Is Munduk worth visiting? Explore this hidden gem of Bali

Yes, Munduk is worth visiting. If you are looking for a serene atmosphere and the perfect tropical jungle surrounding it is ideal. Munduk is often seen as the absolute honeymoon destination because of the unique resorts with infinity pools and views.

Tucked away in the hills of North Bali, Munduk is a tranquil haven that offers a perfect escape from the bustling, crowded streets of popular Bali destinations like Canggu, Seminyak, and nowadays, even quieter than Ubud.

In our guide to North Bali, we’ll share our firsthand experiences and adventures and explain why Munduk is a must-visit.

We spent over three months in Bali twice, and Munduk has always been a destination we included in our trips. With Bali booming in tourism, it will not surprise us if, in a couple of years, Munudk becomes the ultimate experience.

Why you shouldn’t skip Munduk in your Bali itinerary

Munduk might say nothing to you but a lot to travellers who love a tranquil atmosphere. Bali is popular, and we were first attracted by the Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud Expat and Digital Nomads community. However, Munduk is something else, a more intimate and local experience.

We had a great time everywhere in Bali, staying in Ubud, Sidemen, Uluwatu, Sanur and other parts, but the landscape from Munduk is something in our memories forever. Maybe it’s also because of our accommodation; staying at the Munduk Moding plantation definitely exaggerated our experience.

The Serene Allure of Munduk

We spent a fantastic weekend in Munduk, and it was nothing short of magical. After two months in the energetic and often chaotic Canggu, Munduk felt like a breath of fresh air. Yes, believe us, if you are going to Bali for a holiday, it might seem fantastic, but if you are staying longer than a week, you will see things for what they are: pure chaos. (Check our honest review about Bali)

The peace in Munduk allows you to recharge your batteries truly. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply looking to unwind, Munduk has something for everyone.

Reasons to Visit Munduk

Let’s dive into why Munduk should be on your Bali itinerary:

• Breathtaking Natural Beauty: Munduk is surrounded by lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic views of the twin lakes – Danau Tamblingan and Danau Buyan. Our hike around these lakes was an unforgettable experience, offering some of the most stunning scenery in Bali.
• Unique Attractions: The iconic Munduk swings, the Glass House, and the indoor gardens are just a few of the unique attractions that make Munduk stand out. We enjoyed a romantic picnic in one of these indoor gardens, which was both peaceful and picturesque.
• Rich Culture and History: Munduk is steeped in local Balinese culture and history. From traditional dance performances to local crafts, there’s a wealth of cultural experiences that have their angle.

Where to Stay in Munduk

Choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference. Here are some of our top recommendations:

Munduk Moding Plantation

This is our favourite resort in Bali. Apart from the location, the amenities are on another level. When it comes to the best resort in Bali, Munduk Moding Plantation is hard to beat. This eco-luxury resort offers stunning views, luxurious accommodations, and an array of activities that let you immerse yourself in nature.

• Munduk Moding Plantation Resort & Spa: This resort is not just a place to stay; it’s an experience. The infinity pool overlooking the lush hills is nothing short of epic. We spent hours just soaking in the views, feeling like we were floating above the clouds. Well, we also had a private pool, where we spent most of our time.
• Food is incredible: Because the weather was unpredictable and we were on a motorbike, we had most of our meals at the resort. The food was delicious, and it’s mostly because they produce everything within the resort plantation. Not only that, they support the local community and grow products nearby.
• All activities are included: We couldn’t believe that it was all included. The activities they offer span from walking through the plantation, coffee tasting, bamboo straw creation and more. They put their soul into making the experience one of a kind. This resort emphasises sustainability and eco-friendliness.

Other North Bali Accommodation

If you’re looking for other North Bali resort options, there are plenty of fantastic choices:

• Sanak Retreat Bali: A beautiful boutique hotel with stunning rice field views.
• Puri Lumbung Cottages: For a more modest experience without missing a unique view, the Puri Lumbung Cottages are perfect. Soak into their stone bath with a view and experience traditional Balinese cottages.
• Gangga Homestay: For just £12 per night, you can still enjoy northern Bali and the quiet atmosphere of Munduk. Gangga homestay also offers complimentary breakfast, and the rooms are nice with open views.

