From Bali to Yogyakarta, the Beating Heart of Javanese Culture
Yogyakarta (or Jogja) is a must visit destination for travelers to Java Island. Renowned for being the cultural center of Java, this student city attracts many artists and intellectuals from all the provinces of the Indonesian archipelago. Direct flight from Bali to Yogyakarta it takes 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Yogyakarta is also a city apart in Indonesia, because it is still under the governance of a sultan and has inherited a cultural richness that is now visible through the many palaces, museums, temples and historic buildings. In this article I share with you all the information to visit the city of Yogyakarta!
The famous temples of Borobudur and Prambanan, both listed as World Heritage by Unesco, are located near Yogyakarta.
3 Ways to get from Bali to Yogyakarta
Plane
Flying is by far the fastest and easiest way to reach Bali from Yogyakarta to Bali. The flight takes less than 2 hours with tickets starting at IDR 650,000 (US$ 40). Note that this includes short taxi transfers to and from the airports.
What airline companies run direct flight services from Bali and Yogyakarta?
If you feel like an adventure and have time for it, you can also take a combined train and ferry trip from Bali to Yogyakarta. The trip takes at least 19 hours, through East Java and along the west coast of Bali, including an additional bus ride from the port to central or south Bali. The total cost is approximately IDR 500,000 (US$ 32). If you decide to go overland, we highly recommend visiting the Bromo and Ijen volcanoes as well as the Sewu waterfalls.
Bus
It’s also possible to take the bus from Bali to Yogyakarta, but it’s an uncomfortable 20-hour trip that involves several transfers and is often affected by delays. Long-distance buses can be very tiring and are not the safest way to travel, especially at night.
Experience and visit the constant hustle and bustle of Yogyakarta city and visit the Sultan’s Palace, Water Palace and UNESCO sites such as the ancient Borobudur Temple or Prambanan during your visit to Yogyakarta.
Stupas on top terrace at Borobudur. Sasha India, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Visit Yogyakarta (the City)
1. Sultan’s Palace (Kraton)
The sultan still resides in Yogyakarta. He is the governor of Central Java and has a large palace in the city center, which is open for visits every morning. The Sultan’s Palace is a beautiful place, but don’t expect anything lavish, the whole thing remains rather simple. Inside, objects and photos on display, generally without much explanation. It’s worth going there but we don’t come out impressed either.
Every day a different show is held at the Sultan’s Palace depending on the day of the week. We were there on a Saturday, the day of the wayang kulit, the puppets, which are an integral part of the traditional culture. A bit boring when you don’t understand Indonesian but the backstage area, with the orchestra dressed in traditional attire, is worth seeing.
The Sultan’s Palace and the surrounding streets form an entire district called Kraton. Far from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the city of Yogya, the streets of Kraton are very quiet and green. There are merchants and craftsmen there, it’s pleasant.
The spiritual and royal center of Yogyakarta, the Kraton is the sultan’s palace, where the royal family resided for centuries
It is rather large, it takes a good hour to go around. It is like a mini-city, there are courtyards with elegant pavilions. I advise you to take a guide who can explain the interior of the Kraton and contextualize the history of the sultanate because a visit alone is not really of interest except to admire the architecture. You can also see dance, music and puppet shows there, there are several throughout the day.
Address: Jalan Rotowijayan Blok No. 1, Panembahan, Kraton, Kota Yogyakarta
Opening hours: every day from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Admission: 20,000 IDR/person (IDR +1,000 for the right to take photos)
2. Visit the Taman Sari (Water Castle) and its underground mosque
Formerly, the Water castle of Yogyakarta was the place where the Sultan and his Court came to bathe. The place could be superb but lacks maintenance. There was almost no water, too bad for a water castle. So it’s a bit sad.
There are a few shops within the grounds. We took the opportunity to watch the work of making traditional wayang kulit puppets, in chiseled leather, as well as batik. Patience work!
Taman Sari (Water Castle), Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Jakub Hałun, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Location of Taman Sari (Water Castle)
Located south-west of Kraton, the Taman Sari – literally the “garden of perfumes” – is a palace on the water which once served as a place of relaxation and meditation built at the request of the sultan in the 18th century. At the time, this large royal park housed luxurious pools, water games, pavilions and several small lakes as well as rooms to accommodate the sultan’s wives. Today only the baths and bedrooms have been preserved, but the architecture of the castle is no less impressive. There are also many underground tunnels and an underground mosque. The place is a real labyrinth when you do not know the places. I advise you to take a guide who can explain the places to you and immerse you in the history of this magnificent aquatic palace.
Taman Sari Water Castle, Yogyakarta. Dudva, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Address: Wisata Taman Sari, Taman, Patehan, Kraton, Kota Yogyakarta
Hours: daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Admission: IDR 15,000/person
3. Stroll through the Prawirotaman district and admire the street-art
The Prawirotaman district is one of the most frequented districts in Yogyakarta by tourists. Indeed, this district brings together all the hotels, restaurants, bars and travel agencies of the city. It is particularly in this district that we recognize that Yogyakarta is a city populated by artists, because the walls of this district have been magnificently decorated by young local artists, lovers of street-art!
4. Visit a batik workshop
Batik is a fabric dyeing technique widely used in Indonesia. This traditional technique comes from Yogyakarta and was exported throughout the Indonesian archipelago, then to Africa. In Yogyakarta, you can therefore visit one of the many batik workshops, meet local artists and admire them handling the technique meticulously, or even try it yourself.
This lady is weaving batik, the national cloth of Indonesia. Michael Gunther, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
5. Walk down Malioboro Street and City Centre
Malioboro Street will immerse you directly in local life. It is an essential walk to do if you come to Yogyakarta: many shops, small restaurants and food stalls, shops and local market… Ideally to be done in the evening to enjoy the local atmosphere, see people chatting on the benches , enjoy small street concerts. Agoraphobes refrain because it is a really crowded and very lively avenue.
The museum is very strategically located from the city center and has a fairly high value. Maybe for some people who hear the word “museum” or “fort” will think that it is very old-fashioned and boring. However, the Fort Vredeburg Museum is different.
Museum Benteng Vredeburg. Pras, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The place is quite spacious and there are many spots to take pictures. In a number of buildings within the fort there are dioramas (miniature three-dimensional objects / theater decorations) about Indonesian history. The Vredeburg Fort Museum is one of the tourist attractions in Yogyakarta that must be visited.
7. Visit the Affandi Museum
Afandi is one of the most famous artists in Indonesia. Located by a river, the museum was once its own home. He himself designed and drew the plans for his house as well as the showrooms for his works of art. All his paintings were painted by hand or directly with his paint tubes.
Inspired and influenced by great European artists like Van Gogh, his works are no less original and impressionist in style. This museum is undoubtedly one of the most interesting to visit in Yogyakarta. Not to be missed for art lovers or budding painters!
Address: Jl. Laksda Adisucipto No.167, Papringan, Caturtunggal, Kec. Depok, Kabupaten Sleman, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta
Hours: daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: IDR 50,000/person
8. Museum of Dewantara Kirti Griya
This museum is is a memorial museum that presents an overview of the life and history of Ki Hadjar Dewantara’s struggles. Ki Hadjar Dewantara was a pioneer in the fight for education for Indonesians.
Imagine a huge outdoor pet store. There you are, you are at the Yogyakarta bird market (where not only birds are actually sold, but rabbits, cats, dogs, mice, reptiles, fish…).
9. Beringharjo Market
Beringharjo market is a huge covered market in Yogyakarta where you can find everything: a huge choice of batik (printed clothes and fabrics), spices, fruits and vegetables, wicker baskets, trinkets…It’s open in the morning only (from 8 a.m.), and you meet many locals who come to shop there (from the purchase of peppers to the wedding dress).
The atmosphere is really nice, we walk with pleasure in the aisles. No attempt to sell us anything but just smiles. We even got a little lesson on the different spices at a stand!
The Beringharjo market is located in the Malioboro area, Yogyakarta, Central Java, Indonesia. PL09Puryono, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
10. Eat a gudeg: the culinary specialty of Yogyakarta
Gudeg is one of the culinary specialties of Yogyakarta. This dish is made from young jackfruit boiled in traditional herbs and coconut milk, and served with rice, egg and chicken. It is the flagship dish of the region, so you can easily find it in small shops or stands in the street.
Otherwise, we can recommend this address, it is a small restaurant with a terrace serving a very good gudeg at an affordable price. Many locals go there and some tourists:
Gudeg Sagan
Address: Jl. Prof Dr. Herman Yohanes No. 53, Caturtunggal, Depok, Samirono, Kabupaten Sleman, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55223
Hours: daily from 9 a.m. to 12 a.m.
Activities and places not to miss around Yogyakarta
1. Visit Borobudur Temple
Located 40km from the city center, the Borobudur temple is a must visit place for tourists who come to visit Java. The largest Buddhist temple in the world, Borobudur is also the most visited tourist site in Indonesia. If you want to admire the sunrise at the top of the temple, you will have to put your hands in your pocket, but it is worth it because the view from the top is incredible, and there will be fewer tourists than during the day.
The Manohara hotel (2-star hotel) located inside the park is the only one that offers a special “sunrise tour” ticket to watch the sunrise. For the simple visit of the temple at conventional times, you can benefit from a student rate if you have your student card (to have in hand, or photocopied), i.e. 50% reduction.
Short history:
The main stupa enthroned at Borobudur Temple in Central Java, Indonesia. The world’s largest Buddhist monument was built in the 8th century by the Syailendra dynasty. The upper terrace is round in shape with a row of bell-shaped stupas containing a Buddha figure which symbolizes Arupadhatu, the realm of the formless. The main stupa itself is empty, symbolizing complete perfection of enlightenment.
Borobudur Temple in Jogja – Central Java, Indonesia. Gunkarta, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Address: Jl. Badrawati, Kw. Candi Borobudur, Borobudur, Magelang, Jawa Tengah
Hours: daily from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., but possible to buy a more expensive ticket to see the sunrise at 5 a.m.
Admission: 325,000 IDR/person (450,000 IDR for the sunrise tour via the Manohara hotel) and 162,500 IDR for students with their student card.
Borobudur temple with its stupas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Borobudur temple view from northwest plateau, Central Java, Indonesia. Photo by CEphoto, Uwe Aranas (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons
2. Climb the Merapi Volcano
Culminating at a height of 2934 meters, the Merapi volcano dominates the city of Yogyakarta. It is the most active volcano in Indonesia, its last eruption dates from May 2018. Before climbing the volcano, check with the agency organizing your trek to find out about the activity of the volcano and to know if the roads are in good condition.
You can also do the Merapi Lava Tour: for 2 hours, you can rent a jeep with driver for 350,000 rupees and visit the Merapi volcano and its surroundings. The jeep can carry 3 to 5 people, and the tour includes a visit to Museum Sisa Hartaku, a small museum showing the damage caused by previous eruptions of the Merapi volcano: old motorcycles, clothes, objects and furniture that have more or less resisted the eruption…
To be able to admire the sunrise, you have to get up and leave very early from Yogyakarta. Count about 1h30 for the car trip to the bottom of the volcano, and about 4h for the hike. Once at the top, the sunrise offers a magnificent and unforgettable spectacle. After so much effort for the ascent, the reward is all the more beautiful!
To book, you can go directly through a local agency on site at the entrance to Mount Merapi.
3. Watch the sunset at Prambanan Temple
Classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Prambanan Temple is a set of 240 temples that were built in the 9th century. This site includes 4 main temples and several small ruined temples. It is a large site that requires at least 2 good hours of visit if you are on foot (you can also visit the site by bike).
You can spend hours admiring the carved bas-reliefs that tell of the lives of Hindu gods. The temple is all the more magnificent to visit at sunset and at the end of the day there are fewer people. As for the Borobudur temple, don’t forget your student card to benefit from a 50% discount!
Address: Kranggan, Bokoharjo, Prambanan, Sleman Regency
Hours: daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: IDR 325,0000 /person (IDR 162,500 if you have your student card)
4. Ullen Sentalu Museum
The private museum, founded in 1994, displays relics and objects of royal houses and kratons of Java, such as Yogyakarta, Pakualam, Surakarta and Mangkunegara.
It takes 1 hour drive from Yogyakarta city. This museum is well maintained and very clean, the guide was welcoming, knowledgeable and fun, their art collection was wonderful. I really liked the paintings. Entrance ticket was not expensive even for foreign tourists. And yes, it’s forbidden to take pictures inside but hey, that’s fine. It was a pleasant day.
The museum, founded in 1994, displays relics and objects§ of royal houses and kratons of Java, such as Yogyakarta, Pakualam, Surakarta and Mangkoenegara.
Admission: IDR 100,000 (International visitor) IDR 40,000 (Domestic/regular visitor/kitas).
In 2014 the Department of Culture for the Special Region of Yogyakarta published a book containing the superior collections of museums in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, including the superior collection owned by the Ullen Sentalu Museum. The featured collections of the Ullen Sentalu Museum are as follows:
Jumenengan’s painting, this painting depicts the sacred dance procession of the Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat Palace, namely the Bedhaya dance which is performed once a year in commemoration of the sultan’s coronation.
Paes Ageng Clothing Painting, this painting shows the details of a woman’s wedding dress complete with Paes Ageng make-up.
Batik with the Urang Wetan motif, this cloth was once worn by the empress of KGPAA Paku Alam X named GBRAAy Retno Puwasa.
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Do you want to visit Bali? Know what to see in Bali? You don’t know how to get there or where to sleep in Bali during your stay? re you looking for 2 Weeks Itinerary in Bali? We give you in this article all the good tips to know where to go in Bali, what to do or how to get around when you are on the island so that you have a wonderful stay.
Do you have 2 weeks ahead of you and want to get to know Bali? Would you also like to have a good time? This itinerary in the heart of Bali is the right one!
From the hustle and bustle of big cities to more remote places off the beaten track, you are going to experience incredible moments. After this trip, you will know Bali like the back of your hand… or almost!
Summary of 2 Weeks Itinerary in Bali
3 Nights in The Bukit Peninsula and Uluwatu, in the very south of Bali
The Bukit Peninsula and Uluwatu, in the very south of Bali (3 nights): Thomas Beach and Padang Padang beaches, visit to Uluwatu temple and Kecak dance show, paragliding over Nyang Nyang beach, sunset, trendy bars.
4 Nights in Ubud in the center of Bali
Ubud in the center of Bali (4 nights): center of Ubud town (palace, market, …), visit to the Monkey Forest, Teggalalang rice fields, Pura Tirta Empul (temple of sacred water), Pura Gunung Kawi , Goa Gajah, Tegenungan Waterfall.
From Ubud to Munduk: Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, Beratan Bedugul Temple.
Read also: Ubud Complete Travel Guide
2 Nights in Munduk in the North of the island
Munduk in the North of the island (2 nights): hike to the 3 waterfalls, green landscapes
3 Nights in Nusa Lembongan, a small island east of Bali
Nusa Lembongan, a small island east of Bali (3 nights): rest, stroll through Yellow Bridge, Dream Beach, Devil’s tears, Mushroom Bay, Lembongan Beach…
2 Nights in Seminyak, near the beach and the airport
Seminyak, near the beach and the airport (2 nights): beach, surfing initiation, beach bars, shopping…
+ Tips: For these two weeks in Bali and if you have to do it again, maybe you would change a few points on this itinerary, or if you vae more time, you would have gone to Amed (diving/snorkelling) and Sidemen (hiking). And of course, if you have more times, you can visit gili islands in Lombok!
3 Nights in The Bukit Peninsula and Uluwatu, in the very south of Bali
— Bukit Peninsula and Uluwatu —
You can spend your first days in Bali on the Bukit Peninsula. For example you can do paragliding above Nyang Nyang beach.
What to do and see in Bukit and Uluwatu?
ULUWATU TEMPLE AND ITS KECAK DANCE SHOW
Try to watch Kecak dance. Uluwatu Temple is very famous and it will be very crowded, especially around sunset time. You can’t get to the temple at the edge of the cliff though. But the view of the cliffs is fantastic!
When at the Kecak show, it’s very touristy but when you’re in Bali, you should try to watch it. The Kecak dance is a traditional Balinese dance that combines vocal chanting, percussive sounds, and synchronized movements performed by a group of dancers.
Watch out for your belongings and the monkeys, we saw a man trying desperately to recover glasses stolen by a monkey and the latter was very aggressive. In the monkey/man duel, I believe that the monkey wins hands down.
Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple access: IDR 50k with sarongs (€3.20)
Show access: IDR 100k per person (€6.45)
Schedule of the show: 6 p.m. – end 7 p.m. (plan to settle in the bleachers before 5:45 p.m.)
Drive from the hotel to the temple with waiting for the driver to pick us up after the show (and even queue to buy us tickets while we went to see the cliffs): IDR 150k Rp (€ 9.60)
Sunset at Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur), Bali, Indonesia. LBM1948, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
THE BEACHES OF THE BUKIT PENINSULA
Thomas Beach: a stone’s throw from our accommodation, Thomas Beach is quite small but very pleasant. You have to go down the stairs, and it’s a great discovery! It takes 100k Rp (6.5€) for a parasol and two mattresses for the day, and 100k to rent a surfboard. Be careful here there are corals and it cuts! Better to take a teacher for beginners.
Padang Padang
Close to Thomas Beach, you have the better known beach of Padang Padang. On the other hand it is small and paying. So we saw her from afar. On the Bukit Peninsula, there are also other beaches further north to discover: Bingin Beach or Dreamland Beach.
Nyang Nyang Beach
Large deserted beach where swimming is not recommended, the waves are quite strong. You can take a dip by the sea but watch out for the waves. To access this beach, you will have to come here by scooter or by car (IDR 100k from Uluwatu or possibly cheaper by Grab). We mainly came here for the paragliding with Nyang Nyang paragliding. Prices are lower than in West Europe (€65 for 10min, €96 for 15min, with video). Depending on the season, it is rather at the beginning of the afternoon that the wind is optimal. The view is breathtaking on the cliffs and the beach of Nyang Nyang!
A temple of legend Tanah Lot
The temple of Tanah Lot has thus become one of the 7 temples of the Sea which border the island of Bali. These seven temples have the function of protecting the island of the Gods from any bad influence coming from the waves, and have the particularity of being always visible from at least one of the other temples of the Sea.
Today, Pura Tanah Lot is one of the most popular religious buildings on the island, and also the most visited. Right next to the temple, a “tourist village” has been created in order to stem the flow of daily visitors to the sacred site. Sportswear shops, crafts, various clothes, the main street offers everything you need for an entire afternoon of shopping! The sunset is a particularly appreciated moment on this site, which also offers the possibility of enjoying a dinner in a restaurant in height.
Our little secret…
Shhh, don’t tell anyone! The Pura Batu Bolong, located 10 minutes walk from the Tanah Lot temple, is just as impressive as its neighbor and much less crowded! Of more modest size, it is perched on a ledge plunging into the Indian Ocean. During the Melasti celebrations, a few days before the Balinese New Year, hundreds of pilgrims come to deposit earthly offerings intended for the marine deities.
COOL PLACES TO GO OUT
Cliff House (a stone’s throw from Thomas Beach): Free entry but to have a mattress you have to consume at least IDR 1.5 million rupees (€96) which is not cheap! Fortunately, you can have a drink, eat a good pizza, which is rare because it is rare, and even swim, staying near the restaurant/bar.
Single Fin Beach Club: Ideal place for a drink at sunset. Young and modern atmosphere with a large swimming pool with a view. Incredible sunset ♥! A nice favorite to end our second day at Uluwatu in Bali!
Reasonable drink prices with beers at IDR 50k or € 3.20. Inquire for the price to access the swimming pool.
DAY TRIP TO UBUD
In this 2 weeks Itinerary in Bali, you can take a private driver (the owner of the hotel) who took us to all the main places to visit around Ubud town. It was a day that started at 9 a.m. and ended at 6 p.m., a big 9 a.m. day of discoveries. Price of the day for two: IDR 600k Rp (€38) but if you go there by yourself by scooter or on an organized tour, you can get better prices.
Rice fields of Tegallalang
Rice fields yes, but very touristy. To enter, you have to make a donation, to continue the route too. Ideal for those who want Instagram photos, wicker nests, swings, heart, “I love Bali” sign, finally the total :). Otherwise do not spend too much time there and go to Jatiluwih.
Pura Tirta Empul Holy water temple
A beautiful temple with basins in which holy water springs flow. The entrance is a few euros with the rental of sarongs. And if you want to purify your soul, for a few extra euros we can lend you a sarong to go into the water and a locker to put your things in. Of course it is not a temple for tourists but primarily a temple for believers.
We really liked the first one which is surrounded by rice fields! It is one of the oldest temples in Bali. At the bottom a statue shop in which I fell for 2 pretty typical Balinese statues of Sita (Balinese goddess) for €12.
Tegenungan waterfall
This waterfall is very beautiful and very touristy. Some even bathe!
To continue our itinerary, we joined Ubud, a must for a stay in Bali which appears in all itineraries, and above all a central place to shine in the surroundings. Many restaurants and cafes, shops, markets, the center of Ubud teems with life. But also tourists and traffic is heavy.
For your first day in Ubud you can visit the Ubud Palace, the Lotus Café, the Ubud market, have a drink and have dinner in the evening in one of the many restaurants in town. Also, the Monkey Forest is located 1km from the center of Ubud.
Ubud Palace: Admission to Ubud Palace is free. Pretty temples, decorated statues, which can be visited quickly.
Monkey Forest: this place is very well known because it is a sanctuary for monkeys. We went very early and so much the better because the monkeys were not very aggressive, eating or having fun kicking stones (which was quite funny, it looks like they were all trying to make a fire!). But when a monkey sees something sticking out of your bag, he wants to grab it and jump on you. Price of entry at IDR 50k (€3.20).
Restaurants in Ubud: very good restaurants and bars including Café Wayan, and many others for everyone (vegetarians, etc.). You can try the Babi Guling in Oka (suckling pig, specialty), but nothing more.
Massage: Balinese massage is known all over the world, a little softer than Thai massage but with a firm hand, you can do a 1 hour Balinese massage between IDR 100k and 150k.
DAY TRIP TO UBUD
For example you can take a private driver (the owner of the hotel) who took us to all the main places to visit around Ubud town. You can start at 9 a.m. and ended at 6 p.m., a big 9 a.m. day of discoveries. Price of the day for two: IDR 600k (€38) but if you go there by yourself by scooter or on an organized tour, you can get better prices.
Rice fields of Tegallalang: rice fields yes, but very touristy. To enter, you have to make a donation, to continue the route too. Ideal for those who want Instagram photos, wicker nests, swings, heart, “I love Bali” sign, finally the total :). Otherwise do not spend too much time there and go to Jatiluwih.
Pura Tirta Empul Holy water temple: a beautiful temple with basins in which holy water springs flow. The entrance is a few Euros with the rental of sarongs. And if you want to purify your soul, for a few extra euros we can lend you a sarong to go into the water and a locker to put your things in. It was not very hot but I tried the experience in the pools, plunging our head under the sacred water ♥. Of course it is not a temple for tourists but primarily a temple for believers.
Gunung Kawi Temple and Goa Gajah Temple: you may really liked the first one which is surrounded by rice fields! It is one of the oldest temples in Bali. At the bottom a statue shop in which you’ll find for 2 pretty typical Balinese statues of Sita (Balinese goddess) for €12.
Tegenungan waterfall: this waterfall is very beautiful and very touristy. Some even bathe!
CLIMBING THE BATUR VOLCANO
From the city of Ubud, it is easy to organize an excursion to climb Mount Batur. It will be from Ubud that you will take the least time to reach the foot of the Batur volcano. The volcano is active but has not erupted since 2000. It is the second highest volcano on the island of Bali after Mount Agung, which erupted in 2017 and has since been closed to the public.
>> Climbing Mount Batur in Bali it’s a must do! <<
The ascent of Mount Batur is done at night. Departure from Ubud at 2:30 am, arrival on site at 3:30 am, time for hot tea and banana fritters. And around 4h-4h30 you can start the ascent. It takes approximately between 1h30 and 2h to climb. It is not too difficult for people in physical condition. Personally, you can climbed it slowly in 1h45, without rushing because you may not get enough sleep.
The most difficult thing is to climb at night and not see the route. At the top, the other hikers wait for the sunrise trying to warm up with the breakfasts served by the guides (bananas, cereal bars, tea) and even eggs cooked in the volcano’s steam. Sunrise above the clouds: a magical little moment ♥!
Going down is easier than going up, because you can finally see where you are stepping. In 45min you descended with your guide. And after the ascent, you have the opportunity to go to the hot springs! And frankly it is only happiness to dive into its hot water pools with a view of the lake. You must of course choose this option with your organizer.
For this day trip between Ubud and Munduk, you can opt for a shared vehicle with someone. Already it does not allow not to be 2 + the driver, but to have the car full (Price of the day in transport: IDR 400k). Leaving from Ubud towards Ubud, you can decide to make 2 stops: the rice fields of Jatiluwih and the temple of Beratan. You could also stopped at a coffee plantation and drink Luwak coffee.
Let us explain: Luwak coffee is one of the best in Bali (apparently) and also one of the most expensive in the world, but do you know how it is produced? These are civets, kinds of large rodents, which consume the cherries of the coffee tree, digest their pulp but not their stones, which are found in the animal’s excrement. Then the kernels are cleaned, dried, and it makes good coffee! So in terms of animal exploitation it’s not too friendly!
The rice fields of Jatiluwih: it’s an absolute hit ♥, I loved walking in these rice fields! You can even cycle through them! Price: IDR 40k. Beratan Temple: This is a beautiful temple by the water. Price: 50k Rp. If possible add the Bali Botanical Garden which is not far away!
The superb rice terraces of Jatiluwih
— Munduk in the North —
Munduk is the best known of Bali’s mountain villages, set in beautiful green hills. Even if the village is quite small and located on the side of the road, strolling around the area, you find yourself in peace, and I liked it. It’s not very hot, rather chilly in the evening, so the pool (unless it’s heated), isn’t much use. And then if you are too hot, you can always try to swim in a waterfall, there are plenty around Munduk. The Munduk region is also known for its coffee plantations but also its cultivation of cloves, which mainly end up in cigarettes.
