Bali is home to dozens of waterfalls, but none feel as mystical as Tukad Cepung waterfall. Unlike the towering falls you see in postcards, Tukad Cepung is hidden deep inside a cavern. When the sun hits the right angle, the entire cave lights up with God Rays making it look like a scene from a fantasy movie.
If you are planning your Bali itinerary from India or anywhere else in the world, here is everything you need to know about this hidden gem.
Why is Tukad Cepung So Special?
Most waterfalls in Bali, like Gitgit or Sekumpul, are wide and open. Tukad Cepung is unique because the water flows down the walls of a canyon rather than into a river. To see it, you actually have to walk into a cave. The circular shape of the cliffs creates a natural spotlight effect that is world famous among photographers.
How to Reach Tukad Cepung: The Best Route
Tubak Cenpung Waterfall is Located in the Tembuku region of Bangli. It is about 30 kilometers from Ubud.
From Ubud: A 50-minute drive. This is the best place to stay if you want to reach early.
From Kuta/Seminyak: About 1.5 to 2 hours depending on Bali’s famous traffic.Pro Tip for Indian Travelers: Don’t rely on public buses. Renting a scooter (around 80,000 IDR/day) is great for solo travelers, but for families, hiring a Private Driver is much more comfortable and surprisingly affordable.
Timing is Everything: Chasing the Sunbeams
If you go at the wrong time, you’ll see a beautiful waterfall, but you’ll miss the Magic.
The Golden Window: Between 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM. This is when the sun is high enough to shine directly into the cave opening.
Check the Sky: If it is raining or very cloudy, the sunbeams won’t appear. Try to pick a clear, sunny day for this trip.
Beat the Crowd: By 11:30 AM, the “Instagram queue” for photos can be 30 minutes long. Arriving by 8:30 AM gives you the best of both worlds peace and light.
The Hike Down: What to Expect
It takes 15 minutes to reach the Tubak Cepung Waterfall. It isn’t a trek but it is an adventure.
The Stairs: You will descend several concrete stairs. Remember, you have to climb these back up!.
The River Walk: Once at the bottom, you have to wade through knee-deep water and walk between high canyon walls to reach the cave.
The Terrain: The rocks can be very slippery. Do not wear expensive sneakers. Wear waterproof sandals or water shoes.
Photography Tips: Getting the Viral Shot
You’ve seen the photo: a person standing on a large rock with golden light pouring over them. Here is how to get it:
Lower the Exposure: On your phone, tap the brightest part of the screen (the light beams) and slide the brightness down. This makes the rays look sharp and clear.
Wide Angle: Use the 0.5x lens on your iPhone or Android to capture the full height of the canyon walls.
Patience: There is usually a line for the main rock. Be respectful of others, and they will likely help you take your photo too!
2026 Entry Fees and Facilities
Entrance Fee: 15,000 IDR per person (approx. ₹85 INR). Carry cash, as card machines often don’t work in the jungle.
Parking: Free or a small 2,000 IDR fee for scooters.
Lockers: Available near the entrance if you don’t want to carry your dry clothes down.
Warungs: There are small local cafes at the top selling fresh coconut water and Nasi Goreng.
What to Pack for the Adventure
Water Shoes: Protecting your feet from sharp rocks underwater is vital.
Dry Bag: To keep your phone and camera safe from the mist and splashing water.
Extra Clothes: You will get wet, either from the spray or from wading through the water.
Insect Repellent: It’s a jungle where mosquitoes love tourists!
Make it a Day Trip: The Triple Waterfall Itinerary
Don’t drive all the way to Bangli for just one spot. You can visit three very different waterfalls in one day:
Tukad Cepung (9:00 AM): For the morning light beams.
Tibumana Waterfall (12:00 PM): A perfect, straight-curtain fall that is great for swimming.
Kanto Lampo (2:00 PM): A seasonal step waterfall where you can sit on the rocks as the water flows over you.
Safety First: A Note on Monsoon Season
Since Tukad Cepung is inside a canyon, it can be dangerous during heavy rain due to flash floods. If it has been pouring rain for hours, skip this waterfall and choose an open one like Tegenungan instead. Remember! Prefer your safety upon your photo.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth It?
Absolutely. Tukad Cepung is not just a waterfall; it’s an atmospheric experience. Even with the crowds, standing inside that cave and watching the light dance through the mist is a memory you won’t forget. It is affordable, breathtaking, and truly represents the natural beauty of Bali