FOR travelers seeking a different side of Bali—serene, cool, and pristine—Lake Buyan is a hidden gem of Bali waiting to be explored. Nestled in the mountainous highlands, Lake Buyan offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the south coast, offering authentic, soul-soothing natural charm.
Location
Lake Buyan is administratively located in Pancasari Village, Sukasada Subdistrict, Buleleng District, North Bali. Geographically, it forms an integral part of the volcanic caldera landscape in the Bedugul area.
Lake Buyan is unique because it is part of the “Twin Lakes” formation, along with Lake Tamblingan to the west, separated by a ridge and forest. Not far to the east, Lake Beratan is more famous for its Ulun Danu Temple. Buyan, Tamblingan, and Beratan collectively represent three large lakes formed within the massive caldera of Mount Batukaru, but Buyan is the largest of the three.
Access to Lake Buyan is relatively easy, whether from Denpasar, Bedugul, or Singaraja. The winding, uphill journey offers soothing views of tropical forests and vegetable fields, promising fresh mountain air upon arrival.
Well-Preserved Characteristics and Ecosystem
Lake Buyan exudes the typical characteristics of a tropical highland lake. Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,350 meters above sea level (masl), the lake maintains a cool temperature, even slightly cooler at night and early morning.
The lake covers an area of approximately 490 hectares with a maximum depth of 89 meters. The clear, clean water quality demonstrates its well-maintained ecosystem. Lake Buyan is also surrounded by dense, pristine protected forest, part of the Mount Batukahu Forest Area. This forest plays a vital role as the region’s lungs and a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including long-tailed macaques and numerous endemic bird species.
Ecologically, Lake Buyan plays a vital role as the largest natural water reservoir in North Bali, utilized by the local community for agricultural irrigation, particularly for the vegetable and strawberry fields found in abundance in the Pancasari area. Its relatively untouched natural environment, untouched by large-scale development, creates a mystical and tranquil atmosphere that stands in stark contrast to the bustling tourist scene in Bali.
Tourist Attractions: Camping and Adventure Paradise
Lake Buyan doesn’t offer luxury, but rather offers raw natural beauty and immersive outdoor experiences.
- Camping and Glamping Spots
Lake Buyan is a popular camping destination. The expansive, green grassy shores of the lake provide ideal camping grounds under the shade of the trees. Camping here allows tourists to enjoy a star-studded night sky, cool air, and most awaited of all, the dramatic sunrise view behind the thin mist and hills. Some operators also offer glamping (glamour camping) facilities for even greater comfort.
- Photography and Instagrammable Spots
Buyan’s dramatic landscape—the calm lake waters, lush forests, and morning mist shrouding the hills—makes it a favorite location for photographers, including for pre-wedding photoshoots. Various creative photo spots, such as wooden bridges jutting out over the lake or observation posts, have been built by local residents, further enhancing its visual appeal.
- Adventure Activities and Ecotourism
Lake Buyan is the perfect starting point for trekking to Lake Tamblingan, traversing the pristine conservation forest. Other activities include fishing on the lake’s banks, traditional boating, or simply picnicking in the tranquil meadows. Visitors can also stop by the surrounding strawberry fields to pick fresh fruit.
- Twin Lake Viewpoint
On the main Bedugul-Singaraja route, specifically in the Wanagiri Village area, there are several strategic vantage points at high altitudes (often called Twin Lake Viewpoints) where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan in one frame, an iconic view that reinforces the nickname “Twin Lakes.”
Lake Buyan is a reflection of peaceful Bali, a place where tourists can escape the hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature. It’s a place that offers experiences, not just views, making it a must-visit for those seeking true adventure and tranquility. (*)