HIKE TO THE 3 WATERFALLS
The hike to the 3 waterfalls starts in the center of Munduk at the Taman Ayu Homestay, where you just have to take the small path. And then continue on the main path. It is not very well indicated but do not panic! We had read that there may be dogs, but we mostly saw hens and their chicks. A beautiful day of walking through the waterfalls (allow 4 hours even more time to return).
1. Melanting Waterfall: a beautiful and high waterfall!
321 steps down (and up)
137 steps after to go to waterfall 2.
2. Labuan Kebo Waterfall: a wide waterfall
170 steps to get to Labuan Kebo waterfall
10,000 Rp to pay to access each waterfall
3. And to finish the Red Coral, and if you still have a little courage, go to the eco café a little further.
3 Nights in Nusa Lembongan, a small island east of Bali
— The island of Nusa Lembongan in the east of Bali —
To get to Nusa Lembongan: taxi from Munduk to Sanur town (2h30 trip) for IDR 500k (you can booke through Munduk hotel), then boat from Sanur to Mushroom Bay beach in Nusa Lembongan for around IDR 200k (book with Lembongan hotel) then the transportation company will take you to your hotel.
The boat trip between Sanur and Nusa Lembongan lasts 45min through the Marlin boat company. In Lembongan you can collect seaweed, which once transformed, becomes an emulsifier to thicken ice cream.
You can stay near Jungutbatu beach and the island being small, you can walk, and sometimes you can take a taxi to save time. You can go to the Yellow Bridge which provides access to the tiny island of Nusa Ceningan. Returning to the west on Nusa Lembongan, you will discover the pretty beach of Dream Beach, and next to it the Devil’s Tear where the water bursts on the cliffs. Be careful, tourists may risk their lives for the perfect selfie.
2 Nights in Seminyak, near the beach and the airport
Its beaches and numerous restaurants make any visit to Downtown Seminyak a real delight. And while you’re around, take the opportunity to stop at one of its most popular sites: Eat Street.
Stay in a luxury villa, indulge in a spa, treat yourself to designer clothes in an upscale boutique or simply relax on the beach in Seminyak, the chic alternative to bustling Kuta.
On the road north to Seminyak from Kuta, either following the coast or via Jalan Legian, you will notice a change in mood. The beaches are quieter, the buildings more glitzy and the goods in the shops more expensive. All these differences have allowed Seminyak to forge its identity, that of a chic destination.
You can easily spend an entire day shopping in Seminyak. Here you will find the most famous brands and independent boutiques. Prices are high compared to other parts of Bali, but still lower than those found in western countries. Jalan Laksmana is home to many designer boutiques, while at Seminyak Square you can pick up bargains away from the hustle and bustle of the high streets.
Come mealtime, Bali’s best restaurants, many located along Jalan Petitenget, will satiate your stomach. Lunch or dinner on a rooftop terrace is common here: order a cold beer or a cocktail and nonchalantly watch the hustle and bustle of the street.
To experience traditional Bali, head straight for the Temple of Petitenget, a typical ornate structure near the beach. Many religious ceremonies often take place there, sometimes down to the beach.
To regain your strength, book a treatment in the many wellness centers in the area. You can also go sunbathing on the beach where it is much easier to find a quiet spot than on the Kuta coast. Seminyak Beach offers some of the calmest waves on the island, ideal for trying your hand at surfing. Along Double Six Beach, you can indulge in horseback riding, enjoy a massage or sip a fresh fruit cocktail.
To get the most out of Seminyak, get around on foot. Traffic is often heavy and public transport is not very efficient. You can also rent a bicycle or moped or take a taxi from Seminyak Square.
Enjoy your stay in Bali! If you liked this 2 Weeks Itinerary in Bali or if you have any questions, leave us a comment below!
Extra… 2 weeks itinerary in Bali
Lovina
Like Munduk, Lovina is located in the north of the island, it is a destination which is also very famous for its magnificent natural landscapes, and in particular its waterfalls. Lovina Beach and makes it the name of a set of villages located on the north coast. From these villages, several hiking routes allow you to explore the region.
In Lovina, you will also have the opportunity to go to sea to see dolphins. Tourism represents one of the main sources of income for the inhabitants of this region, but the places have nevertheless managed to retain a certain authenticity.
During the few days that you’ll in Lovina, you will be able to take excursions in the mountains and in the heart of the coffee plantations, discover magnificent sites like the waterfall of Gitgit and relax in the hot springs. Lovina is also one of the best places to practice diving in Bali. Near the villages, you can visit Singajara, the former capital of the island, which notably houses the largest Buddhist temple in Bali.
Amed
Amed is one of the increasingly popular destinations in Indonesia. Located at the eastern end of Bali, this village is relatively isolated. You will not regret making the trip, especially since the road that will take you there will take you through some beautiful places. Before arriving in this charming fishing village, you will come across beaches, rice fields and sumptuous palaces.
Amed is located just at the foot of the Agung volcano, one of the volcanoes of Bali 🙂 If this place attracts more and more people, it is for several reasons. In the surroundings, you can enjoy superb beaches, such as Lipah Beach, Jemeluk and Virgin Beach.
Amed is a fishing village on the east coast of Bali with beautiful volcanic black sand beaches, where there are several spots for snorkeling and scuba diving to see fish, corals, and blue starfish.
For those who do scuba diving, it is also possible to see the Liberty wreck in the village of Tulemben which is not far from Amed.
Late afternoon you could take a nice ride in a traditional fisherman’s boat for fishing and watch the sun set behind Mount Agung…
Speaking of volcanoes, we advise you to climb the Batur volcano rather than Agung if you only have to do one 🙂 It is simpler and the view is magnificent in the early morning!
Jemeluk Beach is a beach of pebbles and black volcanic sand which is probably not the most attractive beach in Bali, but which turns out to be a true paradise for diving enthusiasts. Its clear water and very rich seabed make it one of the best diving spots in Indonesia.
Spending a few days in Amed is the perfect opportunity to discover some of the most beautiful buildings in Bali, such as the Taman Soekasada Ujung water palace, the Tirta Gangga water palace and the Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang temple.
Legian
To end this 2-week stay in Bali, return to the south of the island, to spend the few remaining days just ten kilometers from the airport. The coastal village of Legian is located between two major tourist towns: Seminyak and Kuta. These three localities are also connected by the famous beach of Kuta Beach, a very long beach which is particularly popular with surfers.
Legian is a fairly popular seaside destination, where you can rest enjoying golden sandy beaches and practicing a lot of water activities.
The center of Legian is one of the best places where you can do a little shopping in Bali. You will find many small local and artisanal shops, as well as large brands. In this village there are also many cafes and restaurants, where you can spend lively and festive evenings in a friendly atmosphere.
Located in Seminyak Center – Bali, Villa Carissa offers a private swimming pool and enclosed garden to guarantee your privacy. You can book your private pool villa here with us.
Embark on the Ultimate 2-Week Bali Adventure: Our Comprehensive Itinerary Guides You Through 14 Days of Unforgettable Experiences. From the comfort of Villa Carissa, explore the island’s jewels, including the majestic Mount Batur, the tranquil Tegallalang Rice Terraces, the iconic Uluwatu Temple, and more, ensuring your Bali journey is nothing short of magical.
The Off the Beaten Track Adventure From Bali to Komodo Island
This itinerary from Bali to Komodo island is made of unforgettable adventures and discoveries: ideal for holidays with family or friends!
Between its pink sand beaches, its hikes on green hills and volcanoes, and its incredible diving spots, Komodo National Park is a real treasure for travelers in search of magnificent landscapes and unforgettable adventures. Not to mention the famous Komodo dragons, to see absolutely once in your life! Komodo National Park includes the three large islands of Komodo, Rinca and Radar as well as many other small islets that are full of breathtaking landscapes, stunning seabed and animals that you will not see anywhere else. Follow this guide to organize a successful stay in Komodo!
In 1991, the park was included in the list of World Heritage and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO since 1977.
See Komodo, the world’s largest lizard, in their natural habitat with this tour from Bali. You’ll fly to Flores Island and cruise to Rinca Island, part of Komodo National Park, where you’ll have the chance to see the gargantuan creatures up close. This package includes two nights of accommodation, breakfast and lunch over two days, and the services of a local guide.
The Komodo island doesn’t get much rain, creating a unique and somewhat rugged land that stands out against the vibrant green ocean waters. Andre Aquino, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Highlights
Most people come to Komodo National Park to see the biggest lizard in the world, the Komodo dragon. These dragons live on specific islands like Komodo, Rinca, Gili Motang, Gili Dasami, and Flores.
The largest group of Komodo dragons, about 2,000 of them, can be found on Flores island. The next biggest population, around 1,700 dragons, lives on Komodo island. If you get the chance to see a Komodo dragon hunting and catching its food, you’ll see just how strong and important they are.
How to go from Bali to Komodo Island and what are the prices?
To travel from Bali to Komodo Island, you can take a flight from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali to Komodo Airport (LBJ) in Labuan Bajo, Flores. The flight duration is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Once you arrive in Labuan Bajo, you can take a boat or a ferry to Komodo Island.
1. Go Labuan Bajo? (starting point for cruises to visit the Komodo Islands)
Labuan Bajo is the starting point for cruises to visit the Komodo Islands. There are two ways to get there: by plane, it’s fast, comfortable. Or by boat, but it is longer and the crossing can be dangerous.
By airplane
A) From Bali to Komodo Island by plane, then ferry
Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes. Cost: fares start at IDR 469,000 (US$31.50)
From Bali Airport (DPS) to Labuan Bajo (LBJ) Airport, it takes 1h 10mn.
From Labuan Bajo ferry terminal to Komodo National Park it takes (2h 30min by ferry once a day).
What airline companies run services from Bali and Komodo Island?
If you are boarding an international flight, the island is accessible via Jakarta on the island of Java, or via Denpasar in Bali (DPS airport). From these 2 cities, you can then take a domestic flight to Labuan Bajo in Flores, this is the airport and the departure city for tours to visit the Komodo Islands. A flight from Jakarta to Labuan Bajo will take about 2.5 hours while a flight from Bali to Labuan Bajo only takes an hour.
B) Flights from Lombok to Labuan Bajo
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cost: fares start at IDR 703,000 (US$47.50)
For some years there has also been a daily flight from Lombok to Labuan Bajo, operated by Lion Air/Wings Air.
C) Flights from Jakarta to Labuan Bajo
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Cost: fares start at IDR 1,200,000 ($81)
Direct flights from Jakarta to Labuan Bajo are operated by Lion Air and Citilink. The duration of the trip is around 2h15 and fares start from IDR 1,200,000 ($81).
D) Flights from Surabaya to Labuan Bajo
Duration: 1h30.
Cost: fares start at IDR 630,000 ($42.50).
The flight between Surabaya and Labuan Bajo only takes 1.5 hours. Batik Air operates a daily direct flight that departs at 11:10 am from Juanda de Surabaya airport.
Notes: flight fares can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and class.
By boat (ferry)
Less comfortable, long but more economical option: you can also get to Labuan Bajo by boat from Bali or Lombok and then by bus. But this alternative is not recommended because of the very fluctuating schedules, the length of the journey (36 hours minimum) and above all the discomfort and insecurity of the ferry.
The slow ferry departs from Lombok from Lembar port to Labuan Bajo, the crossing lasts 27 hours, departure at 5 p.m. and arrival at 8 p.m. the next day. The price is IDR 236,000 (around USD 15 or AUD 23), reservation possible on the PELNI website.
Another alternative if you have more time is to take a multi-day boat trip from Lombok, an island just east of Bali. But this cruise is long with uncomfortable boats. On this route the sea can be rough and accidents have been reported in the past.
2. How to get around in Flores?
You can choose to take a day trip which will allow you to visit the islands of Rinca and Padar in 1 day with a departure in the morning and a return in the late afternoon.
If you want to visit more, as well as other more remote islands then you will need to take a 2 to 4 day cruise depending on what you want to visit. You will therefore live aboard a boat for several days and sail from island to island, alternating visits to islands, beaches, snorkeling spots, hiking…
3. Prices for entering Komodo National Park, including entrance fees and activities
Here are the estimated general entrance fees for Komodo National Park, as well as the activity fees for both Indonesian and foreign visitors (valid from Monday to Sunday):
The general entrance fee to Komodo National Park is approximately:
For foreign visitors:
Monday – Saturday: IDR 150 000 (USD 9.55) / day / person
Sunday and national holidays IDR 225 000 (USD14.32) / day / person
For Indonesian visitors:
Monday – Saturday: IDR 5 000 (USD 0.32) / day / person
Sunday and national holidays IDR 7500 (USD 0.48) / day / person
The activity fees for Komodo National Park for Indonesian and foreign visitors (Monday-Sunday) are approximately:
Trekking: IDR 5000 (USD 0.32)
Wildlife viewing: IDR 10 000 (USD 064)
Snorkeling: IDR 15 000 (USD 0.96)
Diving: IDR 25 000 (USD 1.60)
Sport Fishing: IDR 25 000 (USD 1.60)
Photography: IDR 250 000 (USD 16)
The total fee is determined by adding up all the charges for the activities on your trip. For instance, a standard boat trip usually covers the main fee, hiking, seeing wildlife, snorkeling, and taking pictures.
The Komodo entrance fee covers a lot of amazing experiences:
Guide
Certified local guides will be with you, sharing their deep knowledge of the park’s plants, animals, and history. They’ll make sure you have an educational and enriching journey.
Meeting the Dragons
You’ll get to see the incredible Komodo Dragons, the world’s largest lizards, in their natural home. These impressive creatures, with their ancient look, big size, venom, and unique behavior, will leave you in awe and give you an unforgettable memory.
Beautiful Hiking Paths
Explore the stunning landscapes of Komodo National Park through its well-maintained hiking trails. Every step you take reveals a new wonder waiting to be found, from lovely hillsides to breathtaking views.
Snorkeling and Diving Fun
Jump into the colorful underwater world around the Komodo Islands. You’ll come across a dazzling array of vibrant coral reefs filled with sea life. Whether you’re snorkeling or diving, you’ll be amazed by this underwater paradise.
The reasons for this increase initiated by the government!
The Indonesian government explains this pricing decision with a report from the Ministry of Environment and Forests concluding that Komodo National Park would not be able to welcome more than 219,000 annual visitors.
It is true that since its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1991 and since it was named one of the 7 natural wonders of the world in 2011, Komodo Island has been stormed by tourists of the whole world.
Is it dangerous to visit Komodo?
As for Komodo… that’s another story! There have been accidents before and they are potentially dangerous wild animals. Indeed, their saliva contains many bacterias and their bite can be fatal. In addition, they measure up to three meters long, weigh 150kg (330 lbs) and can run at more than 20 km/h (around 12 mp/h). Generally it does not make you want to rub it too much.
However, if you listen carefully to the instructions and don’t mess around, you should be fine. Listen to the rangers, stay in a group and in Indian thread, don’t make noise or sudden movements, stay away from the Komodo (5 meters or 16 feet seems appropriate) and everything will be fine. If you are bleeding or having your period, it seems that you should report it, because blood attracts Komodo dragons.
Activities and excursions in Komodo Island
Komodo National Park is largely a scuba diving destination without too much tourist infrastructure. The attraction is rather the incredible nature, so it is possible to do other activities during your stay, or for non-divers, such as:
Go hiking in the hills of the islands and around the Kelimutu volcano
Go visit the famous Komodo
Explore Flores Island sites (e.g. Python Cave)
Snorkeling on a day trip
There are several travel agencies in Labuan Bajo that can arrange all of these excursions.
1. See the Komodo dragons at Komodo island
The Komodo dragons are undoubtedly the main attraction of the island. Disturbing and fascinating at the same time, going to meet these mythical animals will make you live unforgettable moments. Other animals also invest these places, such as buffaloes, wild horses and deer.
Komodo Island is part of Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in the Lesser Sunda island chain, Indonesia. It is famous for being home to the legendary Komodo dragon, the largest species of lizard on the planet.
It’s the only place in the world where you can see them in the wild, but Komodo has plenty more to offer. Komodo Island has amazing and varied landscapes – from white sand beaches to pink beaches, from tropical forests to grassy savannah hills.
It is also one of the best scuba diving destinations in Indonesia, with dozens of pristine reefs filled with colorful marine life. Along with over 1,000 species of fish, the waters around Komodo Island teem with whales, sea turtles, reef sharks and manta rays.
The many islands of Komodo National Park are scenic
The many islands of Komodo National Park are scenic and varied and the magnificent dragons are found on four different islands:
Komodo.
Rinca.
Gili Montong.
Gili Dasami.
In fact, Rinca Island is the best option for seeing dragons in the wild, as it is home to more Komodo dragons and is also closer to Labuan Bajo town, so easily accessible on an excursion. of a day with half a day of snorkeling on the reefs.
Planning to go to Komodo Island? It is quite easy to get there wherever you are in Indonesia. The first option is to fly to Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores and then take an organized boat tour to Komodo.
The second option is for more adventurous travellers: Take a 3-day, 2-night boat tour from the Gili Islands or Lombok to Flores with several stops (including Komodo) along the way. For many travelers, this is one of the best experiences of the whole trip to Indonesia!
2. Visit Komodo National Park Villages
The Komodo National Park is not just a single village but a protected area consisting of multiple islands, including Komodo Island. The villages around the park primarily serve the needs of the local communities and support tourism activities in the area. They offer accommodations, guides, and various services for visitors exploring the park and its surroundings.
One of four villages located in Komodo National Park. Actually it’s prohibited to built a residential area inside the National Park; however since these villages inhabited since early 1950, it’s not easy to relocate them. Danadi Sutjianto, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Komodo National Park Village, also known as Komodo Kampung, is a small village located on the northwestern coast of Komodo Island, the largest island in Komodo National Park, Indonesia. The village is situated in a sheltered bay with stunning views of the surrounding islands and the turquoise waters of the Komodo Strait.
Yes, you can visit some villages around the Komodo National Park. These villages often organize tours or welcome tourists who are exploring the area. To visit, you can arrange a tour through local guides or tour operators based in Labuan Bajo or nearby towns. They offer day trips or excursions that include visits to villages within the park.
As for prices, they can vary based on the specific tour, services included, and the village you intend to visit. It’s best to inquire with local tour agencies or guides for details on pricing and what each tour entails.
Within the vicinity of Komodo National Park, some villages are frequently visited by tourists. Here are a few:
Kampung Komodo: A village on Komodo Island itself, inhabited by locals and known for its proximity to the Komodo dragons.
Kampung Rinca: Located on Rinca Island, another spot to observe Komodo dragons and experience local village life.
Kampung Melo: Found on Flores Island, this village offers cultural experiences and traditional weaving demonstrations.
Kampung Baru: Situated near Labuan Bajo, this village provides insights into local life and craft-making.
Kampung Komodo Kecil: Located on Komodo Kecil Island, a smaller island within the park, Kampung Komodo Kecil offers a secluded and authentic experience. It’s known for its traditional fishing practices and close connection to the natural environment.
These villages provide opportunities to experience the culture, traditions, and daily life of the people living in and around the Komodo National Park area.
3. Scuba dive to admire the underwater flora and fauna
Here is the list of the best dive sites on the island:
Manta Alley: this is the best place to observe the famous manta rays. This relatively shallow site, between 10 to 20 meters (30.80 – 60.60 ft), allows you to maximize the time spent underwater and make the most of the aquatic spectacle.
Batu Balong: its coral gardens are teeming with fish. Strong currents and steep drop-offs attract big fish like Napoleon wrasse and sharks at greater depths. Photographers will be able to capture unforgettable photos.
Golden Passage: This is a popular drift dive site close to Gili Lawa Darat. You can see corals, reef sharks, and sometimes even dolphins and manta rays.
Manta Point: this site offers the chance to dive with manta rays that come to feed in the current. This drift dive with strong current allows you to see white tip reef sharks, nasons and small squills.
A flying manta ray is filtering plankton by swimming against the current in Manta Point, Komodo National Park. Siharaditia, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
BATU BOLONG, ON THE SOUTHWEST COAST OF NUSA PENIDA
Explore the southwest coast of Nusa Penida, known for its captivating dive sites. One standout location is Batu Bolong, an iconic spot that promises a rich underwater experience. This legendary site, which even inspired the Warnakali restaurant logo, boasts abundant marine life, mesmerizing aquatic displays, and encounters with sharks, rays, and the elusive mola mola. Our divers’ stories of this unforgettable dive will leave a lasting impression on your memory.
Situated off the southern coast of Nusa Penida, Batu Bolong features a striking arch that’s often captured in photographs. To ensure a safe dive, it’s best explored during a rising tide with low swell conditions, keeping in mind the potential for strong currents and waves. The pinnacle offers glimpses of various pelagic species along the steep walls, while the walls themselves showcase a vibrant array of macro-life thriving among the stunning corals.
4. Go to Padar island
Padar Island is one of several islands scattered in the Komodo National Park area, this island has a shape with several bays, white and reddish beaches and several beautiful hilltops.
Padar Island is covered with savannah hills. Steep volcanic mountains covered with bushes and meadows lead to deep bays with beaches of different colors, popular with divers. Its three main turquoise bays have stunning beaches: one is white, another is charcoal black, and the other is soft pink. The black beach has a volcanic origin, while the pink consists of red coral mixed with white sand.
Padar Island is the third largest island in the Komodo National Park area, after Komodo Island and Rinca Island. YUS JULIADI, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
One of beach in Padar Island, located in Komodo National Park. Find your joys and calm feel, just by looking the nature here. Triayusept, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The best time is April-June and also the dry season; September-November. July and August are very crowded and December to March is too rainy. Padar is about 30 km (20 ml) from Labuan Bajo, a fishing town on the westernmost part of Flores. Take a 30 minute hike to the top of Padar to see the whole island.
With its diverse landscapes and mesmerizing vistas, Padar Island stands as a testament to the natural wonders that Indonesia has to offer.
The view of Padar Island from the western coast. LukeTriton, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
To reach Padar Island, you can follow these steps:
Many tour operators in Labuan Bajo offer guided tours to Padar Island as part of a package that includes other popular spots like Komodo Island and Rinca Island. This is a convenient way to explore the area.
If you prefer a more personalized experience, consider chartering a private boat. This option provides flexibility in terms of timing and allows you to customize your itinerary. Once you arrive at Padar Island, be prepared for a short but moderately challenging hike to the viewpoint. The trail is well-marked, but it’s a good idea to wear comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and bring some water.
5. Visit Rinca island
If you are eager to meet the famous Komodo dragons during a hike, then do not hesitate to discover the island of Rinca. Indeed, this island is the closest to Labuan Bajo (on the western coast of the island of Flores), the starting point for excursions to Komodo National Park.
Unlike Komodo Island, Rinca Island is smaller with an area of approximately 196.25 km² (643 864.82 ft²). The chance of seeing giant monitor lizards in their natural environment is then greatly increased.
Panorama of Rinca Island. This island is located in the Komodo National Park, East Nusa Tenggara. Pambudiyoga, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Rinca Island is the closest to Labuan Bajo and surprisingly the least visited. A 2-night boat cruise in the Komodos archipelago not only allows you to meet the dragons, but also to discover the richness of the underwater fauna and flora of the Komodos archipelago.
It is worth remembering that komodos are wild animals and that they can present a certain danger if their tranquility is not respected. It is mandatory to keep your distance from the animal and to follow all the recommendations of your guide and the local ranger who will accompany you on the excursion.
Kanawa Island is also known as the gateway to Komodo Island because all ships heading to Komodo Island will definitely pass through this island.
The island which has an area of about 32 hectares (80 acres) is approximately 15 km (9 miles) from Labuan Bajo (the capital of West Manggarai).
You can spend a day relaxing on the hammock, camping, playing beach volleyball, getting a massage on the beach, trekking to the hills, snorkeling, diving, or enjoying the view of the sky at night.
Kanawa Island from above (in the Komodo National Park). SunDawn, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Kanawa Island, Komodo National Park. Jordy Meow, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
7. Visit Pink beach (Pantai Merah Muda)
Is Pink Beach really pink?
Let’s be clear: if you’re expecting a flashy pink beach, you’re going to be disappointed! On the other hand, yes the sand of this page has a rather pink color, due to the presence of large fields of multicolored corals which are located offshore.
Apart from the giant lizards that give the park its name, Komodo National Park is also well known for its beautiful, undeveloped beaches. One of the most unique is Pink Beach (Pantai Merah), named for the pink sand that gets its color from weathered chunks of red coral from the nearby reef.
Pink beach is one of the main tourist attractions at Komodo island, one of the big island at Komodo National Park. Devagonal, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Clear, calm waters make the beach an excellent site for snorkeling, especially since the coral reefs just below the surface are home to hundreds of species of marine plants and animals. Located about 15 minutes by boat from Loh Liang pier, Pink Beach is a great place to relax in the sun or cool off in the water after a day of trekking in the national park.
The pink beach on Padar definitely has more colorful sand, but the Komodo pink beach has a nicer background for photos, with lots of steep hills and trees.
8. Go to Kelor Island
Kelor Island is located near Komodo Island, within Komodo National Park in Indonesia. It is a small, uninhabited island known for its pristine beaches, lush vegetation, and stunning views of the surrounding archipelago. Kelor Island is a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and hiking, offering visitors a tranquil escape from the more tourist-centered Komodo Island.
The island offers a tranquil escape and serves as a popular spot for day trips or island-hopping adventures for visitors exploring the Komodo region.
You have the flexibility to visit Kelor Island either before or after exploring Komodo Island. Both islands offer unique experiences within the Komodo National Park, and scheduling your visit to Kelor Island before or after Komodo Island allows you to tailor your adventure based on preferences or available time.
Kelor Island stands as the initial stop when sailing across the Flores Sea. This compact yet trek-worthy island offers the finest views within the Komodo National Park. Its crystal-clear waters serve as a calming retreat for the soul after a refreshing hillside climb. Jonathangarryh, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
A brief 15-minute hike
A brief 15-minute hike unveils a stunning panoramic view from the top of Kelor Island, offering vistas of Flores, Rinca Island, and the surrounding smaller islands within the Komodo National Park. The ascent, though short, is steep and lacks stairs, so take caution to prevent slipping.
