Munduk Waterfall is often recommended to those looking for a nice excursion destination in the north of Bali. But there is actually more than just one waterfall near the village of Munduk. The following will explain where exactly the waterfalls are located, what makes them so worth seeing and whether one of them is perhaps called Munduk Waterfall after all.
Where are the Munduk waterfalls located?
The waterfalls are located in the mountainous region in the north of Bali. The two twin lakes Buyan and Tamblingan are only a few kilometres away to the east. As the crow flies, the waterfalls are located about 15 kilometres south of Singaraja. From Ubud in central Bali, the distance is about 35 kilometres.
The journey from Ubud takes between 1.5 and 2 hours, the distance is about 65 kilometres. The journey from Lovina is more comfortable. The approximately 25-kilometre drive takes about 45 minutes. From Singaraja, you should plan a little longer – about an hour – for the journey.
Which one is the Munduk waterfall?
There are several waterfalls around the village of Munduk. When people talk about Munduk Waterfall, they usually mean Red Coral Waterfall. However, the other waterfalls are just as worth seeing, so we will introduce them all here.
Red Coral Waterfall / Munduk Waterfall
This waterfall is the most famous in the Munduk area. It is often referred to as the Munduk Waterfall and thus represents all the other waterfalls in the area. However, the real name ‘Red Coral Waterfall’ has a background – the red-coloured rock behind the waterfall.
The waterfall itself is very impressive, as is the green plant life around it. Where the water does not fall, the rock face is heavily overgrown. Together with the tropical trees and shrubs around the waterfall, this creates a beautiful jungle atmosphere.
Unfortunately, the feeling of being completely surrounded by nature does not arise. This is because small walls have been built at one point or another. Although these are quite weathered and thus blend in as well as possible with the surroundings, the waterfall would be even more idyllic without human intervention. Nevertheless, the Red Coral Waterfall is well worth a visit!
Laangan Melanting Waterfall
The second Munduk waterfall, the Laangan Melanting Waterfall, is beautifully embedded in the landscape. It flows into a picturesque basin, which is heavily overgrown with lush greenery on both sides. Tall trees and dense shrubs in different shades promise a unique tropical feeling. The water plunges into a bed of dark boulders and then flows over small steps further down.
Melanting Waterfall is easily accessible via a small hiking trail. Apart from a few steps on the hiking trail, hardly any changes have been made to the waterfall itself. The surrounding area is largely untouched and not obstructed by walls. From the hiking trail, you have a unique view of the waterfall, which you can also explore up close. However, wet clothes are inevitable if you do so!
Golden Valley Waterfall
The Golden Valley Waterfall is situated in a location that is just as beautiful as that of the Melanting. Here, too, the walls of the valley basin are lined with numerous plants. What makes this waterfall special compared to the other Munduk waterfalls is that there is a small eco-café from which you have a direct view of the natural spectacle.
If you don’t fancy a meal but still want to take a breather with a view of the waterfall, you’ll find simple wooden benches and tables right on the hiking trail. It’s the perfect place for a picnic in an idyllic setting, with the soothing sound of the waterfall in the background.
Conclusion: is the Munduk Waterfall worth visiting?
Both the Red Coral Waterfall, also known as the Munduk Waterfall, and the other two waterfalls in the Munduk region are definitely worth a visit. The waterfalls are easily accessible, yet scenically located and all very different. It is particularly recommended to combine all three waterfalls in the form of a hike. Anyone who loves nature in combination with a relaxing atmosphere will feel right at home here.
