The Handara Gate, Beratan Lake Temple with Banyumala Waterfall

Exploring Bali’s Hidden Gems: Handara Gate, Beratan Lake Temple, and Banyumala Waterfall

This full-day tour around Bali offers a carefully curated mix of picture-perfect spots, natural beauty, and cultural sights—all within roughly 11 hours. Offered by Blue Star Bali Tour, this package is designed for travelers wanting a budget-friendly yet well-rounded experience of Bali’s most Instagram-worthy and scenic locations. It’s a great way to tick multiple must-see spots off your list, without the hassle of organizing transportation or entry fees.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how smoothly everything is organized—from hotel pickups to the timing at each stop—allowing you to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. Plus, the inclusion of admission tickets for each location means no surprise costs along the way. However, keep in mind that the tour involves quite a bit of walking and some moderate trekking, particularly at Banyumala Waterfall, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a little outdoor activity.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that balances natural wonders, cultural heritage, and photo opportunities—plus some time to enjoy local food. But if you’re looking for luxury, personalized service, or a slow-paced exploration, this might not be suited. It’s a straightforward, value-packed way to see Bali’s highlights, especially if your time is limited.

Key Points

• Cost-effective: At $90 per person, you get access to some of Bali’s most famous sites, with all entry fees included.
• Well-organized itinerary: The tour hits several top spots efficiently, with a good balance of sightseeing and free time.
• Photo opportunities galore: From Bali’s iconic gates to scenic lakes and waterfalls, this tour is perfect for Instagram lovers.
• Comfortable transport: Pickup from your hotel makes it easy to start your day without stress.
• Moderate activity level: Expect some walking and trekking, especially at Banyumala Waterfall—prepare accordingly.
• Cultural insights: Visiting Ulun Danu Temple offers a glimpse into Bali’s spiritual side and traditional architecture.

The Full Experience Breakdown

How the Day Starts

The day kicks off with a hotel pickup around 8:30 am, which is about what you’d hope for a full-day tour. The transportation appears to be comfortable, and since it’s a private activity, your group moves together, avoiding the chaos of large buses. Early morning is perfect for avoiding crowds, especially at popular spots like Handara Gate.

First Stop: Handara Gate — Bali’s Instagram Icon

Your first destination is the Handara Iconic Gate, arguably the most photographed spot on this tour. This massive, traditional Balinese entrance is both breathtaking and perfect for capturing that shot for social media. The green scenery surrounding the gate makes for a lush backdrop, accentuated by the traditional carvings and towering structure. Tour reviews have praised the spot for its “exotic” vibe, with many noting how it’s become a symbol of Bali’s beauty.

The experience here is about 60 minutes, which is enough time to take multiple shots, soak in the view, and appreciate the craftsmanship of the ornate gate. Since admission is included, you won’t have to worry about extra costs or long lines. The location’s popularity means you might find other travelers, but arriving early helps keep the experience intimate.

Wanagiri Hidden Hills — Overlooking Twin Lakes

Next, the group heads to Wanagiri Hidden Hills, which offers a series of vantage points overlooking Lake Tamblingan and Buyan Lake. Here, you’ll find whimsical spots like a bird’s nest, a swing, and standing platforms that are perfect for unique photos. Walkways and viewpoints are designed for visitors to get the best panoramic shots, and reviews mention the views are genuinely mesmerizing—the kind that makes you forget about everything else.

The roughly one-hour stop allows enough time for photos and savoring the quiet serenity of this less crowded spot. Many visitors comment on how hypnotic the scenery is, and it’s a standout for nature lovers. It’s worth noting that the admission tickets included make this stop both accessible and straightforward.

Banyumala Twin Waterfalls — Nature’s Rejuvenating Escape

The highlight for many is Banyumala Waterfalls, a relatively less touristy, spectacular natural spot. Reaching the falls involves some walk and moderate trekking through lush greenery, which adds to the sense of adventure. The water cascades into a clear pool, perfect for cooling off or just enjoying the sound of rushing water. The “Yellow Waterfall,” as it’s sometimes called, is among Bali’s most beautiful, and recent reviews mention the “scenic marvel” as well worth the effort.

Expect around one hour here. Many travelers appreciate that this waterfall isn’t as crowded as some other Bali waterfalls, giving it a peaceful vibe. It’s a great place to relax and reconnect with nature after some energetic walking. The included admission fee covers your entry, so no surprises there.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple — Bali’s Spiritual Landmark

After soaking in the waterfalls, the tour continues to Ulun Danu Temple, a stunning water temple perched on the edge of Lake Beratan in Bedugul. This 17th-century temple is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of lakes and rivers, and it’s an iconic piece of Bali’s spiritual landscape. The temple’s reflection on the lake and the surrounding mountains make for a picture-perfect scene.

