Overview
What it is
Toya Devasya is a developed hot spring complex on the edge of the Mount Batur caldera, set right above Lake Batur. It’s a choose-your-own-comfort kind of soak: multiple pools, built edges, and the sort of facilities that make it easy to stay a while rather than do a quick dip. The main draw is the setting, you’re soaking with the lake in front of you and the volcano landscape behind.
What it feels like
Expect a busier, more structured experience than Bali’s smaller countryside springs. You get predictable entry, maintained pools, and the usual onsite basics like changing areas and places to sit down between soaks. If you want a simple natural pool with nobody around, this is not that. If you want a straightforward soak day with minimal friction, it works.
Good to know
Because it’s lakeside in the highlands, the air can feel cool, especially late afternoon and after rain. That’s a feature, not a problem, just bring a dry layer for the drive back.
Location & Access
Where you’re going
Toya Devasya sits in the Kintamani area beside Lake Batur. Most visitors come up from Ubud or the south of Bali, then continue around the crater rim roads toward Kedisan and the lakeshore.
Getting there
Access is by paved roads, but the Kintamani approach can be slow because it’s winding, busy in places, and weather can change fast. In the wet season, expect heavy showers, low cloud, and slippery shoulders. Plan extra time, use a confident driver if you’re not comfortable with narrow two-way traffic, and avoid rushing after dark.
Parking and entry flow
On arrival you’ll follow a typical ticketed entry. Once inside, you’re on foot around the pool area, with steps and wet surfaces in the usual places. Bring a small dry bag for phone and keys, plus sandals with grip so you’re not skating around on slick tile.
What to bring
Swimwear, towel, water, and something warm for after. If you’re sensitive to chlorine or strong scents, note that developed pools can vary, so rinse after and avoid soaking jewelry.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who it suits best
This is a solid pick for travelers who want comfort and easy logistics: couples who want a relaxed soak, groups who want a simple outing, and anyone pairing a hot spring stop with Lake Batur viewpoints. It’s also one of the easier “hot water” options if your group has mixed comfort levels with rustic facilities.
Families
Families generally find it straightforward because it’s structured and you can take breaks between pools. Keep expectations realistic: this is a hot soak environment, not a kids’ splash park by default. Supervise closely, especially where pool edges drop and surfaces stay wet all day.
Mobility and access reality
Even with facilities, you should still expect stairs, changes in level, and slippery walkways. If you need step-free movement from parking to water, plan for limitations and ask onsite staff about the easiest route on the day. I would not treat this as reliably wheelchair accessible without confirming current access at arrival.
Comfort notes
The highland climate means you can feel chilly when you get out, so bring a dry layer and don’t plan to drive long distances in wet swimwear. If you dislike crowds, arrive earlier in the day and avoid peak sightseeing hours.
Safety & Etiquette
On-site risks to take seriously
The main issues here are the boring ones: slippery surfaces, hot water fatigue, and dehydration. Walk slowly, use sandals with grip, and assume every pool edge is slick. If you’re soaking for a long time, take breaks in the shade, drink water, and cool down before driving.
Water comfort and personal limits
Temperatures can feel different from pool to pool. Start with a short soak, then adjust. If you’re pregnant, have heart or blood pressure concerns, or simply feel lightheaded in hot water, keep soaks brief and cooler. This is common-sense caution, not a medical promise.
Etiquette that keeps it pleasant
Shower or rinse before entering pools if facilities allow. Keep voices down, especially in crowded areas where sound carries. Don’t use soaps, scrubs, or hair products in the pools. Take photos quickly and be mindful of other guests who don’t want to be in the background.
Looking after the place
Use bins, don’t leave plastics, and keep food and glass away from pool edges. If you bring kids, treat it like a shared bathhouse space, calm behavior and close supervision go a long way.
FAQs
Do I need a reservation?
Policies can change. Some days are walk-in friendly, other times the venue may push packaged entry. Check the official site before you go, and have a backup option in the Kintamani area.
Is it a natural spring or a built pool?
The water is geothermal, but the soaking experience is developed, with constructed pools and facility management rather than a wild riverside soak.
What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sandals with grip, water, and a light jacket for after. A dry bag helps if you don’t want to leave valuables in changing areas.
Is it good in the wet season?
It can be great, cooler air makes soaking comfortable, but roads get slick and visibility drops in cloud. Drive cautiously and avoid hurrying back after dark.