Bali is not only famous for its stunning beaches, temples, and lush rice terraces it’s also home to unique attractions that celebrate the island’s rich biodiversity. One such place is the Bali Butterfly Park Tabanan. This tranquil and educational destination offers a chance to witness the beauty of some of the world’s most exotic and colorful butterflies, right in the heart of Bali.
After enjoying the serene beauty of Bali Butterfly Park Tabanan, it’s time to switch gears and embrace the excitement of Bali rafting. Bali’s rivers, such as Ayung and Telaga Waja, provide exhilarating white-water rafting adventures.
Together, Bali Butterfly Park and Bali rafting create a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure, showcasing the island’s diverse natural attractions.
About Bali Butterfly Park Tabanan
Bali Butterfly Park (known locally as Taman Kupu-Kupu Bali) is one of the largest butterfly conservation parks in Indonesia. Spanning over 1 hectare of lush tropical gardens, the park serves as both a sanctuary and breeding center for dozens of butterfly species, including some of the rarest and most beautiful butterflies native to Indonesia.
Established to promote awareness of butterfly conservation and to educate visitors about the life cycles of these delicate insects, the park offers a peaceful environment where visitors can walk freely among hundreds of fluttering butterflies.
Besides butterflies, the park also houses various insects, beetles, and other tropical species, making it a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts and families with children.
Where is Bali Butterfly Park Located?
This place is located in Wanasari Village, Tabanan Regency – about 30 km from Denpasar and around 6 km north of Tabanan town center. It’s a convenient stop if you’re heading to the famous rice terraces, temples, and highland areas of central Bali.
Distance from major areas:
- From Ubud: 1 hour (around 35 km)
- From Canggu: 50 minutes (around 28 km)
- From Seminyak: 1 hour 10 minutes (around 32 km)
- From Denpasar: 1 hour (around 30 km)
The location is easily accessible by scooter or private car, passing through picturesque countryside roads lined with rice paddies and villages.
How to Get to Bali Butterfly Park Tabanan
The most convenient way to reach Bali Butterfly Park Tabanan is by renting a scooter or hiring a private driver. The park lies along the main road connecting Tabanan to the Bedugul highlands and other attractions in central Bali.
Combine your visit to this place with nearby destinations like Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, Pura Taman Ayun Temple, or Sangeh Monkey Forest for a full day of exploring nature and Balinese culture.
Entrance Fees and Opening Hours
Entrance Fee (as of 2024):
- Adults: IDR 100,000 (around USD 6.50)
- Children: IDR 50,000 (around USD 3.50)
The entrance fee includes access to the butterfly enclosures, gardens, insect exhibits, and educational displays.
Opening Hours: Open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM
It’s best to visit in the morning or late afternoon when butterflies are most active and the lighting is ideal for photography.
What to Expect at Bali Butterfly Park Tabanan
As you enter the Bali Butterfly Park Tabanan, you’ll be greeted by lush tropical gardens, ponds, and flowering plants. The entire park has been designed as a natural habitat for butterflies, with shaded areas, host plants, and nectar sources.
Here’s what you’ll experience during your visit:
- Walk Through Butterfly Enclosures
The highlight of the park is the large netted garden enclosures where hundreds of butterflies of all colors, sizes, and patterns flutter freely around visitors. Some of the species you might encounter include:
- Papilio peranthus (Green Swallowtail)
- Idea leuconoe (Paper Kite Butterfly)
- Troides helena (Common Birdwing)
- Ornithoptera priamus (Priam’s Birdwing)
- Danaus chrysippus (Plain Tiger)
You can watch them feeding on nectar, resting on leaves, or even landing gently on your hands or shoulders.
- Educational Butterfly Breeding Center
The park offers a detailed look into the life cycle of butterflies. In the breeding area, you can observe:
- Butterfly eggs on plant leaves
- Caterpillars in different growth stages
- Pupae and cocoons
- Newly hatched butterflies
This is an excellent opportunity for both kids and adults to learn about metamorphosis and the importance of butterfly conservation.
- Insect and Reptile Exhibits
In addition to butterflies, the park features displays of:
- Rare beetles
- Stick insects
- Tarantulas
- Leaf insects
- Moths
- Scorpions
Some displays even feature preserved specimens of insects from around Indonesia, offering insight into the country’s rich biodiversity.
- Lush Tropical Gardens
The beautifully landscaped garden paths are lined with tropical flowers, ponds, and shady trees, creating a peaceful environment perfect for a relaxing stroll. The flora has been carefully selected to provide food and shelter for butterflies and other pollinators.
- Gift Shop and Souvenirs
At the end of your visit, you can stop by the park’s small shop, which offers:
- Handmade butterfly-themed crafts
- Jewelry
- Wooden carvings
- Natural insect specimens preserved in frames
It’s a great spot to pick up a unique memento from your visit.
Why You Should Visit Bali Butterfly Park Tabanan
Still wondering if it’s worth adding this place to your itinerary? Here’s why it’s a must-visit:
- Beautiful Natural Experience: Walk among colorful butterflies in a lush tropical setting.
- Educational for All Ages: Learn about butterfly conservation, life cycles, and biodiversity.
- Great for Families and Kids: Safe, interactive, and fun environment for children.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning photos of exotic butterflies and garden landscapes.
- Support for Conservation: Your visit helps fund butterfly breeding programs and conservation efforts.
Tips for Visiting Bali Butterfly Park Tabanan
To make the most of your visit, keep these tips in mind:
- Bring a camera: Butterflies are beautiful photo subjects — use a zoom lens or macro mode for detailed shots.
- Wear light, comfortable clothes: It can get warm inside the enclosures, especially in the afternoon.
- Be gentle: Avoid touching or chasing the butterflies; let them land naturally if they choose to.
- Visit in the morning: For the best lighting and most active butterfly activity.
- Respect the environment: Stay on designated paths and avoid picking flowers or plants.
Bali Butterfly Park Tabanan offers a wonderful mix of beauty, education, and peaceful nature experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family with children, a photographer, or a traveler looking to explore Bali’s hidden gems, this park delivers something special.
Its blend of colorful butterflies, tropical gardens, and interactive exhibits makes it an ideal destination for a short stop or half-day trip while exploring the central Bali region.