In short
- Covers 45 hectares with 15 bamboo species.
- Walking trails take about 45 minutes to complete.
- Bicycle rentals and a local cafe are available.
In this article
The Penglipuran bamboo forest acts as both a cultural and ecological backbone for the village. This protected area offers quiet, shaded pathways away from the main streets. The forest sits at a cool elevation of 600 to 700 meters above sea level.
Where is the Penglipuran bamboo forest walk?
The forest is located just behind the main village settlement.
You can access the forest trails by walking to the end of the stone-paved central street. The preserve surrounds the village core, separating the living areas from the outside environment.
What can you see in the forest?
You will find 15 different species of towering bamboo.
The trails wind through dense, ancient bamboo groves. The thick canopy provides deep shade along the walking paths. This area is strictly protected by local customary law (Awig-awig) as a sacred space.
How long is the bamboo forest walk?
Most visitors spend about 45 minutes walking the main trails.
You can easily fit this walk into a standard 1 to 2 hour village visit. The paths are well-defined but unpaved. Visitors often stop near the entrance to take photos before walking further into the preserve.
Can you ride a bike in the forest?
Yes, you can rent a bicycle near the forest entrance.
Cycling allows you to explore deeper into the 45-hectare area than walking alone. Motorized vehicles are strictly prohibited inside the main village area, making bicycles the best way to cover more ground.
What facilities are in the bamboo forest?
There is a Bamboo Cafe Area near the forest edge.
This is a quiet spot to grab a coffee or local refreshment. You can try local sweet potato snacks available here. You will spend about 20 minutes resting under the canopy.
What should you pack for the forest trails?
Bring mosquito repellent and comfortable walking shoes.
- Walking shoes: Necessary for the unpaved forest trails.
- Mosquito repellent: Essential for shaded areas near the bamboo.
- Rain jacket: Highland weather can be unpredictable.
- Small cash: Needed to buy snacks at the cafe.
Questions travellers ask
Are drones allowed in the bamboo forest?
No. Drones are prohibited without prior special permission from village authorities.
Is there an extra fee for the bamboo forest?
No, access is included in the standard 2026 village entrance fee. This is IDR 50,000 for foreign adults and IDR 25,000 for domestic adults.
When is the best time to walk the forest?
Early mornings around 8:00 AM offer the best light and fewest crowds. The dry season from April to October is ideal for walking the unpaved trails.
