When travelers think of Bali, popular destinations like Kuta, Seminyak, or Ubud often come to mind. However, if you’re looking for a more authentic, tranquil, and natural experience, Tabanan is the answer. Located in the southwest of Bali, Tabanan Regency offers stunning landscapes of terraced rice fields, majestic sacred temples, and pristine beaches. This is where you can experience the true essence of the island of Bali—a blend of natural beauty and deep culture.
1. Main Attractions of Tabanan
Unlike the more crowded southern part of Bali, Tabanan offers a more peaceful atmosphere. Tourists who come here are usually looking for tranquility, spirituality, and closeness to nature.
Some of the main attractions in Tabanan include:
a. Tanah Lot Temple
This is one of the most famous icons in Bali. Tanah Lot Temple is located on a large rock that juts out into the sea, creating a dramatic silhouette especially at sunset.
Activities you can do:
- Enjoy the magical sunset view.
- Visit the art market around the temple.
- Watch religious ceremonies if it coincides with a Hindu holiday.
Tanah Lot is perfect for couples who want a romantic atmosphere or solo travelers who want to relax with an extraordinary sea view.
b. Jatiluwih Rice Terrace
This UNESCO world heritage site is one of the most stunning views in Bali. Located on the slopes of Mount Batukaru, the Jatiluwih rice terraces stretch as far as the eye can see.
What you can do:
- Trekking or cycling through the rice fields.
- Taking an educational tour about Bali’s traditional irrigation system: Subak.
- Lunch at a local restaurant with a view of the green expanse.
- Jatiluwih is an ideal destination for nature lovers and photographers.
c. Pura Luhur Batukaru
This temple is located at an altitude of around 1,300 meters above sea level, on the slopes of Mount Batukaru. This temple is a very spiritual place and one of the main temples for the Balinese Hindu community.
Suitable for:
- Spiritual tourists or those interested in Balinese culture.
- Meditation and self-reflection in a calm and natural atmosphere.
2. Natural Beach Tourism
Tabanan also has several beaches that are relatively quiet and not yet too commercialized like in the Kuta or Seminyak areas.
a. Kedungu Beach
Located not far from Tanah Lot, Kedungu Beach is suitable for:
- Surfing (especially for those who are quite proficient).
- Enjoying the sunset without the crowds.
- A relaxing picnic on the beach.
b. Soka Beach
This beach has unique features in the form of volcanic black sand and large rocks around it. Often used as a resting place during a land trip to West Bali.
c. Balian Beach
One of the favorite spots for surfers. Here you can also find a number of bohemian-style accommodations that are suitable for young travelers or backpackers.
3. Nature & Adventure Tourism
In addition to rice fields and beaches, Tabanan is also rich in challenging and refreshing natural attractions:
a. Blahmantung Waterfall
Hidden in the Pupuan area, this waterfall is surrounded by coffee and cocoa plantations. The journey to the waterfall can be a fun mini-adventure.
b. Eka Karya Bali Botanical Garden
Located in the Bedugul area (bordering Tabanan), this botanical garden has various types of tropical plants and interesting educational facilities.
c. Beratan Lake & Ulun Danu Temple
Although administratively part of the Bedugul area, this place is very easy to reach from Tabanan and is a must-visit. The temple that seems to float on the lake is one of the most iconic photo spots in Bali.
4. Cultural and Traditional Experiences
In Tabanan, you can experience a more local and warm side of Bali. The people here are very friendly and many of them still live a traditional life.
Cultural activities you can try:
- Take a Balinese cooking class in the villages around Jatiluwih or Penebel.
- Learn to make batik or make canang (a typical Balinese offering).
- Stay in a local homestay to experience the daily life of the Balinese people firsthand.
5. Tabanan’s culinary specialties
Culinary tourism in Tabanan is also no less interesting. Here you can taste authentic Balinese food:
- Lawar Kuwir (duck or entog meat).
- Sate lilit and duck betutu, served with Balinese sambal matah.
- Jaja Bali, traditional market snacks such as laklak and Balinese klepon.
There are many stalls and restaurants around Jatiluwih, Tanah Lot, and Kediri that serve local cuisine with beautiful natural scenery.
6. Access and Accommodation
Tabanan is easily accessible from tourist centers in South Bali. The distance from Ngurah Rai Airport to Tanah Lot is around 1–1.5 hours by land depending on traffic conditions.
Accommodation in Tabanan is very diverse:
- Eco-lodges and glamping in the Jatiluwih area and Mount Batukaru.
- Private villas and boutique resorts near beaches such as Balian and Kedungu.
- Traditional homestays for a deeper local experience.
7. Who is Suitable for a Vacation to Tabanan?
Tabanan is suitable for those who:
- Look for peace and nature.
- Are interested in Balinese culture and spirituality.
- Want to go on a trekking, yoga retreat, or healing trip.
- Love landscape and sunset photography.
- Don’t really like the hustle and bustle of the city.
Tabanan Travel Tips
- Bring casual clothes and trekking shoes if you plan to visit Jatiluwih or the waterfalls.
- Rent a motorbike or car to explore hidden spots.
- Use a local guide for a more in-depth cultural experience.
- Respect customs, especially when visiting temples or ceremonies.
Conclusion: Tabanan, a More Authentic Bali
Tabanan may not be as popular as other tourist areas in Bali, but that is precisely its appeal. This area offers authenticity, natural beauty, and cultural depth that is hard to find anywhere else.
If you want a vacation that is not only fun but also touching, then Tabanan is a destination that must be included in your itinerary in Bali. From the spirituality of the temple in the middle of the lake to the peaceful green rice fields, Tabanan will leave a deep impression on your trip.