Kelor Island rests in the Flores Sea, offering a quick 15-minute hike for visitors. Bungachiara, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The captivating reward awaits at the summit, making this minor exertion entirely worthwhile. Kelor Island provides a perfect opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture breathtaking scenery in all its glory.
There are several trails on Kelor Island that lead to stunning viewpoints of the surrounding islands and the turquoise waters of the Komodo Strait. You can relax on the beach perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. AgRidwan, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Facts
Komodo National Park is located in Indonesia, in the Lesser Sunda Islands, bordering the provinces of the West Lesser Sunda Islands and the (East Lesser Sunda Islands).
The national park includes the three large islands of Komodo, Rinca and Padar, as well as many other smaller ones. The total area of the park is 1,817 km² (701 miles²) with a land area of 603 km² (375 miles²).
The park also has many lesser islands (island group); Such as Gili Motang Island and Nusa Kode Island.
The national park was established in 1980, with the aim of protecting the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) and cetaceans. The objective was later extended to protection of the flora and fauna of the region, including in the maritime areas.
The islands of the national park are of volcanic origin and 4,000 people live there. In 1991, the park was included in the list of World Heritage and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO since 1977.
Health and security
If you plan to go on a trip to Komodo Island, we advise you to invest in a good travel insurance that also covers scuba diving. You never know what can happen and good insurance can get you out of tough situations. I recommend this travel insurance because they offer worldwide coverage and cover many risky sports like scuba diving. Read also: Health and Safety in Indonesia
KOMODO DRAGONS & PINK BEACHES – KOMODO ISLAND BOAT TOUR
SAILING AT KOMODO ISLAND
Some Ideas for Exploring Komodo: From Dragons to Aquatic Wonders – Private Tours from Labuan Bajo
Embark on a remarkable voyage that unveils the mystique of Komodo’s ancient reptiles and the mesmerizing beauty of its surrounding islands with our exclusive private tours from Labuan Bajo.
Komodo Dragons & Islands Day Tour: Unveiling the Mystique of the Ancient Reptiles
Embark on an extraordinary journey to witness the awe-inspiring Komodo Dragons, the largest living lizard species, in their natural habitat. This day tour unveils the captivating beauty of the Komodo Islands, where you’ll encounter these prehistoric creatures up close. Discover their intriguing behaviors and learn about their conservation while exploring the stunning landscapes of the islands.
Private Day Tour by Speedboat: Exploring the Gems of Labuan Bajo
Experience the epitome of luxury and personalization with a private day tour by speedboat. Sail through the pristine waters of Labuan Bajo and indulge in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding islands. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters as you swim and snorkel, marvel at vibrant marine life, and savor a sumptuous lunch amidst nature’s serenity.
Labuan Bajo: Swim and Snorkel Komodo Island Trip with Lunch
Dive into an aquatic paradise with this immersive day trip from Labuan Bajo. Discover the enchanting underwater world as you snorkel amidst the coral gardens and colorful marine life around Komodo Island. After your underwater adventure, relish a delectable lunch on board, soaking in the mesmerizing views that surround you.
From Labuan Bajo: Private Full-Day Komodo National Park Tour
Embark on a full-day private tour to the iconic Komodo National Park from Labuan Bajo. Traverse through the picturesque landscapes, marvel at the rugged coastlines, and set foot on the renowned Komodo Island. Witness the majesty of the Komodo Dragons and explore the ecological diversity that this UNESCO World Heritage site offers.
Komodo Island: Private 3-Day Tour with Boat & Hotel Stay
Indulge in an immersive 3-day private tour that encompasses the essence of Komodo Island’s allure. With a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, explore the island’s breathtaking beauty, encounter its iconic reptiles, and bask in the tranquility of the surroundings. This tour provides an unforgettable experience, complete with comfortable accommodations and a chance to fully immerse yourself in the marvels of Komodo Island.
Main photo description: Padar, also known as Pada, is a small island located between Komodo and Rinca islands within Komodo archipelago, administrated under the West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. It is the third largest island part of Komodo National Park.
One of the natural charms of Indonesia in the province of East Nusa Tenggara is Padar Island, an exotic island with its natural marine beauty that offers a million natural charms.
Escape to Villa Carissa, a sanctuary in the heart of lively Seminyak, Bali. Enjoy the utmost privacy with a personal swimming pool and enclosed garden. Book your exclusive pool villa experience now.
Based in Seminyak, Villa Carissa serves as the perfect starting point to explore Bali’s myriad treasures. Ideal for family adventures, memorable friend getaways, or romantic retreats, Villa Carissa offers a tranquil base to discover Bali’s diverse attractions and unwind in serenity.
Top Attractions in Bali, Visits and Places of Interest
Are you going to visit Bali soon or do you dream of going there? The number one tourist destination in Indonesia, Bali is a beautiful island full of must-see places to do and see! Here are things to do in Bali, to help you do this and so that you know what to do and what to see in Bali, here is a complete guide to top attractions in Bali and must-see places.
Bali is known for its volcanic mountains, its paradisiacal beaches, its coral reefs, its rice fields, its tropical forests and its typical villages with incredible charm.
It is not easy to prepare an itinerary in Bali as there are so many things to discover.
This list of things to do and see in Bali best for 2 weeks or 3 weeks. We have also supplemented this list with must-see places recommended by our travel community. There are many things to do in Bali, our travel guide here to give you some ideas, to better plan your visit in Bali.
Highlights
Between its beautiful sandy beaches, its turquoise waters, its spectacular seabed suitable for scuba diving, its renowned surf spots like those of Uluwatu, Kuta Beach or Padang Padang, its festive evenings like those of Seminyak or the Gili Islands, its preserved nature, its rice fields and its volcano which you can try to climb to watch the sunrise, its charming hotels with all comfort and affordable.
Bali, this paradise island in the Indian Ocean and Indonesia, has something to please travelers from all directions who want to get off the beaten track.
A jewel set to perfection, the island of Bali is also very interesting culturally. It is not nicknamed “the island of the Gods” by chance…
Because of Hinduism and its ancestral beliefs, Bali boasts a vibrant cultural heritage. This includes numerous temples, traditional villages like Ubud known for craftsmanship, and a plethora of festivities. Exploring this Indonesian island, whether on a trek, renting a scooter, or with a driver, fulfills various travel desires. Equipped with a Bali tourist guide to help plan your itinerary… the Balinese magic is almost guaranteed!
What are some things to do and places to visit in Bali? Here are the top attractions!
These top attractions in Bali “list” is of course not exhaustive, and remains very subjective, but we hope it will be useful to you! Do not hesitate to complete it in the comments…!
1. Ubud, the cultural and spiritual center of Bali
Ubud is a city located towards the center of Bali where about 35,000 people live. It is considered to be the cultural and spiritual center of the island.
As you walk around Ubud, you will appreciate the many handicrafts and you may have the chance to experience ceremonies with traditional dances.
Located on high plateaus, Ubud has a very rich surrounding nature. You can easily escape to the tropical forest, discover the famous rice fields on the plateau or the beautiful Ayung River!
Many majestic temples stand in the surrounding area and you can’t wait to discover them on foot or by bike.
Visiting Ubud in Bali is the feeling of being in osmosis with Balinese nature, culture and traditions. An authentic Bali tour for sure!
Here are some places to discover near Ubud:
The Monkey Forest of Ubud, another must-see in Bali
From Seminyak to Ubudu takes 1 hour 30 minutes by car.
If you are in Seminyak and want to go to Ubud, you will see that there may be several means of transport to get there. This may be the easiest and most efficient way to get from Seminyak to Ubud. In fact, taking a taxi or a private driver is the easiest way to get to Ubud.
It is also the most expensive means of transport if you are alone. However, if you are 3 or 4 people traveling, the price is divided and is therefore quite advantageous. Therefore, in the event that you choose this option, just walk a little bit in the streets of Seminyak and you will quickly find a taxi there. Read also: How to Take a Taxi in Bali Without Getting Scammed or Cheated?
2. Denpasar, the largest city in Bali
Denpasar is the capital of Bali, located in the south of the island. This is the major city center and offers many activities to tourists who go there.
In Denpasar, it is possible to find wonderful beaches on the east coast towards Sanur. You can also immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of Kuta further south.
There are many traditional and beautiful sites. We advise you to visit the temples of Pura Blanjong and Tanah Lot or the Bali Museum to immerse yourself in Balinese traditions.
Denpasar is definitely one of Bali’s must-sees, although it is a more touristy region where it is difficult to rest.
Here are some ideas of places of interest to visit around Denpasar:
Kuta is considered Bali’s main resort. It is located south of Denpasar, in the south of Bali. Seminyak is more chic!
Who says seaside resort, says paradise beach, tourists, nautical and sports activities, festive atmosphere etc. We are far from authentic Bali but Seminyak and Kuta remains a magnificent region of Bali.
Its beaches have become surfing spots and many amateurs go there to learn about the sport. Moreover, you can find many surfboard rentals in Kuta.
Seminyak
Seminyak in Bali is a luxurious haven for upscale tourists. Its upscale resorts, designer boutiques, trendy beach clubs, and top-tier dining options cater to those seeking sophistication. With lavish accommodations, gourmet experiences, exclusive shopping, and vibrant nightlife, Seminyak offers a perfect blend of opulence and relaxation against Bali’s stunning backdrop.
At night, the atmosphere in Seminyak transforms into a lively and sophisticated nightlife scene. Trendy beach clubs and upscale bars host parties with live music, DJs, and a cosmopolitan crowd, creating an energetic ambiance for those seeking upscale entertainment after sunset.
Kuta
Kuta, Bali, embodies a vibrant mix of lively beaches, bustling streets, and a thriving nightlife scene. Known for its surfing opportunities, bustling markets, and diverse dining options, Kuta offers an energetic atmosphere that caters to travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement.
Nightlife in Kuta is vibrant and diverse, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. The area comes alive after dark, offering a range of experiences from beachfront parties to live music, ensuring there’s something for everyone seeking an energetic night out.
Here are some places to visit in the Kuta area of Bali:
Both Seminyak and Kuta showcase Bali’s renowned hospitality, stunning beaches, and a wide array of recreational activities. Visitors can explore the unique blend of modern amenities, cultural charm, and natural beauty that Bali has to offer.
Here is a wonderful temple to discover in Bali. The Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple is located on the cliff of Uluwatu in the far south of Bali. You just have to follow the end of the cliff to see it. Uluwatu Temple offers breathtaking views and a chance to witness traditional Kecak fire dance performances.
Built on the cliffs at 70 meters (229.6 ft) high, it has become popular with tourists, especially for its magnificent view of the Indian Ocean and its sunset. Walk around the temple and especially go to the edge of the cliff to enjoy the different views and take memorable photos.
If you are lucky enough to go there at the end of the day to enjoy the sunset, then it will be a feast for your eyes and your camera!
It is a temple dedicated to the God of the sea, hence its geographical location at the end of a cliff and surrounded by the sea.
Crab-eating macaca [Macaca fascicularis] at Uluwatu Temple at sunset, Bali, Indonesia. LBM1948, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
A much more authentic destination in Bali, Amed is located in the northwest of Bali.
Here, you can conquer the seabed thanks to the many diving and snorkeling spots. Amed is full of secrets buried at the bottom of the sea. One of the secrets to be discovered is the wreck of the USAT Liberty in Tulamben. You can scuba dive there… Thrills guaranteed!
If you dream of charm and authenticity, calm and serenity, then Amed is the must-see destination in Bali that you must add to your list!
Traditional Salt Maker in Amed. Many coastal communities in the south and east of Bali fulfill their economic needs through the informal sector, namely the business of making traditional salt. Surya Edy Gautama, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Jimbaran is another resort located in the south of Bali, below Kuta and Denpasar.
It is a city and a fishing village which have made tourism profitable thanks in particular to the many paradisiacal beaches of the region.
It is an ideal destination to taste fish in the many restaurants.
The sea of Jimbaran Bay is particularly calm and will make you want to rest in an idyllic setting.
At night, the festive atmosphere takes precedence over the sound of the waves because yes, Jimbaran is also lively at night!
Jimbaran Bay
The Jimbaran bay is famous for its seafood restaurants along the beach, Jimbaran Bay is a great place to enjoy a romantic dinner while watching the sunset.
Traditional fishing boat on Jimbaran, Bali. PHGCOM, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
7. Hiking Mount Batur Volcano
Mount Batur is the best known volcano located in the north of Bali in the Kintamani area. Considered a sacred mountain in Indonesia, Mount Batur is perched over 1717 meters (5633 ft) above sea level.
The volcano is still active but it is possible to climb Mount Batur.
To get straight to the heart of the matter, YES there is a kind of “guide mafia” that prevents you from accessing Mount Batur without being accompanied. The ascent could very well be done without a guide but it is simply IMPOSSIBLE!
If you are lucky enough to experience a sunrise or a sunset, then the experience is unique and you will be amazed! The Mount Batur hike is extraordinary and we highly recommend you do it!
In short, we pass on this point since the ascent is still really nice but you will absolutely have to climb Mount Batur with a guide by buying the ticket directly in Bali for about € 40 (around AU$ 70) or even simpler by booking your ticket online (at least you have your tickets on the phone and you don’t have to run down the street to find the right provider…).
An active volcano and one of Bali’s most sacred mountains. Hiking to the summit provides stunning sunrise views. Sun is already un and shining on Batur volcano, Bali, Indonesia. Syselpunk, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
8. Canggu, a charming village in Bali
Canggu is a small village bordered by a magnificent beach. Located in the southwest of Bali and west of Denpasar, tourists like to relax in peaceful nature.
Canggu is indeed quieter and less busy than Kuta which is a few kilometers to the south.
Canggu is a fashionable destination for tourists seeking authenticity in Bali. There is a surf spot, a heavenly beach, temples and rice fields.
Here are some places to visit around Canggu in Bali:
9. Benoa, a seaside resort in Bali and fun watersports places
Benoa is another seaside resort which was built on an old fishing village towards Kuta Selatan. It is located in the southeast of Bali and offers many activities for tourists.
In particular, there are many luxury hotels that are located on the edge of the beach. The beach is also magnificent with transparent and calm water.
This seaside resort differs above all from the others for its calm and relaxing side. Here, no party until no time and the music at full blast.
Everything is done so that tourists can enjoy the surrounding calm and tranquility.
Beach and seascape Benoa Beach, Bali Indonesia. Bahtboy, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Here are some ideas of places of interest to do around Benoa in Bali:
Pasifika Museum
Waterblow Beach
Jimbaran Beach
Penangkaran Penyu Bali Tanjung Benoa Turtle Reserve
The temple of Tanah Lot is very well known thanks to its geographical layout. It stands in the middle of an islet called Pura Tanah Lot.
This Hindu temple is located on the west coast of Bali near the small village of Canggu.
This temple is one of the most famous on the island, because of its location: the Temple of Tanah Lot in Bali is “set” on a small rock in the middle of the ocean, about 100 meters from the coast, accessible at low tide. The spectacle of this temple in the middle of the waves at high tide is just magnificent!
Tanah Lot Temple at high tide, Bali, Indonesia. Jakub Hałun, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
It is a high place of pilgrimage for believers and a place of photographs for tourists and photographers.
If you can have the chance to visit the temple during a sunset, then you can make great photos!
Nusa Penida is an island that belongs to the province of Bali. It is located southeast of Bali, approximately 30 to 45 minutes away by speedboat.
It is a fashionable destination to immerse yourself in a small paradise island, without volcanic mountains on its edge.
When you visit Nusa Penida, you fall under the spell of its paradisiacal beaches, its tropical forests and the seabed with incredible coral reefs. Difficult to find such turquoise water on Bali.
Nusa Penida is definitely an island you must visit if you go to Bali!
Here are places to see around Nusa Penida towards Bali:
Once on Nusa Penida, it would be a shame not to take advantage of the very small neighboring island that is Nusa Lembongan. Located north of Nusa Penida, it is a magnificent destination.
A real natural reserve of fish and underwater species, bring your mask and snorkels to discover the beauty of the seabed!
You can also do the third island which is called Nusa Ceningan.
If you want to immerse yourself in the heart of the most beautiful rice fields in Bali, then you have to go to Jatiluwih!
The Jatiluwih rice fields are located in the heart of Bali. It’s another stunning example of Bali’s rice terrace landscapes, Jatiluwih is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Tabanan Regency.
There are hectares and hectares of rice plantations arranged in plateaus in the heart of lush and incredible nature. The scenery in the rainforest and the steep ravines are just beautiful to see.
Moreover, to prove to you the beauty of the place, it is enough to translate “Jatiluwih”. You have it ? Well, that simply means “wonderful” like the place you are about to set foot in.
Jatiluwih rice fields, Tabanan Regency, Bali, Indonesia. rheins, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
14. Bedugul, the mountain resort in Bali
Bedugul is an atypical seaside resort since, unlike the others, there are no heavenly beaches or diving spots. It’s a mountain seaside resort!
It is located in the north-central region of Bali towards the beautiful Lake Bratan. There are many villages in the region and many hiking departures for sports and nature lovers.
It is also the place where we find an incredible temple under the name of Ulun Danu.
Here are some ideas of places to see around Bedugul in Bali:
Discover a very beautiful city located on the east coast of Bali: CandiDasa. You can discover the Goa Lawah temple carved in a cellar and which houses hundreds of bats.
This region has magnificent beaches bordering a freshwater lagoon. It is one of the must-see places to visit in Bali.
We discover landscapes isolated from all tourist constructions in Bali. It is a real haven of peace with an authentic side of Bali.
However, there are many things to do and see, such as exploring the superb seabed, discovering unknown beaches, visiting the Goa Lawah temple, or even meditating at the Lotus Lagoon.
Padangbai is a small fishing village located in the south of Bali. It is a village known mainly for its gateway to another tourist island: Lombok. Many ferries run back and forth between Bali and Lombok.
By going to Padangbai, you can go diving and snorkeling on a superb paradise beach with turquoise water. This beach is called Blue Lagoon.
Another even more discreet beach, Bias Tugel Beach is less easy to access but is definitely worth the detour. Finally a beach on which you can rest quietly away from the tourist influx!
Located in East Bali, Tirtagangga Palace stands in a stunning area surrounded by lush nature. Tirtagangga means “water of the Ganges”, thus taking up the sacred Tirtagangga springs that can be found there.
A 35-minute drive from Candi Dasa (18 km), this palace is a delight. The Tirta Gangga Water Palace in Bali, set on the sacred waters, is a veritable Garden of Eden where all is beauty. The nature that surrounds the statues, baths and fountains is wonderful. We didn’t swim but you can take your bathing suits to dive into a swimming pool at the palace if you’re not chilly.
Here, there are baths, gardens, water sources, rice fields and a palace. It is an old Water Palace surrounded by parks and gardens with many water sources.
Do not hesitate to walk there because here, the environment is very soothing. So walk through the park, passing many Balinese statues and flowers, each more beautiful than the other.
You can even swim in a sacred spring in the park!
View from the lower part to the upper part of Tirta Gangga water palace. Manuae, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
19. Lempuyang Temple
Pura Penataran Agung is located on the slope of Mount Lempuyang 600 metres (2,000 ft) high above sea level.
At the exit of Abang, on the main road 5 km (3.1 miles) north of Tirtagangga, a road goes to the right towards Pura Lempuyang (the road is signposted), an important temple in the region and on the island. The road then splits in two, you have to turn right. It becomes very winding and climbs steeply for about 2 km (you will not be able to shift into 2nd gear – be careful if you are prone to motion sickness or if you are traveling with children…) It then leads to the car park of the lower temple from Lempuyang. We cannot continue further by car, we will have to finish by foot!
“Heaven Gate” Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang. Chainwit., CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Lower temple
The lower temple is impressive; stairs lead first of all to a gigantic symbolic door (candi bentar) in white stone, as if suspended in the air between the plunging view of the Agung volcano on one side and on the other, a large courtyard from which depart three colossal staircases. They represent nagas, these massive mythical serpents, bases of creation.
Their body undulates along the steps and ends in an impressive dragon’s head. Three doors (closed to the public) open onto the upper altar. The view from this temple is well worth the detour. A word of advice: to take advantage of the most beautiful light and take in as much of it as possible, come especially early in the morning. And in addition, there will be a lot less people.
2nd temple
The second temple in the complex, Pura Luhur Lempuyang (luhur means “high”), the more sacred of the two, as the highest, is a good hour and a half walk away (at a good pace, but with breaks).
It is a bit demanding to access between the road and the many stairs, be careful if you are with young children or if you have difficulty walking. You have to take the small paved and very steep road that runs along the lower temple on its right for a good kilometers / miles.
This photo was taken using a mirror app to give an impression of water surface and sky reflection in that surface. In real, there is no water in Pura Penataran Lempuyang “Heaven Gate”, Bali. Jenniferbustamin, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The concrete stairs then begin to wind through a cloud forest with dense vegetation (between tree ferns, yuccas, dragon trees, etc.); there are 1,700 steps to get to the very top. The upper temple itself is much less impressive than the lower one, but it is often deserted during the day and there is a funny atmosphere. It is the territory of the monkeys who rummage through the remains of the offerings piled up behind the temple. Every morning and every evening, some devotees from the surrounding area climb these steps to make offerings at one of the island’s directional temples, dedicated to the protection of East Bali.
20. The mountainous region of Kintamani
Kintamani is the mountainous region of Bali located in the north of the island. There are therefore mountains and volcanoes that surround small Balinese villages.
There is notably the famous Mount Batur and its Lake Batur. We strongly advise you to go for a walk there because the trails are magnificent!
You can go to the village of Penelokan to enjoy a superb view of the region. This is one of the most beautiful panoramas to do on Bali, landscape guaranteed!
In this region of Kintamani, there are also some temples including the Pura Ulun Danu Batur temple which was destroyed by an eruption. This temple is considered sacred by the Balinese community.
Here are some places to do and see in the Kintamani area of Bali:
Mount Batur
Lake Batur
Kintamani Village
Village of Penelokan
Pura Ulun Danu Batur Temple
21. Tampaksiring Town and Gunung Kawi Temple
The town of Tampaksiring is located in the center of Bali, in the Gianyar region. There is notably the famous temple of Gunung Kawi (official name: Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu) and its archaeological site.
The Tirta Empul springs have made their reputation thanks to their therapeutic virtues. Pilgrims come to bathe there to purify themselves.
Gunung Kawi Temple
This area is located about 18 kilometers (11.80 miles) north of Ubud. The two main places to visit here are the Tirta Empul springs and the Gunung Kawi temple. The entrance does not give immediate access to the temple! You will walk along rice fields to reach the Pura Gunung Kawi. The rice terraces lead you down countless steps to a flat path. At Gunung Kawi, you enter an ancient Balinese royal site from the 11th century.
The sanctuary is made up of 10 niches, each housing a “candi”, an 8-meter (26.25 ft) high sanctuary. The mausoleums on the east bank would be dedicated to King Udayana and his family while those on the west bank would be dedicated to the mistresses of King Anak Wungsu.
Local legend has it that the candi were dug in one night by the giant Kebo Iwa, protector of the kingdom of Tampaksiring. It is a famous pilgrimage site for Indonesians. Considered a true jewel of the Island of the Gods, Tampaksiring is definitely worth a visit.
Here you are in authentic Bali!
Here are the things to do in Bali, main places to visit around Tampaksiring in Bali:
This is now one of our favorite places in Bali. Lake Bratan is the second largest lake in Bali, located in the Bedugul area in the north.
The Ulun Danu Bratan temple was built on this lake in the 17th century so that the faithful could place offerings there intended for the goddess of the waters: Dewi Tanu.
Lake Bratan is Bali’s main source of irrigation and water. Being located in north central Bali, it can irrigate many lands around.
If you see Indonesians taking pictures in front of the temple with 50,000 rp bills, don’t be surprised. The Ulun Danu temple is represented on the ticket, which is to say the enthusiasm that the Indonesians have…
Bratan, Bali, Indonesia: Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, a balinese hindu temple. LukeTriton, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
23. Lovina Beach
Lovina beach is another resort in Bali located on the north coast. Its black sand beaches have made its reputation.
You can witness the most beautiful sunset in Bali, while eating local fruits while sitting on the beach. Lovina is small but you can spend a week relaxing there.
In addition to the black sand, it is also the place where you can observe dolphins and corals while diving.
If you like hiking, you can take a trail that starts from Temoekoes village and takes you to Singsing waterfall. There is also a superb Dutch monument.
You can also bathe in the thermal springs of Banjar. In this park, there are hot water pools and tropical forests.
It is a very beautiful region of Bali that must be visited. Even though it is a very popular tourist destination, there are many activities and many must-see places for Bali to visit.
Beach shoreline at Lovina, Bali, Indonesia. The Lovina beach is located in North Bali, Lovina Beach is known for its black sand and is a great place for dolphin watching. Ken Eckert, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Here are some places of interest to go to in the Lovina Beach area of Bali:
The Dolphin Statue
Lovina Beach
Pantai Lovina Beach
Pantai Lingga
Banjar thermal springs
Singsing Waterfall
Brahmavihara-Arama Buddhist Monastery
24. Lake Batur
As mentioned earlier in this article, Lake Batur is an essential place to visit in Bali. It is located at the foot of Mount Batur in the Kintamani region of northern Bali.
Backed by the volcanic slabs of Mount Batur and Mount Abang, Lake Batur (Danau Batur) is a striking crater lake considered sacred by the Balinese. Besides sunrise trekking, Mount Batur offers hot springs, canoe trips, and visits to Trunyan village, where Bali Aga residents expose their dead to rot in the open air.
It is a crater lake between Mounts Batur and Abang. It is the largest lake on the Island of the Gods with an area of 10 kilometers in diameter (6.2 miles in diameter). The color of the water varies according to the color of the sky.
You can reach the lake by a small road that leads to the Batur volcano. This road starts from the village of Penelokan.
Lake Batur, Bangli Regency, Bali, Indonesia. LBM1948, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
25. Tuban in South Bali
Tuban is a village located in the south of Bali, between the city of Denpasar and the peninsula of Bukit. It is particularly known for being not far from Ngurah Rai International Airport.
This may be the opportunity, if you are waiting for a plane, to enjoy Tuban Beach. This a beach is located not far from the famous beaches of Kuta and yet it has nothing to see.
