Gembleng Waterfall Bali | A complete guide
Among the many hidden, unique places around Bali, Gembleng Waterfall was by far our favourite. People might argue that it’s not just a waterfall but a series of fabulous natural pools in a gorge. Right through the lush tropical forest, hidden and tucked away amidst the dense foliage, lies a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. This guide to Gembleng Waterfall Bali will introduce you to a serene oasis where you can relax with a pinch of adventure.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through Gembleng Waterfall, revealing everything you need to know for an unforgettable visit. After all, Gembleng Waterfall (Air Terjun Gembleng) is one of the less famous waterfalls in Bali, so perfect if you want to enjoy it with few people around. Let’s dive into the waterfall at Gembleng.
Gembleng Waterfall infinity pools guide
What attracted us to visit Gemblen waterfall was the stunning landscape, hidden in the jungle, and the fantastic infinity pools to admire this natural beauty. For years, Gembleng has been one of the best-kept secrets of Bali. However, with the island getting increasingly crowded, year after year, we expect that you will have to queue to get in very soon. (However, we visited again in 2026 and still feel like no one knows about this waterfall)
Gembleng Waterfall is called by locals “Air Terjun Gembleng “. You will find yourself staying hours soaking in the freshwater, in natural pools, sometimes well-rounded in shape. Reaching the top, you will have about 7 to 8 pools to hang out in, so there is plenty of room for everyone.
Things to know before visiting Gembleng Waterfall Bali
This post may contain affiliate links or Sponsored Links (read our Cookie Policy), and useful experiences that we love to suggest to you. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are really grateful) at no extra cost to you.
Where is Gembleng Waterfall
First of all, you must know that Gembleng waterfall is located in a remote area of Bali. The area of Sidemen is relatively new to the expat community, which is escaping from the hustle and bustle of Seminyak, Canggu or Ubud. Gembleng waterfall is in the village of Sideman, Gianyar, on the east side of Bali. Check the map below for reference.
If you are staying within Canggu, Kuta, Seminyak or Uluwatu, reaching the waterfall takes about 2 hours and a half. Instead of staying in Ubud, you might take 1 hour and a half or two, depending on traffic. While staying two months in Bali, we loved to get weekend trips. We were moving on Friday from Seminyak and visited this part of East Bali, Ubud and Monduk. The best place to stay around Gembleng Waterfall is Hideout Bali.
Best time to visit Gembleng Waterfall | Air Terjun Gembleng Bali
Honestly, there is no wrong time to visit Gembleng Waterfall. However, with all the rest of the waterfalls getting crazy busy, even this secluded place is starting to get crowded. We visited Gembleng waterfall Bali in the early morning during the week, and it was perfect. We caught just a few tourists around, and could enjoy a couple of pools undisturbed. You must be aware that this place is sacred, and locals were allowed to open it to the public just recently. It’s possible that it is closed for ceremonies, but this only lasts for part of the day, and you might witness something extraordinary.
How to get to Gembleng Waterfall
It is easy to get to Gembleng Waterfall from everywhere in Bali. We reached the fantastic location by scooter, and within 2.5 hours, we were at the gate. It wasn’t tiring, as you will pass by a fantastic natural landscape that is always exciting.
Of course, the distance is less if you start from Ubud, and it will take only a 1.5/2-hour drive.
If you don’t feel confident riding the scooter, or the distance seems too much for you, don’t worry. You can hire a private car with a driver for the whole day and enjoy the experience fully. CHECK THIS TOUR.
This tour, we suggest, includes:
- Experienced driver & guide
- Hotel pick-up & drop-off
- Drinking water
- Petrol
More guides about Bali
Gembleng Waterfall entry fee
While in Bali, you will soon realise that you have to pay for everything: parking, entrances, just walking to a place to admire the panorama (Devil’s Tears in Nusa Lembongan). Instead, access to Gembleng Waterfall is subject to a free offer. Yes, you pay what you feel, and it’s a form of respect for locals, who are busy keeping the place running, clean and safe.
You place your offer in a wooden box at the entrance. We suggest donating about 20,000 IDR (1.40$), the same as the ticket entrance to Leke Leke Waterfall and others. If you feel you can contribute more, go ahead, as it supports locals, and you are not paying for parking either. We visited Gembleng Waterfall again in February 2026, and it was nice to see that the entrance fee hasn’t changed; it’s still on a donation only!
After all, Air Terjun Gembleng is a holy place, sacred for local people. As said before, just recently, it became open to the public, and it’s increasing as a tourist destination in Bali. For us, it is also one of the most instagrammable places in Bali.
Gembleng Waterfall Opening Hours
Gembleng Waterfall is open every day from 7 AM to 5 PM. We suggest arriving early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquillity of this natural wonder. As we mentioned, Gembleng Falls and pools is a sacred place, so it might be closed for celebrations occasionally. Google is not accurate in confirming closing and opening times as it is discretionary.
Facilities at Gembleng Waterfall
Another thing we liked most about Gembleng is that locals are indeed developing this waterfall. They have created a warung on top of the fall, which offers coffee, food and a restroom. When we visited, just part of it was open, but I guess that everything will be ready and running when you read this post.
