Munduk is probably one of those areas in Bali that truly is a must. And for me, if you’re visiting the island, it absolutely deserves a spot on your itinerary. I’d even say it’s one of my favorite areas in the north and honestly, on the entire island.
When I started exploring Bali more deeply, I knew one thing: I wanted to discover the north. The south is beautiful, yes, but it’s where most people stay. And as you know, I love creating my own travel route maps (if you read my previous blog, you saw the route I put together). That’s how I began discovering incredible places far from the chaos, traffic, and noise.
After spending a few days in Kintamani, it felt essential to dedicate time to Munduk. This area has so much to offer and a completely different energy: greener, cooler, quieter, and much more authentic.
How to Get to Munduk, Bali?
I was coming from Kintamani, and the drive to Munduk takes approximately two hours by car. Of course, travel time really depends on where you’re coming from. Here are some estimated driving times for reference:
- From Ubud: 2 – 2.5 hours
- From Canggu: 2.5 – 3 hours
- From Denpasar or the airport: around 3 hours
- From Uluwatu: 3.5 – 4 hours
I hired a private driver for my entire northern Bali trip (which I highly recommend if you want to optimize your time and avoid the stress of driving in the mountains). I shared the contact of the service I used in my previous blog.
The road reminded me so much of “Cerro de la Muerte” in Costa Rica, mountains, mist, endless curves, and breathtaking landscapes. You literally feel like you’re entering a completely different Bali.
Where to Stay in Munduk? My Experience
While researching where to stay, I discovered a beautiful property hidden in the mist, located in the middle of a coffee plantation high in the mountains: Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort.
The location is simply spectacular. Surrounded by nature, open mountain views, and a much cooler climate than southern Bali. You’ll definitely need a sweater, especially at night.
I stayed for 2 nights, although honestly, I could have stayed longer. One of those days I simply enjoyed the property, because this is the kind of place that invites you to slow down.
I booked a private villa with a jacuzzi for approximately $150 USD per night. The prices vary depending on the season you visit (check real prices here depending on your dates) In my opinion, the value for money is excellent considering:
- Spacious and private villas
- Large bathroom with bathtub
- Indoor and outdoor shower
- Private lounge area
- Sustainable concept
- And truly impressive views
My favorite part, without a doubt, was the main infinity pool. It’s one of those pools that feels like it’s floating in the clouds. If you wake up early and the weather is clear, you can see Mount Batukaru and, in the distance, Mount Agung. That view alone makes the trip worth it.
Experiences at the Hotel
If you’re like me and don’t completely stop moving while traveling, the hotel has a fully equipped gym. But beyond that, it offers several experiences that are truly worth it:
🌿 Outdoor Yoga Class: Practicing yoga outdoors, surrounded by the plantation and the intense green landscape of northern Bali, was the perfect way to start the morning. It’s incredibly peaceful.
☕ Coffee Tour in Munduk: Munduk is known for producing some of the best coffee in northern Bali, so this experience is a must. You walk through the plantation, learn about the cultivation and preparation process, and finish with a guided tasting. Honestly, it was one of the best coffees I had on the island.
🐎 Horse Riding Experience: My favorite. We rode through the plantation, rural areas, and beautiful hydrangea fields. It didn’t feel like the Bali you see on Instagram. It felt more authentic, more local, and completely different.
What to Do in Munduk and Nearby?
One of the reasons Munduk is so special is its proximity to some of the most impressive waterfalls and temples in northern Bali. Here are some of the places I visited:
- Sekumpul Waterfall
- Banyumala Twin Waterfall
- Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
- Handara Gate
- Aling-Aling Waterfall
- Brahmavihara Arama
All of this makes Munduk a perfect strategic base for exploring northern Bali without constantly changing hotels.
Where to Eat in Munduk? (Inside the Resort)
The property features three restaurants under a farm-to-table concept, where most of the ingredients are harvested directly from the plantation.
- Mimpi Restaurant – Ideal for breakfast with open views. My favorite spots were the more private outdoor gazebos. They offer both local and international cuisine.
- Warung Bongkot – Traditional northern Balinese cuisine and my personal favorite. If you’re looking for a more authentic local gastronomic experience, this is it.
- Bamboo Club House – Perfect if you’re doing the horse riding or coffee tour, since it’s located in that same area of the resort.
The dining experience truly complements the stay. If you’re a foodie, you’ll love it here.
Munduk reminded me that Bali isn’t just about beaches. It’s about contrasts. About climbing into the mountains, slowing down, and letting the landscape do its work. If you’re coming to the island and want to experience something deeper, greener, and more real, give the north a chance. It might just surprise you the most
Love
Marcy
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