Bali is one of the most evocative and popular tourist islands of the entire Indonesian archipelago. Even the mention of Bali evokes thoughts of bliss. For most people it’s more than just a place it's a feeling, an aspiration and a state of mind.
Despite the chaos in the main tourist areas such a Kuta and Seminyak, the island is rich in natural beauty throughout. Bali is somewhere that is relentlessly on trend, a hotspot in sustainable design, mindfulness, culinary inventiveness and the very best that global tourism has to offer.
There’s something for every traveller. Surfers come for legendary swells, hikers can trek volcanic peaks and boozers can lounge in luxury beach clubs. The island's rich arts scene is another top draw, and if relaxation is on your list, the shopping and spa treatments are fabulous and affordable. Spiritual awakening adds yet another layer to Bali's allure. Magnificent temples and sacred Hindu ceremonies should be a priority on your to do list.
Undeniably the tourist throngs have made Bali something new, you might recognise some spots as a mini Australia but you can still experience old Bali if you stray off the beaten track. Despite the islands popularity, green rice terraces still cling to the landscape, defiant against impending development. An abundance of vegetarian eateries and hipster cafes serving everything your taste buds could desire. Boutique shops showcase Bali’s famous craftsmanship and Hindu architecture compensates for increased Western design.
Keep reading to see My TOP 10 Unmissable Places to add to your Bali hit list.
1. Mount Batur
Mount Batur is a sacred active volcano which lies in Kintamani District in Bali's central highlands, about an hour's drive from Ubud. Every day during the predawn darkness, hundreds of visitors trek up to the 1,700-meter summit to watch the sunrise above the lush mosaic of mist-shrouded mountains and the caldera far below. The hike along the well-tread path is relatively easy for most people and usually takes about 2 hours to the top. When the day is clear, the views are spectacular, stretching all the way across the Batur caldera; the surrounding mountain range and beautiful Lake Batur. Travel agencies around Ubud provide early pickup and a guide for the trek to the top of the volcano. Guided treks typically include a picnic breakfast, with eggs cooked by the steam from the active volcano.
Pro Tip: Take a look at combing your trip to Mt. Batur with a visit to one of Bali's most important temples, Pura Ulun Danu Batur, on the lake's northwest shore, and a soak in hot springs at the Toya Bungkah village on the banks of Lake Batur.
2. Uluwatu
Uluwatu is a very laid back area in Bali with stunning beaches, panoramic views and luxury cliff top resorts and villas. It’s a great place to relax and get away from crowds but still have a small community of civilisation nearby. The main attraction here is surfing so if that's your thing then you'll be pretty happy. Unfortunately that does mean that swimming is not advisable.
If you can, staying in Uluwatu is very special, especially with some of the crazy gorgeous accomodation options on the cliffs. If you're not staying the night, Uluwatu is definitely still worth a visit to explore the beaches, visit a beach club and have a look at the amazing cliff top views.
Pro Tip: Accommodation and things to do are very spread out so choose your accommodation wisely or make sure to have a way to get around, for example by renting a scooter.
Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu) is one of Bali’s most famous temples, likely due to its magnificent clifftop setting. In Balinese, "Ulu" means "tip" or "land's end" and "Watu" means rock, describing the location of the temple on the Bukit Peninsula along the island's southwestern tip. Roughly 25km from Kuta. I recommend visiting at sunset when the late afternoon light looks gorgeous over the ocean.
The archaeological finds here suggest the temple dates from around the 10th century. The temple is believed to protect Bali from evil sea spirits and the monkeys who gather here are thought to guard the temple from bad influences, just remember to keep your belongs out of sight because they have an eye for anything that isn’t there own.
Only Hindu worshippers are allowed to actually enter the temple however the beautiful setting is more than enough reason to visit the grounds.
Don’t miss: The sunset Kecak dance performances that take place here daily.
3. Ubud
Ubud is the epicentre of Balinese art and culture, its where the modern Balinese art movement was born, with the surrounding royal palaces and temples acting as the main patrons. It’s also known as the spiritual heart of Bali, once a mostly serene destination for travellers interested in yoga, healthy food, and fresh air, has recently grown into one of the busiest and most popular destinations. Probably thanks to Elizabeth Gilbert’s book Eat, Pray, Love.
For a look into Balinese art, your first stops should be Agung Rai Museum of Art(ARMA) and the Neka Art Museum, found just a short walk of the Ubud Monkey Forest. Both span traditional to contemporary works.
If shopping and browsing is more your thing, then head to Ubud for a less tacky and more sophisticated experience.
I'd also recommend the Ubud Local Market. A packed labyrinth of stalls over flowing with wood carvings, sculptures, jewellery, clothing, painting and more. Along Ubud's main street are dozens of art studios and galleries to get lost in.
Temples in Ubud
Most will agree that no visit to Ubud is complete without witnessing at least one traditional dance performance. You'll notice they are very tourist entertainment orientated but its a fun way to see traditional Hindu legends being interpreted through dance and colour. Very near the market, I would recommend walking around the stunning Puri Saren Royal Ubud Palace which hosts traditional Balinese dance performances during the evenings.
