Mengwi: Where To Stay and What To Do in Tabanan Regency, Bali

Bali, the Island of the Gods, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant traditions. While destinations like Ubud, Kuta, and Canggu attract hordes of tourists, hidden gems such as Mengwi remain undiscovered by many. Located in Tabanan Regency, Mengwi offers an authentic Balinese experience with lush greenery, ancient temples, and a deep connection to the island’s history. Whether you’re seeking serenity, cultural immersion, or adventure, Mengwi provides an enriching escape from the typical tourist trail.

Mengwi: Where To Stay and What To Do in Tabanan Regency, Bali

As one of Southeast Asia’s top travel destinations, Bali offers endless accommodation options. I’d recommend staying in a central location to make exploring the island’s attractions as convenient as possible.

One of our favorite places to stay in Mengwi is Puri Taman Sari — we spent five incredible days here and absolutely loved it. This hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat amidst Tabanan’s wild nature, breathtaking shades of green, and an immersive glimpse into the unique rhythms of traditional Balinese life in the surrounding communities

Puru Taman Sari Mengwi

Puri Taman Sari is a stunning traditional Balinese compound owned by a member of the royal family of Mengwi, one of Bali’s ancient kingdoms. Tucked away in an authentic Balinese village, this peaceful retreat is surrounded by lush coconut groves, expansive rice fields, and three rivers flowing through the landscape. Staying here feels like stepping back in time—offering a rare glimpse of Bali as it was in the 1920s, untouched by mass tourism and modern development.

The atmosphere at Puri Taman Sari is reminiscent of an ancient temple, with intricate Balinese architecture and a serene ambiance. One of the highlights is the beautiful infinity pool, which seamlessly blends into the surrounding landscape, offering breathtaking views of the verdant rice terraces. This is not just a resort but a living, breathing cultural experience.

History of Puri Taman Sari

The property was founded by the late Prince Agung, a visionary leader who, sadly, passed away just three months ago. Unlike many other resorts that simply take over rice fields for development, Prince Agung had a completely different vision. Rather than displacing local farmers, he embraced a more sustainable and community-centered approach. From the very beginning, he carefully designed Puri Taman Sari as a true village resort, seamlessly integrating traditional Balinese cottages within the surrounding farmland.

Moreover, he made it a priority to ensure that the local farmers not only retained their land but also directly benefited from the resort’s success. By sharing both the land and its revenue with the community, he fostered a deep and lasting connection between the village and the resort. As a result, Puri Taman Sari is much more than just a beautiful place to stay—it is a living example of responsible tourism, offering guests an authentic and sustainable way to experience Bali’s rich cultural heritage.

Puri Taman Sari is a village-like compound within a Balinese rural village surrounded by rice paddies. The resort is made up of different bungalow-style rooms in different parts of the village, all surrounded by rice fields. The central part consists of the lobby, grand bale, and a few open halls for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, The spirit of the place and the thrill to be in rural Bali counts here.

Mengwi: Things To Know Before You Go

Mengwi is a subdistrict of Badung Regency. This place covers the major history of Bali. It used to be the capital of an old kingdom. You will surely appreciate Bali more, once you visit this land. It will make your journey more delightful with its beaches, lush greenery, and some of the major tourist attractions.

Taman Ayun Temple

One of the must-visit attractions in this charming town is Taman Ayun Temple, often referred to as the “Mother Temple of Mengwi.” As you step into the temple grounds, you'll be mesmerized by its exquisite architectural features, reflecting the craftsmanship of the past.

Taman Ayun Temple not only holds religious significance but also serves as a vital source of irrigation for the community. The temple's surrounding pools play a crucial role in managing water supply for the nearby rice fields, benefiting local farmers. Moreover, the temple acts as a unifying force, bringing together individuals who share ancestral ties, creating a sense of belonging and unity.

With its historical background and multifaceted functions, Taman Ayun Temple embodies the harmonious coexistence of nature and human civilization. It stands as a testament to the visionary leadership of King Tjokorda Way Blambangan, who ingeniously integrated natural beauty with an efficient irrigation system, ensuring the prosperity of his people.

Preserving this perfect harmony between man and nature is a responsibility that transcends generations. Join us as we delve deeper into the captivating allure of Taman Ayun Temple and discover the significance it holds within the cultural tapestry of Mengwi.

Tanah Wuk

Tanah Wuk, a paradise for nature lovers that will leave you in awe of its breathtaking beauty. This enchanting destination offers an abundance of picturesque landscapes that are simply irresistible, making it a haven for photographers seeking that perfect Instagram shot. From lush greenery to serene water bodies, Tanah Wuk captivates visitors with its natural splendor.

Immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings as you explore this heavenly place. The air is filled with a sense of tranquility and serenity, providing a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic trails, and be prepared to be amazed at every turn.

Tanah Wuk is a treasure trove of natural wonders, boasting panoramic vistas and captivating views. Whether you're an avid nature photographer or simply appreciate the beauty of the outdoors, this destination promises to deliver unforgettable experiences.

