. Perched on the edge of Beratan Lake, this photo-worthy site often appears in Bali postcards with its multi-tiered shrines reflected on the water. The location’s serenity makes it stand out, and you’ll appreciate how the temple’s setting in a crater-filled landscape adds to its mystical allure. You’ll want your camera ready, especially since the guide shares stories about the temple’s spiritual role.

Wanagiri Hidden Hills — A Scenic Photo Stop

After soaking in the temple’s tranquility, it’s time for Wanagiri Hidden Hills—a popular spot for panoramic views of Buyan Lake and the surrounding hills. It’s a favorite among photographers, thanks to its stunning vistas and well-designed Instagram-worthy platforms. The $10 admission fee is a small price for the chance to capture Bali’s lush greenery from above, and many visitors mention how much they enjoyed the scenic beauty and photo opportunities.

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces — A World UNESCO Heritage Site

The tour then moves to Jatiluwih, famous for its extensive rice terraces that cascade from mountain slopes to the coast. These terraces are an essential part of Bali’s agricultural landscape, and walking or simply looking at them offers a glimpse into the island’s sustainable farming practices. Visitors frequently comment on how stunning the views are, and how the peaceful atmosphere offers a break from the busier southern parts of Bali.

Tanah Lot — Bali’s Sunset Icon

The final stop is Tanah Lot, perhaps Bali’s most celebrated offshore temple. Its dramatic setting on a rocky outcrop surrounded by crashing waves makes it an iconic image of Bali. The temple is open for visits, and while the admission fee of $6 isn’t included, it’s a small investment for the chance to watch the sunset—a truly memorable way to end your day. Some reviews mention that the crowds can be heavy, but arriving later in the afternoon helps you experience the sunset without too many fellow visitors.

Handara Gate & Additional Options

Before heading back to your hotel, the Handara Gate offers another striking photo opportunity—this ’new’ Bali icon features an ornate entrance framed by lush greenery. It’s part of the Handara Golf & Resort, so you get a glimpse of Bali’s luxurious side. The $6 admission fee is modest and worth it if you love architecture and scenic gates.

Flexibility and Customization

While the core itinerary is quite packed, the tour provider mentions that additional stops and changes are possible—depending on your preferences or timing. This flexibility can be helpful if you want to explore nearby attractions or spend more time at a favorite site.

What’s Included and What to Budget for

For $29, you get hotel pickup and drop-off, private air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking driver, and bottled water. The admission tickets to sites like Ulun Danu or Tanah Lot are not included in the base price, so you should budget around $20-$25 for entrance fees if you want to visit everything. This approach makes the tour flexible, but it’s worth noting that the added costs can add up if you’re keen on seeing all the sites.

The Guides and Their Role

Guides like Widi and Agung earn praise for their friendly attitude and extensive knowledge. They don’t just drive you from point A to B; they share stories, explain the cultural significance, and answer questions. One reviewer specifically appreciated how Widi could speak Japanese, making the experience more personal if you’re a Japanese-speaking traveler.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is an excellent choice for first-time visitors who want a rundown of North Bali’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transportation. It’s also ideal if you’re eager to learn about Bali’s spiritual places and natural beauty from guides who genuinely enjoy sharing their knowledge. The pace is brisk but manageable, and the stops are well-chosen for their visual appeal and cultural importance.

If you’re someone who appreciates photo opportunities, authentic insights, and scenic landscapes, you’ll find plenty to love here. However, if you prefer a more relaxed or niche-focused experience, or want to spend more time exploring individual sites, this might feel a little rushed.

Final Thoughts

For just around $30, this tour offers incredible value for covering Bali’s iconic temples, rice terraces, and scenic viewpoints in one smooth day. The combination of stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides makes it a trip that feels both fun and meaningful. It’s a smart choice for travelers looking to maximize their time and get a good sense of North Bali’s cultural and natural highlights.

The tour’s flexibility, friendly guides, and impressive sights make it a strong recommendation for first-timers, or for anyone who wants a well-organized day with plenty of memorable moments. Just remember to bring your camera, some extra cash for entrance fees, and a little patience for the crowds at Tanah Lot.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered between 07:00 and 08:00 am at your hotel, with no extra charge, across Ubud, Kuta, Seminyak, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, Canggu, Sanur, or Uluwatu.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 8 to 10 hours, making it a full-day experience packed with highlights.

Are admission fees included?
No, the fee for attractions like Ulun Danu, Taman Ayun, Wanagiri, Handara Gate, and Tanah Lot are not included in the ticket price. Budget around $20-$25 for all entrance tickets if you visit every site.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private tour or activity, meaning only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the provider offers flexible itineraries, allowing you to change or add stops depending on your interests.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, a camera, and cash for entrance fees or optional purchases at the sites.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate; it’s ideal for those interested in culture, scenery, and photography. The pace is generally suitable for most fitness levels.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

To sum it up, the Ultimate North Bali Tour strikes a great balance between cost, comfort, and memorable sights. It’s an excellent way to see the highlights of Bali’s north with the guidance of local experts, making it perfect for travelers eager to learn, explore, and capture stunning images from some of Bali’s most famous locations.