Our overall experience at Gembleng Waterfall
It’s true that Gembleng is in a remote location, and you need to navigate through narrow streets through the rice paddies. However, having visited many waterfalls during our stay in Bali, this was by far one of the best.
The rocky pools with the vista, the small fee as a donation, and the picture-perfect spots are a true highlight. We even liked the hike to the top, which was easy, even though steep, but totally deep into the lush jungle. You will pass on a wooden bridge over a waterfall that just adds more to the magic.
The walk up to the waterfall
Unlike the other waterfalls in Bali, where you walk down, at Gembleng, you walk up. About 60 series of stairs are tucked away and immersed into the jungle. Be careful, as the stairs might be slippery. Every flight of stairs has a viewpoint opening up a beautiful vista.
The hike is approximately 30 minutes, but well paved. Actually, getting up was overall one of the best paths compared to other waterfalls. Be sure you wear comfortable shoes, even though it is possible and easy with flip-flops.
Photo Spot at Gembleng Waterfall
There is one reason why Gembleng Waterfall is scaling the charts as one of the most Instagrammable places in Bali. The waterfalls offer unique landscapes and opportunities for photography enthusiasts. We must admit, we went there just attracted by the photos on Instagram. Well, it turned out to be one of the best choices; that’s why we are here talking about the Instagrammable Gembleng Waterfall inspo. We flew the drone, and shot from the pools, at every angle as possible, as there are a couple of falls from which you can play with the angles or shoot from the top.
Can you swim at Gembleng Waterfall?
Yes, of course, you can swim at Gembleng. Unlike other waterfalls in Bali, where the power of the water creates waves and the depth of some isn’t suitable for swimming. At Gembleng, you can go deep into the water safely.
One of the highlights of Gembleng Waterfall is the inviting natural pool at its base, and it is a great spot for a “refreshing swim” because the water isn’t too powerful. The crystal-clear water is perfect for a refreshing swim after your hike. Dive in, let the cool water rejuvenate your senses, and relish the moment in this serene paradise.
You can contrast this with the taller, more powerful falls found elsewhere on the island. The gentle flow here makes it much safer for swimming than some of the highest waterfalls in Bali, where the sheer force of the water can create dangerous currents.
What to expect from visiting Gembleng pools?
Expect a series of natural pools, like a jacuzzi without bubbles, carved into the grey rocks, getting down into a gorge. Enjoy the atmosphere, completely secluded, as a secret kept through the jungle. We loved the pool at the top, where the water originated. It is the one often left out because it is less instagrammable than the ones at the bottom. However, from the top, the water is fresher, and you have a beautiful vista.
We will take this occasion to remind you that the place is sacred to Balinese people. We wish you to understand that their deep heritage is part of daily life, and you must respect that. Pay attention to local celebrations, and be polite.
Best tours to Gembleng Waterfall
We understand that you might not be ready to ride your own motorcycle through Bali’s narrow and chaotic streets. It’s not easy to get on dirt roads, even if it is perfect for adrenaline seekers. You can still enjoy the fantastic waterfalls by joining one of the many tours available.
FULL-DAY TOUR TO BALI IG SPOTS | Includes: Gate of Heaven, Gembleng Waterfalls and Virgin Beach. CHECK THE AVAILABILITY NOW!
BALI EASTERN BEST WATERFALLS TOUR | A guided tour of the best waterfalls on the east side of Bali. Discover hidden gems and get all included. Most reviewed tour on Viator. READ THE REVIEW AND PLAN YOUR TRIP.
Where to stay near Gembleng Waterfall Bali
For a more relaxed atmosphere, we also suggest considering Amed area, which is by the way about 1 hour drive from the falls. Staying closer to the East Coast might give you many options for a romantic weekend in Bali. Check below the accommodation we recommend closer to Gembleng Waterfalls and surrounding.
Kubu Taru | Sideman
£22
Home Stay | Budget
Best budget accommodation near the falls.
Luxury Accommodation
Private Villa with pool, breakfast and located close to Ubud Monkey Forest.
Nalini Resort | Amed, East Coast
£62
Mid-Range | 4-Star Resort, High Score Reviews
Cosy guest house with access to the private beach!
Where to next?
Things to do Near Gembleng Waterfall
We explored Gembleng pools early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Even though there were just fewer people. Around lunchtime, we left the facilities and spent the afternoon exploring Siedeman, an undeveloped area secluded and away from the chaotic famous Bali west coast. Gianyar is the closest village to Gembleng, and you must visit it for lunch while watching the rice fields. Drive through the paddies and discover hidden streams getting down the hills. You will be alone most of the time, so enjoy the landscape and drive slowly.
You must visit Gembleng Waterfall
Gembleng pools are perfect, ideal if you are in Bali for a honeymoon or celebrating something special as we did.
During our visit to Gembleng Waterfall, we were awe-struck by the natural beauty that unfolded before our eyes. The journey through the jungle, the invigorating swim in the crystal-clear pool, and the peaceful ambience left an indelible mark on our souls. Gembleng Waterfall is not just a destination; it’s an experience.
