Nungnung Waterfall Bali: A Hidden Jungle Gem Worth the Climb
Discover Nungnung Waterfall Bali – a powerful cascade hidden in lush jungle, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers near Ubud.
Tucked deep in the Balinese jungle and far from the usual tourist trail, Nungnung Waterfall Bali is one of the island’s most underrated natural wonders. Towering nearly 50 meters high, this powerful cascade crashes into a misty pool surrounded by dense tropical foliage. While the descent of over 500 steep steps may challenge your legs, the reward is unforgettable: roaring waters, serene atmosphere, and photo-worthy jungle vibes. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure that still feels wildly authentic, Nungnung is Bali at its most raw and refreshing.
Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Bali’s Enchanting Waterfalls
Bali Travel Guide: Where to Stay, What to See & How to Explore the Island
🧭 How to Get to Nungnung Waterfall Bali
Nungnung Waterfall is located about 35 kilometers north of Ubud in Bali’s central highlands. It’s a scenic drive through rice terraces, palm-lined roads, and peaceful villages. Most visitors reach it by scooter (rentals around 75,000 IDR/day) or by private car and driver (roughly 500,000–700,000 IDR/day for a full-day trip).
🗺️ Google Maps coordinates: Nungnung Waterfall, Plagean, Petang, Badung Regency, Bali
📌 Tip: If you’re staying in Ubud, allow at least 1.5 hours to reach the parking lot depending on traffic.
💰 Entrance Fee & Opening Hours
The entrance to Nungnung is managed by a local village and includes parking and trail maintenance.
- 🎟️ Entry fee: 20,000 IDR (~$1.30 USD) per person
- 🕘 Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily
- 🅿️ Parking fee: Free or 2,000–5,000 IDR for a scooter
Bring cash, as there’s no card payment option.
🥾 The Hike Down
Brace yourself: it’s a steep descent down around 500 steps carved into the hillside. The stairs can be slippery in wet weather, but they are solid and safe, with bamboo railings in parts.
🧤 What to bring:
- Good walking shoes or hiking sandals
- Water (no shops at the base)
- Waterproof bag or cover (the mist is intense)
- Swimsuit if you plan to get wet
- Camera (with lens cloth!)
The return hike is a leg-burner, so take breaks if needed!
🌴 What to Expect at the Waterfall
At the bottom, you’ll emerge into a lush green amphitheater, surrounded by cliffs dripping with vines and moss. Nungnung Waterfall plunges over 50 meters into a wide pool, sending up a powerful spray that soaks the rocks around it. The sound is thunderous, the atmosphere almost spiritual.
⛔ Swimming is technically allowed, but caution is essential. The current is strong, and the rocks can be slippery.
📸 The mist and height make it one of the most photogenic waterfalls in Bali—especially in the morning light.
🧘♀️ The vibe is tranquil, especially if you arrive early. By noon, it gets busier with groups and day-trippers.
🌿 Combine It With Nearby Stops
If you have time, combine Nungnung with:
- Sangeh Monkey Forest (less touristy than Ubud’s)
- Taman Ayun Temple – A royal water temple and UNESCO site
- Leke Leke Waterfall – Another nearby hidden gem with easier access
🧳 Final Tips
- Best visited during the dry season (April–October) when trails are safer
- Avoid heavy rain days—it’s slippery and water levels can rise
- Weekdays and early mornings offer more peace
- Not ideal for those with mobility issues due to the stairs
✨ Why Visit Nungnung Waterfall?
Because it’s wild, raw, and powerful. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why you came to Bali in the first place—not for crowds or cafes, but for mist, jungle, and the deep green silence of nature.
