Places to Visit in Bali

Located on a beautiful offshore rock in Tabanan regency, Bali, Tanah Lot or 'Land on the Sea' is a Hindu shrine believed to be about 500 years old. An amalgamation of Balinese and Hindu mythology, the base of the temple is carved with sea snakes and offers a natural source of holy water, providing visitors with an aesthetic and spiritual experience unlike any other.

Situated at the south-western tip of Bukit in Bali, Uluwatu attracts surfers of all levels from around the world to its exciting shoreline. The waves are composed of five world-class surf breaks, and the hotels and restaurants overlooking the Indian ocean provide a magnificent view. The Pura Luru Uluwatu temple is another important attraction in this area.

Also called the 'Spa and boutique shopping capital of Bali', Seminyak beach offers a more upscale experience than its immediate neighbours Kuta and Legian. With a quiet and laid-back atmosphere, this beach has some of the best fine-dining restaurants in Bali in addition to the luxury resorts and villas, making your stay here absolutely pleasurable.

Kuta beach heralded the era of tourism in Bali. A few minutes away from the Bali airport, Kuta attracts hundreds of visitors to its golden sands and surf waves making it one of the busiest and liveliest beaches the country has to offer. A plethora of cheap options for accommodation, food and beach clubs make this ideal for young travellers seeking a fun beach holiday.

Known as Bali's 'Mother Temple', Pura Besakih is a majestic Hindu temple complex perched on the slopes of Mount Agung in Bali. The complex houses 23 separate temples and is believed to be atleast 2000 yearso old. Surrounded by stream and rice paddies, the primary deities of this beautiful temple are Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu.

Called "Gunung Batur" in the local language, Mount Batur is an active volcano in Indonesia. At 1717 metres (around 5,600 feet) above sea level, it offers a spectacular view of its surroundings - the majestic Lake Batur, nestled amongst black lava from the last explosion in 2000, and adjacent to this all, beautiful mountains.

A few kilometres from Ubud, Indonesia, Goa Gajah or the "elephant cave" is a spiritual and cultural attraction filled with Buddhist and Shaivite relics and carvings. A wide-eyed demon-like structure welcomes you at the cave entrance, which further leads to a serene pool inside. The intricate stonework makes this a must-visit for anyone looking for a glimpse into Indonesian architecture and heritage.

Amed Beach is located in Karangasem, East Bali. Spread over seven villages, it is the perfect location to relax, rejuvenate and engage in adventurous activities like diving or snorkelling. The magnificent black sand beach boasts of a fantastic shoreline view, underwater playground, coral gardens and also has remnants of a shipwreck.

Famous for the striking beaches and thrilling water sports, Tanjung Benoa is a peninsula located in the Kuta South District of Bali. This stunning site beckons adventure enthusiasts with water activities like diving, banana boating, fly fishing, snorkelling, parasailing, rolling donuts and sea walking. The primary beaches on the eastern side of Tanjung Benoa are accessible to the general public within the stretch of first 3 kms.

Located just north of central Bali, Munduk is a famous village in Bali ideal for trekking tours. It was once the holiday destination for Indonesia’s Dutch population because of its cool mountain weather all year round. As it is located at an altitude, it’s actually one of the best locations in all of Bali to catch sunrises and sunsets. Hidden between lush green mountains, lakes, and plenty of flora, it’s no wonder that Munduk Village is much loved by trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Built in 962 AD during the reign of Warmadewa dynasty, Pura Tirta Empul or Holy Water Temple is the legacy of a traditional good versus evil tale. It is home to a holy mountain spring that feeds the Pakerisan river, and is revered for its ritual purification by devotees. Visitors can admire the temple carvings but are forbidden from having the ritual bath.

Located just 15 minutes from the airport in Ungasan, Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is a one-stop-shop for all cutural activities of Bali. A 120m-high statue of Lord Vishnu and his mascot Garuda is under construction, believed to become an iconic landmark of the island. Rindik instrument, Barong Keris dance and other traditional performances are held daily here.

A natural habitat for over 600 Balinese long-tailed monkeys, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud, Bali serves as a tourist hotspot owing to both its religious and wildlife value. With roughly 115 species of trees combined with the numerous monkeys looking for handouts from tourists, make this quite delightful for the nature-lovers.

