Buyan and Tamblingan Lakes

At a Glance

• Where: Bedugul highlands, on the Buleleng–Tabanan border
• What it is: twin crater lakes in the caldera of an ancient volcano
• Elevation: about 1,200 m above sea level
• Quirk: once a single lake until ~1800, split by a landslide
• Time needed: 30–60 minutes at the viewpoint; longer with a walk/canoe
• Getting there: beside Bedugul, ~1.5 hours from Ubud

Buyan and Tamblingan (Danau Buyan, Danau Tamblingan) are two calm crater lakes in the cool Bedugul highlands, lying in the caldera of a long-extinct volcano. They were once a single lake; around 1800 a landslide split it in two, leaving a narrow neck of land between them. Buyan is the larger (about 490 hectares), while Tamblingan is smaller and known for its quiet, almost mystical atmosphere.

Why Visit

It's one of Bali's most scenic mountain views: a roadside panorama takes in both lakes at once, framed by forested slopes and mist. People come for the cool air, the quiet and the photos, far from the beach bustle.

What You'll See and Do

• The viewpoint above the road — the classic shot of both lakes together.
• Tamblingan — a protected lake with no motorboats; traditional dugout canoes ply it, and an old temple hides on its shore.
• Buyan — popular for camping, fishing and unhurried lakeside walks.
• All around are the coffee plantations, vegetable plots and rice fields of highland Bali.

When to Visit and What to Know

The best time is mo ing in the dry season: less haze and brighter greenery — though a light mist adds atmosphere.

• The altitude is cool — bring warm clothing.
• The road past the lakes links Bedugul with Munduk and north Bali, so it's easy to combine.

Combine Your Trip

• Ulun Danu Beratan — Bali's symbolic lake temple nearby.
• Munduk waterfall and the mountain coffee plantations.
• Bali Botanic Garden in Bedugul.

FAQ

What are Buyan and Tamblingan known for? Twin lakes in a volcanic caldera seen together from one viewpoint; they were once a single lake split by a landslide around 1800.

What is there to do at the lakes? Enjoy the viewpoint, canoe on quiet Tamblingan, walk along Buyan's shore and visit the surrounding coffee plantations.

Is it cold there? Yes, cooler than the coast (about 1,200 m elevation) — especially in the mo ing and in the mist.