Lakes in Bali: Nature's Serene Retreats

If there's one lake in Bali that most often appears on postcards or even in our wallets (you guessed it, the Rp50,000 bills!), it's Lake Beratan. Located in the Bedugul area, the lake is surrounded by green hills with cool air and often shrouded in mist, making the whole scene even more magical

The big highlight here is, of course, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, a beautiful temple that looks like it's floating on water. The temple is dedicated to Dewi Danu, a goddess who is believed to guard Bali's fertility and water sources. That's why it's not only famous for being the backdrop for those viral photos, but it also has a strong spiritual value that's quite interesting — a must-visit if you ask me!

While enjoying the beauty of the temple and the peaceful atmosphere of the lake, you can also try some exciting activities, including:

• Riding a speedboat (if you love jetskiing, try this!) or duck boat around the lake.

• Stock up on fresh fruits and veg at the traditional market.

• Go fishing by the lake, which has crystal clear water.

• Take a peaceful stroll to the Bali Botanical Garden, which is only five minutes away.

If Lake Beratan happens to be graceful and calming, Lake Batur is more dashing and majestic! Located at the foot of Mount Batur, the lake is a giant caldera formed by ancient volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago. The sight? It is epic! Surrounded by high cliffs and green hills, and sometimes, there is a thin mist that makes the scene even more magical.

For the Balinese, Lake Batur also has high spiritual value. Its water is considered sacred and is used in various religious rituals. In fact, the lakeside village of Trunyan is famous for its unique tradition- the bodies are left out in the open without being buried, but oddly enough, they don't stink! Here's a hint: the secret? The natural odor-absorbing Taru Menyan tree.

Beyond enjoying the incredible scenery, there are loads of exciting activities you can try at Lake Batur:

• Dip in the natural hot springs while enjoying the view of the lake and mountains.

• Catching some great fish in the lake.

• Hiking up Mount Batur to see the best sunrise.

If all you're looking for is a place in Bali that's calm, chilled, and away from the crowds, these Bali Twin Lakes are the perfect choice! Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan are located in the mountainous region of Bedugul, surrounded by tropical forests that are still quite pristine. Since they are side by side and only split by a thin strip of forest, the two are often called “the twin lakes”.

Despite their similarities, each has a slightly different vibe:

• Lake Buyan is larger and is often used for tourist activities like camping and trekking.

• Lake Tamblingan is smaller and considered as the sacred Bali lake, as it is surrounded by old temples used for religious rituals.

Unlike the well-known Lake Beratan or Batur, Twin Lakes is somewhat of a hidden gem and ideal for anyone who prefers a more natural and mystical side of Bali. The fog that often falls in the afternoon makes the whole area even more special!

Well, if you stop by here, don't forget to try out these exciting activities:

• Camping on the shores of Lake Buyan, waking up to fresh air and the sounds of wild birds.

• Trekking in the forest around the lake (if you're lucky, you can meet wild monkeys or rare birds!)

• Take a traditional boat ride on Lake Tamblingan.

Okay, now that Lake Beratan, Batur, and Twin Lakes are pretty well known, we're getting into the “supreme hidden gems” category. There's also a lake in Bali that may rarely make it onto travelers' itineraries but offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience. Wondering which ones? Let's get it out there!

Personally, this is one of my favorites. If you prefer a 'secret spot' in Bali that's less touristy, Yeh Malet Lake may just be the one for you! Located in Karangasem Regency, in the eastern part of Bali, this lake offers an incredible serenity — no tourist rush, no vehicle noise, just you, nature, and the sound of chirping birds.

While not as big as Lake Batur or Beratan, Yeh Malet has its own appeal. The water is clear with a greenish color, surrounded by lush trees that make the scenery more pleasant. Plus, the area around the lake is still very much pristine, untouched by construction or hospitality.

The next question is what to do? Let me give you a hint:

• A local-style picnic by the lake while enjoying the serenity of the surrounding village.

• Explore the lake in a traditional wooden canoe

• Browse the surrounding area filled with rice fields and mini-forests

Okay, we've discussed some of the lakes in Bali, from the most familiar to the most hidden gem — But did you know that the lakes in Bali hold a deeper meaning? Not only as a source of water but also as a sacred place in Balinese Hinduism. Water is a highly revered element in Hinduism, and Bali's lakes are considered manifestations of Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, rivers, lakes, and fertility.

For the Balinese, water (called Tirta) is the source of life and spiritual purification. These lakes are an important part of the traditional Subak irrigation system, which is even recognized as a world cultural heritage by UNESCO. It is from these lakes that water is channeled to rice paddies and fields, ensuring the well-being of the community. For this reason, numerous temples stand near the main lakes as a form of respect to Dewi Danu and the universe (you must have noticed this at least once). Several important rituals are also performed here, ranging from blessing ceremonies to spiritual cleansing.

Bali's lakes are not merely beautiful but also house an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. Around Lakes Buyan and Tamblingan, the lush tropical forests are home to giant banyan trees and mountain cypresses, while at Lake Beratan, lotuses and water hyacinths dot the water's surface. The dry Lake Batur is surrounded by coffee plantations and Edelweiss plants that grow on the mountainside. The fauna is just as diverse, from the rare Bali Starling, a king prawn bird that often hunts for fish on the water's surface, to the exotic butterflies that flutter around the Tamblingan forest.

Well, personally, I think the best time to go is early morning or late afternoon when the air is still cool, and the sunlight makes the view more magical. But let’s take a quick look to some of these tips:

• If you want a quieter experience (like me), steer clear of weekends or holiday seasons, as some lakes like Beratan and Batur can get quite crowded.

• If you prefer a misty and mystical vibe, though, Lakes Tamblingan and Buyan are best visited at dawn, especially if you want to hunt for some great photos!

• Wear comfortable clothes, bring a jacket if you're going to higher areas like Batur or Buyan, and don't forget mosquito repellent if you want to explore the surrounding forest.

• If you plan to play in the water or take a boat ride, pack sandals that can dry easily.

• Above all, don’t forget to maintain etiquette and politeness, especially in lakes with high spiritual value like Beratan and Tamblingan — never make loud noises, litter, or engage in activities that could interfere with the tranquility of the place. Be respectful of nature and local culture, okay sweetie?