Nature
Ayung River
Ayung River
The Ayung River is Bali's longest river, running about 68.5 km from the northern mountains down through Bangli, Badung and Gianyar before reaching the sea near Sanur. It is best known for the white-water rafting stretches upstream near Ubud, where the river cuts through a forested gorge lined with volcanic rock. Closer to Denpasar and Sanur, the river is calmer and runs through flatter, more built-up surroundings on its way to the coast.
Getting there
From central Denpasar or Sanur, the lower stretch of the river near the coast is roughly 15-20 minutes away by car or scooter. If you're heading for the rafting sections instead, expect closer to an hour's drive north toward Ubud, longer if traffic is heavy on the main roads.
How much time to allow
A rafting trip on the upper river usually takes up half a day once transport, briefing and the ride itself are included. A visit to the quieter lower river near Sanur can be done in under an hour.
When to go
Morning departures are generally calmer for rafting, before other groups start out. During and shortly after the rainy season the current runs stronger, which affects water levels. Weekends tend to bring more rafting traffic on the popular sections.
Combine with
If you're based near Sanur, pair a stop at the lower river with:
- Le Mayeur Museum (2.7 km)
- Sanur Beach (3.5 km)
- Bajra Sandhi Monument (4.8 km)
- Holy Spirit Cathedral (5.3 km)
Updated September 20, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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