We spent not nearly enough time exploring Northern Bali. Farley and I much prefer adventuring in the less touristy, untouched, peaceful and picturesque areas of a country. After taking a day trip north, we regretted not staying a few nights there. At least it gives us an excuse to go back.
We hired a driver for the day, costing us 700,000 IDR (£37.19). This cost gave us a total of 10 hours to explore wherever we wanted. You’d think 10 hours would be plenty, but in that time, we only just touched upon the natural northern wonders of Bali. There is a lot more we are yet to see.
Without further ado, I’d like to share the most instagrammable locations we visited during our Northern Bali day trip in the hope that it inspires and encourages you to plan your own trip!
HANDARA GOLF & RESORT BALI
The iconic Handara Gate is now one of the most Instagrammable gates in Bali. With breathtaking backdrop views of smoky green hills, it is clear to see why the Balinese gates shot to insta fame. However, just like every other photo hotspot in Bali, it has had a price tag stuck to it. You will be charged 30,000 IDR (£1.60) for a “selfie ticket”, which gives you a 10 minute photo opportunity to go insta crazy.
MUNDUK MODING PLANTATION
Home to the most instagram worthy pool I’ve ever seen. Munduk Moding Plantation is one of the most beautiful resorts I have ever stepped foot in and we were lucky enough to have the opportunity to shoot there. Their 18 meter infinity pool with panoramic views of the rolling hills and mountains will blow you away. At the time we visited, we were in the clouds and it felt a little like flying.
ULUN DANU BERATAN TEMPLE
I had seen many photos of the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple on Instagram and was desperate to see what the fuss was about. The temple was as I imagined, peaceful and picturesque. The smooth reflections of Lake Beratan made it seem as though the temple was floating and the scenic backdrop views of the Bedugul mountain range make for a perfect photo opportunity. I wasn’t quite sure how or where to find the boat you might have seen in many of the instagram shots and also didn’t realise quite how big the landmark is until we got there. There are many other temples around to explore so make sure to spend some time there.
The entrance ticket will set you back 50,000 IDR (£2.66) per adult.
WANGAGIRI HIDDEN HILLS
If you didn’t get a photo in a birds nests, did you even go to Bali? When I first heard of the Wangagiri Hidden Hills I thought it was just one place. I was wrong. As you drive along the road you will see so much local competition lined up enticing you into their attraction. Each one slightly differs in style, but in general they will all have the insta famous bali swing, bamboo hearts, lookouts and birds nests.
The entrance cost ranges from 20,000 to 40,000 IDR (£1.06 – £2.12) per person and once that’s paid you are welcome to spend as long as you like within the grounds. The Wangagiri Hidden Hills are yet another example of how powerful Instagram has become.
If you’re planning a trip to Bali, at the very least, take a day trip up North to explore. You’ll be surprised in the difference compared to the more popular, touristy Southern areas. You’ll end up asking yourself “am I still in bali?”
If you have any questions at all please just drop me a message.
Lots of love
Steph