Tukad Cepung isn’t just one of the most photogenic spots in Bali — it’s quickly earned a place on almost every list of the best waterfalls in Bali. Tucked inside a canyon and lit by dramatic shafts of sunlight, it’s the kind of place that looks too good to be real… until you’re standing in it.
This guide covers everything you need to know before you go — without spoiling the experience. From the hike and what to pack, to tips on when to visit and how to get that perfect shot, here’s what to expect.
It’s a solid addition to any Bali itinerary — and perfect for a Waterfalls Near Seminyak Tour if you’re up for a bit of adventure inland.
Quick Overview of Tukad Cepung Waterfall
Before we get into the good bits — let me warn you: you’ll be earning your waterfall view with a bit of a workout. The hike from the parking lot takes about 20 minutes, mostly down a series of steep stone steps that will make your thighs cry on the way back up. Going down? Easy. Coming back up? Not so much.
But is it worth it? 150%. Tukad Cepung is one of those rare spots in Bali that actually looks just like the Instagram photos. Sunbeams shining through the cave ceiling, misty waterfall magic — it’s absolutely stunning.
Just do yourself a favour and bring an extra pair of sandals or slippers. The rocks at the bottom are no joke. I made the mistake of going barefoot and regretted it immediately. Don’t be me.
Yes, there are crowds — but it’s not unbearable. And here’s a little hack: on your way back up, stop at one of the small cafés halfway for a quick coffee break. It makes the uphill climb a little more bearable, and the journey back to the parking lot feel shorter.
In short? Gorgeous waterfalls, 9/10. Leg day pain, 10/10. But you’ll leave with photos and memories totally worth the effort.
Summary
📍 Location: Jl. Tembuku, Tembuku, Bangli
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 30,000
🕒 Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM, daily
📏 Height: 15 meters (50 feet)
🚗 Parking: Usually free
🥾 Hike Duration: 20 minutes (steep stairs on return)
🏊 Swimming: Shallow wading only
📸 Best Time to Visit: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM for sunlight beams
🚽 Facilities: Toilets, showers
Why Visit Tukad Cepung Waterfall?
Tukad Cepung is one of those Bali waterfalls that’s exploded in popularity thanks to — you guessed it — Instagram. And for good reason. This place looks like something out of a fantasy movie. The waterfall is hidden inside a narrow canyon, and when the sunlight hits just right, it creates dramatic beams that shoot through the mist and light up the cave. Pure magic.
It’s not just a pretty face either. Tukad Cepung Waterfall has become a bit of a bucket list item for Bali first-timers and content creators alike. It’s unique, it’s photogenic, and it’s still relatively peaceful compared to some of the more commercial waterfalls around the island.
If you’re chasing that perfect Bali photo or just want to see a natural wonder that actually feels special, this one’s worth the leg workout.
Where is Tukad Cepung Waterfall?
Tukad Cepung Waterfall is tucked away in Bangli Regency on Jl. Tembuku. It’s about a 1-hour drive from Ubud and 1.5–2 hours from popular tourist areas like Seminyak, Canggu, or Kuta.
Unlike waterfalls that are right off the main road, this one is hidden inside a jungle canyon — which is part of the charm. You won’t see the falls until the very last few steps, where sunlight streams down through the cave opening. It’s that dramatic entrance that makes Tukad Cepung one of the most Instagrammable waterfalls in Bali.
- From Canggu: 1h 40m – 2h (50 km)
- From Kuta / Legian: 1h 30m – 2h (50 km)
- From Nusa Dua: 1h 30m – 1h 45m (~52 km)
- From Sanur: 1h 15m – 1h 30m (25 km)
- From Seminyak: 1h 30m – 2h (50 km)
- From Ubud: 38 mins (33 km)
- From Uluwatu: 1h 45m – 2h (~54 km)
Tukad Cepung Waterfall Entrance Fee
The entrance fee for Tukad Cepung Waterfall is IDR 30,000 per person. You’ll pay at a small ticket booth after a short walk from the parking area. Once paid, you’ll get a physical ticket — no need to show it again later, so feel free to keep it as a souvenir.
Important: They only accept cash. No cards, no QR payments. So make sure to bring some small IDR bills with you — ideally exact change or close to it.
As for parking, I’ve never been charged during my visits. It’s possible the fee is already baked into the entrance price. But if someone does ask, expect to pay around IDR 2,000–5,000, depending on your vehicle.
Best Time to Visit Tukad Cepung Waterfall
The best time to visit Tukad Cepung is between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, when the sunlight beams through the cave opening and lights up the waterfall in the most surreal way. That glow you’ve seen all over Instagram? This is when it happens.
Early morning is also your best chance to beat the crowds. Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends, and arriving before 10 AM gives you the best of both worlds — light rays and fewer people.
Avoid visiting during heavy rain, especially in Bali’s wet season (November to March), as the path can get slippery and the water levels rise quickly. If it’s been dry, even a midday visit is still worth it — just don’t expect the dramatic lighting.
