Ubud Village, Tegalalang Rice Terrace Swing, Tirta Empul Temple and Waterfafall

Campuhan in Balinese means the confluence of two rivers, spiritually significant to Balinese Hindus as energy centers, and the river junction here marks Ubud’s beginnings when in the eighth century, wandering sage Rsi Markendya was drawn to this point, establishing Pura Gunung Lebah, and indeed the town of Ubud.

The walk is not strenuous, but there’s a few uphill sections, and some stairs in places. You don’t need hiking boots and plenty of folk get by in flip-flops, however we’d recommend something a little more substantial. Take a hat as there’s little shade, and the sun can be scorching in the middle of the day. Of course, take water, but a few shops and cafes can hydrate you if you run out.

Bali’s natural beauty comes in countless forms but the rice terrace create some of the island’s most awe-inspiring backdrops. The Tegalalang rice terrace in Ubud are famous place for snapping photos. One of the most beautiful green you’ll ever see, an interesting path to hike and small villages to explore.

The rice terrace look like a work of art. The fields are various shades of green and are extremely well maintained. The coconut trees still give an extra charm. Be sure to walk through the rice fields to explore close its distinctive architecture. The dramatic landscape makes it a popular stop for traveler therefore it is indeed like walking into a postcard.

Tirta Empul Temple at Tampak Siring was built in 960 AD. Tirta Empul means “holy spring water” that is passing within the temple. The water feeds adjoining purification pools, baths and fish ponds surrounding the outer complex which then all flow to the Tukad Pakerisan River.

While there are several shrines and other structures on the premises, the temple’s tranquility is best seen in the large rectangular pool at the complex’s center. The spring is still believed to have healing powers. Pilgrims come from far and near to bathe in the pool to cleanse their body spiritually, mentally and physically. The worshipers enter the water to pray. Travelers, too, are welcome to enter the water, known for being a holy mountain spring.

While Bali’s other temples may be larger or more jaw-dropping, Tirta Empul Temple possesses a unique serenity that cannot be matched. This active prayer site inspires both Balinese Hindus and visitors of different beliefs. This temple is a Holy Water temple and a great cultural experience. If you have time, partake in the purification process. You’ll need to rent a sarong and follow what the locals do for the process.

Gunung Kawi is an 11th-century temple in Tampaksiring that is spread across either side of the Pakerisan river. It comprises 10 rock-cut shrines that are carved into 7-metre-high. Sheltered niches of the sheer cliff face. Carved by hand into the hillside rocks a thousand years ago, this temple showcased the worshipers’ determination in an ancient time.

There are four groups of buildings sculptured, three temples and a Buddhist temple on the Gunung Kawi. This is presumed to be the burial complex of King Anak Wungsu and his wives. This temple, known as the “Valley of the Kings” is beautifully located in a river valley surrounded by beautiful rice fields, forest and river.

You first along a steep staircase to walk down. Along the way you will have stunning views of the valley and rice fields. As you walk through the stone entrance turn left to view five magnificent 7 meter high statutes. If you look directly across the boulder strewn creek, you’ll see the other four shrines. Reached by climbing down 300 steps, the location at the bottom of a steep valley lined with paddy fields is quite stunning. The structures are carved into the sides of a steep river valley, and the river crossed by twisting trees and vines

The falls here are scenic, but not overly spectacular, what makes the trip here worthwhile is, well, the journey. Passing charming villages, the roads narrow and the picturesque landscape changes to green and more green. Rice fields, coconut palms, banana trees and temples. Bali at its bucolic best. From the car park near the Pura Dalem, a cement path leads on an enjoyable short trek down to the river peppered with flowers, bamboo groves, birds and butterflies. The path splits–take the path to the left to the waterfall. First you will pass a smallish jungle cascade falling through creepers and vines to a shallow pool. Continue along the path, for a more powerful torrent spilling into a swimming hole. A change room is available if you’d like a swim, and a bamboo hut offers a shady rest spot. Take a sarong and sash, so you can take the other branch of the path where steep steps lead to a holy spring at a confluence in the river.