Tabanan comprises two main regions: the mountains and the lower plains. Tanah Lot, probably the best known and most-photographed temple in Bali.

Tanah Lot is also famous for its magnificent sunsets. Every dusk tourists flock to witness the fantastic starkly-outlined temple against the glowing horizon. The best view is from the cliff overlooking the temple.

Southwest of Tabanan is Kerambitan. The enchantment of this place lies in the fact that it is still to be affected by modernization. It is particularly noted for the beautiful old buildings and low large palaces.

Tabanan highlands mostly consist of volcanic areas, with Mount Batukaru (2275m), Mount Sanghyang (2093m), and Lake Bratan, one of three lakes that make up the Bedugul resort area. The area has the last remaining tropical forest on the island.