It is mainly used by the local population for fishing, swimming or spending time with family. It is also a surf spot for the most seasoned.
The beach hotel is luxurious and the rates are quite expensive! We advise you not to stop there to eat.
Here are some places to visit around Tuban in Bali:
Sidemen is a village located in the eastern region of Bali. This small village enjoys an incredible environment since it is surrounded by mountains and rice fields.
Considered a cultural and artistic center, Sidemen enjoys serenity and absolute calm. You can discover magnificent rice fields surrounded by lush nature.
What we really appreciated while being in Sidemen, is that it is possible to walk many trails that leave in the middle of nature. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking!
You can also visit the Besakih temple about a good hour’s drive from Sidemen. Besakih is a set of twenty temples built at the foot of the mount Agung.
Banjar is a province located in the north of Bali in the Buleleng region. This area is known for its temples and hot springs.
There are beautiful waterfalls like the Singsing waterfall. Series of magnificent waterfalls in which one can bathe.
In the pools of Banjar, several dragon statues spit hot water. In a green setting surrounded by nature, these pools will do you a lot of good!
28. Klungkung, former royal capital of Bali (located in east of Bali)
Klungkung is also called Semarapura and is located in eastern Bali a few kilometers from Denpasar.
This is the former royal capital and it is an essential stopover to go to the east coast of Bali. There are many monuments in memory of the Gegel dynasty which reigned at the time.
An essential stopover on the road to the east coast of the island, Klungkung offers several thrilling visits, inviting you to take a walk through the ancient monuments bearing witness to the reign of the Gegel dynasty.
Among these, the main ones: the courthouse at Klungkung Palace (official name: Puri Agung Semarapura), covered with magnificent frescoes, the floating pavilion, a piece of Zen happiness in the middle of lotuses and water lilies, and finally the Klungkung Museum.
Here are the places that we advise you to visit near Klungkung in Bali:
Courthouse
The floating pavilion
The Klungkung Museum
Kertha Gosa Pavilion of Klungkung Palace (Taman Gili at Klungkung Palace), Semarapura, Bali. Satdeep Gill, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
29. Tenganan Village
The village of Tenganan is one of the oldest in Bali. Located in the east of the island, it is known for its art of weaving and its traditional ceremonies.
If you want to find authenticity in Bali, you will be served at Tenganan!
You can attend dance performances, traditions, customs of the time. It is a village still spared by mass tourism.
To disconnect for a few hours or a few days, why not visit the village of Tenganan in Bali?
Bali Aga architecture in the village of Tenganan, Karangasem, Bali. DayakSibiriak, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Here are some ideas of places of interest to discover around Tenganan in Bali:
The ancient village of Tenganan Pegringsingan
Virgin Beach
Bale Agung Tenganan Dauh Tukad Museum
The nature reserve of Pulau Paus
30. Trunyan Village
This village located on the slopes of Gunung Abang is only accessible by boat. Trunyan has always benefited from a certain curiosity since it is considered one of the last Bali-Aga villages. “Bali-Aga” refers to the native Balinese, who settled in Bali before the Javanese and Sumatran conquests since the first Buddhist influences are traced back to Bali around the 7th century.
Some agree that it was the Srivijaya empire, with a community of more than 1,000 teachers and disciples, which would have already spread and spread the Buddhist doctrines and established monasteries almost everywhere in the most nearby, including Bali.
Bali Aga village, inhabited by descendants of the original Balinese, who do not cremate or bury their dead, but just lay them out to decompose, bones can be found on the ground. Paracetamol, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Rituals
Local chiefs or rulers would have submitted to the new ritual practices of deifying chiefs or kings (assigning them divine kinship) and purifying their souls after death. These new rites would not have reached the entire area of Bali and some would have retained their animist practices and their own ancestor worship. We can also realize the veracity of these animist practices attested by the presence of megalithic stones in the Pura Gedé Pancing Jagat, and the existence of a statue (Betara Da Tonta) more than 4 m high in an altar from the same temple.
Every three years, a ceremony is held in the Gedé Pancering Jagat temple which involves covering the statue of Betara Da Tonta with honey, lime and gold jewellery. No foreigners are allowed to attend.
In the village proper, there are 2 Bali-aga houses and an old waringin, or Banyan, tree said to be over 1000 years old. A little further, the Kuban cemetery is only accessible by the lake. The deceased bodies are neither buried nor burned, they are left to decompose in the open air in bamboo cages sheltered from scavengers. On several terraces are exposed skulls and bones.
Remember, Bali’s charm also lies in its vibrant local markets, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, so be sure to explore beyond the major attractions to truly experience the island’s unique culture and beauty.
31. Museums in Bali
These museums in Bali stand as an integral part of the island’s rich cultural tapestry, offering visitors a profound insight into its artistic heritage and historical significance.
From the enchanting artwork of Ubud’s Puri Lukisan to the eclectic collection at ARMA, these museums provide a captivating journey through Bali’s creative spirit and cultural legacy.
Each exhibit is a testament to the island’s vibrant past and its enduring artistic prowess, making these museums a must-visit for anyone seeking to delve deeper into the heart of Bali’s cultural identity.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious about Bali’s cultural heritage, a visit to these museums promises a rewarding experience.
Bali’s nightlife pulses with energy across a spectrum of experiences. Nightclubs in Seminyak and Kuta throb with music, drawing crowds eager for pulsating beats and vibrant atmospheres. The island’s beach clubs like Potato Head and Ku De Ta redefine seaside revelry, blending sun-soaked days with lively DJ sets and oceanfront lounging.
The clubs in Bali boast top-notch sound systems, lively dance floors, and often host renowned local and international DJs. From the trendy beach clubs transitioning into party venues after sunset to standalone nightclubs with immersive light shows, Bali’s nightlife scene caters to revelers seeking energetic and memorable nights out on the island.
Rooftop bars add another dimension to Bali’s nightlife, providing panoramic views alongside cocktails and music. Places like Rock Bar in Jimbaran or the Sky Garden in Kuta offer elevated experiences, where visitors can revel in breathtaking vistas while enjoying the island’s nightlife.
The combination of beach clubs and rooftop bars makes Bali’s party scene dynamic and diverse, catering to different preferences while ensuring unforgettable moments against the backdrop of Bali’s beauty.
During the day, Bali’s beach clubs invite visitors to relax on sunbeds or enjoy water activities. As the sun sets, the energy shifts with DJs spinning tunes, live performances, and a vibrant social scene. It’s a haven where the island’s beauty meets music, creating an unforgettable ambiance for locals and travelers alike.
These beach clubs in Seminyak curate an upscale experience, featuring infinity pools, stylish lounges, and a sophisticated ambiance. By day, visitors can bask in the sun on comfortable daybeds, enjoying delicious cuisine and refreshing cocktails right by the water’s edge.
As the day transitions into evening, the atmosphere shifts into a livelier vibe with DJ sets and live music, creating a chic yet laid-back party scene against the backdrop of Bali’s breathtaking sunsets.
Bali’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, boasting an array of restaurants catering to diverse tastes. From local warungs offering authentic Balinese cuisine to international bistros serving fusion delights, visitors can embark on a culinary journey that satisfies every palate.
Local Balinese Restaurant
Exploring Balinese cuisine at a local warung or restaurant immerses you in the island’s culinary heritage. Here, you’d relish Nasi Goreng, Satay skewers, aromatic curries, and traditional dishes like Babi Guling or Bebek Betutu, experiencing the rich and diverse flavors of Bali’s own culinary traditions.
Each of these restaurants in Seminyak brings its own unique charm, flavors, and ambiance, catering to different tastes and preferences while ensuring a memorable dining experience on the island.
Seminyak, Bali, is a culinary hotspot, offering a diverse range of dining experiences. From fine dining to local eateries, it’s a paradise for food enthusiasts, blending traditional Balinese flavors with international cuisine. Whether by the beach or along bustling streets, every meal in Seminyak is an exploration of taste and culture, making it a must-visit for those seeking remarkable culinary adventures.
Romantic dining goes beyond the confines of formal fine dining. It’s about creating an atmosphere that speaks to the heart, where the setting, ambiance, and personal connection take precedence over elaborate setups or haute cuisine.
Imagine candlelit tables nestled in lush gardens or tucked away in secluded corners, offering privacy and a sense of seclusion. The gentle sea breeze or the soft glow of fairy lights adds to the romantic atmosphere, creating a dreamy backdrop for a memorable evening.
These eateries, whether charming cafés or intimate bistros, offer delightful menus in relaxed yet dreamy settings, perfect for a heartfelt evening for two.
Bali’s fine dining establishments are a testament to culinary artistry, presenting meticulously crafted dishes amidst elegant settings. These restaurants curate exquisite tasting menus or à la carte options that showcase premium ingredients, innovative techniques, and impeccable service, elevating dining into a sophisticated experience.
Japanese cuisine finds its niche in Bali with restaurants offering a delightful blend of traditional flavors and contemporary twists. From sushi and sashimi crafted with precision to teppanyaki grills igniting culinary theatrics, these establishments provide an authentic taste of Japan within Bali’s tropical ambiance.
Bali’s Chinese restaurants infuse the island’s dining scene with a rich tapestry of flavors, from aromatic stir-fries to succulent Peking duck. These eateries masterfully blend regional Chinese cuisines, presenting an array of dishes that tantalize the taste buds with their bold and diverse flavors.
Experience the tantalizing flavors of India right here in Bali, where a culinary journey awaits to delight your senses. Indulge in the aromatic spices, vibrant colors, and rich textures of authentic Indian cuisine, served up in an array of restaurants across the island.
No culinary adventure in Bali would be complete without sampling the diverse flavors of Indian cuisine, and with an array of restaurants to choose from, you’re sure to find a culinary gem to satisfy your cravings for the exotic flavors of India.
Italian cuisine thrives in Bali, with trattorias and fine dining establishments celebrating the essence of la dolce vita. From wood-fired pizzas with thin, crispy crusts to sumptuous pasta dishes bathed in rich sauces, Bali’s Italian restaurants capture the essence of Italy’s culinary heritage amidst the island’s tropical charm.
Savor the finest cuts of meat and indulge in culinary excellence at the top steakhouse restaurants in Bali. From succulent Wagyu beef to perfectly grilled ribeye steaks, these establishments promise an unforgettable dining experience for meat lovers.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a hearty meal, these steakhouse restaurants in Bali promise a dining experience to remember, with each bite guaranteed to delight your taste buds.
Top Attractions in Bali for Water Sports – Engage in Water Activities!
Traveling to Bali is a must-visit destination for travelers from all over the world. This island located near the Indonesian coast offers spectacular landscapes and is home to the most famous attractions not to be missed. If you’re thinking of traveling to Bali, here’s a guide to the best attractions and activities for water sports.
A trip to Bali opens the doors to a unique experience. Although the island is not very large, the diversity of landscapes and water sports is waiting for you.
Bali offers a plethora of water activities for thrill-seekers. Go snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the island. Try your hand at surfing on the renowned waves of Echo Beach or Balangan Beach. For a unique experience, take a traditional wooden boat to Nusa Lembongan and enjoy activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet-skiing.
Whether you love water sports, shopping or hiking, Bali is the perfect island for an exhilarating vacation. So, don’t wait and start planning your trip to Bali and experience the best attractions and activities.
For almost 50 years, Bali has been an essential pilgrimage for surfers from all over the world in search of perfect waves, warm water and a relaxed lifestyle. The Uluwatu, Balangan beach, Dreamland beach, large bay of Kuta, the volcanic sand beaches of Canggu and the small white sand coves of the Bukit peninsula, there are waves for all tastes and all levels in Bali.
Bali is renowned for its clear water and colorful reefs dotted with tropical fish. Scuba diving enthusiasts will find a large choice of dive sites and centers. It is the ideal place to observe the best underwater attractions in Indonesia.
Best beaches in Bali for jogging or relaxing or both
If you are looking for an unforgettable trip, Bali is the ideal place. Between its white sand beaches, turquoise waters and mountainous landscapes, Bali is the perfect place for a memorable vacation. In addition to the unmissable white sand beaches, there are many attractions to discover in Bali. You can find black sandy beaches in Amed (East of Bali).
With its warm waters, vast reefs and abundant marine life, Bali lends itself perfectly to diving. Throughout the island, schools and reliable diving centers welcome beginners and organize interesting trips for the more experienced.
Rafting is a superb activity that is both sporty, entertaining and allows you to discover magnificent landscapes. To organize a rafting excursion in Bali you have the choice between the Ayung river in Ubud and the Telaga Waja river in Sidemen.
Fun Water Sports Activities in Bali: Jet Ski, Flying fish, Parasailing, Banana boat and Flyboard…
Sandy beaches, turquoise sea… it’s hard not to be tempted by some fun water activities, especially when the sun is out. In order to fully enjoy your vacation by the sea, consider practicing one of these fun and exciting activities that will leave you speechless. Example of fun water sports activities: jet ski, fly fish, fly board, parasailing, banana boat, paragliding, paddle board, kitesurfing, sea walking and many more…
With its diverse range of water sports, Bali offers something for everyone, from adrenaline junkies to those looking for a more relaxed aquatic experience. Remember to prioritize safety and choose reputable operators for your water adventures. Enjoy your time in the waves!
For the best starting point to explore Bali, consider securing your villa in the heart of lively Seminyak. Located in Seminyak Center – Bali, Villa Carissa offers a private swimming pool and enclosed garden to guarantee your privacy. You can book your private pool villa here with us.
Staying with us opens doors to Bali’s most mesmerizing sights, including the cultural richness of Ubud Art Market, the natural splendor of Mount Batur’s sunrise, and the serene beauty of Sanur Beach, among others.
Whether you’re embarking on a memorable family trip, a fun-filled adventure with friends, or a romantic escapade, Villa Carissa in the heart of Seminyak provides the ideal sanctuary to discover Bali’s diverse attractions and savor a rejuvenating vacation. With its prime location, Villa Carissa ensures an unforgettable experience for all travelers seeking relaxation and exploration. Book now to create cherished memories in this exquisite haven.
Itinerary in Bali, Lombok and Gili in 8 dream steps
We tested a 3-week itinerary in Bali Lombok and Gilis in 8 unforgettable steps. An ideal tourist circuit for a first dream trip to Bali. We put the details here, with all the steps of the circuit to help you organize your future trip to Bali.
Summary: Itinerary in Bali, Lombok and Gilis 3 weeks step by step:
These are some examples for Itinerary in Bali Lombok and Gilis:
Step 1: Seminyak, Kuta, Legian, Canggu or South Bali (2d)
Step 2: Ubud or the essential step of a 3-week (4-day) Bali itinerary
Step 3: Visit Munduk between waterfalls and rice fields (2 days)
Step 4: Amed, its beach and its seabed (2d)
Step 5: The coral atolls of the Gili islands: Trawangan, Air and Meno (4d)
Step 6: Stay in Kuta south of Lombok between jungle and heavenly beaches (3d)
Step 7: Sidemen or stay in an authentic village inside Bali (2d)
Step 8: Sanur and Nusa Lembongan (2d)
Step 1: Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Canggu or South Bali (2d)
Experience all the craziness of Kuta and immerse yourself in the more chic atmosphere of its little sisters, Legian and Seminyak. Visit Tanah Lot, the most famous temple on the island of Bali. On your Bali itinerary, make sure to include Bukit peninsula, further south, with the Uluwatu temple and the world-famous surf spot, Uluwatu Beach.
Step 2: Ubud or the essential steps of a 3-week (4-day) Bali itinerary
After the excitement of Kuta, Ubud is an invitation to serenity and immersion in Balinese culture.
Between hikes in the surrounding rice fields, the discovery of ancient temples, rafting and traditional dance performances, there is no shortage of activities! Ubud is the tourist village that allows you to shine in Bali.
A stay in Ubud is always an opportunity to discover the culture and traditions of the Island of the Gods.
We leave the green Munduk and its mountains. It will take you at least 4 hours to reach the eastern tip of Bali and therefore Amed.
There is a “Mediterranean” atmosphere in Amed.
The coast is cut into a multitude of coves and dotted with fishing villages. Diving, snorkeling and sunbathing are on the program for our 3 weeks in Bali! During an itinerary in Bali, it is the essential tranquility and beach steps that provide a welcome respite after the island’s many adventures…
Steps 5: The coral atolls of the Gili islands: Trawangan, Air and Meno (4d)
We put our backpacks on Gili Trawangan, a paradise island accessible by boat from Lombok and Bali.
This small piece of land, 2 km long, is bordered by white sand beaches. If you’re going on a 3-week trip to Bali like us, we strongly recommend that you take a few days’ excursion to the Gili Islands, which invite you to dive, snorkel and relax. You will be reconciled very quickly here with the beautiful beaches of postcards, especially if you were disappointed by these in Bali.
And don’t get the wrong Gili!
We compared in an article entitled “Which Gili Island to choose?”, Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, Gili Air and a secret island that we found during our last trip which is located a little further south, Gili Asahan. Gili Asahan, A coral atoll off the beaten track where you only think of one thing once you arrive, stay there.
Step 6: Stay in Kuta south of Lombok between jungle and heavenly beaches (3d)
Kuta Lombok is located south of the island of Lombok 70km (43 miles) from the Gili islands. It takes about 2 hours of road punctuated by villages, various plantations, palm groves, to reach the famous bay of Kuta.
If you are looking for heavenly and deserted beaches, you have found where to put your bags!
Still unknown to most tourists who stay in Bali, do not miss the beauty of the landscapes of southern Lombok…
Surrounded by mountains and rice fields, the village is a cultural and artistic center. Immersion far from mass tourism guaranteed. We recommend this small village lost in the middle of the rice fields and surrounded by lush vegetation.
By the way, if you are preparing your next itinerary in Bali and you are hesitant to rent a scooter, here are all our practical tips on driving 2 wheels in Bali with our video on the island tour by scooter in our article tips for scooter travelers in Bali.
And you, have you ever gone on vacation to Bali or perhaps to other islands in Indonesia? Tell us about your adventure in the comments.
Discover the hidden gem of Seminyak, Bali at Villa Carissa, where a private oasis awaits with a secluded swimming pool and enclosed garden ensuring complete privacy.
The perfect launching point for exploring Bali’s diverse attractions, Villa Carissa caters to families, friends, and couples alike… Its central location guarantees an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Seize the opportunity to create lasting memories in this enchanting haven—secure your booking now!
Exploring Bali’s Cultural Gems and Natural Wonders: A UNESCO Sites and Geopark in Bali
Bali, the captivating island of Indonesia, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and mesmerizing natural beauty. Exploring these UNESCO Sites and Geopark in Bali offers an enriching experience, diving into the island’s cultural depth and natural splendor.
Beyond its idyllic landscapes, Bali holds a rich cultural heritage, recognized by UNESCO with the inscription of three remarkable sites as World Heritage Sites. Additionally, Bali boasts the Batur UNESCO Global Geopark, a natural wonderland that showcases the island’s geological heritage. Embark on an immersive journey through Bali, discovering its cultural treasures, natural wonders, and the unique geological features that make it a UNESCO-designated destination.
While transportation is primarily by road, guided tours or local guides can enhance the understanding and appreciation of these significant landmarks.
Bali’s rich cultural tapestry is further enriched by three distinct genres of traditional dance, each with its own unique style, purpose, and significance. These dance forms, collectively known as the “Three Genres of Traditional Dance in Bali,” have been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2015.
Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-pumping hike, a relaxing boat ride on Lake Batur, or a cultural immersion into Balinese traditions, the Batur UNESCO Global Geopark offers an unforgettable experience for everyone. Embark on a journey of discovery and unveil the wonders of this volcanic paradise.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bali:
Subak System of Cultural Landscape
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan (temple)
Pura Besakih (temple), has been nominated for UNESCO recognition due to its profound cultural and religious significance within Balinese Hinduism
Unveiling Bali’s Cultural Treasures: UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Subak System of Cultural Landscape: A Symphony of Water and Rice
Venture into the heartland of Bali and discover the Subak System of Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012. This intricate irrigation system, dating back to the 9th century, showcases the harmonious relationship between Balinese farmers and their environment. The Subak system, comprising terraced rice paddies, temples, and water canals, reflects the profound understanding of Balinese people of water management and their deep connection to nature.
Trek through the terraces, interact with locals, and experience the Subak irrigation process. Relax at nearby cafes offering scenic views.
No matter what you do, we’re sure you’ll be impressed by the Subak System of Cultural Landscape. It’s a truly special place that showcases the beauty and ingenuity of Balinese culture.
How to Get There:
The Subak System of Cultural Landscape is spread across five villages in Bali: Catur Angga Batukaru, Pakerisan, Jatiluwih, Manikaya, and Subak Sempol. The easiest way to access these villages is by car or motorbike. From Denpasar, you can follow the Jalan Raya Puputan toward Ubud. From Ubud, you can take the Jalan Raya Tegalalang to reach the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. Renting a car or scooter allows flexibility to explore at your own pace. Maps and GPS navigation aid in reaching these sites.
Jatiluwih rice terraces
What to Do:
Explore the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Witness the breathtaking expanse of the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site within the Subak System. Stroll along the pathways amidst the lush greenery and marvel at the intricate irrigation system that supports the rice cultivation.
Jatiluwih, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Bali, showcases the captivating beauty of traditional Balinese rice terraces. Imacim, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Hike through the rice paddies
This is the best way to get a sense of the scale and beauty of the Subak System. There are several different hiking trails to choose from, so you can find one that’s the right length and difficulty for you.
Pakerisan Valley
Visit ancient temples, explore archaeological sites, and learn about Bali’s historical settlements. Some guided tours include stops at nearby historical landmarks.
Subak Landscape of Pekerisan Watershed
The Subak Landscape of Pekerisan Watershed is home to a variety of rice varieties, including local heirloom varieties that are no longer grown in other parts of Bali. The rice fields are also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and reptiles.
Subak Landscape of Catur Angga Batukaru
The Subak Landscape of Catur Angga Batukaru is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the northeastern part of Bali, Indonesia. It is a complex system of rice terraces that has been managed by local communities for over 1,000 years.
The rice terraces of Gunung Batukaru form a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012, showcasing the exceptional Subak landscape—a testament to Bali’s traditional farming practices and the harmony between culture and nature. Arabsalam, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Visit Pura Taman Ayun (Royal Water Taman Ayun Temple)
Taman Ayun Temple, also known as the Water Garden Temple, is a beautiful and serene temple located in Mengwi, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia.
Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Pura Taman Ayun, a royal temple dating back to the 17th century. Admire the temple’s intricate architecture and learn about its significance in Balinese culture.
Taman Ayun Temple, also known as the Water Garden Temple, is a beautiful and serene temple located in Mengwi, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most important temples in Bali. The temple was damaged in the 1917 earthquake, but it was restored in the 1930s. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012.
Taman Ayun Temple. Mengwi, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia. LBM1948, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The main temple is dedicated to the Hindu gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The bathing pavilion is used for religious ceremonies and purification rituals. The garden is a beautiful and peaceful place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Bali. The temple is also a symbol of the Mengwi kingdom. It is a reminder of the power and influence of the Mengwi dynasty.
Engage with Local Farmers
Interact with local farmers and gain insights into the traditional rice cultivation practices in Bali. Learn about the Subak system’s sustainable approach to agriculture and its role in preserving Balinese culture.
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan: A Sacred Temple on Serene Waters
Embark on a journey to the shores of Lake Bratan and discover Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012.
This magnificent temple complex, perched on the edge of the lake, exudes an aura of serenity and spiritual significance. The temple’s intricate architecture, with its meru towers and traditional Balinese carvings, reflects the island’s deep reverence for nature and spirituality. This stunning temple complex, dedicated to the goddess of the lake, Dewi Danu, showcases traditional Balinese architecture amidst a serene and picturesque setting.
Ulun Danu Bratan Temple’s tranquil ambiance, combined with its breathtaking natural surroundings, makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking both cultural enrichment and serene landscapes in Bali. Johannnindito Adisuryo (Yohanes Nindito Adisuryo), CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
How to Get There:
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is located in the village of Bedugul, about 54 kilometers from Denpasar. To reach the temple by car or motorbike, take the Jalan Raya Puputan toward Ubud. From Ubud, follow the Jalan Raya Singapadu toward Bedugul.
What to Do:
Witness the Sunrise
Experience the magical spectacle of the sunrise over Lake Bratan, casting a golden glow upon Pura Ulun Danu Bratan. The temple’s reflection in the serene waters creates an unforgettable sight.
Experience the serene morning bliss next to Bedugul at Ulun Danu Bratan Temple. Javier Prieto, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Explore the Temple Complex
Wander through the temple complex and admire the intricate architecture, including the three-tiered Meru towers, the intricately carved gates, and the serene courtyards.
The Ulun Danu Bratan Temple complex features several intricately designed shrines dedicated to various deities. These shrines, adorned with traditional Balinese architecture, stand gracefully within the serene surroundings of the temple. Each shrine holds its own significance in the religious and cultural practices, inviting visitors to admire their beauty and learn about the spiritual heritage of Bali.
At Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, discover ornate shrines honoring different deities amidst breathtaking surroundings. LBM1948, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Embrace the Spiritual Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the temple grounds and observe the Balinese people engaged in their spiritual rituals.
Pura Besakih: The “Mother Temple” of Bali
Ascend the slopes of Mount Agung and discover Pura Besakih, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. Revered as the “Mother Temple” of Bali, Pura Besakih is a complex of 22 temples, each representing a different aspect of Balinese spirituality. The temple’s sacred location and its rich history make it a pilgrimage destination for Balinese people and a captivating cultural attraction for visitors.
Besakih Temple, often referred to as the Mother Temple, holds unparalleled significance in Balinese Hinduism. Located in the village of Besakih on Mount Agung’s slopes, it stands as the largest and most sacred Hindu temple in Bali. Its cultural and religious importance draws pilgrims and visitors alike to experience the profound spirituality and architectural magnificence of this revered site. Schnobby, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
How to Get There:
Pura Besakih is located in the village of Besakih, about 70 kilometers from Denpasar. To reach the temple by car or motorbike, take the Jalan Raya Kintamani.
What to Do:
Witness the Sunrise
Arrive early to witness the breathtaking spectacle of the sunrise over Mount Agung, casting a golden glow upon Pura Besakih. The temple’s silhouette against the radiant sky creates an unforgettable sight.
