While Bali is globally renowned for its azure coastlines and world-class surf breaks, the island’s volcanic heart offers a different kind of water therapy. Nestled within the highlands and hidden jungles are natural hot springs—known locally as Air Panas—enriched with volcanic minerals and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
If you are looking to trade the salt water for therapeutic sulfur water, here is a curated journey through five of Bali’s most unique hot spring destinations.
- Toya Devasya: The Infinity Edge on the Caldera
Location: Kintamani, Bangli Regency (Central Bali)
Perched on the edge of the vast Lake Batur, Toya Devasya transforms the traditional hot spring experience into a luxury resort atmosphere. This is not just a pool; it is a front-row seat to the majesty of Mount Batur. The uniqueness of this location lies in its “Infinite” concept.
As you submerge yourself in the warm, mineral-rich water, the pools visually merge with the cool, blue waters of Lake Batur, creating a seamless horizon.
Unlike rustic springs, Toya Devasya offers a vibrant, social atmosphere featuring multiple pools, a waterpark, and lakeside dining.
It is the perfect stop for travelers descending from a sunrise trek up the volcano, looking to soothe their tired muscles while sipping a coconut under the Kintamani sun.
- Banjar Hot Spring: Bathing with Dragons
Location: Banjar Village, near Lovina (North Bali)
Stepping into the Banjar Hot Spring (Air Panas Banjar) feels like stepping back in time. Located in the north, surrounded by lush tropical gardens, this site is historically significant and visually striking. The defining feature here is the architecture; hot water pours from the mouths of carved stone dragons (Naga) into three tiered pools.
The water here is opaque and teal-tinted, a testament to its high sulfur content, which is widely believed by locals to cure skin ailments and rheumatic troubles. The narrative of Banjar is one of tranquility and heritage.
After a morning of dolphin watching in Lovina, a visit here offers a quiet, jungle-enclosed retreat where the only sounds are the splashing water and the rustling of palm trees.
- Angseri Hot Spring: The Hidden Rice Terrace Gem
Location: Baturiti, Tabanan Regency (Central-West Bali)
For those who prefer their nature raw and untouched, Angseri Hot Spring offers a secluded escape. Getting here is part of the adventure, requiring a short trek through emerald-green rice terraces and bamboo forests. Originally built as a private retreat for local royalty, it retains an air of exclusivity and silence.
The uniqueness of Angseri lies in its intimacy with the landscape. The main pool overlooks a lush valley, and a natural waterfall crashes down nearby, adding a cooling mist to the warm air.
The water here is milky green and hot, pumped directly from the bedrock of Mount Batukaru. It is a favorite for travelers who want to escape the crowds of Ubud and immerse themselves deeply in the “real” Bali.
- Penatahan Hot Spring (Espa): Riverside Seclusion
Location: Penatahan Village, Tabanan Regency
While many hot springs are communal, Penatahan Hot Spring (often referred to as Espa Yeh Panes) offers a rare luxury: privacy. Situated on the banks of the Yeh Ho River, this facility is designed with terraced layouts that follow the natural contours of the riverbank.
What makes Penatahan unique is the availability of private biliks (small rooms) or secluded smaller pools where you can bathe alone or with a partner, separated from the public eye. The narrative here is one of deep relaxation accompanied by the soundtrack of the rushing river below.
It is less commercial than Kintamani and offers a more authentic, local atmosphere where the cool river breeze perfectly contrasts the thermal heat of the water.
- Banyuwedang Hot Spring: The Mangrove Healer
Location: Pejarakan, Buleleng (West Bali)
Far removed from the bustle of Kuta and Seminyak lies Banyuwedang Hot Spring in West Bali, near the threshold of West Bali National Park. This location is unique because it sits right on the coastline, surrounded by calm bay waters and dense mangrove forests.
Banyuwedang is famous for having some of the hottest water temperatures (reaching 40°C) and the highest sulfur content in Bali. Because of this, it is considered the most “medical” of the springs, drawing visitors specifically for health therapies.
The experience here is elemental; you are bathing in volcanic heat while gazing out at the calm ocean and the silhouette of Menjangan Island. It is the ultimate destination for eco-tourists looking to combine diving trips with restorative bathing.
Why Visit Bali’s Hot Springs?
Beyond the relaxation, visiting these springs connects you to the geological soul of Indonesia. Whether you choose the infinity pools of Toya Devasya or the dragon spouts of Banjar, these thermal waters offer a way to wash away the fatigue of travel and absorb the volcanic energy of the Island of the Gods. (BT)
