Tabanan lies on the southern part of Bali, just northwest of Canggu and Seminyak. With a total area of 839.33 km², it makes up about 14.9% of Bali’s land. The regency is home to 431,162 people, with a population density of around 513 people per km².
Most locals work in agriculture, farming, and livestock, while others are involved in tourism and creative industries. Tabanan is also gaining popularity among expats looking for affordable living near the city but away from the bustle of Canggu. Surfers love its uncrowded breaks, and nature lovers find plenty of peaceful escapes here. From UNESCO rice terraces to black-sand beaches, Tabanan offers some of Bali’s best off-the-beaten-path adventures.
If you’re planning to explore the region, here are some of the best things to do in Tabanan:
Visit Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks. This sea temple sits dramatically on a rock formation offshore and is best visited during sunset. Its stunning setting and deep-rooted history make it a must-see in Tabanan.
Trek Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Explore Jatiluwih, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its endless green terraces. For quieter alternatives, head to Belimbing Village in Pupuan or Sesandan Village, both offering breathtaking rice fields and traditional Balinese life.
Explore Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Sitting on the shores of Lake Bratan, Ulun Danu Temple is one of Bali’s most photographed sites. Multi-tiered shrines with misty mountains in the backdrop creates a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
Walk Through Bedugul Botanical Garden and Market
Bedugul Botanical Garden spans 157.5 hectares at an altitude of 1,250–1,450 meters. Built in 1959, it preserves rare plants and tropical mountain species from the eastern regions of Indonesia. It is families’ favourite spot for the weekend for its peaceful and beautiful setting, diverse plant collections, and Hindu temples. Nearby, the Candikuning Market sells fresh produce, steamed peanuts, corn, and and other local taste of Bedugul.
Chase Waterfalls
Tabanan offers some beautiful waterfalls worth exploring. Leke Leke Waterfall is a hidden gem with a narrow stream plunging into a tranquil pool, takes aroaund 15-minute trek. Not far away, Campuhan Antapan Waterfall is one of the easiest waterfalls to reach in Bali making it a family-friendly destination. The waterfall boasts three streams flowing over smooth rock into a shallow pool.
Experience Village Life
Stay in a traditional Balinese village and immerse yourself in local life. Learn to work in the rice fields, cook Balinese dishes, and join in daily activities. It’s a rewarding way to connect with the culture.
Enjoy a Pupuan Farmstay
Pupuan offers beautiful nature walks, organic farming experiences, and fresh mountain air. Guests can meet farm animals, relax under shady trees, and even swim in hidden waterfalls. At night, enjoy stargazing by a bonfire while crickets sing in the background.
Trek Mount Batukaru
Hike Mount Batukaru, Bali’s second-highest mountain at 2,276 meters. The trek is suitable for adventure seekers, passing through lush rainforest with challenging routes yet rewarding.
Visit Vihara Dharma Giri and Siva Temple
Besides stunning rice terrace and towering mountain, you’ll find Vihara Dharma Giri and a Hindu Siva Temple in Pupuan Village. While these sites aren’t very popular, they provide peaceful cultural stops surrounded by scenic landscapes.
Surf at Balian Beach
Balian Beach is a surfer’s paradise, offering powerful waves without the crowds of southern Bali. The rugged landscape and black sands make it equally appealing for sunset views. Only strong swimmers should enter the water here.
Discover the West Coast Beaches
Tabanan’s west coast boast striking fine black-sand beaches. Visit Yeh Gangga, Kedungu, Pasut, and Nyanyi Beach for dramatic seascapes, local fishing villages, and fewer crowds than Bali’s southern shores.