📌 Planning your trip around weather and crowds? Check out my full Best Time to Visit Bali guide for month-by-month tips.
How to Get to Tukad Cepung Waterfall
Tukad Cepung Waterfall is located in the Bangli region, about 1 hour from Ubud and 1.5 to 2 hours from areas like Canggu, Seminyak, or Kuta.
Here’s how you can get there:
Book a Private Car and Driver
This is the most convenient and comfortable option, especially if you’re planning to visit multiple spots in one day. Our driver will wait while you explore, and you don’t have to worry about parking or directions.
Rent a Scooter
If you’re confident on two wheels and used to Bali’s traffic, renting a scooter gives you more freedom. Just make sure you have an international driving permit, and be extra cautious on the small village roads near the falls. Grab a scooter from Bikago.
Grab & Gojek
Technically, you can take a Grab or Gojek car or scooter to Tukad Cepung Waterfall, but don’t count on finding one for the return trip. Most drivers won’t be hanging around rural Bangli, and there’s no reliable coverage in the area. Use a ride-hailing app only if you’ve arranged return transport separately.
The Tukad Cepung Waterfall Hike
The hike starts just after the entrance gate. At first, it’s a chill walk — flat ground through jungle and small gardens. Then come the stairs. Your new enemy.
They’re steep, but manageable. There are railings the whole way, so if you’ve got knee issues or just need to take it slow, you can. Don’t let the heavy-breathing hikers coming back up scare you too much.
The path winds through lush greenery with a few cafés along the way. At the bottom, the trail flattens out — Tukad Cepung Waterfall is to the left, and a small waterfall trickles on the right.
Coming back up? That’s the real workout. I recommend taking a break halfway at Pondok Cepung (look for the pink/red bean bags). A cappuccino there costs around IDR 30k, and the jungle views make the rest of the climb way more bearable.
You’ll survive — but maybe skip squats the day before.
Can You Swim at Tukad Cepung Waterfall?
Not really — at least, not in the way you might expect.
Tukad Cepung has shallow water, just enough for wading and splashing around, but not deep enough for a proper swim. The base of the waterfall is mostly rocky, and the water tends to swirl around your ankles or shins.
It’s great for cooling off after the hike, and you can definitely stand under the falls for that classic photo. But if you’re looking for a spot to float or swim laps, this isn’t it.
If swimming is high on your list, pair this with a visit to Tibumana Waterfall, which has a deeper plunge pool just 30 minutes away.
What to Pack & What to Wear to Tukad Cepung
You don’t need to overthink your outfit — but a few smart choices will make your trip a whole lot more comfortable.
- Sunscreen – The waterfall itself is shaded, but the hike in (and out) is exposed in parts. Lather up, especially if you’re going late morning.
- Proper shoes – The stairs are steep, and the hike can be slippery after rain. Wear proper walking shoes or sandals with grip — no flip-flops for the trek.
- Slippers – Pack a cheap pair of slippers or water shoes for the base of the falls. The rocks are sharp, and walking barefoot isn’t fun.
- Waterproof phone case – Once you step into the cave area, your phone will get wet. A waterproof pouch is a lifesaver for photos and peace of mind.
- Cash (IDR) – Entrance is cash-only, and you’ll want small notes for snacks, coffee, or a post-hike coconut. No cards or digital payments here.
- Light clothing – It gets humid fast, so keep it breezy and comfortable. Dry-fit shirts or light dresses work great.
- Optional: Change of clothes – If you plan to get under the falls or wade in, bring something dry to change into for the trip home.
No need for hiking poles or fancy gear — just pack smart, and you’ll be set. Check my Bali Packing List to sort out your entire trip.
Is Tukad Cepung Safe or Open During Rain?
Tukad Cepung is technically open year-round, rain or shine — but whether it’s safe to visit in the rain is another story.
During or after heavy rainfall, the path down can get very slippery, especially the steep stone stairs and rocky areas near the falls. The water levels at the base can also rise quickly, and the stream flowing through the cave can become stronger than usual.
While they rarely close the site officially, it’s best to avoid visiting during or right after heavy rain, especially in the wet season (November to March). If you do go, take it slow and wear proper shoes — this isn’t the time to experiment with flip-flops.
Dry-season visits (April to October) are generally much safer and more predictable.
How to Get Tukad Cepung Waterfall Photos
Tukad Cepung is one of those waterfalls that looks exactly like the photos — sometimes even better in person. The cave-like setting, the mist, and the sunlight streaming through the top create that magical, almost unreal vibe that’s made this spot blow up on Instagram.
The best photo spot is right in front of the falls, where the light rays cut through the canyon around 9:30–10:30 AM. You can also snap great shots from the water looking back toward the entrance, especially if you catch a sunbeam hitting the mist.
📸 Pro tip: Go early, bring a waterproof phone case or camera, and be patient — people do queue up for that hero shot.