Explore the Temple Complex
Wander through the vast temple complex and admire the intricate architecture, characterized by towering Meru shrines, intricately carved gates, and serene courtyards. Each temple within the complex holds its own unique significance and represents a different aspect of Balinese spirituality.
Observe Traditional Ceremonies
If you’re fortunate enough to visit during a religious ceremony, immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere and observe the Balinese people engaged in their rituals. Witness the offerings, dances, and chanting that embody the deep-rooted beliefs and traditions of Balinese culture.
The Ida Batara Turun Kabeh ceremony at Besakih Temple, held yearly in Sasih Kedasa, symbolizes a gathering of all Gods at Pura Besakih to grant blessings based on people’s devotion and karma. Paco Pater, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Seek Blessings at the Holy Springs
Visit the sacred springs within the temple complex and partake in the ritual of cleansing. Balinese Hindus believe that the waters possess healing properties and offer spiritual purification.
Engage with Local Guides:
Seek the guidance of local temple guides who can provide insights into the temple’s history, symbolism, and significance in Balinese culture. Their knowledge will enhance your understanding and appreciation of this sacred site.
The reasons for Pura Besakih’s non-inscription are multifaceted and include:
Pura Besakih, the “Mother Temple” of Bali, was nominated for UNESCO World Heritage Site inscription in 2012 but was not ultimately inscribed. While it remains a revered cultural and spiritual site for Balinese Hindus, it has not yet met the strict criteria for UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.
Conservation Concerns: The temple complex faces challenges related to preservation and maintenance, with some structures showing signs of deterioration.
Community Engagement: The nomination process requires active participation and support from the local community, which has been a complex aspect for Pura Besakih.
Management Plan: A comprehensive management plan that outlines clear preservation, development, and tourism strategies is crucial for UNESCO consideration.
Documentation and Research: Thorough documentation of the temple’s history, significance, and cultural impact is essential for the evaluation process.
Authenticity and Integrity: The temple complex must demonstrate authenticity and integrity in terms of its original form, materials, and spiritual essence.
Several factors, including ongoing conservation efforts, conflicts regarding its management, or the need for more comprehensive preservation plans, could impact its consideration for UNESCO recognition. Additionally, UNESCO designations often involve complex evaluations that may take time, and sites might undergo multiple considerations before potential recognition.
Despite these challenges, Pura Besakih remains a highly significant cultural and spiritual site for Balinese Hindus. Efforts are ongoing to address the concerns raised during the UNESCO nomination process, and there is hope that the temple may be reconsidered for inscription in the future.
Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Bali, the Batur UNESCO Global Geopark is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Home to the majestic Mount Batur, a still-active volcano, and a captivating array of volcanic wonders, the geopark offers visitors an unforgettable journey into the heart of Bali’s geological heritage.
Hike Mount Batur for a breathtaking sunrise trek. Visit the volcanic craters, hot springs, and take in the mesmerizing views of Lake Batur.
The journey from Denpasar to Batur Geopark by motorbike offers a more scenic and adventurous experience. Follow the same route as mentioned above, but take the time to stop along the way and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
What to Do:
Withness the sunrise
The sunrise view from Batur is simply breathtaking. As the sun begins to ascend, it paints the sky with vibrant hues, casting a mesmerizing glow over the entire landscape. Below, Lake Batur shimmers in the early morning light, creating a tranquil and reflective surface.
Catch the sunrise from Batur and witness the magic unfold as Lake Batur and Mount Agung come alive in the morning light. glimpsing Mount Rinjani on Lombok adds to the enchantment of the view.
In the distance, the silhouette of Mount Agung stands majestically, adding a sense of grandeur to the panorama. Its prominence in the backdrop adds a dramatic touch to the sunrise scene. To the left, the outline of Mount Rinjani on Lombok emerges, creating a stunning vista that showcases the interconnected beauty of Bali and its neighboring island.
This picturesque view from Batur captures the essence of Bali’s natural splendor, combining the serenity of the lake, the awe-inspiring presence of Mount Agung, and the distant allure of Mount Rinjani. It’s a sight that evokes a sense of wonder and appreciation for the breathtaking landscapes of Indonesia.
The sunrise from Batur is stunning. Below, Lake Batur reflects the early morning light. In the distance, Mount Agung and, to the left, Mount Rinjani on Lombok, complete the breathtaking view. Aaron Rentfrew, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Hike Mount Batur for a Breathtaking Sunrise Trek at 1717 meters (5633 ft)
Embark on a thrilling sunrise trek to the summit of Mount Batur, where you’ll witness a panoramic spectacle as the sun paints the sky with hues of gold and crimson. The challenging ascent is rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including the shimmering waters of Lake Batur and the verdant rice paddies that blanket the foothills.
Venture into the heart of the geopark and discover the awe-inspiring volcanic craters, remnants of Mount Batur’s explosive past. These craters are evidence of the volcano’s historical eruptions and form an intriguing part of the geopark’s landscape. Descend into the Batur Caldera, a vast depression formed by a massive volcanic eruption thousands of years ago.
After the trek, unwind in the natural hot springs nearby, a perfect way to soothe tired muscles while relishing the stunning vistas of the lake and the volcanic terrain. Feel the warmth of the earth beneath your feet as you explore the geothermal landscapes, including steaming vents and bubbling mud pools.
Visit Kintamani Plateau
Kintamani is a district in the Bangli Regency of Bali, Indonesia. It is located in the northeastern part of the island, and is known for its stunning natural beauty, including Mount Batur, Lake Batur, and the Kintamani Plateau.
Mount Batur, Kintamani region in Bali. The Mount Batur area in Bali encompasses the stunning Kintamani plateau and surrounding regions, offering breathtaking views and a wealth of experiences for visitors. Eka343, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Discover the Serenity of Lake Batur
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Lake Batur, a serene crater lake nestled amidst the volcanic landscapes. Take a refreshing boat ride on the lake’s tranquil waters, soaking in the breathtaking views of Mount Batur and the surrounding peaks.
The lake sits within the caldera of Mount Batur and offers visitors opportunities for activities like hiking, hot springs bathing, and enjoying the serene ambiance. The area around Lake Batur is also known for its traditional villages, making it a compelling destination for exploring both natural beauty and local culture.
Lake Batur is a beautiful volcanic lake located in Bali, Indonesia. It’s renowned for its stunning views, surrounding landscapes, and the cultural significance it holds for the local community. LBM1948, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Unveil the Geological Heritage of Batur Geopark
Embark on a journey of geological discovery as you explore the Batur Geopark’s unique rock formations, lava flows, and volcanic ash deposits. Learn about the geological processes that shaped the geopark’s diverse landscapes, and gain a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of nature’s wonders.
Mount Batur crater. Exploring the Mount Batur crater provides an immersive experience into the island’s volcanic history and offers a chance to marvel at the raw, unspoiled beauty of this geological wonder. Steijlen, Fridus, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Embrace the Cultural Essence of Bali
As you explore the Batur Geopark, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Bali. Engage with local communities, learn about their traditions, and savor the flavors of authentic Balinese cuisine. Discover the harmonious coexistence between the Balinese people and their natural environment, a testament to their deep respect for nature.
Near Lake Batur in the Bangli Regency of Bali, Indonesia, you can often find charming wayside shrines or small temples known as “penunggun karang” or “penungguh karang.” These shrines hold significant cultural and spiritual importance for the local Balinese community. LBM1948, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Three genres of traditional dance in Bali, The National Intangible Cultural Heritage of Indonesia UNESCO
Balinese dance comes in three types: some are religious, some are partly religious, and others are for everyone’s enjoyment. Dancers wear colorful outfits with shiny decorations, showing flowers and animals. These dances are about nature and represent different traditions and beliefs. Dancers use special moves and expressions to show feelings like happiness or sadness. Music from instruments called gamelan accompanies the dances.
Dancers need more than just skill—they also need to have a special kind of energy and be humble and disciplined. In Bali, kids usually learn these dances from a young age in groups. They start with simple moves and keep practicing until they remember everything.
Learning these dances helps people feel connected to their culture and ancestors, making them feel proud of their heritage.
Tari Wali:
Tari Wali, meaning “sacred dance,” is the most revered form of Balinese dance, reserved for religious ceremonies and temple rituals. These dances embody deep spiritual beliefs and are performed by trained dancers who possess a profound understanding of their sacred significance. Exampels of Wali Sacred Dances (Rejang, Sanghyang Dedari, Baris Upacara),
Rejang is a sacred Balinese dance performed in religious ceremonies. Female dancers, adorned in traditional attire, move gracefully with precise gestures, symbolizing purity and devotion to the gods. This revered dance invokes blessings and harmony during temple rituals, embodying deep spiritual significance in Balinese culture. EGimaging, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Tari Bebali:
Tari Bebali, meaning “semi-sacred dance,” serves as a bridge between the sacred and the secular, often performed during religious festivals and community events. These dances are characterized by their lively rhythms, intricate movements, and captivating storytelling, showcasing the island’s vibrant cultural heritage. Exampels of Bebali Semi sacred Dances (Topeng Sidhakarya/Topeng Pajegan, Gambuh dance drama, Wayang Wong dance drama).
The Sidakarya Mask Dance is a traditional Balinese dance that portrays stories from ancient folklore and Hindu epics. Dancers wear vibrant masks, each representing characters like gods, demons, or animals. Through intricate movements and expressions, the dancers bring these characters to life, telling tales of battles, love, and mythology. The dance is a captivating blend of artistry, cultural heritage, and storytelling that continues to enchant audiences with its vibrant display of Balinese traditions. Made Gianni Kania Dewi, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Tari Balihan:
Tari Balihan, meaning “dance for entertainment,” is the most widely performed genre, captivating audiences with its energetic movements, expressive facial gestures, and playful interactions with spectators. These dances range from humorous and lighthearted to more stylized and sophisticated performances. Exampels of Balih-balihan Entertainment Dances (Legong Kraton, Joged Bumbung, Barong Ket).
The Legong Kraton dance is a classic and enchanting Balinese dance known for its grace and beauty. Typically performed by young girls, it tells tales of love and mythical stories through intricate movements, delicate gestures, and vibrant costumes. Accompanied by the mesmerizing sounds of the gamelan orchestra, this dance captivates audiences with its elegance, portraying Balinese cultural richness and storytelling traditions. Flying Pharmacist, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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Exploring Beautiful Villages in Bali: Discovering Scenic Gems Across the Island’s South, North, East, and West
The Beautiful Villages in Bali, each offering a glimpse into the island’s cultural richness, picturesque landscapes, and authentic way of life. Beyond the bustling tourist hotspots, Bali’s captivating villages unveil a serene world of traditional artistry, harmonious coexistence with nature, and timeless cultural practices, offering a glimpse into the island’s authentic soul.
Each of these villages offers a distinct glimpse into Bali’s diverse cultural tapestry, natural beauty, and local traditions, inviting travelers to venture beyond the well-trodden paths and explore the lesser-known corners of this enchanting island.
Here is a list of beautiful villages in Bali, with their unique characteristics and attractions:
SOUTH
Venture beyond the bustling tourist hotspots and discover the tranquil charm of South Bali’s captivating villages, where traditional Balinese culture, stunning natural beauty, and serene ambiance await.
Uluwatu (South)
Uluwatu, renowned for its stunning cliffs and majestic views, encompasses various villages along the southern coastline. Explore traditional Balinese villages, witness mesmerizing sunsets at Uluwatu Temple, and discover the thriving surf culture in the area.
Unique Characteristics:
Dramatic cliffside setting with stunning ocean views
Renowned for its iconic Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple and breathtaking sunsets
Home to world-class surf breaks and a vibrant surf scene
Lively nightlife and entertainment options, including the Kecak Fire Dance and Balinese traditional dance performances
Pura Luhur Uluwatu (Uluwatu Temple, The Sea Temple). Perched majestically atop towering cliffs, Pura Luhur Uluwatu, commonly known as Uluwatu Temple, commands breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, offering not just a spiritual sanctuary but a visual masterpiece against the backdrop of Bali’s stunning coastline. LBM1948, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Scattered across Bali’s lush landscapes, a constellation of beautiful villages invites exploration, unveiling a harmonious blend of tradition, artistry, and serene beauty.
Seseh (Southwest)
Seseh presents a serene coastal village atmosphere. Experience rice field vistas, visit traditional temples, and embrace the tranquility of rural life.
Unique Characteristics:
Tranquil Atmosphere: Seseh Village exudes a tranquil atmosphere, offering a welcome respite from the bustling tourist hubs of South Bali.
Pristine Beaches and Serene Coastline: Seseh boasts a pristine coastline adorned with secluded beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and leisurely walks along the shore.
Cultural Immersion and Traditional Craftsmanship: Immerse yourself in the village’s rich cultural heritage, evident in its traditional Balinese houses, workshops of local artisans, and captivating Kecak dance performances.
Harmony with Nature: Seseh Village seamlessly blends with the surrounding natural beauty, showcasing lush rice paddies, serene rivers, and the captivating Sunge Rening Waterfall.
Must-See Attractions:
Seseh Beach: Indulge in a day of relaxation at Seseh Beach, known for its soft white sand, calm waters, and stunning sunsets.
Sunge Rening Waterfall: Embark on a trek through lush greenery to reach Sunge Rening Waterfall, a cascading waterfall nestled amidst a serene natural setting.
Seseh Rice Paddies: Stroll through the picturesque Seseh Rice Paddies, where vibrant green terraces stretch across the landscape, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Bali’s agricultural traditions.
Seseh Traditional Arts and Crafts Center: Explore the Seseh Traditional Arts and Crafts Center, where local artisans showcase their skills in woodcarving, weaving, and painting.
Kecak Dance Performance: Witness the captivating Kecak dance performance, an ancient Balinese tradition that combines rhythmic chanting, intricate movements, and a mesmerizing storytelling experience.
Seminyak Village (South West)
The most glamorous village in Bali! You can consider Seminyak like St Tropez in France!
Unique Characteristics:
Trendy and upscale coastal resort town with a cosmopolitan vibe
Abundance of luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, and trendy bars
Renowned for its vibrant nightlife and beach clubs
Popular destination for surfing, shopping, and spa treatments
Must-See Attractions:
Seminyak Beach: A picturesque stretch of golden sand beach, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying stunning sunsets.
Potato Head Beach Club: A renowned beach club known for its stylish ambiance, delectable cuisine, and lively atmosphere.
KU DE TA: Another iconic beach club, offering a sophisticated dining experience, luxurious accommodations, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Seminyak Square: A trendy shopping and dining destination, featuring a collection of upscale boutiques, art galleries, and international restaurants.
La Plancha Bali: A popular spot for sunset drinks and live music, offering a laid-back bohemian atmosphere with stunning ocean views.
SOUTH EAST
Seek tranquility and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Southeast Bali’s enchanting villages, nestled amidst lush rice paddies, serene coastlines, and ancient temples.
Southeast Bali is a region of captivating beauty, offering a blend of stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and tranquil atmosphere. Nestled between the vibrant tourist hubs of South Bali and the serene landscapes of East Bali, Southeast Bali offers a unique and enchanting experience for visitors seeking a harmonious blend of adventure and relaxation.
Sanur Village (South East)
Family-Friendly Destination: Sanur Village is a haven for families, offering a safe and welcoming environment with plenty of kid-friendly activities and attractions.
As the sun wakes up the sky, painting it in shades of soft pinks and oranges, a special old boat rests on the sand in Sanur, Bali. At sunrise, when the water goes away, this weathered boat sits silently, telling stories of the sea. It’s an old boat, tired but strong, reminding us of the important history of sailing in Bali. Wiaskara, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Unique Characteristics:
Relaxed and Tranquil Atmosphere: Sanur Village exudes a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere, offering a welcome respite from the bustling tourist hubs of South Bali.
Beachfront Charm: Sanur boasts a charming beachfront promenade lined with lush greenery, offering stunning views of the glistening ocean and a laid-back vibe.
Cultural Heritage and Traditions: Despite its modern amenities, Sanur Village remains deeply rooted in Balinese culture and traditions, evident in its temples, traditional performances, and local artisanship.
Sanur Beach in Bali is a tranquil haven where the sun-kissed sands meet the gentle embrace of the azure sea. It’s a place where time slows down, inviting you to stroll along the shorelines adorned with swaying palms, while the soft ocean breeze carries whispers of tranquility. Here, the sunrise paints the sky in hues of gold, unveiling a magical spectacle that reflects upon the calm waters, setting the scene for moments of peaceful introspection and seaside bliss. Magul, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Must-See Attractions:
Sanur Beach: Indulge in a day of relaxation at Sanur Beach, known for its calm waters, soft white sand, and stunning sunsets.
Sanur Night Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Sanur Night Market, where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and delectable Balinese cuisine.
Sindhu Art Gallery: Explore the Sindhu Art Gallery, showcasing an impressive collection of traditional Balinese paintings, sculptures, and artifacts.
Turtle Conservation and Education Center: Visit the Turtle Conservation and Education Center, where you can learn about the importance of turtle conservation and witness the release of rehabilitated sea turtles.
Mangrove Forest: Embark on a leisurely stroll through the tranquil Mangrove Forest, a serene ecosystem that supports a variety of birdlife and marine creatures.
Padangbai is a charming coastal village famous for its ferry terminal and as a gateway to Lombok. Explore local fishing communities, relax on pristine beaches, and discover the vibrant underwater world for diving enthusiasts.
Unique Characteristics:
Gateway to Lombok and Nusa Lembongan, offering convenient ferry connections
Idyllic coastal town with a relaxed atmosphere and stunning ocean views
Renowned for its snorkeling and diving spots, offering a glimpse into Bali’s vibrant marine life
Home to peaceful beaches and a laid-back coastal lifestyle
Nestled along Bali’s eastern coast, Padangbai Harbour is a bustling maritime gateway that intertwines traditional charm with modern vibrancy. The harbor hums with the energy of fishing boats and ferries, their sails dancing against the backdrop of cerulean waters. It’s a bustling scene where the salty ocean air mingles with the sounds of seafaring life, welcoming travelers to embark on maritime adventures or witness the daily rhythms of coastal livelihoods. Amidst the comings and goings, Padangbai Harbour exudes an authentic maritime ambiance that encapsulates Bali’s coastal essence. Magul, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Must-See Attractions:
Padangbai Beach
Blue Lagoon Beach
Bias Mentah Beach
Pura Goa Lawah Temple
Padangbai Mangrove Forest
Nusa Lembongan (Southeast)
Nusa Lembongan offers a tranquil island escape. Experience the local island life, explore pristine beaches, and engage in snorkeling or diving adventures.
Tranquil Atmosphere: Nusa Lembongan offers a tranquil and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of Bali’s more touristy areas.
Pristine Beaches: The island is renowned for its pristine beaches, with soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
Abundant Marine Life: Nusa Lembongan is a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life, including colorful fish, turtles, and manta rays.
Nusa Lembongan Mangrove Forest: Explore the lush mangrove forest, a unique ecosystem that supports a variety of birdlife and marine creatures.
Must-See Attractions
Mushroom Bay Beach: Indulge in a day of relaxation and water activities at Mushroom Bay Beach, known for its calm waters and stunning sunsets.
Dream Beach: Discover the secluded Dream Beach, a hidden gem with soft sand and a tranquil atmosphere.
Manta Point: Embark on a manta ray snorkeling or diving tour at Manta Point, renowned for its frequent encounters with these majestic creatures.
Jungut Batu Cliffs: Witness the impressive Jungut Batu Cliffs, sculpted by natural forces over millennia, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.
Nusa Lembongan Devil’s Tears: Experience the mesmerizing Devil’s Tears, a natural rock formation that shoots water jets into the air, creating a dramatic spectacle.
Kusamba offers insights into traditional salt farming and fishing villages. Experience salt harvesting activities, witness the local fishing trade, and enjoy the serene coastal ambiance.
Unique Characteristics:
Coastal village renowned for its traditional salt-making practices
Peaceful atmosphere with a blend of Balinese culture and natural beauty
Beaches with black volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters
Home to several temples and cultural attractions, showcasing Balinese heritage
Nestled along Bali’s eastern coast, the quaint Kusamba Village stands as a testament to traditional salt-making practices, where the salt makers of Kusamba meticulously harvest sea salt, preserving age-old techniques that echo the timeless essence of Balinese coastal heritage. Wiaskara, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Must-See Attractions:
Kusamba Beach
Kusamba Salt Pans
Goa Lawah Temple
Pura Dalem Pingit
Kusamba Art Market
Klungkung (Southeast)
Klungkung invites visitors to explore traditional Balinese architecture and historical sites such as the Klungkung Palace and Kerta Gosa, showcasing intricate artwork and ancient storytelling traditions.
Unique Characteristics:
Former royal capital of Bali, steeped in rich history and culture
Home to the iconic Goa Gajah Elephant Cave, a captivating Hindu temple complex
Center for traditional Balinese dance and music performances
Serene atmosphere with a blend of ancient traditions and modern life
Nestled in the serene Bedulu village near Ubud, Bali, the mystical Goa Gajah cave, also known as the Elephant Cave, beckons visitors into an ancient realm of spirituality and mystery. This sacred site transcends time, revealing intricate carvings, serene meditation spaces, and a profound sense of historical significance, captivating all who venture into its mystical depths. Jakub Hałun, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
As you step into the heart of Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), nestled within Bedulu village near Ubud, Bali, a mesmerizing tableau unfolds. Inside this ancient sanctuary, intricate stone carvings adorn the walls, whispered tales of bygone eras echo through its cavernous chambers, and a palpable aura of spiritual reverence envelops every visitor, inviting them to delve into the enigmatic depths of Bali’s history and culture. Jakub Hałun, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Venture beyond the bustling tourist hotspots and uncover the tranquil charm of Southwest Bali’s enchanting villages, where traditional Balinese culture, stunning natural beauty, and serene ambiance await.
Canggu (Southwest)
Canggu, situated in the southwest, is a vibrant village known for its laid-back vibe and rice field vistas. Discover the Balinese way of life, explore local markets, and embrace the thriving arts scene in this scenic village.
Unique Characteristics:
A vibrant coastal town with a laid-back bohemian vibe
Renowned for its surf scene, attracting surfers of all levels
Abundance of trendy cafes, restaurants, and bars serving diverse cuisines
Lively nightlife and entertainment options, including beach clubs, live music venues, and art galleries
A hub for wellness and spirituality, with numerous yoga studios, meditation centers, and holistic retreats
Must-See Attractions:
Canggu Beach: A picturesque stretch of black sand beach, ideal for swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and enjoying stunning sunsets.
Echo Beach: A popular surfing spot, known for its consistent waves and lively atmosphere.
Batu Bolong Temple: A revered Hindu temple perched on a rock formation in the ocean, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.
Canggu Art Scene: Explore the numerous art galleries and workshops in Canggu, showcasing the works of local and international artists.
Wellness and Spirituality: Immerse yourself in Canggu’s vibrant wellness scene, with yoga studios, meditation centers, and a variety of holistic treatments.
Pecatu (Southwest)
Pecatu boasts stunning cliff-top vistas and cultural villages. Explore local traditions, visit the Uluwatu Temple, and witness the breathtaking views overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Unique Characteristics:
Home to the iconic Uluwatu Temple, a must-see destination for its stunning sunsets and cliffside setting
Renowned for its world-class surf breaks and vibrant surf culture
Lively nightlife and entertainment options, including the Kecak Fire Dance and Balinese traditional dance performances
Nestled within Bali’s vibrant landscapes, the Pecatu village beckons with a captivating blend of tradition and contemporary allure. Surrounded by verdant hills and the azure hues of the Indian Ocean, Pecatu exudes a serene charm, where the echoes of ancient customs harmonize with the modern pulse of Bali’s southern coast. It’s a haven where cultural richness intertwines effortlessly with the allure of coastal living, inviting visitors to delve into the authentic essence of Balinese life while savoring the tranquility of this picturesque village. F-GSPY, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Escape to West Bali’s serene villages, where national parks, black sand beaches, and harmonious coexistence with nature offer a tranquil retreat and a glimpse into Bali’s unspoiled beauty.
Embrace the laid-back bohemian vibe of West Bali’s coastal villages, where world-class surf breaks, pristine beaches, and ancient burial customs offer an unforgettable blend of adventure and tradition.
Penglipuran Village (West)
Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Bangli Regency, Penglipuran Village stands as an epitome of traditional Balinese architecture and environmental consciousness. This captivating village is celebrated for its unique Tri Hita Karana philosophy, which emphasizes harmony between humans, nature, and the spiritual realm.
Gazing down upon the idyllic Penglipuran Village, the aerial view unveils a harmonious landscape of traditional houses and meticulously lined pathways, encapsulating the village’s serene beauty and cultural integrity from a captivating bird’s-eye perspective. Kiara Juliane, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Unique Characteristics:
Adherence to the Tri Hita Karana philosophy
Eco-friendly practices and sustainable living
Traditional Balinese architecture and lush greenery
Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere
Nestled amidst the emerald hills of Bali, Penglipuran Traditional Village emerges like a living painting, offering a timeless glimpse into Balinese heritage and culture. Its pristine pathways, adorned with neatly lined traditional houses, whisper stories of ancient traditions and communal harmony. Here, the air is filled with a sense of tranquility, inviting travelers to wander through its meticulously preserved streets and immerse themselves in the essence of an authentic Balinese way of life. ::::=UT=::::, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Must-See Attractions:
Penglipuran Village Temple
Bamboo Forest Penglipuran
Holy Spring Sekawan
Penglipuran Village Museum
Negara (West)
Negara serves as the administrative hub of West Bali and is surrounded by villages showcasing traditional Balinese life. Experience local markets, witness buffalo races (Makepung), and explore the rural countryside.