Timings : 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Entry Fee : Adults: IDR 50,000,
Children: IDR 40,000

The Tegallalang Rice Fields in Ubud, Bali is a break away from the typical commercialized structures, offering a calm, beautiful scene of rice terraces that gently melt into paddy fields across the valley. Capture some exquisite photographs of the landscape, have coffee at one of the quaint little cafes or take a little detour through the Pakudui village nearby for some intricate wooden crafts.

Time Required : 2-3 hours

Entry Fee : IDR 15,000

Situated west of Lake Bratan in Bedugul, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is a 17th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu trinity of Brahma-Vishnu-Shiva. Surrounded by the lake which gives it a 'floating' appearance, the temple is constructed in traditional Balinese style with tiered shrines to honour the Hindu gods. The backdrop of the Bedugul mountains makes this a picturesque site of religious worship.

Located right opposite the Puri Saren Royal Palace, Ubud Art Market is the ideal place to buy something authentic to Bali From ikat woven skirts and woodcarvings to oil lamps and brass statuettes, this market has all kinds of handicrafts. With relatively higher quality and greater variety of products, this market is popular with both locals and foreigners. As always, bargaining is a must.

Named Asia's Number One waterpark, Waterbom in south Kuta, Bali offers an adventurous water-filled day for families and friends visiting the island. It has a plethora of rides for everyone- from the "Lazy River" for the relaxing couple to the adrenaline-pumping 20m tall "Boomerang". The various dining and bar options make this exciting venue fun for the whole family.

Often described as an 'All Inclusive' beach, Nusa Dua has everything one could ask for - shopping complexes, high-end hotels, museums, even an 18-hole golf course! The pristine white sand and blue waters provide for an awe-inspiring scene to rejuvenate your senses, and the additional facilities of spas and watersports make this an ideal location for both the honeymooning couples and travelling families.

Situated in Tegenungan village, halfway between Ubud and Bali’s capital Denpasar, Tegenungan Waterfall is one of the most popular picnic spots in the region. It is set amidst dense foliage in a shallow bathing area and lined with cafes and eateries. Present in an isolated location on the outskirts of Bali, the place is ideal for nature photographers.

The Bali Swing is a location where there is a collection of 12 swings that make you swing over exotic locations, making you feel like you are flying over the clouds. Some swings are over valleys, some over waterfalls, and some over canyons. all the swings are a must-try. The tour services available their offer their services at varying prices, inclusive of different packages.

Known For : Kelingking Beach Atuh Beach Diamond Beach

The hidden treasure of Indonesia, Nusa Penida is the most exotic of the three Nusa Islands and is relatively less travelled. Located in the Klungkung district, it is a little off the shores of Bali. During this season, the island is relatively dry and is fairly suited for activities like snorkelling, scuba diving and surfing. Despite these qualities, Nusa Penida is largely left unexplored and is awaiting tourists to explore this exotic destination. Pristine white sand beaches like Atuh and Nusa Penida beach draw tourists from around the world.

Best Time: May - September

27 Nusa Penida Attractions

Pura Lempuyang Luhur is a Balinese Hindu temple located on the slopes of Mount Lempuyang in Karangsem. Lying 1175m above sea level, reaching the temple requires a steep climb of over 1700 steps. However, one can stop along the way to take some beautiful pictures of the panoramic Mount Agung and the candi bentar gate.

Timings : 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Entry Fee : IDR 15,000

Nothing spells natural paradise like a gorgeous waterfall, and Sekumpul waterfalls in Northern Bali have at least 7 of them! Sekumpul, meaning 'a group of', is a collection of seven waterfalls located in north Bali. Fed by upland streams, they are considered the most beautiful waterfalls on the island. The seven waterfalls are separate and scattered, varying in height and shape. The overall ambience is cool and calming, marked by high cliffs and lush greenery.

The Safari and Marine Park in Gianyar is one of the finest wildlife sanctuaries in Bali. Home to more than 100 animal species the Safari and Marine Park is a complete outdoor package. Wildlife from Indian, African and Indonesian national parks find their place here and can be viewed from the comfort of the safari rides.

Known For : Devil's Tear Blue Lagoon Jungutbatu Beach

One of Nusa Penida district's three tropical islands, Nusa Lembongan is a spectacular island wrapped by sheltered white-sand beaches and the sparkling Indian Ocean. Traditionally attracting vacationers, surfers and backpackers, the island is home to scenic resorts, high hills dashed with jungles, coral reefs and epic dive sites. With a vivid aqua blue colour, the water is some of the clearest you will find in and around Bali.

Best Time: March to November

20 Nusa Lembongan Attractions