Bali’s hidden jungle escape, offering waterfalls, cliff jumps, and quiet village life.
In northern Bali, tucked inland from Lovina and away from the bustle of the south, lies Sambangan, a peaceful village surrounded by tropical forest, rice fields, and a string of dramatic waterfalls. Known to locals as the “Secret Garden”, Sambangan has remained relatively under the radar, despite being one of the most beautiful and adventure-filled regions on the island. If you are looking for a place to hike, swim, jump, and disconnect – without the crowds – this quiet corner of Bali is worth the detour.
Sambangan is located in Buleleng Regency, about 15 minutes from the coastal town of Lovina and just over two hours from Ubud. The area is rural and green, and getting there involves winding mountain roads and scenic views across the island’s northern valleys. Most visitors arrive by car or motorbike, either as a day trip from Lovina or as part of a longer north Bali journey. There are a few small guesthouses and homestays in the village itself, making it a great base for travellers who want to spend more time exploring the region’s waterfalls and trails.
The Seven Waterfalls Adventure
The main draw of Sambangan is its network of seven waterfalls, linked by walking trails through forest and farmland. Some of these falls are peaceful and gentle, while others offer the chance to leap from cliffs or slide down natural rock chutes. Most visitors access the waterfalls on foot with the help of a local guide, both to navigate the trails and to learn about the area’s culture, plants, and sacred sites.
Aling-Aling and the Thrill of Cliff Jumps
The most famous of the waterfalls is Aling-Aling, a two-tiered cascade that drops into a deep, blue pool. What makes it unique is the way the water splits down two narrow chutes, creating a powerful but elegant flow. Swimming is allowed, but jumping is not – Aling-Aling is considered sacred, and locals ask visitors to treat it with respect. Just downstream, however, are three waterfalls – Kroya, Kembar, and Pucuk – where jumping and sliding are part of the experience. Local guides help set up safe cliff jumps (ranging from 5 to 15 metres) and natural slides worn smooth by years of flowing water. The pools here are clear, fresh, and perfect for cooling off.
Beyond the Waterfalls: Culture and Village Life
Further along the trail, you will find Tembok Barak, a narrow fall with striking red rock walls, and Canging and Dedari Waterfalls, which are more remote and rarely visited. The full trek to all seven waterfalls takes a few hours, with breaks for swimming and photos, and is best done in the morning to avoid the midday heat. The trails are natural and sometimes steep, so good footwear and a moderate level of fitness are recommended. Most treks can be adjusted to suit your schedule or ability – shorter routes focus on the jump-friendly falls, while longer ones include rice field walks and forest paths.
Sambangan is not just about the waterfalls. The surrounding landscape is rich in agriculture, with cacao, coffee, and clove trees growing beside terraced rice fields. A guided walk here often includes a stop to try fresh fruit or to learn how local herbs and plants are used in Balinese medicine. There is also a quiet spiritual feel to the place – temples are nestled between trees, and offerings are laid along the trail. While tourism has increased in recent years, Sambangan still feels connected to its traditional roots, and the community takes pride in preserving the natural and cultural environment.
The village itself is small and friendly, with local warungs serving up simple Balinese meals and fresh coconut juice. Staying overnight gives you a chance to experience village life, wake to the sound of roosters and river water, and explore the waterfalls in the quieter morning hours. It also allows you to combine a visit to Sambangan with nearby attractions such as Gitgit Waterfall, Sekumpul, or Banjar Hot Springs.
While Sambangan is popular with backpackers and adventurous travellers, it remains relatively untouched compared to Bali’s southern highlights. There are no big resorts, no loud bars, and no big tour buses. What you will find instead is space, greenery, and genuine connection – to the landscape, to the water, and to the local community that protects it.
If you are heading north or looking to go beyond the usual Bali stops, Sambangan is a rewarding choice. Whether you are jumping from cliffs, sliding down waterfalls, or simply soaking in the jungle stillness, it offers a reminder that the island’s most powerful experiences often come without Wi-Fi, crowds, or filters.
