Best Northern Bali Sites with Tanah Lot Temple Tour

Imagine spending a full day exploring Bali’s most iconic spots—without the hassle of planning, waiting in lines, or crowded groups. That’s exactly what this private guided tour promises. For a reasonable $57 per person, you get to experience Bali’s rich spiritual heritage and stunning scenery in a comfortable, personalized setting. It’s a well-rounded way to see some of the island’s most photographed and revered sites, all in one day.

We like that this tour offers a personalized experience with an English-speaking driver and the freedom to choose your pickup and drop-off locations—Ubud, Denpasar, or Badung Regency. Plus, it hits key highlights like Tanah Lot, the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, and the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, giving you a taste of Bali’s spiritual, cultural, and natural beauty. One thing to consider is the itinerary’s pace—if you’re someone who prefers a more leisurely visit to each site, be aware that each stop is scheduled for about an hour. Still, for many travelers, this tight schedule manages to pack in a lot without feeling rushed.

This tour is ideal for those who want a convenient, all-in-one experience that covers the essential northern attractions and offers good value for money. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors or travelers with limited time who want to maximize their sightseeing without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

Key Points

• Private and flexible: Enjoy a tailored experience with an English-speaking driver and your choice of pickup/drop-off locations.
• Iconic sites: Visit Bali’s most famous temples and scenic spots, including Tanah Lot and Ulun Danu Beratan.
• Photographer’s paradise: Capture stunning photos, especially at Jatiluwih’s rice terraces and the Handara Gate.
• Cultural insights: Learn about Bali’s spiritual sites and UNESCO World Heritage status.
• Value for money: At $57, this tour offers a full day of sightseeing, transportation, and entry fees, making it a worthwhile investment.
• Convenience: All logistics covered, including parking fees, insurance, and a delicious lunch option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Your Day: Flexibility and Comfort

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup—you can choose from Badung Regency, Ubud, or Denpasar City—making it easy to start your day on your terms. The private air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride through Bali’s scenic roads. A major perk here is the driver’s role as your guide, ready to share insights or keep a low profile, depending on your preference.

Exploring Tanah Lot

Your first stop is Tanah Lot, Bali’s most iconic sea temple. Perched on a rocky outcrop, it’s a surreal sight—particularly at high tide when waves crash against its base. The temple’s silhouette against the sunset is Instagram gold, but even during the day, its rugged beauty and spiritual aura fascinate visitors. You’ll spend about an hour here, enough time to admire the views, perhaps explore the surrounding market, and snap some memorable photos.

Many visitors comment on the remarkable setting of Tanah Lot, emphasizing its photogenic appeal. Some note that it can get crowded, especially in the late afternoon, but visiting in the morning can help avoid the largest crowds.

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: A UNESCO Treasure

Next, your journey takes you to Jatiluwih Green Land, a UNESCO-listed site renowned for its vast, lush rice terraces. Here, we loved the way the terraces stretch across the hills—an awe-inspiring sight that embodies Bali’s agricultural heritage. You’ll explore for about an hour, taking in the views from various angles. If you’re into photography or simply appreciate seeing how locals work with the landscape, this is a highlight.

Reviews highlight that many visitors find Jatiluwih a peaceful contrast to the bustling temples, offering a chance to breathe in the fresh air and appreciate Bali’s natural beauty. The only caveat might be that the site is quite expansive, so if you have mobility concerns, plan accordingly.

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Handara Gate: The Perfect Photo Stop

Your trip continues to the Handara Gate, renowned for its traditional Balinese architecture and dramatic backdrop. It has become a popular Instagram spot, and for good reason—its ornate archway framed by lush greenery makes for a striking photo. Visitors often spend about an hour here, enjoying the scenery and the chance to capture those perfect shots.

Many reviews mention it as a “must-see” for photography lovers, but note that it can also be crowded during peak times. Still, its beauty and cultural significance make it well worth a quick stop.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: Bali’s Iconic Water Temple

The final major stop is Pura Ulun Danu Beratan, a floating temple on Lake Beratan. Surrounded by mist or bright sunlight, this temple looks like it’s floating on water—a truly picture-perfect scene. Built in the 17th century, it’s a vital spiritual site dedicated to the goddess of lakes and rivers.

You’ll spend around an hour here, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and marveling at the intricate architecture. Many visitors consider Ulun Danu Beratan a “must-see,” and photos here often make for Bali’s most recognizable images.

Ending the Day

The tour wraps up with a drop-off at your chosen location—Denpasar, Ubud, or Badung Regency—allowing you to relax after a day of exploration. The entire experience is around 10 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The real strength of this tour lies in its balance of value and authentic experiences. It covers Bali’s most iconic northern sites while giving you the comfort of private transportation and a guide who can answer questions or simply let you enjoy the scenery.

The entry fees are included, so there are no surprises at the gate, and parking fees are covered—another way the tour adds value. Plus, the option to include lunch means you don’t have to worry about where to eat during your busy day. Many reviews appreciate the smooth, hassle-free logistics and the fact that the driver is attentive and informative without being overbearing.

Considerations

One possible drawback is the schedule’s pace—each stop gets about an hour, which is enough for photos and quick exploration but might feel rushed if you want a deeper experience. Also, the sites are popular, so expect some crowds, especially at Tanah Lot and Ulun Danu Beratan. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and pets aren’t allowed, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you want to see Bali’s northern highlights without the stress of planning or navigating on your own, this tour offers strong value. Its private format ensures a personalized experience, and the inclusion of major attractions makes it a comprehensive introduction to Bali’s spiritual and natural heartland. The price point is reasonable considering the length of the tour, transportation, entrance fees, and the convenience of a tailored schedule.

This tour suits first-time visitors, photo enthusiasts, and travelers with limited time who still want to cover significant sights in one day. It’s also a good choice if you prefer traveling in a comfortable, private setting rather than a large group.

FAQ

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $57 per person, which includes private transportation, entrance fees, parking, and insurance.

How long is the tour?
The entire tour lasts about 10 hours, from pickup to drop-off, making it a full-day activity.

Can I choose my pickup and drop-off locations?
Yes, you can select from Badung Regency, Ubud, or Denpasar City for both pickup and drop-off, providing flexibility for your Bali itinerary.

Are meals included?
Lunch options are available for an additional charge; included meals are not part of the standard package but can be arranged.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While it’s a private tour designed for comfort, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and travelers should be able to walk and stand for periods.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, camera, and comfortable shoes. Bottled water is provided, but you might want extra snacks or personal essentials.

What is the best time of day to visit these sites?
Morning visits are often less crowded, especially at popular spots like Tanah Lot. Checking availability for your preferred start time will help optimize your experience.

In summary, this Best Northern Bali Sites with Tanah Lot Temple Tour offers a well-balanced, value-packed day exploring the island’s most iconic sights. Its private setup, expert driver, and inclusive pricing make it a practical choice for travelers eager to see Bali’s spiritual and scenic treasures with minimal fuss. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this tour delivers a genuine taste of Bali’s northern charm—fascinating, beautiful, and worth every rupiah.

You can check availability for your dates here: