Duration: 10 hours (approximately)
Highlights: Bedugul area
Language: The tour is originally in Indonesian and English

When it comes to Bali, most people think of beaches and sunsets, but there’s so much more to this island than meets the eye. If you’re up for a day full of nature, temples, and some of the most stunning views Bali has to offer, the Bedugul Tour is for you. I had the chance to experience this day trip recently, and let me tell you, it was an incredible mix of culture and scenery. Here’s how the day unfolded.

Batu Karu Temple: A Tranquil Start to the Day
The tour kicked off at 8:00 AM with a prompt pick-up from the hotel. I had my coffee, but there’s something about early mornings in Bali that just wakes you up in the best way. The air is cool, and the roads are relatively empty as you make your way toward Batu Karu Temple, tucked into the lush greenery of the mountains.

Batu Karu Temple is one of Bali’s less-visited temples, and I think that’s what makes it so special. The temple is surrounded by jungle, and there’s this deep sense of serenity as you wander through the grounds. It’s like stepping into another world, far removed from the hustle and bustle of Bali’s tourist hotspots. You can hear birds chirping, and the mist from the surrounding mountains adds a magical atmosphere.

I’ll be honest: it was a bit foggy when we got there, but it added to the whole mystique of the place. There weren’t many people around, which gave us the chance to really take it all in at our own pace. If you’re someone who likes quieter, more spiritual experiences, Batu Karu is a must-visit.

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: Bali’s UNESCO World Heritage Site
From Batu Karu, we made our way to the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, and I was beyond excited. I’d heard so much about these terraces being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and they did not disappoint. Stretching as far as the eye can see, the terraces are a testament to Bali’s ancient subak irrigation system, which has been used for centuries.

Walking through the terraces, you can really appreciate the craftsmanship and hard work that goes into maintaining them. Each level of the terraces is perfectly carved into the landscape, with water glistening in the sun and rice plants gently swaying in the breeze.

Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll want to explore the pathways that wind through the fields. And bring your camera—the views here are unlike anything else. It’s easy to lose track of time as you wander around, taking in the peaceful surroundings. If you visit in the right season, you might even see the farmers planting or harvesting the rice, adding another layer of authenticity to the experience.

Lunch: A Scenic Break
After soaking in the views at Jatiluwih, we stopped for lunch at a restaurant with—you guessed it—an amazing view of the surrounding rice fields. There’s nothing like a good meal after a morning of exploring. The menu offered traditional Balinese cuisine, and I opted for bebek betutu, a slow-cooked duck dish that’s bursting with flavor.

Sitting there, enjoying my meal, I couldn’t help but reflect on how lucky I felt to be in such a beautiful part of the world. It’s moments like these when Bali really steals your heart. Whether you’re a foodie or just someone who appreciates a meal with a view, this lunch break is the perfect way to recharge before continuing the adventure.

Ulun Danu Temple: The Floating Temple of Bali
With full stomachs and high spirits, we made our way to Ulun Danu Temple, one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks. The temple sits on the shores of Lake Beratan, and during certain times of the year, it actually looks like it’s floating on the water.

The temple is dedicated to the goddess of the lake, Dewi Danu, and the whole place has a peaceful, almost ethereal vibe. The surrounding mountains and the reflection of the temple in the water create a picture-perfect scene that makes you want to just sit and admire the view.

If you’re into photography, this is a dream spot. I spent a good amount of time just wandering around, snapping photos from different angles. Even with a few tourists around, the temple’s beauty really shines through.

One thing to note: the weather can change quickly here because of the altitude. It was a bit chilly and cloudy when we arrived, so I’d recommend bringing a light jacket, just in case.

Local Fruit Market: A Taste of Bali’s Fresh Produce
Next up was a visit to a local fruit market, and let me tell you, this was a fun stop. Bali’s tropical climate means there’s an abundance of fresh fruit year-round, and the market was packed with colorful stalls selling everything from mangoes and bananas to dragon fruit and salak (snake fruit).

I’d never tried snake fruit before, so of course, I had to give it a go. It’s got a crisp texture with a sweet, slightly tangy taste—definitely worth trying if you’re up for something new. The vendors are friendly and more than happy to let you sample a few fruits before you buy.

If you’re a fan of tropical fruits, this is your chance to pick up some snacks for the road. Plus, buying directly from the market is a great way to support the local farmers.

Sangeh Monkey Forest: Mischievous Locals
Our final stop of the day was Sangeh Monkey Forest, a natural sanctuary for hundreds of long-tailed macaques. If you’ve never been to a monkey forest before, prepare yourself for some mischief! These monkeys are curious (and sometimes a little cheeky), so it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings.

That said, they’re also incredibly entertaining. We spent about an hour wandering through the forest, watching the monkeys swing from tree to tree and interact with each other. There are a few temple structures within the forest as well, which add to the atmosphere and give the whole place a mystical feel.

A word of caution: don’t bring any food with you unless you’re ready to share it with the monkeys. They’ve got quick hands, and they’re not shy about grabbing a snack if they see one. But as long as you follow the guidelines, it’s a safe and fun experience.

Wrapping Up the Bedugul Tour
As we made our way back to the hotel, I couldn’t help but feel like I’d experienced a different side of Bali. The Bedugul Tour offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and history, all in one day. From the tranquil Batu Karu Temple to the breathtaking views at Jatiluwih and the serene beauty of Ulun Danu Temple, every stop on this Bali tour package had something unique to offer.