Bali Tamblingan Lake
A beautiful lake in the plateau area with green hills surrounded.
Nestled in a serene plateau area, Bali Tamblingan Lake is a captivating natural wonder embraced by lush green hills and cool, refreshing weather. Adjacent to Buyan Lake, it offers an authentic wilderness experience, free from motorized boats, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in its pristine environment. The lake's breathtaking beauty is best viewed from the vantage point of Asah Gobleg Countryside in Sukasada District, Singaraja Regency, North Bali. Encircling hills and a consistently fresh, cool atmosphere enhance its charm, making it an ideal destination for jungle trekking adventures and observing diverse flora and fauna within its rainforests. Beyond exploration, it's a popular spot for local visitors to enjoy camping programs or outdoor team-building activities amidst nature. Traditional 'Perahu' boats are used by local residents for crossing the lake or fishing, adding to its unique cultural appeal.
Itinerary
- : Visit Lake Tamblingan
- : Visit Ulun Danu Tamblingan Temple
- : Kayaking at Tamblingan Lake
- : Camping at Tamblingan Lake
- : Taking Pictures at Tamblingan Lake
What to Bring
Notes
- **Location:** Accessible via Munduk or Gobleg countryside, and can be reached from Kuta through the Bedugul route (approx. 2 hours travel time), passing landmarks like Candi Kuning Market, Bedugul Botanical Garden, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, and Handara Gate. Car hire services are available for travel.
- **History:** Dating back to 10 AD - 14 AD, the area around Lake Tamblingan was once a large settlement. Residents later moved, forming four villages (Munduk, Goblek, Gesing, Umajero) with spiritual ties to the lake and its temples. Inscriptions confirm a well-organized community life existed thousands of years ago.
- **Meaning of Name:** 'Tamblingan' derives from Balinese words 'Tamba' (medicine) and 'Elingang' (memory/spiritual ability). Local lore from Lontar Kutara Kanda Dewa Purana Bangsul recounts how sacred lake water was used to heal an epidemic, leading to the name.
- **Temples:** The area is home to numerous ancient temples, including the prominent Ulun Danu Tamblingan Temple located on the lake's edge. Other temples include Dalem Tamblingan, Endek, Sang Hyang Kangin, Sang Hyang Kawuh, Gubug, Tirta Mengening, Naga Loka, Steaming Carving, Embang, Tukang Weighing, and Batulepang Temples. These are considered some of Bali's oldest, predating the 10th century.
- **Geography:** Located at 8°14'9″ – 8°7'9″ South Latitude and 115°5'18” – 115°11'20” East Longitude, Lake Tamblingan is 1.9 km long, with a maximum depth of 90 m and a volume of 0.027 km³. It spans Tabanan and Buleleng Regencies in Bali Province. Situated in the highlands (1,210-1350 meters above sea level), it experiences chilly, cool nights. The lake is a nature conservation area, and the surrounding 8-hectare forest is part of the Mount Batukaru forest group, managed for forest tourism. The topography varies from flat to very steep.
- **Facilities:** Comprehensive facilities include a parking area, traditional boat rentals (for fishing or crossing), and various lodging options in nearby villages offering magnificent lake views. Seating areas along the lake are available for relaxation, coffee, or enjoying the scenic beauty. The lake is popular with both local and international tourists daily.