Exploring Munduk: Things to Do

There’s no shortage of activities in Munduk. Here’s a glimpse into what you can do:

Hiking and nature trails

Munduk has its twist for outdoor activities and nature lovers. You can spend weeks here without visiting everything. There are considerable trails (more than you can count) around the area, which offer a walk through the jungle exploring massive waterfalls. There is something for every level and difficulty, but all offer breathtaking views.

Visit the Twin Lakes

We visited the twin lakes before staying for a long weekend in Munduk, as it is possible as a day trip from Canggu. The twin lakes, Danau Tamblingan and Danau Buyan, are a must-see.

The peaceful waters and surrounding forests create a tranquil setting that’s perfect for a day exploring the area. You can board a wooden boat around the lake, enjoy the picturesque view, or get tons of photos of the mountains in the background.

Local Markets and craft shops

The local atmosphere makes Munduk a more secluded destination. We have to be honest: There are just a few attractions in Munduk worth visiting, but those are the most authentic.

The local market isn’t as vibrant as other popular areas of Bali, but it’s definitely more intimate. It’s still worth spending 30 minutes to one hour roaming around, taking photos, and trying local products. Munduk’s local markets and craft shops are perfect for picking up unique souvenirs, and they’re often cheaper, too.

Munduk Cultural Experiences

You might have gotten it: Munduk is more than just a weekend away in Bali; it’s an experience. Traditional dance performances, local festivals, and temple visits provide a deeper understanding of Balinese culture. We were lucky enough to have a local singer at the resort, and listening to him around a bonfire was definitely impressive in our memories.

Munduk is the perfect escape for couples

If you are looking for the perfect spot in Bali for a surprise, Munduk is, without a doubt, ideal. We define Munduk as the perfect escape for couples in Bali or ideal for honeymooners.

If you are looking for something special, check out the fantastic amenities of this eco resort in the hills of Bali. Just recently, we suggested the place to friends spending a honeymoon in Bali, and they were impressed.

We love Canggu, but sometimes it seems too much: traffic, vibrant atmosphere, chaos, and Westernised food, which makes it lose its authenticity. So that’s why, every now and then, when in Bali, we move things around and explore other places like Munduk, Sidemen, and Ubud.

The most epic resorts in Bali

Yes, the view of the sea is incredible, and within Uluwatu, Nusa Dua, and Seminyak, there are beautiful resorts. Well, you can upgrade your stay in Munduk and pay half the price. If you are seeking epic hotels in Bali, Munduk has some of the best options.

You might have seen the epic spots of Munduk on TikTok and Instagrammers. It is the ultimate destination for unique photos. Check our Instagram and TikTok for some inspiration. 

From the luxurious Munduk Moding Plantation Resort to the charming Sanak Retreat Bali, the accommodations here cater to all preferences and budgets. You can do Munduk Cheaper, getting an affordable room for about $10 per night. Check our suggestions below.

North Bali Resort: A Hidden Gem

The resorts in North Bali offer a more tranquil and authentic Balinese experience compared to the crowded southern parts of the island. If you’re looking for a North Bali resort that combines luxury with nature, Munduk Moding Plantation Resort is the place to be.

Things to know about Munduk

How to travel around Munduk?

Even though it seems easy to get around Bali, Munduk is another story. We suggest getting your own transportation or booking a resort that offers a taxi service.

The local app taxi services, Grab and GoJek, barely serve north Bali. Getting a scooter in Bali can cost anything between 50K IDR and 100K IDR per day.

Is North Bali worth visiting?

Yes. North Bali is raw and beautiful. Some narrow streets lead to open views over rice fields and high waterfalls.

How many days do you need in Munduk?

We suggest staying in Munduk for at least three days. Spend two nights and three days organising a complete itinerary that includes hiking or walking on the trails, waterfall chasing, the twin lakes, and a jump on the sandy beaches of Lovinia.

Get travel insurance for Bali

Even though it is not mandatory, having travel insurance for Bali is better than being sorry. We recently witnessed an incident as we were riding bikes with other friends on the hills and mountains of Sapa in Vietnam, and this reminded us of the importance of having great travel insurance that covers your ass anytime.

If you haven’t considered it yet, read our Safety Wing Travel insurance review, or request a quote on the side.

Final Thoughts: Is Munduk worth visiting?

Absolutely. Whether you are looking for an adventure, are sick of Bali party spots, or just want to spend a couple of days surrounded by Nature, Munduk is the place to go.

Unwind and relax thanks to Munduk’s serene atmosphere, combined with the luxury of places like Munduk Moding Resort Bali, making it a unique destination that’s well worth exploring.