Bali's most sacred temple site is Pura Besakih, known as the 'Mother Temple' on the slopes of Mount Agung. A complex of 23 temples can be explored in one day trip from Ubud.
Most temples are free to visit or ask for a small donation. Remember that proper attire is mandatory, although most temples will loan or rent you a sarong whilst you wander around.
Pro Tip: Bargaining is essential, I general guideline is to counter with half the asking price and barter upwards from there, always be polite and never get aggressive over prices.
Surrounding Ubud are rainforests and terraced rice paddies, dotted with Hindu temples and shrines. Ancient holy sites include the intricately carved Goa Gajah (“Elephant Cave”) believed to be one of the most sacred sites in Bali, this Hindu site dates back to the 11th Century and was nominated as a tentative UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another is Gunung Kawi, with its rock-cut shrine
Ubud Monkey Forest
Found only a 10 minute walk south of Ubud town centre is the Monkey Forest, also known as the Sacred Monkey Sanctuary where long-tailed Macaques roam free. The forest is intended to represent harmonious coexistence between humans and animals. Beside the animals, a large appeal is the paved pathways which lead through the dense jungle setting. It’s pretty spectacular but the monkey’s are very cheeky so watch your things and hide your bananas. Open daily with an entrance fee of IDR 80k | Read More about the Monkey Forest |
4. Tegallalang and Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
You know those beautiful emerald-hued rice fields you see in most photos of Bali? Chances are they were taken at Tegallalang or Jatiluwih rice terraces. Located about a 30-minute drive north from Ubud, they are an iconic and must see for your trip to Bali.
The entrance fee is IDR 10K for the Tegalalang Rice Terraces but bare in mind that locals may ask for donations along the most popular trail through the rice fields and may charge you for parking along the road so it’s worth having some spare notes. It’s only a small fee and worth the cost to see the lush landscape.
If I was you, I would pitch up in one of the many restaurants or cafes overlooking the fields and take it all in. Be warned that the rice fields are big tourist pull and it can be busy in parts. If you’re into photographs then there are lots of swings to get your perfect Instagram shot.
Pro tip: About 90-minutes from Ubud is Jatiluwih rice terraces, much larger in size, covering more than 600 hectares of rice fields over the Batukaru mountain range. This landscape is often less crowded than Tegallalang which makes for a more peaceful and a lot less commercialised experience.
Both of these locations use the traditional UNESCO-recognised irrigation system called "subak," which dates to the 9th century.
5. Pura Ulun Danu Bratan
If you’re interested in breathtaking beauty you can’t miss Pura Ulun Danu Bratan (or just Pura Bratan). In the cool highlands of central Bali, on the western shore of Lake Bratan and in the mountains near Bedugul, sits the most picturesque temple. Lake Bratan is one of Bali's main sources of drinking water and the temple complex is dedicated to Dewi Danu, goddess of the sea and lakes.
The smooth reflection off the lake surrounding the temple gives it a unique floating impression while the Bedugul region mountains encircling the lake give a pretty stunning back drop.
The best time to visit this sacred Hindu temple in the soft morning light, to avoid the tourist buses and catch a mist which cloaks the lake and mountains. You can also hire a canoe and paddle out on the lake to explore. Entrance to the temple complex is IDR 10K for foreigners.
The smooth reflective surface of the lake surrounding most of the temple’s base creates a unique floating impression, while the mountain range of the Bedugul region encircling the lake provides the temple with a scenic backdrop.
Pro Tip: For the most perfect photo opportunity, visit the lake when water levels rise (after rain) to give it the best ‘floating temple’ effect.
Also worth a visit and not far from the temple complex is the Bali Botanic Garden (Kebun Raya Bali). Home to beautiful bamboo forests, begonias, orchid collection, and medicinal plants.
6. The Nusa Islands
If you’re craving the slower pace you were promised when landing in Bali, then head over to the mellow Nusa Islands about 20km off the shore from Sanur, easily and frequently accessed by a speedboat.
The most popular island of the 3 Nusa islands is undeniably Nusa Lembongan with top attractions like Dream Beach, Mushroom Bay and the Devil’s Tears rock. Here there is great surfing, diving and beaches to cherish.
Huddled between the two islands and literally just over the bridge from Nusa Lembongan is Nusa Ceningan which is a quick and popular visit. and The largest of the trio is Nusa Penida just a short boat ride away. This island is mostly famous for its incredible diving with Manta Rays, sunfish and turtles. Accomodation across the islands ranges from cheap hostels to luxury boutique villas but note that the islands are basic and nightlife is non existant so definietly come here to chill and dive.
7. Seminyak
I know you’ve come to Bali for more than just busy shopping high streets and getting drunk in bars but if you’re anything like me, getting stuck into dynamic, lively towns is still a must do for any holiday.