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

These are according to our taste, the most beautiful rice terraces in Bali. Located in Penebel District, north of Tabanan, the beautiful village has paddy fields following the contours of terraced land against the background of spellbinding Mount Batukaru and Mount Agung use traditional Balinese irrigation known as Subak, Bali’s community-based water control management system. These rice terraces are located at 700 meters altitude, which makes the conditions for growing rice much better than the most well-known and very touristy Tegallalang rice terraces. Jatiluwih is one of the five rice terraces that describe the “Subak” water management system which has gained acknowledgement from UNESCO as part of the world’s cultural heritage.

Tanah Lot Temple

Pura Tanah Lot is an ancient Hindu Temple from the 15th century. The temple is actually a large offshore rock formation that is completely surrounded by the Indian Ocean at high tide. We were lucky to be here during the low tide because this gave us the opportunity to walk around and explore the temple from different angles. However, the majority aim to visit Tanah Lot during the high tide in order to enjoy the effect of a floating temple.

Pura Tanah Lot Temple is one of the most important temples of Bali and one of the seven sea temples dedicated to the Sea Gods like Dewa Baruna, Bhatara Segara or North. The seven sea temples are highly significant for the Balinese religion. The seven sea temples were built in a line around the Balinese coast. The symbolic chain of temples protects Bali from evil sea spirits.

Pengempu Waterfall

Prepare to embark on an adventure to discover the hidden gem of Pengempu Waterfall in Tabanan Regency. Nestled away from the tourist crowds, this enchanting waterfall remains a well-kept secret, known mainly to local explorers. As you make your way through the lush surroundings, you'll be captivated by the untouched beauty that awaits you.

Pengempu Waterfall offers a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist spots, allowing you to immerse yourself in the serenity of nature. The cascading waters and pristine surroundings create a serene ambiance that is perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Take a dip in the refreshing pool at the base of the waterfall and feel the invigorating rush of the water against your skin.

With fewer visitors compared to popular waterfalls like Tegenungan, you'll have the opportunity to embrace the tranquility and experience a more intimate connection with nature. Capture Instagram-worthy moments as you marvel at the untouched beauty of Pengempu Waterfall.

Massage and Spas

The Highest Density of Spas in the World is in Bali, and the highest density of Spas in Bali is in Tabanan! Yes, Bali is not only the Island of a Thousand temples but also the Island of a Thousand Spas! There are plenty of spa centers to choose from, ranging from 5 € to mega-luxury expensive procedures. And non-expensive doesn’t mean a bad one at all! A mid-range spa experience (massage, bath, scrub) will have an average price of 20-25 €.

Badung Market

Next on our Bali shopping guide is the island's largest traditional market, Badung Market or Pasar Badung. This market, along with the Kumbasari Art market is regarded as one of the best shopping centers in Bali. Head to Badung to get the best fresh produce, and to Kumbasari for an extensive variety including batik clothing, Ikat weave clothes, wooden carvings, contemporary paintings, artful jewelry, and such. It is the best shopping area in Bali to buy souvenirs.

Catch a Yoga And Meditation Class

Bali has become the World Yoga Mecca during the last 10 years. It attracts yoga teachers, retreat mentors, and yogis from all around the world. Mengwi has to do with spirituality and a good way to feel it is to take yoga and meditational class. There are plenty of yoga studios, which offer many different types of yoga.

Alternative Medicine

If you are keen on “Vodoo” (as I call it) or Alternative Medicine (sounds much better) there is no ending list of therapists and healers in Tabanan Regency. No matter, if you want a palm reading, family therapy, acupuncture or crystal healing – Tabanan regency, is your place! The best what you can do is to ask the locals for the best healers in town. There are also many noticeboards in town, but these healers are more like a tourist trap.

Be Part of a Ceremony

Bali is best known for its ceremonies – actually, the Balinese are celebrating almost everything! Balinese have a ceremony for each new period in human life: from the birth, naming ceremony, to death ceremony. Remember: if you enter something like a street party – most of the time it will be a cremation ceremony. The death ceremonies are not likely the ceremonies in the western World – Balinese are celebrating death! Nobody is crying, nobody is sad – they are having a “street party” instead. Although it sounds like it this kind of ceremony would be a private affair, the entire village and tourists are invited.

Pererenan Beach

Pererenan is a charming seaside village offering a picturesque mix of rolling green rice fields and enviable surf breaks framed by a dramatic black sand beach. Blending in with trendy Canggu, Pererenan is slowly becoming more popular but still maintains a more relaxed Balinese feel. The area is favored by ex-pats and surfers looking to escape the crowded lineups in Canggu.

Conclusion

Mengwi and the surrounding Tabanan Regency offer an unforgettable mix of cultural, natural, and spiritual experiences. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, trekking through rice terraces, indulging in wellness retreats, or simply soaking in the beauty of Bali’s landscapes, Mengwi presents an opportunity to discover the island’s hidden gems beyond the well-trodden tourist paths.