Sekumpul Waterfall

The history of Sekumpul Waterfall is less about recorded historical events and more profoundly rooted in the cultural, spiritual, and communal heritage of the local Balinese people. For centuries, before its ‘discovery’ by the wider tourism world, the waterfall and its surrounding lush valley in the village of Sekumpul, Sawan District, Buleleng Regency, were simply an integral part of the daily life and spiritual landscape of the northern Balinese communities. The dense jungle and challenging terrain that now offer an adventurous trek meant the area was naturally secluded, known primarily to the residents of Sekumpul and the nearby village of Lemukih. This seclusion preserved its pristine condition and maintained its significance as a sacred space. In traditional Balinese cosmology, natural features of such profound beauty and power—especially those involving the essential element of water, or tirta—are often considered sacred. The continuous, powerful flow of the Sekumpul cascades, thundering down from a height of up to 80 meters, embodies the raw energy of nature, a physical manifestation of the divine. This deep respect meant that the area was revered, with the local communities acting as its guardians. Stories and local legends passed down through generations likely speak of the mystical power of the water, which is often believed to possess healing properties or be a dwelling place for nature spirits.

The transition of Sekumpul from a local, sacred site to a major global tourist destination is a more recent development, primarily coinciding with the exponential growth of tourism in Bali in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. As travelers began to seek out more ‘off the beaten path’ experiences away from the crowded southern hubs like Kuta and Seminyak, the remote, dramatic landscapes of North Bali came into focus. Initially, access to Sekumpul was arduous, involving unmarked, slippery paths known only to villagers. The first external visitors were usually adventurous trekkers and photographers, captivated by the unique spectacle of the multiple cascades. The rise of social media platforms played a pivotal, almost overnight role in its increasing fame. Stunning photographs and videos of the multi-stream falls, surrounded by vibrant green jungle, quickly went viral, propelling Sekumpul onto the global bucket list for nature lovers. This sudden influx of attention, while providing economic opportunity, also presented challenges for the small, remote community.

In response to the growing number of visitors, the local community, under the guidance of the village cooperative (BUMDes), took proactive steps to manage tourism in a sustainable and organized manner. This is a crucial, modern historical development for Sekumpul. Recognizing the potential for unchecked development and exploitation, the community established the official entrance points, ticketing system, and the requirement for local guides on certain treks. This system, designed to regulate the flow of tourists, ensure safety on the challenging trails, and, most importantly, provide direct economic benefits to the Sekumpul and Lemukih villages, forms the core of the waterfall’s modern history. The introduction of different trekking packages—Viewpoint Only, Medium Trek, and Long Trek (which includes the nearby Fiji Waterfall, another collection of cascades)—was a strategic move to cater to various fitness levels while ensuring local employment. This community-led approach distinguishes Sekumpul’s management from many other tourist sites in Bali, reflecting a commitment to cultural preservation and local prosperity.

The operational success of Sekumpul today is intrinsically linked to the efforts of various logistical partners who bridge the distance between the main tourist areas and the remote north. Companies specializing in reliable and safe transportation, such as SESARI TRANSPORT, have become essential in making the multi-hour journey manageable for international guests. Similarly, tour operators like Amazing Bali honeymoon tour and comprehensive travel agencies like SEMAT TRAVEL INDONEISA play a historical role in integrating Sekumpul into broader Bali itineraries, ensuring that the natural wonder is accessible as part of a well-curated North Bali adventure. This partnership between local village management and external travel services has shaped the current tourist experience, transforming Sekumpul from a hidden gem into a globally recognized example of community-managed ecotourism. The ongoing history of Sekumpul is one of balancing conservation with commerce, tradition with modernity, and remaining a profound symbol of Bali’s magnificent natural heritage.