Seminyak is the fabulous centre of life and activity for Bali, with a huge expat scene stealing the show there’s a wealth of stylish boutiques, luxury resorts & beach clubs, high-end restaurants and sleek bars, just to name a few.
There is a wide, grey sand beach in Seminyak but its not the most appealing when compared to other paradise beaches in Bali, if i was being honest. However its good for surfing and a great beginner spot if you fancy a lesson, its also great for beers at sundown.
Shopping in Seminyak
I get it, sometimes you need to freshen up your wardrobe (or backpack), in with the new etc. You'll find the best showcases of Balinese design along the streets of Seminyak. Fabulous designer fashion, surf and swimwear, jewellery, and homewares are just some of the items you can buy at the chic shops and busy market stalls here.
The two main shopping malls are Seminyak Square and Seminyak Village but if you’re on the hunt for deals, you’ll want to head for the smaller shops lining the streets. A good shout for bargains is the Seminyak Flea Markets, near Seminyak Square, where you'll find stalls over flowing with clothing, jewellery, carvings, and more.
8. The Sidemen Valley
If you fancy a taste of Old Bali, before tourist throngs descended on the island then head northeast of Ubud to the Sidemen Valley, evoking feelings of the past. Here, sleepy villages lie quietly amid cascading rice terraces under the watch of Mount Agung, the islands tallest peak. The highlight of visiting is a stroll through traditional villages where locals tend to their traditional activities. Other popular activities include treks through cocoa and coffee plantations, rafting the rivers, yoga retreats and taking part in local crafts such as carving, weaving or cooking. Accomodation is typically in homestays or B&B’s but you’ll also find some gorgeous luxury villas with breathtaking views overlooking the rice fields.
9. Gili Islands
The Gili Islands (AKA ‘The Gili’s’, AKA the ‘Backpackers Mecca’) are made up of three idyllic islands about 15 minutes of the coast of Lombok where paradise is in the air. Miles of palm tree fringed, powdery white sand beaches that float in the turquoise sea.
The islands are the definition of laid-back with countless beach facing restaurants and bars serving local and international dishes. My favourite part is that there are no motorbikes on the island to disturb your tranquility, I recommend hiring bicycles and exploring the island (they do have horses and cart but its a controversial topic about the ethical standards behind the horse care FYI).
Previously the attraction of the islands was to dive and party but more recently there is a wider spectrum of visitors and therefore there are more ways to enjoy the islands. Especially now there is a strong environmental focus as the reefs were damaged in the past.
Each island has its own unique appeal, so let’s have a look:
Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan or just ‘Gili T’ is the largest island with beautiful beaches but is, for the most part, a raucous party island. For a tiny island, it is packed full of international tourists. If you'd like to learn to dive and meet other travellers its a really great choice.
If you’re keen to experience the party island then stick to the East side of the island (where the boat drops you off) where it's the most developed, with loads of restaurants, bars, accommodation and diving schools. The West side is relatively quiet (you can cycle between the two) with luxury resorts and not much else, but great for a families or a romantic retreat. If you like the sound of both maybe stay in the North or South where you’re close but not in the thick of the party. The South has particularly nice accommodation.
Gili Meno
Gili Meno is the smallest of the three islands with the most local feel. The lack of nightlife might leave singles a little lonely so it's a more suited setting for honeymooners or mature travellers over the party goers. There are meals and beds for all budgets, and plenty of places renting snorkelling gear and bikes. You'll find most accomodation along the beautiful East coast beach while, inland there isn't much more than coconut plantations and a surprising salt lake where egrets hunt around the mangrove fringe. There is a huge development happening on the once silent West coast of the island which will undeniably have an effect on the islands vibe.
This is where you can see the famous underwater sculpture by Jason deCaires Taylor, swimmable from the West shoreline.
Gili Air
I would describe this island as a blend of Gili's T's lively scene and Gili Meno's minimalist scene. The beaches here are with a doubt the nicest of the Gili group and there's enough nightlife to keep you socialising. It's basically a more refined version of Gili T at a slightly higher cost.
Pro tip: The islands are tiny, and unless you want to spend a week diving or partying, I would recommend just staying for 2-4 days.
10. Canggu
Last on my list but definitely not least. Canggu is more of a feeling than a place. Remember I said that Bali is like a mini Australia in places? Its a digital nomad heaven, health & fitness hotspot and expat hub. The roads are saturated with great casual cafes, trendy veggie restaurants and stylish designer shops. You wont be stuck for gorgeous private villas or boutique hostels.
Canggu is essentially made up of three connected main strips all running down to the beaches: two along meandering Jl Pantai Berawa and one on Jl Pantai Batu Bolong between Kerobokan and Echo Beach.
Some famous spots here are Old Mans Beach Bar, Finns Beach Club, Crate Cafe and Crossfit Wanderlust just to name a few.
If you like the sound of a chilled holiday in affordable villa, decent eateries, potentially some fitness or yoga and social nightlife then Canggu is your spot.
Sign in and leave me a comment with your favourite places in Bali x