If you’re looking for a raw, powerful waterfall near Ubud that feels untouched and dramatic, Nungnung Waterfall should be at the top of your Bali travel list. Unlike crowded tourist waterfalls, Nungnung offers thunderous water flow, cooler air, and a true jungle atmosphere.
Nungnung Waterfall is one of the tallest and most powerful waterfalls near Ubud, Bali. It is located about 45 minutes from Ubud and requires a steep stair descent, but the reward is a massive waterfall surrounded by lush green forest.
This guide covers how to get there, best time to visit, entrance fees, safety tips, photography advice, and nearby attractions
Where is Nungnung Waterfall located?
Nungnung Waterfall is located in Nungnung Village, Petang District, Badung Regency, in the central highlands of Bali.
Distance from popular areas
- From Ubud: ~18 km (40–50 minutes by car or scooter)
- From Canggu: ~1.5 hours
- From Seminyak or Kuta: ~1 hour 45 minutes
- From Denpasar: ~1 hour
The road to the waterfall is paved and smooth, but the last section is narrow and winding.
Why Nungnung Waterfall is special
Many waterfalls in Bali are pretty, but Nungnung is powerful. This is not a gentle cascade. It is a wide, forceful waterfall that crashes down with intense energy.
What makes it unique
- Height: Approximately 50 meters (164 feet)
- Water volume: Very strong, especially in rainy season
- Crowds: Fewer tourists than Tegenungan or Tibumana
- Environment: Dense jungle, cool mountain air
- Sound: Loud, echoing water roar (you feel it before you see it)
If you want a waterfall that feels wild and real, Nungnung delivers.
The descent: 500+ steps to reach the waterfall
Visiting Nungnung Waterfall requires effort. You must walk down over 500 concrete steps to reach the base.
What to expect on the walk
- Steep stairs with handrails
- Shaded by trees but still tiring
- Humid and slippery in rainy weather
- Takes 15–20 minutes to go down
- 25–30 minutes to climb back up
This walk keeps large tour groups away, which is why the waterfall remains peaceful.
Fitness level required
You don’t need to be an athlete, but basic fitness helps. If you have knee problems or breathing issues, take breaks and go slow.
Entrance fee and opening hours
Current entrance fee
- IDR 20,000 – 30,000 per person (subject to change)
- Small parking fee for scooters and cars
Opening hours
- Daily: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Last entry recommended before 4:30 PM
There are basic facilities near the entrance, including parking and small local stalls.
Time to visit Nungnung Waterfall
Best season
- Dry season: April to October (easier hike, clearer paths)
- Rainy season: November to March (stronger water flow, slippery stairs)
Best time of day
- Early morning (8–10 AM): Fewer people, softer light
- Late afternoon: Cooler air but darker for photos
If you want dramatic photos, visit after rain. If you want safety and comfort, visit in dry months.
Is Nungnung Waterfall safe?
Yes, but caution is important.
Safety tips
- Do not swim close to the waterfall base
- Rocks are slippery due to mist
- Strong currents can pull you under
- Wear shoes with good grip
- Avoid during heavy rain or storms
This waterfall is about admiring power, not swimming.
What to wear and bring
Clothing
- Light, breathable clothes
- Quick-dry outfit
- Extra shirt (you will get wet from mist)
Footwear
- Sports shoes or hiking sandals
- Avoid flip-flops
Essentials
- Drinking water
- Small towel
- Phone or camera (waterproof case recommended)
- Cash for entrance and parking
Photography tips at Nungnung Waterfall
This waterfall is a dream for photographers.
Best photography advice
- Use a wide-angle lens to capture scale
- Protect your camera from mist
- Shoot from lower angles for dramatic effect
- Early morning gives softer contrast
- Slow shutter speed creates silky water effects
Because of heavy spray, keep lens wipes handy.
Nungnung Waterfall vs other waterfalls near Ubud
Tegenungan
- Nungnung: Less crowded, more powerful, harder hike
- Tegenungan: Easy access, more tourists, commercial area
Tibumana
- Nungnung: Massive and loud
- Tibumana: Calm, photogenic, good for swimming
Kanto Lampo
- Nungnung: Natural jungle setting
- Kanto Lampo: Stair-like waterfall, social media favorite
If you want raw nature, Nungnung wins.
How to get to Nungnung Waterfall
By scooter
- Cheapest option
- Suitable for experienced riders
- Use Google Maps and search “Nungnung Waterfall”
By car
- Comfortable and safe
- Ideal for families or groups
- Parking available at entrance
With a driver
- Most convenient
- Combine with nearby temples or rice terraces
- Costs vary by distance and duration
Nearby attractions to combine with your visit
Make the most of your trip by visiting nearby places.
Popular nearby spots
- Taman Ayun Temple – UNESCO-listed royal temple
- Jatiluwih Rice Terraces – Iconic rice fields
- Sangeh Monkey Forest – Giant nutmeg trees
- Coffee plantations in Petang area
These stops pair perfectly with Nungnung in a day trip.
Is Nungnung Waterfall good for families?
It depends.
Good for:
- Active adults
- Nature lovers
- Adventure travelers
Not ideal for:
- Very young children
- Elderly visitors
- People with mobility issues
The stairs can be exhausting, especially in heat.
Environmental responsibility tips
Nungnung Waterfall is still relatively untouched. Help keep it that way.
- Do not leave trash
- Avoid stepping on plants
- Respect local rules
- Support local vendors
- Do not carve or write on rocks
Responsible tourism protects places like this.
Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)
Is Nungnung Waterfall worth visiting?
Yes. If you enjoy nature, waterfalls, and fewer crowds, it is absolutely worth it.
How many steps are at Nungnung Waterfall?
There are approximately 500–600 steps to reach the bottom.
Can you swim at Nungnung Waterfall?
Swimming is not recommended due to strong currents and falling water force.
How far is Nungnung Waterfall from Ubud?
Around 18 kilometers, about 45–50 minutes by car.
Is there food near Nungnung Waterfall?
Small local stalls are available near the parking area, but options are limited.
Final verdict: Should you visit Nungnung Waterfall?
If you want a real, powerful, jungle waterfall near Ubud, Nungnung Waterfall is one of the best choices in Bali. It demands effort, but rewards you with raw beauty and fewer crowds.
This is not a “quick Instagram stop.”
It is a place to feel nature, hear its force, and experience Bali beyond busy tourist paths.
For travelers who value authenticity over convenience, Nungnung Waterfall is 100% worth it.