Bali has been extensively developed into a resort island for decades. Even so, every once in a while, Bali still springs some surprises for us by providing newly found beautiful places. This island really never fail to impress, and is world to explore.
Everyone has their own expectation of Bali, and they also come with different intention. Some want to party on a beachfront club, some want to explore the lush green tropical paradise, some others want to find spiritual tranquility in this highly religious Hindu island. And yet, they might find something new, something like Tukad Cepung Waterfall.
Location
Tukad Cepung Waterfall is located at Penida Kelod, Tembuku Village, Tembuku District, Bangli. This place is about 40 kilometers away from Denpasar, you can reach it in about an hour’s drive. As with many tourist destinations in Bali, the road infrastructure is generally good, even though the trek leading to the actual waterfall is challenging.
Guide Service
Once you reach the parking lot, you will be greeted by many locals. Don’t worry, they mean no harm and will not try to swindle you into giving them your money. They might do a Mesirat ceremony, sprinkle you with holy water before you enter the location. Apart from cleansing your soul, this ritual is also to protect you from whatever harm you might find during your visit.
They will then lead you to the waterfall. Their service is absolutely necessary because they know the route very well, including the best trek to take and the obstacles you might encounter. The trip to the waterfall is definitely challenging.
The (in)famous route
The trip you will take from the parking lot to the waterfall is only 15 minutes, but that will be an intense 15 minutes. You will walk at the bank of a small creek, with a panorama of rice field and green forest.
You will then have to climb down a flight of stairs that can be slippery when wet. You will keep walking until you reach a small stream. You will have to walk and waddle through the stream.
The route you are about to take is mesmerizing and somewhat intimidating. You have to go through a stream that flow in a small but deep canyon between to cliffs. You might feel like you are walking in a cave.
It is treacherous in some parts, but it is also mysteriously very inviting. Then you start to softly hear a waterfall, even though all you can see are cliffs.
The waterfall
Tukad Cepung Waterfall is located in a hidden place, in a chamber of cliffs. As you enter the chamber, you begin to realize how wonderful this waterfall is. It is not too big but it has the charm you cannot find in any other waterfall.
When you look up at the opening above, you can see sun rays beaming spectacularly. It is as if there is a lightfall in this waterfall.
The waterfall drops into a shallow pond where you can play water to your heart’s content because the place is usually empty. If you have time after reaching this waterfall, try to explore other parts of the canyon and stream.
Tukad Cepung Waterfall is beautiful on its own, but the beauty is enhanced by the feel of accomplishment that you get after a challenging trip. Needless to say, this entire place is extremely instagenic and you have to bring your camera here; you will take beautiful photos. Visiting Tukad Cepung will be an unforgettable experience you have in Bali.