Unique Characteristics:
Off-the-beaten-path destination with a laid-back atmosphere
Renowned for its pristine beaches, ideal for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing
Home to the West Bali National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts
Serene atmosphere with a blend of Balinese culture and natural beauty
Nestled along Bali’s western edge, the West Bali National Park emerges as a pristine sanctuary, where nature’s splendor meets untamed wilderness. Here, dense forests, vibrant mangroves, and secluded beaches converge, forming a haven for diverse wildlife and natural wonders. Towering trees embrace rare bird species, while elusive Javanese deer roam freely amidst the greenery. As the scent of wildflowers mingles with the salty ocean breeze, this protected expanse invites exploration, promising adventurous trails and secluded shores, making it an untouched paradise for those seeking solace in the heart of Bali’s untouched landscapes. Divergent43, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Must-See Attractions:
West Bali National Park
Medewi Beach
Balian Beach
Menjangan Island
Pura Melanting Temple
Pemuteran Village (West)
Embrace the tranquility of Pemuteran Village, a coastal haven in West Bali. Witness the village’s dedication to environmental conservation, as it has transformed itself into a model of sustainable tourism. Explore the village’s pristine coral reefs, teeming with marine life, and discover the underwater wonders of the Menjangan Island Marine Park.
Unique Characteristics:
Commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental protection
Pristine coral reefs and abundant marine life
Menjangan Island Marine Park, a haven for snorkeling and diving
Peaceful atmosphere and authentic Balinese culture
Must-See Attractions:
Menjangan Island Marine Park
Biorock Reef Restoration Project
Pemuteran Beach
Pemuteran Village Temple
Kintamani Village (West)
Venture into the highlands of Kintamani Village, where breathtaking vistas and cultural treasures await. Ascend to the summit of Mount Batur and witness the mesmerizing sunrise casting a golden glow over the surrounding landscapes. Explore the village’s traditional temples, each offering a glimpse into the village’s spiritual heritage.
Kintamani Village offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and serene tranquility. Whether you seek breathtaking vistas, authentic Balinese experiences, or moments of relaxation, Kintamani Village is a destination that will leave a lasting impression.
Unique Characteristics:
Nestled amidst the caldera of Mount Batur, offering breathtaking views
Renowned for its stunning sunrise views over Mount Batur and Lake Batur
Home to several temples and cultural attractions, showcasing Balinese heritage
Serene atmosphere with a blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion
Must-See Attractions:
Tegalalang rice terraces Bali: UNESCO World Heritage Site
Delve into the rich cultural heritage of East Bali’s captivating villages, where ancient weaving traditions, serene water palaces, and traditional salt-making practices showcase the island’s authentic charm.
Batuan (East)
Batuan stands as a bastion of Balinese artistry in the southern region. Explore ancient temples adorned with intricate carvings, peruse local art galleries featuring traditional paintings, and witness skilled artisans practicing their craft.
Unique Characteristics:
Center for traditional Balinese painting and arts
Abundance of art galleries and studios showcasing exquisite Balinese artwork
Peaceful and serene atmosphere amidst lush greenery
Home to the Batuan Museum, showcasing traditional Balinese art and artifacts
Pura Puseh, also known as the Puseh Temple, is a revered cultural gem nestled within the charming village of Batuan in Bali’s Gianyar district. Steeped in history and adorned with intricate carvings, this ancient temple stands as a testament to Bali’s rich cultural heritage. The temple’s ornate architecture, adorned with mesmerizing stone sculptures and elaborate designs, narrates tales of Balinese mythology and spirituality. LBM1948, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Must-See Attractions:
Batuan Museum
Batuan Art Market
Batuan Puseh Temple
Batuan Traditional Painters Association
Puri Saren Royal Palace
Tenganan Village (East)
Embark on a journey through time in Tenganan Village, a secluded hamlet nestled in Karangasem Regency. This ancient village, believed to be one of Bali’s oldest settlements, is renowned for its unique double-Ikat weaving technique, known as geringsing. Immerse yourself in the village’s rich cultural heritage, where ancient traditions and intricate craftsmanship continue to thrive.
Nestled in the heart of Karangasem, the village of Tenganan stands as a living testament to Bali Aga architecture, preserving ancient traditions within its compounds. The distinctive Bali Aga architecture in Tenganan whispers tales of heritage through its intricately designed structures, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural legacy. DayakSibiriak, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Unique Characteristics:
Ancient village believed to be one of Bali’s oldest settlements
Renowned for its unique double-Ikat weaving technique, known as geringsing
Rich cultural heritage with ancient traditions and intricate craftsmanship
Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere
Must-See Attractions:
Tenganan Traditional Weaving Village
Tenganan Museum
Tenganan Village Temple
Geringsing Weaving Workshops
Amed (East)
Amed is a coastal gem nestled in the island’s east, renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and vibrant marine life. Far from the bustling tourist hubs, this fishing village invites travelers to experience the serene rhythm of coastal living, pristine beaches, and world-class snorkeling and diving spots.
Unique Characteristics:
Picturesque coastal village with a laid-back atmosphere
Black sand beaches and crystal-clear waters
Popular snorkeling and diving destination with abundant marine life
Serene atmosphere with stunning ocean views
At the fishing village of Amed, East Bali unveils its coastal splendor with pristine beaches embracing the horizon. The tranquil shores are a canvas of serenity, where fishing boats sway gently on crystal-clear waters. Against the backdrop of Mount Agung’s majestic silhouette, the beach at Amed invites travelers to bask in the simplicity and authentic charm of a traditional Balinese fishing village. Marklchaves, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Must-See Attractions:
Amed Beach
Lipah Bay
Tulamben Wreck
Jemeluk Bay
Amed Art Gallery
Sidemen Village (East)
Escape the tourist crowds and discover the tranquility of Sidemen Village, a hidden gem nestled amidst the lush rice paddies of Karangasem Regency. Explore the village’s verdant landscapes, dotted with traditional Balinese houses and temples. Immerse yourself in the village’s peaceful atmosphere, where the rhythm of life unfolds in harmony with nature’s embrace.
Unique Characteristics:
Hidden gem nestled amidst lush rice paddies and verdant hills
Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere with authentic Balinese culture
Traditional Balinese houses and temples
Abundance of hiking trails and waterfalls
Must-See Attractions:
Sidemen Rice Paddies
Sidemen Waterfall
Sidemen Temple
Selasih Beach
Sidemen Village Art Market
Tirta Gangga (East)
Tirta Gangga features royal water gardens and traditional village life. Visit the majestic water palace, stroll through lush gardens, and admire the village’s cultural heritage.
Unique Characteristics
Water Palace: Tirta Gangga is a captivating water palace complex, renowned for its serene ponds, lush gardens, and historical significance.
Harmonious Blend of Nature and Architecture: The palace seamlessly integrates natural elements with Balinese architectural features, creating a tranquil and harmonious ambiance.
Cultural Heritage: Tirta Gangga is a testament to Balinese cultural heritage, showcasing intricate carvings, traditional sculptures, and sacred water springs.
Tranquil Atmosphere: The palace offers a tranquil escape from the crowds, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the surroundings.
Must-See Attractions
Main Pond: Admire the main pond, a centerpiece of the palace, surrounded by lush gardens and ornate stonework.
Royal Bathing Pools: Explore the royal bathing pools, considered sacred water springs with healing properties.
Stone Carvings and Sculptures: Discover intricate stone carvings and sculptures depicting mythological creatures, deities, and traditional Balinese motifs.
Gardens and Water Features: Stroll through the meticulously manicured gardens, dotted with water features, fountains, and secluded courtyards.
Bebandem (East)
Bebandem is a lesser-known village in East Bali, offering a tranquil setting amidst lush landscapes. Visitors can witness local village life, visit nearby temples, and partake in authentic cultural experiences.
Rice Terrace of Bandem. The following image shows a stretch of rice ready to be harvested against the backdrop of the Mount Agung mountain range (covered in clouds. This image was taken in the Banyakdem area which is located north of the city of Amlapura, Karangasem, Bali). Bagus Purnamasidi, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Unique Characteristics:
Renowned for its traditional Balinese arts and crafts
Center for woodcarving, painting, and stone carving
Abundance of art galleries and workshops
Vibrant cultural atmosphere with traditional performances and ceremonies
Must-See Attractions:
Bebandem Art Village
Bebandem Museum
Bebandem Temple
Woodcarving Workshops
Traditional Balinese Performances
CENTRAL
Embark on a journey to the heart of Bali, where captivating landscapes, ancient traditions, and serene retreats intertwine, offering a harmonious blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and tranquility.
Mas Village (Central)
Located about 6 km from Ubud, in the Mas Village you can discover the artistic heart of Ubud in Mas Village, a haven for woodcarving enthusiasts. Stroll through the village’s narrow lanes lined with workshops and galleries showcasing exquisite wood carvings, each piece a testament to the village’s enduring artistic legacy. Witness the skillful hands of artisans transforming ordinary wood into masterpieces, breathing life into stories and legends.
Ubud Village (Central)
Step into the heart of Bali’s cultural renaissance in Ubud Village, a vibrant hub of art, spirituality, and natural beauty. Stroll through the village’s bustling streets lined with art galleries, traditional craft shops, and cozy cafes. Immerse yourself in the village’s creative spirit, where traditional performances, art exhibitions, and cultural events showcase the essence of Balinese artistry.
Unique Characteristics:
Vibrant artistic community with a rich cultural heritage
Abundance of art galleries, museums, and cultural performances
Home to the Ubud Royal Palace and the Monkey Forest
Serene atmosphere amidst lush greenery and rice paddies
Unveil the breathtaking beauty of Jatiluwih Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its cascading rice terraces. Trek through the village’s verdant hillsides, where the emerald green rice paddies stretch as far as the eye can see. Witness the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature, as the village’s traditional irrigation system has sustained these rice terraces for centuries.
Unique Characteristics:
UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its cascading rice terraces
Breathtaking scenery with lush greenery and panoramic views
Traditional Balinese agricultural practices and harmonious coexistence with nature
Serene atmosphere with a glimpse into rural Balinese life
Must-See Attractions:
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Jatiluwih Subak Museum
Jatiluwih Temple
Jatiluwih Agroforestry Park
Jatiluwih Village Art Market
Celuk Village (South)
Immerse yourself in the shimmering world of Celuk Village, the silver jewelry capital of Bali. Explore the village’s bustling workshops and witness the intricate craftsmanship of local artisans as they transform silver into delicate works of art. From ornate necklaces and pendants to intricate rings and bracelets, Celuk’s jewelry encapsulates the spirit of Balinese artistry.
Celuk is known as a village of goldsmiths. Almost he entire village works on making jewelry, with extremely basic tools. So, Celuk is littered with goldsmith shops – but if you want to take the opportunity to do some shopping, know that those on the side streets are much more interesting than those on the main streets.
Lively atmosphere with a blend of tradition and modernity
Must-See Attractions:
Celuk Silver Jewelry Market
Celuk Village Museum
Taman Gahia Cultural Park
Celuk Beach
NORTH
Escape the crowds and discover the hidden gems of North Bali’s picturesque villages, where verdant hills, cascading waterfalls, and traditional Balinese life provide a tranquil escape.
Munduk Village (North)
Nestled in the highlands of Buleleng Regency, Munduk Village offers a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist areas. Explore the village’s verdant landscapes dotted with traditional Balinese houses and temples. Immerse yourself in the village’s peaceful atmosphere, where the rhythm of life unfolds in harmony with nature’s embrace.
Nestled within the tranquil landscapes of Buleleng Regency, Munduk in Banjar emerges as a hidden gem in Bali, offering a serene escape into nature’s embrace. This picturesque village is adorned with verdant rice terraces, cascading waterfalls, and a cool mountainous climate that blankets the surroundings. Travelers seeking solace amidst Bali’s unspoiled beauty find themselves enchanted by the charm of Munduk, where the whispers of rustling leaves, the mist-kissed air, and the panoramic vistas captivate the soul. Amidst its serene ambiance, Munduk invites explorers to indulge in hikes through lush trails, discover stunning waterfalls, and immerse themselves in the idyllic allure of Bali’s untouched landscapes. F-GSPY, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Unique Characteristics:
Serene highland setting with breathtaking views
Lush greenery and traditional Balinese architecture
Peaceful atmosphere and authentic Balinese culture
Abundance of waterfalls and hiking trails
Must-See Attractions:
Munduk Waterfall
Wanagiri Hidden Hills
Tamblingan and Buyan Lakes
Batur Temple
Gitgit Village (North)
Discover the hidden gem of Gitgit Village, nestled amidst the lush greenery of North Bali. Stroll through the village’s narrow lanes and witness the serene beauty of the Gitgit Waterfall, cascading down amidst the tropical rainforest. Experience the village’s authentic Balinese culture and warm hospitality.
Unique Characteristics:
Authentic Balinese village with a traditional way of life
Picturesque setting amidst lush greenery
Gitgit Waterfall, a natural wonder
Warm hospitality and genuine Balinese culture
Hidden amidst Bali’s lush wilderness, Gitgit Waterfall emerges as a breathtaking natural spectacle, a true gem for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Cascading gracefully from towering heights, this pristine waterfall unveils its serene beauty amidst verdant foliage and rocky outcrops. As the crystal-clear waters gracefully descend, they create a soothing melody that resonates through the dense forest, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquil ambiance. With each step along the jungle path, the anticipation builds, leading to the awe-inspiring sight of Gitgit Waterfall, where the harmony of nature’s grandeur and tranquility awaits those who venture to witness its captivating allure. Rainhard Findling, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Must-See Attractions:
Gitgit Waterfall
Pura Yeh Ketipat
Yeh Ketipat Beach
Secret Garden Village
Lovina (North)
Lovina invites visitors to explore the tranquility of Bali’s northern coast. Comprising several villages, Lovina offers a laid-back atmosphere, dolphin watching tours, black sand beaches, and a glimpse into local fishing communities.
Unique Characteristics:
Peaceful coastal town with a laid-back atmosphere
Renowned for its dolphin watching opportunities
Black sand beaches and calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling
Home to several temples and cultural attractions, showcasing Balinese heritage
Standing tall in the heart of Temukus village, the Dolphin Statue is a symbol of reverence and admiration for Lovina Beach’s gentle marine inhabitants. With graceful arcs and an ethereal presence, this statue embodies the spirit of Lovina’s renowned dolphins, encapsulating the community’s deep connection to the sea. Set against the backdrop of Lovina’s serene coastline, the statue stands as both a tribute to nature’s beauty and an invitation for visitors to embrace the enchantment of Bali’s marine wonders. DayakSibiriak, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Must-See Attractions:
Lovina Beach
Black Sand Beach
Dolphin Watching Tours
Git Git Waterfall
Brahmavihara Arama Buddhist Monastery
NORTH WEST
Embrace the laid-back bohemian vibe of Northwest Bali’s coastal villages, where world-class surf breaks, pristine beaches, and ancient burial customs offer an unforgettable blend of adventure and tradition.
Sambirenteng (Northwest)
Sambirenteng is a charming coastal village offering a peaceful escape in North Bali. Known for its pristine beaches and coral reefs, it’s an ideal spot for relaxation and snorkeling adventures.
Unique Characteristics:
Off-the-beaten-path destination with a laid-back atmosphere
Renowned for its pristine beaches, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing
Home to the Sekumpul Waterfall, a cascading waterfall nestled amidst lush greenery
Nestled within the heart of Bali’s lush landscapes, Sekumpul Waterfall, also affectionately known as Gerombong Waterfall, cascades majestically from a height of approximately 100 meters (328 ft). Embraced by the natural beauty of Sekumpul Village in Sawan District, Buleleng Regency, this awe-inspiring wonder captivates visitors with its sheer grandeur and serene surroundings. The journey to this hidden gem is a trek through vibrant forests and tranquil paths, unveiling the allure of Bali’s unspoiled nature and offering an unforgettable encounter with the mesmerizing splendor of this magnificent waterfall. Putu Andika Panendra, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Embark on a mystical journey to Trunyan Village, nestled amidst the serene shores of Lake Batur. This unique village is renowned for its ancient burial customs, where the deceased are laid to rest in open-air bamboo containers without shrouds or coffins. Witness the delicate balance between life and death in this village, where nature and tradition intertwine.
Unique Characteristics:
Unique village nestled amidst serene shores of Lake Batur
Renowned for its ancient burial customs, where deceased are laid to rest in open-air bamboo containers
Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere with a blend of nature and tradition
Home to several temples and cultural attractions, showcasing Balinese heritage
Tucked away in the heart of Bali, Trunyan Village stands as a cultural gem known for its unique cemetery, an intriguing attraction that beckons curious travelers. Far removed from traditional burial practices, this village preserves an ancient ritual where the deceased are laid to rest aboveground, surrounded by the natural elements. The serene beauty of Lake Batur frames this sacred site, where centuries-old traditions intertwine with the tranquility of the landscape, offering a glimpse into the cultural tapestry and unconventional customs that define the spirit of Trunyan Village. Arfiana Rahma Shanti, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Seririt offers a glimpse into authentic village life with its serene surroundings and agricultural landscapes. Discover local markets, traditional Balinese architecture, and serene countryside.
Seririt is located on the main road from Singaraja to Gilimanuk, less than 30 km from Singaraja. This large village is located at the crossroads of this road and the magnificent one which comes from Pupuan, Busungbiu, Mayong and Rangdu, in the south.
You can reach the lake region, or go directly towards Denpasar via this road planted with orchards, coffee, cloves and grapes, and stop, for example, at Munduk. This road really deserves a detour, we take advantage of it, without being in a hurry, to stop for photos or walks when the scenery tempts us, that is to say, often. An enchantment!
Unique Characteristics:
Coastal town with a relaxed atmosphere and stunning ocean views
Renowned for its snorkeling and diving spots, offering a glimpse into Bali’s vibrant marine life
Home to peaceful beaches and a laid-back coastal lifestyle
Must-See Attractions:
Seririt Beach
Menjangan Island
Biorock Reef Restoration Project
Pemuteran Beach
Pemuteran Village Temple
NORTHEAST
Uncover the authentic side of Bali in its untouched Northeast region, where UNESCO World Heritage rice terraces, historical royal palaces, and secluded waterfalls reveal the island’s hidden treasures.
Singaraja (Northeast)
Singaraja, Bali’s former capital, boasts a blend of historical and cultural treasures. Wander through its charming streets, explore traditional markets, and discover remnants of Dutch colonial architecture.
Unique Characteristics:
Former capital of Bali, steeped in rich history and culture
Home to the iconic Singaraja Royal Palace, a testament to the region’s heritage
Vibrant cultural scene with traditional dance and music performances
Serene atmosphere with a blend of ancient traditions and modern life
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As Raja Ampat is an unspoilt natural area, all visitors must purchase a Raja Ampat Marine Park Entry Permit at the cost of IDR 1,000,000 (USD 67) per person, valid for one year. To purchase this permit, you can go to the Sorong Tourist Information Center, Waisai Port Office Ticket Office or UPTD KKPD Office in Waisai. There is no direct flight from Bali to Raja Ampat (Bali Ngurah Rai Airport to Sorong Airport in West Papua). The fastest flight lasts 7h 30m and includes a stopover. Once in Sorong, take the ferry a round 2 hours. Raja Ampat is a destination that has to be earned: it’s long, it’s expensive, it requires planning well in advance.
Do you dream of going to Raja Ampat, the Archipelago of the Four Kings? To dive into its turquoise waters full of fish? We summarize below in many points the things to know before leaving, and the useful information to prepare your trip… Raja Ampat is listed in UNESCO Global Geopark.
A trip to Raja Ampat requires you to behave as a responsible visitor. Tourism, which is booming in these Indonesian islands, is jeopardizing one of the most magnificent reservoirs of biodiversity on the planet.
Raja Ampat is one of the most magical scuba diving destinations imaginable! This archipelago is located in West Papua in Indonesia. Most of the islands are still unexplored and only a few liveaboards and dive centers offer scuba diving trips to Raja Ampat.
Know that no matter where you are, in Indonesia or elsewhere, you will have to go through Sorong (SOQ). It is the airport of entry to the region. And that’s where you have to land. Most of the flights have a stopover in Makassar (UPG: Ujung Pandang airport) in Sulawesi.
Example flights from Bali to Raja Ampat:
Bali (DPS) >Jakarta (JKT) > Sorong (SOQ), then by ferry
Bali (DPS) > Makassar (UPG) > Sorong (SOQ), then by ferry
Alternatively, there are ferries available to you from Sorong and Waisai and vice versa. The ferry ride will take about 2 to three hours.
As the main hub to Raja Ampat, Domine Eduard Osok Airport in Sorong (SOQ) serves flights to a number of major cities in Papua and Indonesia including Manokwari, Jayapura, Ambon, Makassar, Manado and Jakarta.
Garuda Indonesia operates daily flights between Jakarta-Sorong. As is the case with Sriwijaya Air and Nam Air, where Batik Air flies twice a day between Jakarta and Sorong.
So that the trip does not cost money, we should go in groups, at least 8 people. That way the cost of renting a boat will be cheaper. Here we don’t need a car rental, but a boat rental is quite expensive. This expensive motorized boat rental in Papua is due to the scarce supply of fuel prices and sometimes the price is always changing.
There are 2 types of boats used to get around the Raja Ampat islands, motorized fishing boats and speedboats. Rent a motorized fishing boat with a capacity of 2 to 3 people for IDR 1,300,000 to IDR 1,500,000 per day (USD 88 – USD 100). Rates for speedboats with a capacity of 8 to 10 people are IDR 3,500,000 to IDR 4,000,000 (USD 235 to USD 270) per day (including fuel). The rate for this boat rental depends on the price of fuel at that time in Waisai.
The public ferry from Sorong to Waisai
For the transfer, we recommend our guests to use the public ferry, which is the most affordable and environmentally friendly option. Waisai is the capital of the Raja Ampat Regency.
– The ferry terminal (“Pelabuhan Rakyat” in Bahasa Indonesia) is located just 15 minutes by car from Domine Eduard Osok Airport in Sorong.
– The fast ferry is operated by the company “Bahari Express” and departs for Waisai twice a day at 9am and 2pm (except public holidays).
– The trip takes about an hour and a half and the ferry offers VIP and economy cabins, equipped with air conditioning, television, toilets and a small cafeteria.
– The ferry from Waisai to Sorong departs simultaneously, twice a day at 9am and 2pm.
Raja Ampat is renowned for its natural beauty and rich marine biodiversity. Its numerous islands and vibrant underwater life make it a top destination for nature enthusiasts and divers alike. Nickoasmara, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
When to visit Raja Ampat?
The best time to visit Raja Ampat is during the dry season from October to May. Despite the dry season, due to the tropical climate, there can sometimes be unexpected showers, although these are much less frequent than during the rainy season. But in any case, the weather is good all year round on the Raja Ampat islands, so don’t worry too much about the sun!
Also, the period from October to May is ideal for diving enthusiasts. The swell will be less strong, which will make it easier to navigate the waters, and this is also the period when you will have the best chance of swimming with manta rays.
How to get around the Raja Ampat islands?
First, the easiest way to get to your accommodation from Waisai Airport RJM (the capital of Raja Ampat) is to book a pick up with the hotel you have booked. Prices for a boat transfer vary depending on the distance between Waisai and your hotel.
Then you should know that it is quite difficult to move from island to island in the archipelago because, apart from the boat that makes Sorong-Waisai, there are no other regular connections provided by boats. The best is to book each trip by boat or fastboat with your hotel, or a dive center.
Piaynemo island is one of the most popular destination in Indonesia located in Raja Ampat Regency, West Papua Province. Irma Ade, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Things to do and see in the Raja Ampat Islands
There are so many amazing things to do and see in the Raja Ampat Islands, from diving and snorkeling to visiting local villages and exploring the stunning natural beauty of the area. Here are the most popular:
1. Swim with thousands of jellyfish in Lenmakana Lake (Misool Island)
At Lenmakana Lake, nature offers you the opportunity to swim with thousands of harmless jellyfish! Lenmakana Jellyfish Lake was reportedly discovered a few years ago.
As with many places in Raja Ampat, you will need to be in good physical shape and have some climbing experience to get here. The place is quite remote, so only locals can drive you there. It will indeed be necessary to climb the steep reef.
Our advice: the best time to visit the lake is around 1 p.m. when the water sparkles with its thousands of golden jellyfish floating near the surface. It is truly a unique experience that will amaze you!
2. The breathtaking view of Piaynemo and its 320 steps
If you’ve ever seen Indonesia’s new 100,000 IDR banknotes, the spectacular sight of Pianyemo must be familiar to you. And yes, it is the landscape of Pianyemo that you can see on this post!
Every landscape in Raja Ampat is amazing but Piaynemo is in my opinion one of the most spectacular. To really appreciate its beauty, you have to climb to a viewpoint to enjoy stunning views. You will have to climb the 320 steps to reach this famous point of view. But don’t worry, there are rest stations approximately every 100 steps 🙂
And once up there, the view is simply surreal, with varying shades of blue and turquoise, and breathtaking views of the myriad karst islands.
Remember to bring water and sunscreen!
The Beauty of Piaynemo. The rock islets amidst the clear blue water and bright blue sky in Piaynemo offers some of the most spectacular sceneries on the face of the earth. Looking down from the top of the hill, it almost seems that Mother Nature painted her finest artwork and offers a glimpse of paradise. Rolandandika, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Piaynemo’s point of view
This point of view is surely the most visited attraction in Raja Ampat, many homestays offer this outing!
It is surely a visit not to be missed because when we think of Raja Ampat then we think of these rock formations enthroned in the middle of turquoise blue water. The viewpoint is very well laid out, a large staircase and wooden platforms allow you to observe this beautiful panorama.
There are 2 viewpoints to admire Piaynemo (the towers usually only visit one) and a 3rd to observe a star-shaped lagoon (Bintang). So if you want to see everything on site, do not hesitate to ask your guide!
To get there you have several options:
Your homestay offers this activity and you want to be in a small group, count around IDR 5,000,000 by boat from Kri, Gam or Arborek.
Your homestay does not offer this outing or you want to join a group to pay less. You will then have to go to a larger homesaty or ask your accommodation to find you a place for a ride, you may be able to get away with it for IDR 1,000,000 or less per person depending on the number of people. on the boat.
You want to see the viewpoint and dive around, then you can do that with a dive center. The Yenkoranu on Kri offers this type of outing once or twice a week depending on the number of people interested. Then count IDR 1,500,000 per person (without the dives, you can decide how many you want to do during the day) for the day, the meal is included.
