Just a short flight from Singapore, Bali offers endless opportunities for nature lovers—beyond the beaches and resorts. On this trip, we ventured to the central-northern region near Lake Beratan, a calm, peaceful escape from the tropical heat and tourist crowds.
One of the highlights was hiking Mount Tapak, a lesser-known trail that winds through dense forests and rewards hikers with panoramic views of Lake Beratan. This part of Bali feels serene and untouched, contrasting to the more popular southern coast. If you’re looking for a quiet nature hike with lush surroundings and cultural touches, Mount Tapak is worth the detour.
About Bedugul in Bali
In contrast to the bustling Seminyak, Kuta, and Nusa Dua, Bedugul is a relatively isolated part of Bali. It boasts few hotels and no large resorts, making it a distinct destination for those seeking a quieter, more serene experience.
The area around Lake Beratan is known for its agriculture. Delicious fruits and vegetables are cultivated there and distributed to the rest of the island. Many people come to this part of Bali on their way to Lovina or to visit the beautiful Ulun Danu Beratan Temple.
The Bedugul area is far from the Denpasar airport. It’s a long trip, considering Bali’s hectic traffic. It is more or less 65 km, but It took us almost 4 hours to get to our hotel in Bedugul. We booked a taxi that picked us up from the airport and brought us directly to our accommodation, “Dusun Bedugul Asri.” Book a comfortable car with aircon as the journey is long.
Arranging transportation in Bali is easy and affordable, and Most hotels are happy to help you book a ride, ensuring a hassle-free experience. We took a taxi arranged by our hotel, “Dusun Bedugul Asri,” to the start of the Mount Tapak hike, and the drive took only about 10 minutes. We also scheduled a pick-up time after our hike, making the trip super convenient. This hike is almost 6 km long and takes around two and a half hours to complete. The hike begins near the botanical gardens. It is an uphill loop to the top of Mount Tapak, 1909 m.d.p.l, and then descends along the same route until we reach the starting point. The hike ends here. Download the map and use it in Google My Maps (not to be confused with Google Maps) or apps such as Outdoors Active or Maps Me.How do you get to the start of Mount Tapak’s hike?
About this hike
Map
Start of the hike
We started at a lush, forested trail surrounded by tall trees with dense green foliage. The path was narrow and covered with fallen, dry leaves. Ferns and other low-growing plants flanked both sides of the trail.
From the start, we noticed that the trees were exceptionally tall, and it was beautiful to walk while light filtered through the canopy.
Nature trail stairs
As we continued, the path appeared slightly uneven due to the exposed roots acting as steps, making it a more rugged, adventurous terrain for hiking. Tall trees with thick trunks and various lush green plants surrounded the trail.
Giant Trees
Suddenly, we encountered a giant tree in the center of the dense forest. With its large trunk covered in moss and vines, the tree dominated the scene, emphasizing the majestic forest’s age.
We could sense the scale of the enormous tree standing next to it. A rope runs alongside the path, likely for marking the path and maybe for support while hiking through this rugged terrain.
Reaching the top of Mount Tapak
We didn’t expect the views to be so stunning. Even if dark clouds threatened to rain, we could admire Bedugul and Lake Beratan.
No one was up there, and we stayed there for a moment to enjoy the serenity and tranquility of the landscape, drink water, and eat some snacks we had brought.
The cliff’s edge
At the top, there was a sign that indicated the altitude. The cliff’s edge is not well marked, and because there is grass, you cannot see the void. You must be careful and not get too close to the edge; the fall can be fatal.
Abandoned huts and shrine
Apart from the beautiful view, there needed to be more to see here. There was a small shrine, some abandoned huts, and some accumulated garbage. There were also posters advertising candidates for the local elections—not really what you expect to find in the forest. There was also an abandoned bathroom that was in deplorable condition.
Plants and fruits
We continued along the same path we came and descended, admiring the different plants and fruits we found.
End of the hike
After our walk ended, we sat in the park, watching families and friends gather together while having a picnic. Children played with balls, and cyclists enjoyed the tranquil paths until the same taxi that brought us picked us up and took us to lunch.
Looking for more peaceful hikes in Bali? Explore the scenic Sidemen Valley Walking Trail, known for its rice terraces and traditional life.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the area, I recommend this hike! The trail was stunning, the weather was lovely, and we came across some of the most majestic and towering trees I’ve ever seen. The views of Lake Beratan and Bedugul were breathtaking.
We hardly ran into anyone along the way, making it perfect for those who love the peacefulness of the forest and prefer to escape the crowds.
Attractions nearby
The beautiful Bali Botanical Gardens are within walking distance. The Statue of Kumbakarna Laga is near the entrance of the well-maintained park complex.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is less than 5km by car from here.
I recommend Magoes Warung Bedugul restaurant, surrounded by beautiful gardens, for lunch. The food is exquisite, and the prices are very affordable. They have many vegetarian and vegan options. Be sure to try the delicious fresh juices to recharge your energy!
Back in Singapore, check out the lush trails at Sungei Buloh Wetlands—a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
🌴 Explore More Wild & Sustainable Adventures
If Sumatra sparked your love for remote jungles and conscious travel, here are more unforgettable nature escapes and cultural journeys:
🛖 Staying with the Uros – A Cultural Experience on Lake Titicaca, Peru
🌿 Sleeping in an Eco Lodge in the Tambopata Amazon Jungle
🚆 Japan by Train – A Sustainable Travel Guide to Nagano & Shirakawa-go
🏞️ Sidemen Valley Walking Trail in Bali – A Peaceful Hike Through Rice Terraces
🐉 Dragon’s Back Hike – Epic Coastal Views in Hong Kong
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