Where to Eat Near Tukad Cepung Waterfall
You won’t find fancy restaurants around Tukad Cepung — but there are a handful of warungs and small cafés near the entrance and along the hike trail that are perfect for a quick bite or coffee break.
- Pondok Cepung – My top pick. It’s the café with the pink and red bean bags halfway up the stairs. Great spot to catch your breath after the hike.
- T.C Gorilla – A restaurant near the parking area with the massive gorilla face art at the entrance.
- Warung D’Kubu – Another spot near the top overlooking the scenery.
- Warung D’Nukad – Closer to the bottom. The first spot you’ll see after coming back up.
- Sarin Paon Resto & Swing – Basic food but they have a swing if you want to grab some photos.
Final Thoughts: Is Tukad Cepung Waterfall Worth It?
Absolutely — Tukad Cepung is 100% worth the trip.
It’s one of the most unique waterfalls in Bali, and the moment you step into that cave and see the sunlight cutting through the mist, you’ll get why it’s on so many bucket lists. It actually lives up to the hype — which isn’t something you can say for every “must-visit” spot in Bali.
Yes, the stairs are brutal on the way back up. And no, it’s not a swimming waterfall. But if you’re after stunning scenery, great photos, and a bit of jungle adventure, this one delivers.
Tukad Cepung Waterfall Reviews
Most reviews for Tukad Cepung Waterfall are overwhelmingly positive — especially from first-time visitors to Bali. People love the dramatic lighting, the hidden cave vibe, and how different it feels compared to more mainstream waterfalls.
That said, a few common notes pop up in reviews:
- The stairs are no joke. Expect a mini workout.
- It gets crowded, especially around 10 AM when everyone’s chasing the light rays.
- Not ideal for swimming — more of a “stand-and-snap” kind of waterfall.
- Still feels local, not overdeveloped, which is a big plus.
Overall, Tukad Cepung scores high for wow factor and scenery, with a few comfort trade-offs. If you go in prepared (and early), you’ll likely walk away impressed.
Where to Visit After Tukad Cepung Waterfall
If you’re out on a Tukad Cepung Waterfall tour, it’s worth turning it into a full-day adventure. Here are a few great stops nearby:
- Penglipuran Village – Famous for its traditional Balinese homes and ultra-clean streets. Just 20 minutes away.
- Kanto Lampo Waterfall – A beautiful tiered waterfall you can climb and pose on. Great for photos and easy to reach.
- Tirta Empul Temple – One of Bali’s most important water temples. Come here for a purification ritual or to admire the sacred pools.
- Sidemen Rice Terraces – Quiet, scenic, and still under the radar. Think Ubud 20 years ago.
- Gunung Kawi Tampaksiring – An ancient complex carved into stone cliffs. You’ll climb stairs again, but it’s worth it.
- Segara Windhu Coffee Plantation – Try Bali’s famous kopi luwak, take a short plantation tour, and enjoy mountain views.
- Tibumana Waterfall – A peaceful spot with a deeper pool for swimming. Great to pair with Tukad Cepung.
Most of these are within 30–45 minutes’ drive, making them perfect additions to a well-planned East Bali itinerary.
FAQs about Tukad Cepung Waterfall
How much does it cost to visit Tukad Cepung Waterfall?
The Tukad Cepung Waterfall entrance fee is IDR 30,000 per person, paid in cash at the ticket booth.
What time does Tukad Cepung Waterfall open?
The waterfall opens around 7 AM, but the light beams appear later. Aim to arrive between 9–11 AM for the best sunrays.
Is Tukad Cepung safe during the rainy season?
It’s open year‑round, but heavy rain can make the trail slippery and water levels unpredictable. Avoid during or right after downpours.
Can you swim at Tukad Cepung Waterfall?
No proper swimming—just shallow ankle- to shin-deep water. Great for cooling off and wading.
How long is the hike to Tukad Cepung Waterfall?
It’s a short 15–20 minute walk from the parking area, mostly downhill on stone stairs — easier going down, tougher coming back up.
Is Tukad Cepung suitable for kids or people with mobility issues?
The stairs are steep and uneven, so it’s challenging for small kids, the elderly, or anyone with mobility difficulties.
When is the best time to get those famous light beams?
9–11 AM on a clear day is prime time — but getting there early (around 8 AM) can help you beat the crowds.
How do I get to Tukad Cepung Waterfall?
Located in Tembuku, Bangli — about a 1-hour drive from Ubud to Tukad Cepung, or 1.5–2 hours from Seminyak/South Bali. Both car and scooter access are easy.
Can I park near the trail? Is there a fee?
Yes, there is parking by the entrance. Often no fee, but if requested, expect a small charge (IDR 2k–5k), typically included in the entrance .
Is Tukad Cepung water cold?
Yes — the water is cool and refreshing. It’s perfect for a quick dip or standing under the falls, especially after the hike.
Comments
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