Once arrived at the Piaynemo viewpoint there is an entrance fee to pay (and yes the 1,000,000 of the entry permit does not cover everything) of IDR 300,000 per boat. Either this amount is already included in the price you pay per person, or you will have to pay it when you arrive. Remember to ask your guide about it before you leave.
And if not you can go to Piaynemo from Rufas homestay for IDR 400,000 the boat + 300,000 per boat entrance fee, at 4 the price is therefore much softer! Rufas homestay is located 5 minutes by boat from Piaynemo, hence the low price (which we think could be even lower given the short distance).
Entrance fee: IDR 500,000 by boat, IDR 300,000 by speedboat (including Telaga Bintang)
Address: Groot Fam, Saukabu, Raja Ampat Islands, Raja Ampat Regency, West Papua, Indonesia
Diving at Piaynemo
Explore and see the most biodiverse waters in Piaynemo, filled with action and diving adventure.
Overall, the best season to dive in Raja Ampat is from October to May. It is during this period that you can dive to the North and South (Misool). You will also benefit from the best diving conditions and it is the season for manta rays.
Coral reef off of Piaynemo, an island in Misool District. Rizalubun, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
3. The starfish-shaped turquoise lagoon: Telaga Bintang
Located just 5 minutes by boat from Piaynemo, this iconic star-shaped lagoon is commonly referred to as Telaga Bintang; (which literally translates to “starry lagoon”).
The lagoon is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, towering limestone cliffs, and a variety of marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling, swimming, and photography. Visitors to Telaga Bintang can rent a boat to take them to the lagoon, where they can explore the crystal-clear waters and observe the colorful marine life, including coral reefs, tropical fish, and sea turtles.
Telaga Bintang, Raja Ampat. The local people called it “Star Lagoon” because of it starred shaped looked from top of a hill. Heavy tourist activity on where this view was reached could damage the area without proper management. Caka komsary, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
To admire this spectacular landscape, you have to climb a coral hill about 30 meters high which is not bordered by stairs or paths, but only by steep rocks. So you have to be very careful when doing the hike. But no worries, with good shoes (no sandals or flip flops), anyone can do it!
Entrance fee: IDR 500,000 by boat, IDR 300,000 by speedboat (including Telaga Bintang)
Address: Groot Fam, Saukabu, Raja Ampat Islands, Raja Ampat Regency, West Papua, Indonesia
4. Wayag Island and its breathtaking view
With breathtaking views, at every turn in Wayag you will find unspoiled beaches and those famous iconic karst islands scattered in the crystal blue ocean. The inhabited island of Wayag is a well-known icon of Raja Ampat.
Prepare proper hiking gear (shoes, thick hiking pants, gloves) as you will have to climb a hill of sharp corals. Don’t forget to bring enough water, food and a change of clothes.
If trekking and rock climbing aren’t your thing, you can still enjoy the white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters around the islands while snorkeling or diving!
Wayag island is the most popular tourist destination in Raja Ampat. The view here is guaranteed to stun you. Rows of coral covered in green trees in the middle of the blue sea make this tourist location so beautiful. To get a view like this requires an extra struggle by climbing a fairly steep cliff. Rolandandika, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
How to get there: Located northwest of Waigeo, Wayag will take you over 300km round trip from Waisai. There is no host family or accommodation at Wayag. So if you want to visit you will have to prepare for a long trip that will take you at least a day
Address: west Waigeo, Raja Ampat Islands, Raja Ampat Regency, West Papua, Indonesia.
Wayag’s point of view
Wayag is an island located at the extreme north of Raja Ampat, it is the same type of rock formations as for Piaynemo but much larger and more impressive!
On the other hand, access is much more complicated, it takes about 4 hours to get there (from what we were told) so the prices are very high!
In any case, if you want to go there and you manage to join a group, it takes between IDR 10,000,000 and IDR 13,000,000 (USD 673 to USD 875) by boat from Kri, Gam or Arborek. The price is then divided according to the number of people in the boat, but beware some boats have small capacities.
The great atolls of Wayag. This is one of the highlight of my trip in Raja Ampat. We anchored the Phinisi boat we are going with to climb on one of the “mountain” . To see the view of the Phinisi from our point of view in the middle of the lagoon is another feeling that hits the spot in our core memory. Anggerasetiti, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
We were also told of an entrance fee of IDR 1,000,000 (USD 67) per boat, which is either included in the overall price or payable on arrival. But we could not verify this information.
Just be aware that the viewpoint is not equipped with a beautiful staircase like Piaynemo, you have to climb the rocks a bit to admire the view but the site really seems to be worth it! You will therefore be very lucky if you can access it and enjoy this extraordinary view.
5. The village of Sawinggrai and its exotic culture
Sawinggrai is a village located on one of the 1,500 islands in Raja Ampat. This village is not yet well known, although Prince Albert of Monaco fell under his spell a few years ago!
The village is known for its unique culture and traditional way of life, which has been preserved for generations.
Boat used by locals in Sawinggrai Village’s beach, Raja Ampat. This photo was taken in Sawinggrai, Raja Ampat. Where the whole sea in these area are protected and have a rich marine diversity and lots of endemic coral reefs. Brizinsky T Juneanto, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Here you meet the cutest kids in the world, who live an idyllic lifestyle on the water – and that’s what makes the village so special. When you visit this fishing village, you will feel the hospitality of the locals. They might even sing and dance for you!
Address: MeosMansar District, Raja Ampat Islands, West Papua, Indonesia
6. A desert in the middle of the ocean: Pasir Timbul Island
In the middle of nowhere is this isolated circular island: Pasir Timbul Island. Only a few hours a day, when the tide is low, this small island rises out of the ocean. That is why they call it Pasir Timbul or “rising sand”. The combination of smooth white sand and turquoise water is spectacular.
Pasir Timbul island is located in the Raja Ampat Islands, and the moment the “embossed sand” depends on the weather conditions. GGgord, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
What is strange is that this small island of sand is not washed away by the daily tides. If you time it right, you can even take a photo as if you were floating or walking on water.
Address: Mansuar District, Waigeo, Raja Ampat, West Papua, Indonesia.
How to get there: The easiest way to get there is to book a boat from the village of Arborek or Waisai, the capital of Raja Ampat. You can ask your resort or hostel to book it for you. Due to the water level, boats cannot get too close to the shores of the sand island. From the point where the boat stops, you have to swim or walk.
7. Local dishes to try in Raja Ampat
Raja Ampat is known for its delicious and unique cuisine, and there are several local dishes that you should definitely try when visiting the area, such as Papeda (sago porridge), Ikan Kuah Kuning (yellow fish soup), Sate Ulat Sutera (silk worm satay), and Sayur Kuning (yellow vegetables soup).
In Raja Ampat, it’s not just mie goreng (fried noodles) or nasi goreng (fried rice) to try. In most homestays or resorts you will find a distinct food tradition, drawn from the seabed and the variety of sea and land cultures of this rich natural region.
The historical reliance on sago, cassava and taro roots as staples in Papua is still very strong, although rice introduced by the Javanese now predominates.
A Papuan woman extracts starch sago from the spongy center of the palm stems. Sago plant that produces the staple food for people in Eastern Indonesia. USAID Indonesia, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Papeda, made from sago flour, is a very popular staple food in coastal villages. Preparing this unique food is relatively easy, just pour hot water into the sago flour, stirring it several times until it becomes thick and looks like glue. Leapeda is usually served with a sour and spicy fish soup with sambal (chilli) and squeezed lime to add flavor.
Papeda (sago congee), Kuah Kuning (yelow soup) and Ikan Tude Bakar (grilled fish) with Dabu-dabu and Rica sambal. The Eastern Indonesian meal; Papeda, the staple food of Eastern Indonesia have a glue-like consistency and texture. Gunawan Kartapranata, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Although lobster is considered an expensive food in many parts of Indonesia, you can easily find it here at an affordable price.
Lobster and “ikan bakar” (grilled fish)
The ‘Ikan Bakar’ (grilled fish) may not be unique to Raja Ampat, but it’s freshly caught from the sea and grilled to perfection over coconut coals, so it’s especially good here.
Finally, coffee lovers must try the famous coffee from Papua, which has a very pronounced aroma and a delicious flavor.
8. Prehistoric paintings on the Sumbayo & Sumalelen cliff walls and on Pef Island
There was a time when people wrote down history in the form of hand-painted paintings on the limestone cliffs. Considered to be among the oldest paintings in the world (40,000 – 50,000 years old), the paintings of Raja Ampat are the first evidence that our prehistoric ancestors were already artists.
To this day, some of these amazing paintings are almost as intact as when they were painted. You can find them at three locations – Pef Island, Sumalelen, and Sumbayo Cliff.
These paintings are most often reddish in color and mainly depict handprints, fish and geometric symbols.
Pef Island
Pef Island is one of the beautiful and serene islands located in the Raja Ampat archipelago, off the coast of West Papua. Visitors to Pef Island can also enjoy hiking through the lush forests, exploring hidden lagoons, and discovering local villages and their rich cultural heritage.
Address: Kabui Gulf, Meos Mansar District, Raja Ampat, West Papua, Indonesia.
Sumalelen & Sumbayo Cliff at Misool Island
Sumalelen and Sumbayo Cliff are two of the most popular tourist destinations on Misool Island, which is located in the southern part of the Raja Ampat archipelago in Indonesia.
These towering limestone cliffs offer breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding turquoise waters and lush green forests. Visitors can also take a boat ride through the nearby caves and explore the rich marine life of the area by snorkeling or diving.
Misool Island is known for its pristine beaches, secluded coves, and diverse marine ecosystem, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Address: Misool Island, Raja Ampat, West Papua
9. Snorkeling with sea turtles and manta rays
If you have never done snorkeling, Raja Ampat is the perfect place to try! You will understand why Raja Ampat is called the underwater paradise, with the colorful reefs of Yenbuba, Friwen Wall, and all its aquatic creatures that you can swim with in the clear waters.
Snorkeling is an opportunity to discover marine life, swim with manta rays, brightly colored fish, turtles and admire the rarest corals in the world.
Saundarek is one of the villages in the Raja Ampat Islands, to be precise, on Mansuar Island. The local community really cares about the fish that are around the beach. If someone intentionally or unintentionally provokes the customary leader, he has the right to fine the angler. That’s why the fish here are very large and large. You can feed the fish with bread. With a depth of 1-5 meters you can see lots of fish. Oh yes, the Saundarek people are also very friendly, you can also visit churches or schools on the beach. Judianto, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
10. Swing on the vines of Friwen Island and paradise beach
In the south of Waigeo Island, there is a small island called Friwen. The sandy bottom of the North side is ideal for dropping anchor. The tropical vegetation overlooks the crystal clear waters and a few ropes hanging from the trees above the water invite you to take a dip. Plastic pollution hasn’t quite taken up residence here yet and the seabed is phenomenal, especially along the coral wall of Friwen Bonda, Friwen’s little sister.
Iconic signboard to welcome guests in village of Friwen. Siharaditia, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Fun way to dive into the sea than by jumping from a vine
What more original and fun way to dive into the sea than by jumping from a vine? This swing made of a rope will allow you to make incredible photos for all those who have the courage to swing on it to jump into the sea! This rope swing is easy to handle and is very popular with local children and adults.
Renowned as a diving spot, Friwen Island offers a magnificent view with coconut trees, a white sand beach, and several huge trees that provide shade on a hot sunny day. It has a variety of fish and beautiful corals.
There are also warung (cheap restaurant) around the beach to taste good local dishes 🙂
Swinging on the vines of Friwen Island and visiting Paradise Beach in Raja Ampat offer visitors the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and unique culture of the region in a truly unforgettable way.
Front of a giant manta ray (Manta birostris) filter feeding. These huge animals (with a wingspan of up to 7 meters) swim in the strong current slowly flapping their ‘wings’ (pectoral fins) with amazing elegance. Raja Ampat, Southwest Papua, Indonesia. Arturo de Frias Marques, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Address: South Waigeo, Raja Ampat Regency, West Papua, Indonesia.
Located in Seminyak Center – Bali, Villa Carissa offers a private swimming pool and enclosed garden to guarantee your privacy. You can book your private pool villa here with us.
Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on a romantic getaway, villa Carissa in Seminyak center offers the perfect base for exploring Bali’s many attractions and enjoying a relaxing vacation.
The Ultimate Guide to Romantic Getaways: Best places to go for couples in Bali
Best places to go for a couples in Bali: Bali is a romantic destination, and this article could list the best places for couples to stay, eat, and go on dates. You could also include information about special activities and packages that are available for couples.
If you and your precious half are dreaming of an exotic and magical post-wedding getaway, choose Bali as your honeymoon destination. Among Indonesia’s 17,000 islands, Bali offers a romantic picture with its rainbow-colored tropical shores, towering volcanoes, verdant rice fields and dense jungles. Its natural beauty combined with its rich cultural offerings, curious traditions and vibrant nightlife make it an exciting honeymoon destination and Bali attractions for honeymoon are worth dying for.
What are the Best Romantic Escapes for Couples in Bali?
Discover Bali’s enchanting destinations perfect for couples: From Seminyak’s serene beaches to Ubud’s lush rice terraces, this guide reveals the best spots for an unforgettable romantic getaway. Explore the island’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, perfect for couples seeking both adventure and tranquility in this tropical paradise.
1. Seminyak – A luxurious experience
Located on the southwest coast of Bali, Seminyak is one of the most exclusive vacation spots. Its extensive range of high-end boutiques and five-star restaurants offer a luxurious stay for honeymooners. Going to a spa with your significant other is one of the most romantic and relaxing things to do in Seminyak. ==
Enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the Indian Ocean while you sunbathe with your sweetheart on the beach. This is surely one of the most fun places to visit in Bali during honeymoon.
To spice up your post-wedding getaway, visit the beach bars. Sit back for a moment and toast to your happiness. To show off the adrenaline, go scuba diving. You will live the craziest experience. Guaranteed effect, I promise you. Take a look at your credit card and head to the luxury boutiques of Seminyak. Hand in hand, go around the shelves and fill your growing basket. Take photos and end the evening at a chic restaurant in the square. A candlelight dinner will be welcome. Please order champagne to add more charm to this wonderful evening for two.
Number one on my list of places to visit in Bali is Uluwatu. It is the peninsula’s hotspot for weddings. It has a casual romantic air. Spark your passion on the secluded beaches of Balangan and Suluban, considered the most beautiful in Bali. Spend precious moments during your honeymoon at Alila Hotel lounging in the infinity pool overlooking the ocean. Watch the unusual Kecak fire dance for a little spice.
It is indeed one of the best places to visit in Bali for a honeymoon. If you are there, visit the Uluwatu temple. For the wildest weekend, hold hands with your significant other and attend the Saturday night party at Padang Padang Beach. If time permits, take a trip to the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park. You will only be delighted. Wondering how to get there?
During my stay in Bali, I took a flight from my home country to Ngurah Rai International Airport. Once I landed, I then took a taxi to Uluwatu. You must do the same too. Uluwatu should definitely be part of your post-wedding destination. It’s a true paradise on earth.
Mount Batur is the setting par excellence, I would even say ideal, perfect for nature lovers. Make your romantic getaway a magical experience. Experience the romantic drama of nature on your sunrise hike to the active volcano, Mount Batur, 1700 m above sea level. Unique and thrilling, this adventure will take your breath away with its magnificent crater lake, its hot springs and the fantastic panoramic views from its summit.
When I was there, I assure you that I no longer wanted to return to my hotel room. The view is panoramic and the picture before me made me paralyzed. I was completely silent and I was enjoying every moment.
Visit the precariously hinged Besakih Temple and end your romantic stay with a meal at the hidden Gunung Batukuru restaurant. The menu is so delicious. You absolutely must go there. If you have opted to spend your honeymoon at Mount Batur, here is what else you can do. When you wake up after cuddling your partner, go to Kintamani for lunch.
Then, hand in hand visit the iconic Tirta Empul temple. Don’t you want to bless your relationship? Newlyweds love it. So, go to Goa Gajah temple to get blessings. The departure process is the same as going to Uluwatu. This time, the taxi you hire will have to take you to Mount Batur.
A romantic sunset stroll isn’t just for the movies, in fact, it’s one of the best things to do in Bali for honeymoon couples. Walk down the beach with your lover and treat yourself to a nice stroll. You deserve it.
Then cross the creeks of the rivers, pass by quiet villages and rice fields of Canggu. Make a stop at temples like Pura Tanah Lot for example. Also treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the caves. Take the opportunity to take magnificent souvenir photos.
Canggu is one of the best places to visit in Bali for a honeymoon. You can even take a horse-drawn bendi ride. Isn’t this romantic? End your getaway in one of the cafes located in Canggu and don’t forget to go to the La Laguna Gypsy Market.
Canggu boasts several affordable local hostels that have become a go-to choice for backpackers and surfers, fostering a lively and communal atmosphere. These hostels contribute an additional allure to the area, creating an ideal haven for those looking for an energetic social environment and economical lodging options.
In contrast, Seminyakis renowned for its opulent, all-inclusive luxury hotels and resorts. Positioned along the beachfront, Seminyak offers a plethora of lavish accommodations, a feature that sets it apart from Canggu’s more limited selection in this high-end category.
You can easily reach Canggu by taking a flight to Ngurah Rai International Airport. Then hire the services of a taxi to this splendid village.
5. Crystal Bay on Penida Island – Romance with nature
Crystal Bay on Penida Island is one of the most romantic places to visit in Bali for a honeymoon. You will soon know why. Newlyweds have plenty of time and space to snuggled up together as they travel on a 64-foot luxury catamaran to the secluded Crystal Bay (named after the turquoise waters that surround it). Spice up your romantic expedition with a delicious barbecue and get your fill of thrills by snorkeling to explore the magnificent coral reef.
I went there for adventure not for a romantic getaway, but I had a very good experience. Snorkeling was my favorite. I experienced a strong feeling. You must also do the same. Apart from the catamaran trip and snorkelling, there are plenty of other activities to do. Before we begin, I hope you kept your camera… Don’t be like me. Unfortunately I forgot it! If you have yours, go to Peguyangan Waterfall.
Once there, act as photographers. The place is so beautiful that it deserves to be photographed from every direction and angle. After the photo session, take a visit to Manta Bay with your loved one. To end this romantic getaway, go and relax at Crystal Bay Beach.
6. Rock Bar at Jimbaran Bay at Ayana Resort And Spa – For an unforgettable evening
If you choose Bali as your honeymoon destination, Ayana Resort And Spa is where you should plan your stay. But why this choice among so many others? Newlyweds looking for sensual rejuvenation will enjoy strawberries and champagne. At Ayana Resort and Spa you will find it. And that’s not all. You will be treated to a relaxing couples massage.
Likewise the super romantic flower bath made up of 500 roses is available at the sprawling Ayana Resort and Spa. Don’t you like being pampered? So, don’t hesitate any longer and book two plane tickets to Bali. Go stimulate your senses by concocting your own perfumes at L’Atelier Parfums et Créations. But, before that, sunbathe on Jimbaran beach with the man/woman of your life. Sip an excellent cocktail and fan your flame.
Tell your partner how much you love them while gazing at the waves. Lunch later at Warung Bamboo. Tell each other anecdotes, remember the place where you first met…. All while enjoying an excellent meal. Getting to Ayana Resort and Spa is not difficult. When you land, take a taxi to this beautiful spa.
If you want to make your romantic getaway a real adventure, choose to go to Kuta instead. You and your sweetheart will be very busy when you visit the community markets in Kuta. During this adventure, you can also enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Don’t you want to engrave in your memory good post-wedding memories?
Well, create unforgettable memories by visiting Tanah Lot Temple, perched on a rock surrounded by the sea, on your honeymoon in Bali. When there are two of you, nothing will make sense. You will both be dazzled by this magnificent view. Snuggle and kiss to share this moment.
Share an endearing experience with your sweetheart by releasing baby turtles into the ocean between May and September. Undoubtedly, Kuta will be one of the unique places to visit in Bali for honeymoon. For more thrills, go snorkeling. You will not regret it. Then visit the Dream Museum Zone. A visit to the museum would be welcome, wouldn’t it?
Finish your romantic getaway by heading to the Beachwalk Shopping Center. Take the opportunity to pick up some souvenirs. Don’t forget to attend a cultural show at the Kuta Theater.
8. Ubud – The house of wonderful curiosities
Number seven on my list of places to visit in Bali for your honeymoon is the incredibly special Ubud. An experience for two awaits you during your honeymoon in Bali with its cooking classes, village visits, jewelry making workshops, art markets, rafting and bamboo making classes. Guided chocolate tours at Big Tree Farm will give you an exciting experience.
My favorite was the visit to Big Tree Farm and the cooking classes. I like chocolate. I would say I’m even crazy about it. If you are like me, you absolutely must not miss this destination. In addition, gastronomy is a second passion. Go ahead with your partner and awaken the cooking talents that lie dormant in you. AUbud, you can also visit the monkey forest. Passionate about nature, this is a perfect place for you. During my stay in Ubud, I explored the rice terraces and visited the Royal Palace. I forgot I made a to==at the Agung Rai Art Museum.
I find it the best place to spend your honeymoon. It’s not cliché and every experience in this ideal setting will provide you with exciting experiences. Forget the beaches, the spa establishments, the catamaran… and come take training courses for two. You certainly don’t forget.
If you and your precious other are looking to escape the crowds and get a glimpse of traditional Balinese life, stop by the peaceful colonial village of Lovina. Recharge your batteries at the nearby Benjar hot springs, and immerse yourself in the rainforest to discover the charming Git Git waterfalls. This natural resource will take your breath away. While you’re there, watch the weavers work their magic and produce beautiful Ikat and silk pieces.
These weavers are just real artisans. The skill, mastery and know-how were there. If you are looking for places to visit in Bali, Indonesia for your honeymoon, this is definitely your choice. My favorite is the cold shower. Cold shower, yes yes. Under the waterfall, I took a cold shower.
Gitgit waterfall, Munduk village. Acibali, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The experience was magical and unique. I felt like I was living a fairy tale. So brides and grooms, you definitely shouldn’t miss this. Take a sensual shower under this waterfall. Take the opportunity to remind him/her how beautiful she/he is. Snuggle up and steal a kiss. You will certainly live the best experience of your life. After this cold shower, head to Lovina beach. Go spot the dolphins and have a blast.
10. Menjangan (North West) – Water sports and more
If you are a water-loving couple, Menjangan must be on the list of places to visit in Bali for your post-wedding getaway. The fresh waters surrounding Menjangan in western Bali are a diver’s paradise, with crystal clear waters, colorful coral reefs and a diverse range of marine life. Couples can kick-start their chemistry and enjoy the privacy and beauty of this delightfully uninhabited location.
In Menjangan, you will experience thrills. Prepare yourself mentally. You can also go snorkeling. To reduce your adrenaline rush, you can visit the Bali National Park. Unlike other destinations, the mode of transport is largely different. When your plane lands at Ngurah Rai International Airport, you need to hire a taxi. This taxi will take you to Labuhan Lalang. Then to reach Menjangan, you have to take a boat and you will get there in 30 minutes.
My favorite thing about Menjangan is the beauty it reveals. The turquoise waters, the multicolored coral reefs and so on made me fall in love with this heavenly place. I have no doubt, however, that it is one of the most favored destinations for lovers. If you are still hesitant about going there, you will have made your choice. But, you will miss out on a great experience.
Would you like me to tell you a secret? No… Yes… Ok, I’ll share it with you. One of Bali’s last little secrets, Pasir Putih Beach will give you and your partner a well-deserved respite with its pristine white, tourist-free beaches. The perfect place for better privacy. Go rustic and charter a fishing boat from Candidasa to reach this crescent-shaped paradise and savor the simple flavors of the local cuisine. This is one of the most picturesque beaches in Bali that you must experience during your honeymoon.
At Pasir Putih beach, you will be more peaceful to enjoy your moments together. She is quiet. It’s a real gem. Sunbathe on this beautiful beach in Bali. If you like water, take a bath. This is your moment. Treat yourself as much as possible.
You can also go snorkeling. My favorite part is the beauty that this place reflects. It’s truly an earthly paradise. It is the ideal place to escape the noise and to meditate. Apart from lovers, this is also a place for you singles. To get to Pasir Putih beach, it’s very simple. You don’t prefer yourself. Hire the services of a taxi and take you to this beach. The beach is 148km from the airport.
Would you like to make your post-wedding getaway an adventure to learn more about religion? Otherwise, not serious. But, for those who are interested in the idea I will take you to the Pura Besakih temple. Considered one of the most important temples in Bali, Pura Besakih is a big attraction point in Bali for tourists.
The temple complex has more than 28 structures built on seven ascending staircases. You absolutely must see this. The backdrop in which the temple sits is absolutely mesmerizing. If you want to go sightseeing in Bali, make sure to add this place to your itinerary. You and your bae can join an organized tour to get the most out of our experience.
While there, visit nearby temples like Kehen with your significant other. Still in this concept, take a trip to the Taman Ujung water palace.
A post-wedding romantic getaway to enrich one’s religious knowledge is as important as a honeymoon in a luxurious spa. Learning with your partner about religion and the culture of Bali is as interesting as it is exciting. So forget Seminyak, Ayana Resort and Spa, Ubud… and go to the Pura Besakih temple.
You won’t have any trouble getting to this place. It is located right next to the airport in Ngurah Rai. With a 120-minute drive, you will be at Pura Besakih temple.
If you are an adventure-loving couple, you should visit Nusa Lembongan. This site offers snorkeling and diving opportunities. Its turquoise blue waters and powder white beaches are perfect for lovers to stroll on the beach with their hands together. These elements will captivate you. Be sure. The mushroom-shaped island is small enough to explore in three or four hours, making it one of the best places to visit in Bali for couples. So if you and your partner are looking for some solitude, you know where to go. While you’re there, visit with your partner Dream Beach. Also don’t miss the visit to Devil’s Cliff. You can also pop over to Sunday Beach, Waterpark Lembongan or Yellow Bridge.
In Nusa Lembongan, you will have the opportunity to do several activities. Your honeymoon will definitely not be boring. This setting offers you an excellent moment of tranquility in a warm and magnificent atmosphere. You will have a hard time leaving. That’s why, make the most of it while you’re there. To get to Nusa Lembongan, you must take a boat. This setting is located on an island. Once your plane lands at Bali airport, you need to take a boat. If, on the other hand, you opt for a boat, you must take it from Sanur beach. The latter will reach Nusa Lembongan in 35 to 90 minutes.