The visit here offers a chance to learn about Bali’s religious practices and see traditional Balinese architecture up close. The tour allocates about an hour for exploration, giving you sufficient time for photos and a quiet moment of reflection. The included admission fee means you can enjoy this cultural site without extra costs.

Meal Stop and Optional Exploration

A break for lunch at a local restaurant provides a chance to enjoy Balinese cuisine and recharge. The tour description notes that after lunch, there’s time to explore Ulun Danu Temple more thoroughly. This flexibility is appreciated, especially for those interested in taking extra photos or simply relaxing.

Practical Details That Matter

Transportation & Timing: Starting early around 8:30 am, the tour allows a relaxed pace, with each stop lasting between 60 to 120 minutes. The private nature of the tour minimizes wait times and overcrowding, and you’ll appreciate having a dedicated guide to navigate logistics.

Cost & Value: For $90 per person, this package covers all entry fees and transportation, making it a budget-friendly way to see several top sights without the hassle of planning. When you consider the cost of individual entrance tickets and transportation, this offers good value, especially for travelers short on time.

Group Size & Experience: Since it’s a private tour, your group moves together, making the experience more intimate. Travelers have noted the guide’s helpful insights, adding context to each location. The tour is suitable for most people, but expect some walking and light trekking, especially at Banyumala.

Authentic Insights from Other Travelers

One reviewer remarked, “The views at Wanagiri Hidden Hills are simply hypnotizing, and I loved how the tour was organized without any long waits.” Another highlighted Banyumala Waterfalls as “a peaceful escape from crowded Bali waterfalls, perfect for relaxing.” Conversely, some mentioned that the timing at each stop is tight, so adjusting expectations about lingering at each site might be necessary.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a balance of natural beauty, cultural sights, and photo opportunities without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for those who want an organized, hassle-free day that maximizes sightseeing with minimal planning. If you love Instagrammable spots, lush scenery, and cultural landmarks, you’ll find this tour hits the mark.

However, if you prefer more leisure time or a more personalized experience, you might want to look for options with longer stays or private guides. For active travelers comfortable with walking and some trekking, this tour offers enough adventure to keep things interesting.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an excellent snapshot of Bali’s diverse attractions—from iconic gates and tranquil lakes to lush waterfalls and spiritual temples. Its well-planned itinerary ensures you experience some of Bali’s most breathtaking sights in a single day, all at a reasonable price. The inclusion of admission fees and hotel pickup adds convenience, making it a highly practical choice for travelers short on time but eager to see the highlights.

If stunning views, cultural insights, and memorable photos matter to you, this tour delivers. It’s particularly appealing for those who love a good mix of nature and tradition, wrapped up in a hassle-free package.

For travelers who value value for money, good organization, and a variety of scenic stops, this Bali full-day tour stands out as an attractive option. Just remember to bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and an appetite for adventure.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
All admission tickets for the visits, transportation, and hotel pickup are included. The tour is private, so only your group participates.

How long are the stops?
Each stop ranges from about 60 to 120 minutes, depending on the location and your pace. Banyumala Waterfall involves some walking and trekking.

Is there any free time for photos?
Yes, each site offers ample opportunity for photos, and guides are helpful in suggesting good viewpoints.

Are meals included?
Lunch is at a local restaurant after visiting Banyumala Waterfall and Ulun Danu Temple. The cost of lunch is not included in the tour price.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and possibly a raincoat if the weather is unpredictable.

Can I cancel?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations aren’t refundable.

Is this tour suitable for kids or elderly travelers?
The tour involves some walking and moderate trekking, so it’s best for travelers who are physically comfortable with outdoor activity.

What’s the best time to start?
Pickup is scheduled around 8:30 am, which is ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying cooler morning weather.

How much time do I need to allocate for each site?
Plan around 1 hour for Handara Gate, Wanagiri Hidden Hills, and Ulun Danu Temple, and about 1 hour for Banyumala Waterfalls.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the tour covers all entrance fees and transportation, but meals and personal souvenirs are extra.

This Bali tour offers a straightforward, yet richly rewarding way to see some of the island’s most photogenic and culturally significant sights—all within a comfortable, organized framework.