Bali is where heaven meets Earth and hearts soar high. Bali, in Indonesia, is an enchanting island paradise which offers you an unforgettable escape into the world of culture, architecture, adventure and natural beauty.
Known as the
“Island of the Gods”, this beautiful land captivates tourists with its lush green rice terraces, pristine beaches and majestic volcanic mountains. Bali offers a mix of natural beauty and rich traditions, with attractions like the beaches of Seminyak and Sanur, and the scenic rice terraces of Tegallalang and Jatiluwih. There are bustling markets to explore and luxurious beachfront resorts, with excitement and thrill all around.
Bali is one of the most visited destinations by tourists and, evidently for all the right reasons.
Isn’t it exciting to imagine yourself waking up to the sound of waves crashing on golden shores, then heading out to explore places like the lush rice terraces that look like what heaven would be in imagination? Watching traditional dance, art and music is an ultimate treat to witness the rich heritage of Bali coming to life.
If you’re seeking adventure, then there are multiple exotic volcanic mountains to climb or dive into the crystal clear water to take a look at the marine life there.
Or you may want to try out the most famous
Bali Swing which is a thrilling ride overviewing the breathtaking landscape of the jungle and is popular among tourists worldwide.
And let’s not forget about the food, from the traditional Balinese cuisine and mouth-watering dishes to spicy street treats, Bali’s culinary delights are like a celebration to your taste buds.
Whether you’re in Bali to have a spiritually rejuvenating time or get your adrenaline pumping with adventurous activities, this Island playground promises to enchant and excite you at every turn. So come discover with us, why Bali is not just a destination, but a postcard to all your good memories in life!
Places to Visit in Bali
1. Uluwatu Temple: Cliffside MajestyImagine yourself standing on the edge of a cliff, with the waves of the Indian Ocean crashing below, and the sky matching the colours of the setting sun. Well, this is what you can see in Uluwatu Temple, an ancient sea temple perched 70 metres above the ocean. It’s not just a place of worship; it’s a place where nature and spirituality blend seamlessly, offering you an experience that is both serene and exhilarating.
The best time would be in the late afternoon to explore the temple grounds and soak in the serene atmosphere. As the sun begins to set, you can find a spot with a clear view of the horizon. The highlight of your visit will be the traditional Kecak dance performance held every evening. The combination of the dramatic dance, the stunning sunset, and the temple’s majestic setting creates a truly unforgettable experience for you.
2. Ubud Monkey Forest: Nature’s PlaygroundLet’s now step into a world where wildlife and culture co-exist in perfect harmony at the Ubud Monkey Forest of Bali. This lush jungle sanctuary is home to over 700 long-tailed macaques, who swing from the trees and roam freely among ancient temple ruins. If you love being around animals and nature, this place is the perfect getaway for you. It’s a place where you can feel the pulse of nature while exploring the spiritual heart of Bali.
You can wander along the forest’s beautifully vast pathways, discovering the ancient temples which are nestled among huge trees and breathtaking streams. This Sacred Monkey Forest is not just a place to see monkeys; it’s a spiritual and cultural hub for the local community residing nearby. You’ll find three ancient temples here: Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, Pura Beji, and Pura Prajapati, each of them offering a glimpse into Bali’s rich cultural heritage.
3. Tegallalang Rice Terraces: A Scenic MasterpieceThe picture-perfect landscapes await you at the Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Bali. These beautifully layered rice paddies are planted against the lush greenery all over, describing the cultural richness of the Balinese tradition called Subak, which is a cooperative irrigation system that many tourists visit to watch. It is fair to say that this is more than just a place for you to snap stunning photos; it’s a valuable chance to immerse yourself in Bali’s agricultural heritage.
It's a treat to take a leisurely walk along the terraces and get mesmerised by the intricate design and the harmonious way the fields blend with the natural surroundings around it. The area is also dotted with quaint cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious meal or a refreshing drink while getting lost in the breathtaking scenery around you.
If you visit during the planting or harvesting season, you might even get to see local farmers at work or participate in the process yourself and get an authentic idea while learning.
4. Seminyak BeachFor those who crave a mix of relaxation and excitement, Seminyak Beach is the perfect place to be. This trendy hotspot is known for its golden sands, luxurious resorts, and vibrant nightlife.
Whether you’re looking to unwind by the sea, indulge in some retail therapy, or maybe dance the night away, Seminyak has it all.
It is the ultimate spot to spend your days lounging on the beach, swimming in the clear blue waters, or trying out various water sports like snorkelling, surfing and many more. As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a lively hub of many fun activities. You can also head to one of the many chic beach clubs, like Ku De Ta or Potato Head Beach Club, where you can enjoy cocktails, live music, and gourmet dining with your toes in the sand. Doesn’t it sound exciting?
Also for a more laid-back evening, you can find a spot at any beachfront restaurant and watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant colours and admire the beauty and thrill of nature in this sandy land.
5. Mount Batur: Adventure and AweThe exotically stunning Mount Batur is an ultimate experience that’s both thrilling and awe-inspiring. This active volcano, located in the Kintamani District, is one of Bali’s most popular hiking destinations for tourists. And what could be the reward for your early morning trek to the summit? It is a breathtaking sunrise with a refreshing breeze that lights up the entire landscape below the volcanic mountain.
It is recommended to start your hike in the early hours, so you are guided by the light of your flashlight and the stars above the moon-lit sky. The trek to the summit takes about two to three hours and is moderately challenging for people, but all the effort and sweat are well worth it.
