Bali may be best known for its stunning coastlines, but the island is also a freshwater paradise in its own right.
Thanks to its active volcanic peaks and high ridgelines, Bali’s freshwater ecosystems, whether they be lakes, rivers, or springs, hold a wealth of cultural and ecological importance and are not to be missed by tourists visiting the island.
Bali is home to a series of hot springs. While many are hidden away in rural villages as secret wellsprings, others have been hailed for centuries for their healing and mystical qualities and have had temples built around them.
The hot spring water is mineral-rich thanks to its volcanic origins, and many believe that it is this high mineral content that has healing properties for the body.
Waters in the hot springs are generally high in calcium, potassium, and sulphur, which is what gives the waters that eggy smell.
The temperature of the waters can range significantly, depending on the depth of the wellspring and how close it is to the volcanic magma. Temperatures range from 37°C to 45°C.
In Balinese Hinduism, tirta, water, is one of the most important earthly elements, and reverence for water is woven into all aspects of day-to-day life, ceremonies, and rituals.
Tirta Empul Temple, for example, is one of the most famous of Bali’s water temples, located just outside of central Ubud. Tirta Empul Temple is one of the most popular places for both local worshippers and tourists to take part in a melukat, or water purification ceremony.
The Melukat can be completed for many different reasons, but the root is always for cleansing and purification of the mind, body, and soul.
Bali’s most famous hot springs can be found in Kintamani. Set along the shores of Lake Batur, the Batur Hot Springs offer visitors the chance to soak in the nourishing warm spring waters while taking in spectacular views of Mount Batur, Mount Abang, the rolling foothills of Kintamani, and Lake Batur itself.
The waters at Batur Hot Spring are around 40°C and thankfully are not too sulphur-smelling. A soak at Batur Hot Springs is a particularly rewarding treat for hikers who have summited Mount Batur for sunrise.
Batur Hot Springs are the public baths, and are located next to Toya Devasya Resort, which has access to its own private hot springs too.
Some folks prefer to enjoy a soak at the Toya Devasya Resort and make the most of the other facilities at the resort, while others prefer the more authentic, local style Batur Hot Springs.
Heading further north, Banjar Hot Springs are an unmissable stop off in Lovina. Loved by local communities and tourists alike, this stunning natural pool is highly sulphuric and surrounded by lush tropical jungle-style gardens.
Banjar Hot Spring spans over three tiered pools with hot spring water flowing from the mouths of ornately carved stone Nagas.
These Nagas, or dragon serpents, are important in Balinese Hindu mythology and are believed to protect the waters and their life-sustaining properties.
Banjar Hot Spring is a well-organised public pool, with changing rooms, lockers, and a restaurant on site too. For those who want a more exclusive experience, there are VIP Private Pools available for booking too. It is advisable to make a reservation online.
Banjar Hot Springs is open Monday to Saturday from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm. Access to the main pool area for international tourists is priced at IDR 45,000 per person, enabling all-day access.
VIP Pool access is charged at IDR 225,000 per hour, with access for groups of up to 15 people. To complete a day of relaxation at Banjar Hot Springs, it is highly recommended to have a spa treatment. With massages and full body scrubs offered at IDR 75,000 per hour, you’d be a fool to say no!
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