Located in the village of Denpasar, Sanur has a lot to offer its tourists. While the postcard-perfect Sanur Beach is one of the most romantic places in Bali and offers breathtaking sunsets in the evening, there are plenty of historical relics where you can play peek-a-boo to your lover. Visit the Pura Blanjong temple, built entirely of coral and whose inscriptions date back to the 10th century.
Outside the temple, grab your lover’s hands and go there to taste the local delicacies. Yum yum I’m still salivating. You will find typical Balinese meals. Above all, don’t hold back, eat and try to taste all the types of dishes you find. It would be a shame to return home without tasting it. So, definitely don’t do that. Finally, go shopping.
This is the ladies’ favorite part. Shopping is a great love story. Make purchases and get souvenirs. You can also window shopping. Forget all your professional obligations and experience the magic of the moment. Try on the items in the shops in a cheerful atmosphere and in the shoes of children. It’s your romantic getaway, make the most of it.
Did you think for a moment that I was going to finish my list of romantic getaway places without including the Gili Islands? But no. As they often say, the best things are for last. Located near the northwest coast of the island of Lombok, the Gili Islands are a group of small islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air. The reason you must visit this group of islands near Bali is because of its mesmerizing beauty and seclusion. Gili Air, characterized by sandy beaches and fringed palm trees, is the island preferred by couples and considered one of the best places for a honeymoon in Bali. Do you understand now why I saved it for last? I wanted to keep the suspense going.
In this heavenly place you will not be bored. You will have plenty of activities to do as a couple. If you don’t plan enough, you risk not visiting everything. Believe me. The entire Gili Islands constitute a true haven of peace. Once at your destination, observe the sea turtles. The spectacle will amaze you. Since you are on an island set, you have to put on a bikini and swim at Turtle Point. Don’t forget to observe the wreck of the sunken ship in Gili Trawangan.
Here are 15 best places to visit in Bali for honeymoon to express your love in every possible way to your partner and experience a romantic vacation amidst immaculate scenery. These stunningly beautiful places for a romantic getaway in Bali will make your vacation memorable. From bustling night markets to romantic walks, Bali has it all.
How to plan the perfect romantic stay in Bali? A Couple’s Guide!
A romantic stay in Bali can be an unforgettable experience for couples. These romantic activities are just a glimpse of what Bali has to offer for couples looking to create unforgettable memories together.
Here is a guide to help you plan your romantic getaway:
1. Choosing the right accommodation, private pool stay villa:
Book a stay in a private pool villa to enjoy your personal space and relax in the tranquility of Bali.
Opt for accommodation that offers a romantic atmosphere. Many hotels and villas in Bali offer ocean-view rooms, private pools, and lush gardens that create an intimate ambiance.
When it comes to accommodations in Bali, Seminyak is a treasure trove of romantic options. Consider choosing a hotel or villa that sets the stage for an enchanting getaway. Many of these establishments boast ocean-view rooms that provide a breathtaking backdrop to your romantic escape.
You might also find places with private pools, perfect for leisurely dips under the stars. Lush gardens surround some of these properties, offering a tranquil setting for you and your partner to unwind and connect. By selecting the right accommodation, you’re not just finding a place to stay; you’re setting the scene for cherished moments of romance in Seminyak. Villa Carissa Seminyak is an ideal choice for a romantic getaway for couples. With its private pool, secluded location, and personalized service, Villa Carissa provides the perfect setting for couples to create unforgettable memories.
2. Explore secluded beaches and arrange a private beach picnic:
Bali, known for its stunning natural beauty, is home to some truly remarkable beaches. Among them, Balangan Beach and Nyang Nyang Beach stand out as hidden gems, offering a more serene and intimate experience compared to the busier tourist spots. These beaches provide a tranquil setting where you can unwind and create unforgettable memories with your loved one, especially as the sun gracefully sets over the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues. The gentle sound of the waves and the soft sand beneath your feet make it an idyllic spot for a romantic evening together.
Book a candlelit dinner at one of Bali’s many romantic restaurants. Many establishments offer private dining on the beach or poolside, creating a magical atmosphere.
Many of these places offer the choice of dining privately, whether it’s on the beach with the waves gently lapping nearby or by the poolside, surrounded by the soft glow of candles. This creates a truly magical atmosphere, perfect for making cherished memories with your special someone.
Fine dining in Bali offers a special experience for people who enjoy exceptional food and a lovely atmosphere. It’s a bit more fancy than regular restaurants, with elegant settings and carefully prepared dishes.
Many fine dining places in Bali have talented chefs who create amazing and unique meals using high-quality ingredients. It’s a great choice for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something extra special while visiting Bali.
Rent bikes and explore Bali’s rice fields together. It is a romantic experience that will allow you to discover the natural beauty of the island while spending quality time as a couple.
Embark on a romantic adventure through Bali’s scenic rice fields by renting bikes. It’s an intimate way to immerse yourselves in the island’s natural beauty while sharing quality moments as a couple. The gentle breeze and picturesque landscapes create a serene atmosphere, perfect for creating lasting memories together. If you’re feeling more adventurous, consider going on a hike. Bali offers a variety of trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you choose the gentle pace of a bike ride or the invigorating challenge of a hike, exploring the lush countryside together is sure to be a highlight of your romantic getaway in Bali.
Explore Bali’s iconic temples such as Tanah Lot and Uluwatu. These sites offer spectacular views of the ocean and are especially stunning at sunset.
Discover the charm of Bali’s picturesque temples on your romantic getaway. Places like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu are not only culturally rich but also provide breathtaking vistas of the vast ocean, making them perfect spots for a romantic excursion. And when the sun begins its descent, these temples transform into truly magical settings, painting the sky with hues of gold and pink. It’s a moment you won’t want to miss with your special someone. So, grab your camera and create lasting memories together amidst the timeless beauty of these Balinese temples.
Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation by booking a spa treatment for couples. Many of the island’s spas offer treatments designed specifically for couples, allowing you to relax and reconnect.
Indulge in a pampering session designed just for you and your partner with a couples’ spa experience in Bali. Picture this: a serene oasis, soothing aromas, and skilled therapists ready to whisk you both away into a world of relaxation. These specialized treatments are crafted to deepen your bond and rejuvenate your spirits together. From blissful massages to invigorating facials, the spa’s tender care will leave you both feeling utterly refreshed.
And for an even more intimate experience, consider booking a massage right in the comfort of your villa at Villa Carissa in Seminyak. Imagine unwinding in your private oasis, with the gentle sounds of nature and the soothing touch of experienced hands melting away any tension. It’s a wonderful way to unwind and share some intimate moments amidst the tranquil beauty of Bali. So, let the stresses melt away as you embrace this luxurious escape for couples in the heart of Bali.
7. Balinese cooking class:
Take a Balinese cooking class together. It’s a fun experience that will allow you to discover the local culture while learning how to prepare delicious dishes. Embark on a delightful adventure by joining a Balinese cooking class with your partner. It’s a joyful way to immerse yourselves in the local culture while picking up the art of crafting scrumptious dishes.
The experience is bound to bring you closer together as you laugh, learn, and savor the flavors of Bali. Plus, you’ll take home not only cherished memories but also the skills to recreate these delectable meals in the future.
Explore Bali’s neighboring islands on a boat tour. Islands like Nusa Lembongan offer secluded beaches and stunning diving spots.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with a boat trip to Bali’s neighboring islands. Picture this: the gentle sway of the boat, the sea breeze in your hair, and the promise of hidden treasures awaiting you. Places like Nusa Lembongan beckon with their untouched beaches and mesmerizing underwater worlds, perfect for a day of exploration and relaxation.
Dive into crystal-clear waters, discovering a kaleidoscope of marine life, or simply unwind on the pristine shores, far from the bustling crowds. It’s an idyllic escape for couples seeking tranquility and adventure in equal measure. So, set sail and let the magic of these islands create moments to cherish forever.
Organize a little romantic treasure hunt. Leave small gifts or sweet notes at different special places you visit together. Embark on an adventure by taking a boat trip to the nearby islands of Bali.
One such gem is Nusa Lembongan, where you’ll discover hidden beaches and incredible diving spots. These islands are like little pockets of paradise, offering seclusion and natural beauty that’s sure to leave you in awe. So, hop on a boat and set off for an unforgettable day of exploration and relaxation!
End your evenings by discovering Bali’s vibrant nightlife. Stylish bars and trendy clubs offer you the opportunity to dance and have fun together.
By following this guide, you can create a memorable romantic getaway to Bali, sharing special moments and strengthening your connection as a couple. Enjoy this beautiful island and all it has to offer!
Nestled in the heart of Seminyak, Bali, Villa Carissa beckons with its private swimming pool and secluded garden, ensuring utmost privacy during your stay. Secure your booking for this exclusive pool villa with us.
Whether you’re embarking on a family adventure, a trip with friends, or a romantic escapade, Villa Carissa in Seminyak center serves as an ideal launchpad for discovering Bali’s myriad attractions and relishing in a tranquil vacation.
From Bali to Borneo (Kalimantan) – Must See Attractions and Activities
Embark on a breathtaking journey from Bali to Kalimantan, Borneo’s heart, where you’ll encounter untamed wildlife, lush jungles, and immerse yourself in a world of natural wonders. From wildlife encounters to immersive jungle experiences and thrilling adventures, this expedition promises a soul-stirring adventure you’ll carry with you forever.
Borneo, the world’s third-largest island, is a treasure trove of natural wonders. From the bustling beaches of Bali, embark on a journey to the heart of Kalimantan, where untamed wildlife and lush jungles await.
The Sentarum Lake National Park is a special place in Indonesia. It’s like a big, protected park that has a huge wetland. This park is found in Nanga Leboya Village, Kapuas Hulu, West Kalimantan. It’s important because it helps take care of the environment and the animals that live there. RaiyaniM, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
How to go from Bali to Borneo Kalimantan?
A journey worth taking! Embarking on a journey from Bali to Kalimantan is not just a physical expedition, but a soul-stirring experience. Witnessing the raw beauty and incredible biodiversity of this island is an adventure that will leave an indelible mark on your heart.
What airlines are from Bali to Borneo (Kalimantan)?
Borneo is only accessible from Bali [code: DPS] by plane. Direct flights to Pangkalan Bun [code: PKN] (nearest airport to Tanjung Puting) depart from: Jakarta, Semarang, Surabaya. If you are in Bali, you must make a stopover in one of these cities to go to Borneo.
From Bali to Tanjung Puting (Borneo), Pangkalan Bun airport
Borneo is only accessible from Bali [code: DPS] by plane. Direct flights to Pangkalan Bun [code: PKN] (nearest airport to Tanjung Puting) depart from: Jakarta, Semarang, Surabaya. If you are in Bali, you must make a stopover in one of these cities to go to Borneo.
From Bali to Banjarmasin (Borneo)
From Bali to Banjarmasin (Borneo), it takes 1 hour and 35 minutes by direct flight. The flight from Bali to Banjarmasin typically covers a distance of approximately 800 kilometers (around 500 miles) in 1 hour and 35 minutes. This route is well-served by several airlines, providing travelers with options for direct flights.
Aside from the markets, Banjarmasin is also known for its beautiful riverfront scenery. The city is intersected by several rivers, providing a picturesque backdrop for various activities. Travelers often enjoy boat tours along the rivers, allowing them to soak in the local atmosphere and witness daily life along the waterfront.
From Bali to Balikpapan
From Bali to Balikpapan, it takes 1 hour and 35 minutes by direct flight. The Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport serves as a major air gateway for the region. It facilitates domestic and international travel, connecting Balikpapan with various destinations.
Balikpapan is a city in Indonesia near the ocean. It’s busy with oil and gas work. The place has pretty views of the ocean and lots of mangrove trees. They work hard to take care of orangutans there. People from different cultures live in Balikpapan, so you can try many types of food. It’s an interesting place to visit!
Exploring Kalimantan (Borneo): Must-See Attractions and Activities
1. Orangutan Rehabilitation Centers at Tanjung Puting National Park
Kalimantan is renowned for its incredible biodiversity. On this adventure, you’ll have the chance to witness orangutans swinging through the trees, pygmy elephants roaming freely, and elusive clouded leopards prowling in the dense undergrowth.
During the day in Tanjung Puting National Park, you can witness Orangutans enjoying the fruit provided by the park’s officers. It’s a wonderful sight to see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat, nourishing themselves with the tasty offerings. RaiyaniM, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Location: Tanjung Puting National Park, Central Kalimantan
Tanjung Puting National Park is renowned for its orangutan conservation efforts. The park hosts several rehabilitation centers where orphaned and rescued orangutans are prepared for their return to the wild. Visitors can observe these incredible creatures in a semi-natural environment, gaining insights into their behavior and conservation efforts.
The park is made up of different kinds of forests, like dryland forest, swamp forest, and mangrove forest. It covers a really big area, about 416,040 hectares. (1,028,057 acres)
Venture into the heart of Kalimantan’s rainforests, where ancient trees stand tall and the air is alive with the sounds of nature. Guided treks will lead you through this vibrant ecosystem, providing a chance to witness rare flora and fauna up close.
Price:
IDR 350,000 (approximately USD 25) for foreign tourists
Tanjung Puting National Park is a national park located on the southwest peninsula of Central Kalimantan province. Bjornman, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
In the Tanjung Puting Park in Indonesian Borneo, you can watch orangutans
This place is like heaven for many plants and animals, some of which are very rare. About 6,000 orangutans still live here in the wild, which is the biggest group in the world, in an area of 416,000 hectares.
Their numbers dropped by 60% from 1950 to 2010, mostly because of humans and cutting down trees. There are only 2 places in the world to see these monkeys: the island of Sumatra and Borneo. You get to meet them by going on a boat through the jungle on a klotok (a traditional wooden boat) along the Sekonyer river. It’s amazing to watch these primates move from tree to tree with so much strength and flexibility.
Orangutans are plant-eaters and they like being alone. They aren’t usually aggressive, but they’re as strong as 10 men, so it’s important not to get too close.
Sekonyer River. Landscape of the Tanjung Puting National Park – Kalimantan (Borneo). Thomas Fuhrmann, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Ride and Sleep on a KLOTOK Boat at Tanjung Puting National Park
Here you can see the amazing Klotok tour experience in Borneo forest.
A Klotok is a traditional wooden boat, which will be your accommodation during the 3 days of travel. It is made up of a cabin, the crew’s living space (the Captain, the mate, the cook and the guide), a kitchen with a table (for meals), a mattress (with a mosquito net), seats to enjoy the view, and a shower.
Sleeping in a Klotok is an incredible experience: discover the wildlife, observe crocodiles, birds, monkeys, orangutans in their natural environment and wake up to the sounds of these animals in the Borneo forest.
Here, orangutans live most of the time in the forest and climb trees to feed and rest, unlike orangutans in the Sumatran forest. In Borneo there are no natural predators and they own the forest.
The rainy season begins in November until March. Even if it rains every day that doesn’t mean it rains all day. You can still do the excursion to see the orangutans in the Borneo forest during this season, but of course at some point it will rain.
The best months to do this excursion in Klotok are between April and October.
Experience the breathtaking Sunrise at Kumai River in Tanjung Puting National Park. This stunning national park is situated in the southeast of West Kotawaringin Regency in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. The closest major town is Pangkalan Bun, which also serves as the capital of the Regency. It’s a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking the beauty of Indonesia’s natural landscapes. Nala Rinaldo, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
2. Lake Jempang, Tanjung Isuy
Immersive lake experiences! For the thrill-seekers, Kalimantan offers an array of adventurous activities. From heart-pounding canopy walks to exhilarating white-water rafting, there’s no shortage of opportunities to get your adrenaline pumping.
Jempang Lake is a big lake in West Kutai. It’s thousands of hectares wide and about 7 to 8 meters deep. It’s not only pretty but also has lots of different plants and animals. The village nearby, Tanjung Isuy, has interesting art and culture. Every five years, the lake completely dries up. It looks like a desert with no water at all. This strange event makes a lot of people, both locals and tourists, want to see it.
Discover the vital conservation efforts taking place in Kalimantan. Learn about initiatives aimed at preserving this precious ecosystem and the endangered species that call it home. Engage in responsible tourism practices to ensure the beauty of Kalimantan endures for generations to come.
Location: East Kalimantan
This conservation forest in East Kalimantan provides a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of Kalimantan. It’s a sanctuary for various species of plants and animals, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts and those interested in ecological preservation. The forest offers a serene environment for hiking and birdwatching.
Price: Free entry
Link:
Indigenous cultures
Along the way, you may encounter indigenous communities, offering a glimpse into their unique way of life.
One of the Dayak Benuaq ethnic dances in Tanjung Isuy Village, Jempang District, West Kutai Regency, East Kalimantan. Innal rahman 9806, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
3. Derawan Islands
Location: Off the coast of East Kalimantan
The Derawan Islands are a group of pristine islands known for their stunning underwater biodiversity. They’re a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, offering a chance to explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter diverse marine life, including sea turtles.
The sight of a small wooden boat gently bobbing on the crystal-clear waters surrounding Derawan Island is nothing short of picturesque. The calm sea mirrors the azure sky, creating a serene scene that invites exploration. These boats, often with colorful designs, serve as the gateway to further adventures. They can take you to hidden coves, vibrant coral reefs, and secluded beaches, offering a closer look at the natural beauty that Derawan Island holds. Whether it’s a leisurely ride or a thrilling voyage, these boats become your trusted companions in uncovering the treasures of this idyllic island. Nidyaamalia, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Price: Varies depending on the tour package, typically starts from IDR 2,000,000 (approximately USD 140)
The islands also provide opportunities for beach relaxation and water sports. Exploring this underwater paradise is an experience that etches itself into your memory, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.
In Maratua, part of the Derawan Archipelago in East Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, you can find the beautiful Chaetodon speculum fish. These vibrant creatures add to the colorful marine life that thrives in these waters. Nanosanchez, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
4. Mahakam River Cruise
Experience the tranquil beauty of Kalimantan’s rivers by embarking on a river cruise. Glide through the waterways, surrounded by dense foliage and the calls of exotic birds. Along the way, you may encounter indigenous communities, offering a glimpse into their unique way of life.
The Mahakam river stretches for about 980 kilometers (610 miles), beginning in the highlands of Borneo at Long Apari district and ending at the Makassar Strait.
Location: East Kalimantan
A cruise along the Mahakam River offers a unique way to experience the culture and natural beauty of Kalimantan. Travelers can witness traditional riverside villages, cultural performances, and wildlife along the riverbanks. It’s an immersive journey that provides insights into the daily lives of communities living along the Mahakam River.
Price:
Approximately IDR 5,000,000 – 7,000,000 (USD 350 – 500) for a 3-day cruise
If you don’t want to a long cruise, you can simply walk around the Mahakam riverside Park in Samarinda.
5. Kutai National Park
Location: East Kalimantan
Kutai National Park is a protected area known for its diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, mangroves, and coastal areas. Visitors have the opportunity to explore these environments, encountering a wide range of wildlife such as orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and various bird species. Trekking and wildlife observation are popular activities within the park.
Price:
IDR 150,000 (approximately USD 10) for foreign tourists
6. Sangkulirang-Mangkalihat prehistoric karst (prehistoric rock paintings area)
Location: East Kutai Regency, East Kalimantan
The Sangkulirang-Mangkalihat prehistoric karst in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, is a special place for scientists and history lovers. It’s like a time machine, giving us a glimpse into ancient times. In May 2015, it was proposed to be added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.
This special place in East Kalimantan, called Sangkulirang-Mangkalihat Peninsula, is filled with ancient paintings on red rocks. These paintings are really old, about 5,000 years! They show us how people lived a very long time ago.
This area seems to have been an important meeting place for different groups of people in ancient times. The paintings give us a peek into their beliefs and how they saw the world.
The pictures on the rocks tell stories about their daily lives, like hunting and dancing. They also show their connection with nature, including animals that don’t exist anymore.
We can learn a lot about their culture by studying these paintings and the things they left behind. It’s like a window into their world!
This area has caves with very old paintings. These paintings show us how people used to live and what they believed in a long, long time ago. This site is really important because it helps us understand the early cultures in Borneo. It’s like a treasure chest of knowledge about the past!
How to get there?
Reaching the Sangkulirang Peninsula, where the karst area is, involves a bit of travel. It’s around 250 kilometers (155 miles) north of Samarinda. You might need to take a long road trip from Samarinda or Berau, and then use a sturdy four-wheel-drive vehicle to get closer to the karsts. Once you’re there, you’ll likely use a mix of a canoe ride and walking to get to the center of the karsts. Approximately you need 8-9 hours by bus or car.
Depending on how much you want to explore, set aside about 4 to 10 days for your trip. You can stay in simple lodges or homestays in nearby villages, or even camp right in the karsts.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try going on your own. Rent a four-wheel drive and find your way to nearby villages like Perondongan, Pengadan, Merapun, and Takat Manubar. From there, you can hire local guides and helpers to show you around. But for a smoother and safer experience, it might be best to go with an experienced local tour company. You can find them online or visit travel agencies in Balikpapan or Samarinda.
This architectural marvel in Samarinda serves as a cultural and religious hub. The center features a grand mosque and a complex dedicated to Islamic education and activities. It’s a place of spiritual significance and an architectural gem, offering a tranquil space for prayer and reflection.
The whole thing is grandiose, the mosque is the second largest in Southeast Asia. There are 7 towers, the tallest measuring 99 meters (325 feet) and has 15 floors.
Balikpapan is THE Exotic City of Oil. This botanical garden is a haven for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers. It showcases a diverse collection of plant species, including indigenous flora of Kalimantan. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, learn about various plant species, and appreciate the natural beauty of the garden.
Price:
IDR 10,000 (approximately USD 0.70) for foreign tourists
Banjarmasin, located on the island of Borneo, is the capital of South Kalimantan province in Indonesia. It’s renowned for its vibrant river-based markets, particularly the famous floating market, where locals trade fresh produce and goods from boats. Exploring these markets offers a unique and culturally rich experience.
Banjarmasin is a city in Indonesia that’s famous for its special market. This market is not like the ones you see on land. Instead, it’s a floating market! People sell all sorts of things like fruits, vegetables, and even local snacks, all from their boats. It’s a very unique and interesting place to visit. You can take a boat ride through the market and experience the lively atmosphere. Plus, you get to see the city from a different perspective, right on the water! It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists because it’s not something you see every day. So, if you ever find yourself in Banjarmasin, make sure to check out this one-of-a-kind floating market!
Lok Baintan Market
This market is in Lok Baintan Village, Banjar Regency. People use special boats for trading on the water. Instead of money, they often trade crops like fruits and veggies. Open between 04:00 am to 10:00 am.
The market opens early in the morning, so don’t be late! You can reach Lok Baintan by boat or by land, but by boat is faster.
Muara Kuin Market
This is the oldest floating market in Indonesia, over 400 years old! It’s at the meeting point of two rivers in Banjarmasin.
They sell lots of things like food, fruits, and household stuff. You can get there by boat or by land, but a boat is better because the market is in the middle of the river. It’s best to go in the morning, as many sellers leave by noon.
Siring Piere Tendean Market
This market is by the Martapura River. It’s not as busy as before, but the government is trying to keep it alive.
They’ve fixed the docks so boats can easily stop there. There’s no entry fee, but if you bring a vehicle, you might have to pay for parking.
10. Climb Mount Kinabalu
Location: Sabah, Malaysia
Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak in Borneo and Malaysia. With its highest point at 4095 meters above sea level, Mount Kinabalu is a magnificent mountain that can be climbed.
Climbing Mount Kinabalu will take you two days with a stop in a refuge. The ascent is done with mountain and hiking guides.
Mount Kinabalu has a very rich and protected biodiversity. By trekking Mount Kinabalu in Borneo, you will have the opportunity to see sublime landscapes and panoramas at sunrise.
This is a great adventure that should delight lovers of thrills and trekking!
Mount Kinabalu taken from Kundasang during sunset. Angah hfz, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Remember to plan your visit according to your interests, and make sure to check the official websites or contact the attractions for any specific requirements or additional information. Enjoy your exploration of Borneo!
11. Sentarum Lake National Park
Location: Kapuas Hulu Regency, West Kalimantan
Sentarum Lake National Park is a special place in Indonesia. It’s like a big, protected park that has a huge wetland. This park is found in Nanga Leboya Village, Kapuas Hulu, West Kalimantan. It’s important because it helps take care of the environment and the animals that live there.
Boat passing through Danau Sentarum National Park. When Lake Sentarum is filled with water, canoes or speed boats are the most important transportation. When the water recedes or the lake is dry, this transportation is not used. Lo2asinamura, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
To go to Sentarum Lake National Park, you can take a plane to Pontianak, which is a city in West Kalimantan. From Pontianak, you can take a car to the park. It might take a while, but the journey will be worth it because you’ll get to see the beautiful nature and wildlife in Sentarum Lake National Park.
Communities living in the Danau Sentarum National Park area still maintain their way of taking fish using traditional tools to meet their daily needs. Bundany Anugrah, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
12. Bako National Park (Kuching – Malaysia)
Location: Kuching, Malaysia
Bako National Park in Kuching, Malaysia, is a beautiful place to visit. It’s known for its lush rainforest, wildlife, and scenic trails.
To get there from Bali, you’ll need to take a flight to Kuching, which is the capital of Sarawak, Malaysia. Once you arrive in Kuching, you can arrange transportation to Bako National Park. There are buses and taxis available, and the journey takes about an hour.
In the park, you can explore various trails, each offering unique experiences. Keep an eye out for wildlife like proboscis monkeys, bearded pigs, and various bird species. The park also has beautiful beaches where you can relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
It’s a good idea to bring comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, and insect repellent for your visit. And don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife!
Sea Stack off the coast of Bako National Park. slippymark, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Remember to check the park’s opening hours and any regulations before you go. Enjoy your trip to Bako National Park!
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Borobudur temple, Jogja. Gunawan Kartapranata, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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Candi Prambanan. Ridwanpurwantobatam, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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