Greetings from the Island of Gods - 25 Things to Do in Bali

The Indonesian island of Bali is a peaceful paradise with rich tradition of local Hindu culture. From lush terraced paddy field and pristine waterfall to white sandy beach and ornate temple, you will always find something to fall in love with in this tropical island.

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If you plan to take a vacation to Bali, the list below is dedicated to you. Read it to find some of the most exciting places to see and things to do in Bali!


1. Kuta


Not far from Ngurah Rai Airport, Kuta District is one of the first tourist traps in Bali. The area has long sandy beaches such as Kuta Beach and Legian Beach, famous among tourists for their sunset view and waves for surfing. Resorts, bars, restaurants, and shopping streets sprawl across Kuta and beyond. 


2. Uluwatu Temple

The sea temple located in South Kuta stands dramatically on the cliff edge. Visitors will be asked to wear a scarf belt before entering the temple area. Come before sunset for a chance to watch the spectacular Kecak dance performed by dozens of men in an open-air theatre facing the sea.  


3. Banyumala Twin Waterfalls

The path down to the falls is a little steep and challenging, but you will be awed by the views once you arrive. Smooth as silk, the curtain of water falls down among the greenery into a natural pool below where you can dip yourself. Toilets, changing room, and seating are available. 


4. Lake Bratan

Explore the misty shore of the caldera lake in the mountainous Bedugul area. A floating temple called Ulun Danu with towering roofs and lovely gardens is built on the lakefront to worship Dewi Danu, the goddess of water. The temple is probably one of the most recognized landmarks of Bali. 


5. Pandawa Beach

If you want a cleaner beach with less visitors, Pandawa Beach is good option. A road down the cliff with large statues from Pandawa story will lead you to the white sandy beach and crystal clear water. There are canoes you can rent and fresh coconut water from nearby vendors. 


6. Lempuyang Temple

The beautiful temple is often dubbed as "Gate of Heaven" due its stunning gate structure. Take your waiting number at the front and prepare your best style for instagrammable pictures with Mount Agung in the background.  But expect a long line, since you're not the only one who is hunting for pictures.


7. Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Discover spectacular views of terraced rice fields on the slope of hills in Tegallalang Village, just north of Ubud area. The area is walkable for tourists with lots of food and drink vendors nearby. You can also try the highly popular swing above the hill. 


8. Tanah Lot Temple

Another landmark of Bali sits on a mystical seashore in Tabanan Regency. Tanah Lot Temple is constructed on top of a rock formation and is dedicated to Baruna, the god of sea. Just like other popular area, Tanah Lot is also dotted with small restaurants and souvenir shops. 

 

9. Seminyak

The touristic area with direct access to Seminyak Beach is home to several luxury beach resorts and fancy beach clubs such as Potato Head and Ku De Ta. You will also be greeted by many posh cafés, bars, villa with private swimming pools, and even shopping mall.  


10. Dreamland Beach

Located in Pecatu area, the beach is treasured among surfers and beach lovers for its good wave and white sand. Dreamland Beach was once classified as hidden beach with only a few visitors. But today, the area has been extensively developed with shuttle car and cozy bar.

 

11. Ubud Monkey Forest

The sanctuary of long-tailed macaque monkeys is situated inside a sacred rainforest with three old temples from 14th century. Visitors can interact with the monkeys, watch their activities, and even take pictures with them. But beware of your belongings, since the monkeys might grab anything from you. 

 

12. GWK Cultural Park

Meet the highest statue in Indonesia depicting the Hindu God Wisnu riding the mythical bird Garuda. Located in Ungasan area, Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is fitted with open plaza, large open-air venue for international events, and a shopping center. 


13. Jatiluwih Rice Terrace

The breathtaking terraced rice field in Tabanan regency has been included as UNESCO World Heritage Site for its ancient irrigation system and organization called subak. You can ride bicycle or simply take a walk among the green landscape of rice, then stop by at coffee shop nearby.


14. Atuh Beach

Heading south east to Nusa Penida, an amazing beach hidden below the cliff is waiting for you. To reach Atuh Beach, you must hike down for 15 - 20 minutes. But once you arrive, you will be greeted by unspoiled white sand and blue water. Worth every step!


15. Kelingking Beach

Another spectacular beach you shouldn't miss while in Nusa Penida. Surrounded by towering green cliffs, Kelingking Beach is guaranteed to offer a lot more breathtaking experience compared to Kuta, Seminyak, and other traditional touristic beaches. 


16. Sukawati Art Market

This is the perfect spot to search for souvenirs before going home. Located in Gianyar Regency, Sukawati Art Market boasts various types of Balinese handicrafts, rattan bags, traditional textiles, unique accessories, and also local fruits and snacks. 


17. Tirta Gangga

The water palace is a former royal garden constructed under the order of King of Karangasem. The pond with its colorful fish and ornate stone steps is especially popular among visitors who love taking pictures while feeding the fish. 


18. Tegenungan Waterfall

One of the most visited waterfalls in Bali is located in Sukawati District, not far from Ubud area. Take a walk through lush natural setting with fresh air before arriving at the majestic waterfall with shallow pool below. Toilet facilities and restaurant are available nearby. 


19. Tirta Empul Temple

The holy spring near Tampaksiring has become popular site that attracts both pilgrims and tourists. Constructed some 1,000 years ago, Tirta Empul Temple features three yards and large pool with around 30 showers for ritual bathing. 


20. Bali Botanic Garden

Located in the cool region of Bedugul, Bali Botanic Garden (Kebun Raya Bali) is among the largest botanic gardens in Indonesia. The lush garden is home to at least 2,400 species of plants from all over Indonesian archipelago, including islands as far as Papua, Borneo, Maluku, and Sumatra. 


21. Ayung River Rafting

Are you ready to get wet? Rafting along the challenging Ayung River in Ubud is surely a fun activity. Enjoy the natural panorama as you go along the swift river where you will pass waterfall, rice fields, and big cliffs with artistic stone carving.


22. Jimbaran Beach

Experience romantic dinner at the famed Jimbaran Beach. Choose one of the many seafood restaurants with outdoor seating where you can enjoy the dish right on the beach with stunning sea view. With yellowish sand and mild waves, Jimbaran Beach is also a good place to bring your kids to swim.  


23. Lake Batur

The beautiful crater lake near Mount Batur is a popular tourist attraction in Kintamani District. Dip yourself in Toya Bungkah natural hot spring created by volcanic activity or sip your coffee in cozy café with spectacular view of Late Batur from the height. 


24. Campuhan Ridge Walk

The hiking trail passing through hilltop is among the best trek options you can find in Ubud. Follow the paved trail amidst the green landscape of grass bed and trees. A walking tour can be done in 30 minutes or one hour for round trip, not including the time to take selfies. 


25. Bali Safari and Marine Park

Discover a glimpse of African savannah vibes combined with Balinese touch in this extensive attraction. Hop into special car taking you around the zoo where you can see wild animals such as elephants, giraffe, and zebra roam freely in spacious exhibits. 


Have a safe trip and we hope you had a great time in Bali! And if you know other incredible places to visit and things to do in Bali, please mention it on the comment section below. 

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