By K&P 
With each turn, the temperature drops, and we are climbing higher. Ferns, palm trees, banana plants, and bamboo groves—lush vegetation everywhere. The road from Padang Bai on the coast would take about 40 minutes, from Manggis around 30 minutes, but from Selat, which lies more centrally on the island, it took us only fifteen minutes. The final stretch—a winding, narrow road this time leading downhill—passes through small villages and jungle. The view of the gorge is impressive, resembling a wild jungle, with mountains visible at the far end—about 700 meters above sea level. They don’t cover the entire Agung volcano, just its lower slopes.
Another turn, and more beautiful views—ferns on a steep slope next to the road and the open space on the other side. In the distant horizon, you can see Lombok and Penida, while closer by, a valley stretches all the way to the coast, appearing as a permanent jungle. The view towards Manggis is perhaps even better than the previous one.
Three faces and one head—Brahma on the hill, but even without it, it’s very large and stands out, its golden color contrasting with the wild, green surroundings. Hidden by the steep slope and vegetation, there are steps leading up to the statue, a small altar nearby, and a pleasant fragrance from recently lit incense… a few more drops of holy water. A slim, almost gaunt older Hindu man smiles warmly, placing the bamboo aspergillum into his bag; he probably lives here, he’s here every time. Wearing a sarong and a head wrapped with an udeng, he looks like a concerned monk, his face wrinkled. An offering under the Brahma statue and another by the stone container—likely a water tank, and such are revered (…).
The waterfalls are located away from typical tourist spots, about 6 km from the coast from the direction of Manggis, around 7 km from Padang Bai. Both roads are scenic, and driving them is a pleasure in itself. A good idea is to arrive via the road from Padang Bai and return on another route leading to Manggis. The waterfalls are permanent, worth visiting even in the dry season, though they are smaller then. The drive isn’t difficult, the asphalt is of good quality, steep ascents and descents make it interesting, and the views invite frequent stops.
(…) After making the offering, he slowly returns to his bamboo shelter right by the entrance to the waterfalls. This almost “monk” is the caretaker and guardian, having prepared a plexiglass donation box and a guestbook for visitors. Whether for real or just for show—it doesn’t matter—thanks to him, there’s a great atmosphere right from the start.
The concrete steps, covered in moss, lead down through lush greenery, and the sound of water can already be heard. A beautiful small chapel, with the waterfall visible in the distance behind it. Further along the path, there is an artificial reservoir with several streams of water—this is the place for ceremonial baths.
The narrow but very tall and loud waterfall, about 70 meters high, gives the water great momentum. You can hear the continuous thunder of the water hitting the rocky hollow. Entering under the thundering stream requires courage and stirs up emotions. Swimming is impossible here due to the shallow water, and the rocky hollow is about 8 meters wide, acting like a resonating box, amplifying the sound. The water flows on, creating a narrow stream, trickling between the rocks. A wooden ladder makes it possible to reach the rocky hollow; without it, it would be hard to pass through the large slippery rocks. Right below, there’s a bamboo bridge leading nowhere, but it provides a good vantage point directly beneath the waterfall.
The Jagasatru waterfall is impressive, although not very big; bathing under it stays in the memory despite the impossibility of swimming. The weight of the falling water and the roar stimulate and raise the adrenaline levels. As a waterfall, it’s relatively easily accessible, yet it’s not overrun by crowds, offering a peaceful retreat among nature.