Overview
What it is
Banjar Hot Springs (Air Panas Banjar) is one of Bali’s best-known public soaking spots, a set of tiered stone pools tucked into green hills in the north of the island. It’s a classic “stop for an hour” kind of place, easy to combine with Lovina, monasteries, waterfalls, or a general North Bali day.
What it feels like
The pools are built and managed, with a steady flow of visitors. You soak in shared basins with carved water outlets, shaded edges, and the sort of atmosphere you’d expect from a popular local attraction. It’s more communal than quiet. If you want solitude, go elsewhere. If you want an iconic, low-effort soak, this is the one.
Water notes
The official site describes warm sulfur water, and many visitors notice the mineral smell. Treat it like a bathing experience, rinse after, and avoid wearing jewelry you care about if you’re sensitive to mineral staining.
Location & Access
Where it is
Banjar Hot Springs is in the Banjar area of North Bali, a short drive inland from the Lovina coast. It’s commonly visited from Lovina, Singaraja, and nearby beach towns.
Getting there
Access is by road, typically on paved surfaces, with the usual Bali mix of scooters, narrow sections, and occasional rough edges. The drive is straightforward in daylight. If you’re coming from the south, the distance is less of a problem than the time, traffic and winding roads can stretch the day.
Parking and moving around
Expect to park, then walk in on foot. Inside, you’ll be moving on wet stone and tile, with steps between levels. This is a place where slow, careful footing is the difference between a nice soak and an avoidable slip.
What to bring
Swimwear, towel, sandals with grip, drinking water, and cash for entry and small purchases. A dry bag helps if you want to keep your phone with you.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who it suits best
Banjar is a good fit for most travelers because it’s simple and familiar: clear entry, shared pools, and a predictable visit length. It’s especially handy if you’re based in Lovina and want an easy morning or late-afternoon activity.
Families
Families can do well here, but supervision matters. Pool edges can be slippery, and deeper sections are not the place for unsupervised kids. Bring snacks and dry clothes, because children cool down fast once they get out of warm water.
Mobility reality
Even though it’s developed, there are still stairs and wet surfaces. If you need step-free access, plan for limitations. I would not treat it as reliably wheelchair accessible without confirming current routes and surfaces onsite.
Expectations vs reality
This is popular, so it can feel busy and loud. If you want a calmer soak, aim for earlier hours and avoid peak tour loops. If you’re sensitive to crowds, keep your visit short and treat it as a quick cultural stop rather than a long spa day.
Safety & Etiquette
Main risks
Slips are the number one issue. Walk slowly, keep sandals on, and assume every step is slick. The second issue is hot-water fatigue. Take breaks, drink water, and don’t stay in the hottest areas for too long.
Pool etiquette
Rinse before entering if possible. Keep hair products and soaps out of the soaking pools. Don’t spit or rinse mouths in the water. Keep voices down, especially when the pools are full and sound carries.
Photography
Take quick photos, but don’t treat the pools like a set. Be mindful of families and local visitors who came to soak, not to be in someone’s video.
Respecting the site
Use bins, avoid leaving plastics behind, and don’t carve names or scratch surfaces. This place lasts because people treat it like a shared bathing space, not a disposable attraction.
FAQs
How long should I plan to stay?
Many people spend about an hour or two, depending on crowding and how quickly you warm up. It’s easy to treat as a short stop between other North Bali sights.
Is the water strongly sulfur-smelling?
Often there’s a noticeable mineral smell, but it can vary day to day. If you’re sensitive, keep your soak shorter and rinse after.
What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sandals with grip, and drinking water. A dry bag for valuables is useful if you don’t want to leave items unattended.
Is it good for kids?
Yes with close supervision. Watch for slippery steps and deeper edges, and bring warm dry clothes for afterward.