As you reach the top, you’ll be greeted by the enchanting and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the serene Lake Batur and the majestic Mount Agung at some distance.
After the completion of the hike, you can relax in one of the nearby natural hot springs, where you can soothe your muscles and reflect on the incredible experience that Mount Batur offers.
6. Bongkasa PertiwiYour trip to Bali will be incomplete without trying out the famous Bali swing. It is done in many locations in Bali but you will find the best experience with the scenic view in Bongkasa Pertiwi. It is a picturesque village located near Ubud in Bali.
Known for its green landscapes, the village is surrounded by pretty rice terraces, dense tropical forests and the flowing Ayung River.
This place is an escape from the heavily crowded areas of Bali, providing visitors with an authentic Balinese experience. You will find multiple swings as per your choice of height, high or moderate, catering to both thrill seekers as well as someone looking for a much-relaxed experience in the swing.
In addition to the swings, visitors enjoy various photo spots, such as bird nests and scenic platforms making it a popular destination for both photography enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
The village’s unique offerings and serene environment make it a perfect spot for people seeking relaxation or adventure on a vacation to Bali.
Engage your taste buds in Balinese delicaciesBabi Guling (Suckling pig)In a delicious, magical blend of Balinese spices, Babi Guling is a popular dish of a whole pig marinated and slow-roasted to achieve the perfect crackling skin that is a treat to every mouth, tasting it. Each bite will feel like an explosion of different flavours, crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside.
This is a dish which is usually reserved for special occasions and festivals, but you might be lucky enough to get a taste of it as many local ‘warungs’ in Bali, which are small family-owned restaurants, serve it daily. You can pair it with some spicy sambal and rice, and you’re in for a treat that will undoubtedly make your taste buds sing with happiness.
Nasi Campur (Mixed rice)Just think of Nasi Campur as Bali’s answer to a sample of the traditional delicacy on a platter, but infinitely better. It is a type of mouthwatering dish where a mound of fluffy white rice takes the centre stage and is surrounded by an entire carnival of side dishes like juicy meats, stir-fried vegetables, crunchy peanuts, savoury eggs and also crispy fried shrimp crackers (krupuk).
The best part about this dish is that it's like a choose-your-own-adventure meal where every bite is a delightful surprise. You can make your own choice of fillings on the plate.
Nasi Campur is a perfect dish for those who are seeking unique taste, love a variety of items on a plate and want to experience a little bit of everything.
Bebek Betutu (Slow Cooked Duck)Bebek Betutu is not your regular duck but a culinary marvel in Bali. It is a whole duck stuffed with a rich blend of traditional Balinese spices, then wrapped in banana leaves, and finally slow-cooked and roasted until the meat is so tender it practically falls off the bone and is ready for eating.
We can say that this dish is like an alternative for people who do not eat pork. It can also be made using chicken. The spices used are the master ingredient which transforms the duck taste, creating layers of flavours which are nothing short of divine in taste. It takes quite a lot of time to be prepared and hence is always celebrated in taste.
LawarIf you’re looking to experience true Balinese cuisine, then you can’t miss out on this dish popularly called Lawar. This traditional dish is a finely chopped mixture of meat (pork or chicken), vegetables, grated coconut, and an array of different spices which are all mixed by hand. Sometimes, it is even prepared with fresh blood, adding a rich and deep flavour. Don’t worry as there are blood-free versions too, which are prepared from jackfruit and no animal products are included.
This dish is usually served on a banana leaf in the traditional style. Lawar is typically enjoyed as a side dish or a starter, adding a spicy, crunchy flavour to your culinary experience in Bali.
Pepes Ikan (Steam fish in banana leaf)Now for a taste of the ocean, you can try the famous Pepes Ikan. In this dish, the fresh fish is marinated in a vibrant blend of various spices, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until it becomes tender. The banana leaves infuse the fish with a delicate aroma and also keep it moist and flavourful to be eaten warm and fresh later on.
When you finally unwrap the banana leaf after it gets cooked, you’re greeted with a burst of amazing fragrant steam and of course, a beautifully cooked piece of fish.
We must say that this dish is not only healthy and delicious but also quintessentially Balinese in its process, aroma, flavour and the delight it gives to the taste buds.
Ayam BetutuThis dish is the chicken version of the Bebek Betutu, which is the roasted duck dish and is just detectable and delicious in taste.
In this, a whole chicken is stuffed with an aromatic mix of spices, wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked for many hours until it is sufficiently tender and fit to be eaten.
In the process, the spices slowly penetrate the meat, then create a symphony of flavours that’s deeply satisfying to taste. This dish is usually served with rice and chilli sambal. Some salads and peanuts are also common ingredients to enhance the taste of the dish. Ayam Betutu is truly a wonderful dish that's sure to leave a long-lasting impression on your taste buds.
Best time to visit BaliVisiting any place depends on what you are looking for, in the place. If you are a first-time traveller to Bali and do not want to miss out on most things this city has to offer, we recommend you visit during the dry season.
Essentially, Bali has two seasons: the dry and the wet. The dry season is from April to September while the wet season is from November to March.
The dry season is when you will be able to make the most of the city, enjoying the pristine beaches and being able to take part in the festivities. However, since this is the best time to visit Bali, you should be aware that during this time, the prices will be higher due to high demand and the crowd will be more.
The wet season is when the tourists are fewer and therefore, the demand is less. Thus, if you are planning on a budget, this would be a good time for the same.
Bali enjoys a warm climate throughout the year with high humidity. The daytime temperature is usually consistent at 30 degrees Celsius.