Best Lakes in Bali – 2026 Volcano & Twin Lakes Guide

There are four main natural lakes in Bali, all located in the island’s central and northern highlands:

1. Lake Batur(locally known as Danau Batur)
2. Lake Beratan(locally called Danau Beratan)
3. Lake Buyan
4. Lake Tamblingan

These lakes were formed through volcanic activity in Bali’s highlands thousands of years ago. Because of their elevation, the weather here is noticeably cooler than coastal areas like Seminyak or Uluwatu.

If you’re checking a lakes in Bali map, you’ll notice they cluster around:

• Kintamani (Lake Batur)
• Bedugul (Lake Beratan)

Munduk region (Buyan & Tamblingan – the Twin Lakes)

1. Lake Batur – Bali’s Largest Crater Lake

Located in Kintamani, Lake Batur is the largest and most dramatic lake in Bali. It sits inside the caldera of Mount Batur, an active volcano that attracts sunrise trekkers daily. While the volcano remains active, it is closely monitored by Indonesian authorities. Visitors should always check local safety updates before sunrise treks or boat activities.

Why Visit?

• Epic volcanic landscapes
• Sunrise views over the lake
• Natural hot springs nearby
• Less commercial compared to southern Bali

Lakes Bali Things to Do at Lake Batur

• Sunrise trekking at Mount Batur
• Relax at the hot springs
• Boat rides on the lake
• Photography of volcanic scenery

While it’s not one of the typical swimming lakes in Bali, some locals do swim in designated areas. However, most visitors prefer hot spring pools nearby for safety and comfort.

• Best time to visit: Early morning for clear views and cooler temperatures.
• Elevation: ~1,031m above sea level

2. Lake Beratan – The Iconic Temple Lake

If you’ve seen Bali postcards, you’ve probably seen Ulun Danu Beratan Temple floating on the water. Located in Bedugul, Lake Beratan is one of the best lakes Bali offers for cultural experiences.

Why It’s Famous

• Home to the iconic Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
• Cool mountain climate
• Scenic boating options
• Easy access from central Bali

Things to Do

• Explore the temple complex
• Rent paddle boats
• Visit Bedugul Botanical Gardens
• Enjoy lakeside cafés

Unlike Lake Batur, Lake Beratan is more developed and visitor-friendly. However, it’s not typically recommended among swimming lakes in Bali due to religious significance and water activities.

• Best time to visit: Morning before tourist buses arrive.
• Elevation: ~1,200m

3. Twin Lakes Bali – Buyan & Tamblingan

The Twin Lakes Bali, Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan, are located near Munduk and are often considered the most scenic lakes on the island. Both of these lakes are less commercial and feel untouched compared to Beratan.

Why They’re Special

• Dense rainforest surroundings
• Misty mountain atmosphere
• Fewer crowds
• Authentic, peaceful vibe

Lakes Bali Things to Do Here

• Canoeing on Lake Tamblingan
• Jungle trekking
• Temple exploration along the lake edge
• Photography at Wanagiri viewpoint

If you're specifically looking for swimming lakes in Bali, swimming in Lake Tamblingan is not officially regulated and should only be done with local guidance.

Elevation:  ~1,200–1,350m

Here’s a simplified geographic breakdown:

• South Bali → Beaches & resorts
• Central Bali (Bedugul) → Lake Beratan
• Kintamani (North-East) → Lake Batur
• Munduk (North-West) → Twin Lakes (Buyan & Tamblingan)

Driving Times to Bali’s Lakes from Major Hubs

Because Bali’s lakes are located in the highlands, travel time depends heavily on traffic and starting location.

• Seminyak to Danau Beratan (Bedugul lake Bali) – ~2 hours
• Canggu to Munduk Bali lakes (Buyan & Tamblingan) – 2.5–3 hours
• Ubud to Danau Batur (Kintamani lake) – 1–1.5 hours
• Denpasar Airport to Lake Batur – 2.5 hours

Morning departures are strongly recommended to avoid traffic and mountain fog.

Pro Tip: Combine lake visits with waterfalls or temple tours for a full-day highland itinerary.

Unlike some European destinations, Bali’s lakes are not primarily designed for swimming. Most are:

• Sacred water sources
• Used for irrigation
• Surrounded by forest terrain

If your priority is swimming, you’ll have better options at:

• Natural waterfalls
• Hot springs near Lake Batur
• Or exploring the best Bali Beaches

However, adventurous travellers sometimes kayak or swim in designated safe areas around Lake Tamblingan or Lake Batur; always check safety conditions first.

• Best Overall Scenic Experience: Lake Batur
• Best Cultural Setting: Lake Beratan
• Best for Nature Lovers: Twin Lakes Bali
• Most Photogenic: Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Each lake offers something different: volcanic drama, spiritual calm, or jungle serenity.

Highland weather is cooler throughout the year and can be misty. It is highly recommended to avoid heavy rainy days, as visibility drops and trekking trails can get slippery.

For clear lake views:

• Visit between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM
• Dry season (April–October) offers better visibility

For detailed seasonal planning, check: Best time to visit Bali

A balanced Bali itinerary could look like:

Day 1–3: Beaches & nightlife
Day 4: Lake Beratan + Bedugul
Day 5: Twin Lakes + Munduk waterfalls
Day 6: Lake Batur + sunrise trek

If you're customising your holiday, many curated Bali packages include at least one lake visit alongside cultural and beach experiences.

Entry Fees

• Ulun Danu Beratan Temple entrance fee: approx IDR 75,000(INR 405) for adults
• Mount Batur trekking permits required

Parking

• Lake Beratan parking is organised and paid
• Lake Batur roadside parking can be informal

Drone Rules

• Drones are prohibited around Ulun Danu Beratan Temple without special permission
• Some viewpoints near Wanagiri allow drones, but always confirm locally

Fog Warning

• Highland lakes can become fully mist-covered by late morning

Absolutely, the lakes in Bali are completely worth visiting, especially if you want to experience Bali beyond beach clubs.

The lakes:

• Show Bali’s volcanic origins
• Offer cooler climate breaks
• Provide spiritual and scenic depth
• Balance your island experience

If your itinerary only includes beaches and cafés, you’re missing a major dimension of the island.

The best lakes in Bali are not about luxury. They’re about atmosphere, mist rising over crater water, temples floating quietly at sunrise, fishermen paddling wooden boats, and mountain air replacing humid coastal heat. From the dramatic caldera of Lake Batur to the postcard-perfect Ulun Danu Temple at Beratan, to the untouched beauty of the Twin Lakes Bali, these highland escapes reveal a slower, deeper side of the island.

So, will you only chase sunsets on the beach, or will you wake up early to watch the morning mist roll over Bali’s volcanic lakes?