Bali, Indonesia, has a vibrant culture, picturesque landscapes and warm locals. From lush green rice terraces to serene beaches, busy markets, and holy temples, Bali has many activities for tourists who crave an immersive experience. The fact that it is budget friendly for tourists from most countries is another feather in Bali’s cap. Here is our list of things to do in Bali.
Stroll on the beaches
The pristine beaches and the azure blue waters of Bali offer ample scope for leisurely walks and relaxation. You can try your hand at surfing, swimming, sunbathing or spend some quiet moments in contemplation. We particularly enjoyed the secluded beaches of Nusa Dua compared to the Kuta beach, which was very crowded.
Pay your respects at the temples
Bali is often called the ‘Island of a Thousand Temples’ due to its vast array of temples. Temples hold a religious and cultural significance in the lives of Balinese. You will see rituals and prayers being performed and the faithful taking dips in the holy springs when exploring. Some of these temples are part of the Subak System, recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site. We visited the Royal Water Temple of Pura Taman Ayun, Tirta Empul Holy Spring Temple, Pura Mengening Temple, Pura Gunungkawi Temple, Pura Pegulingan Temple, and several others that are part of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pura Ulun Danu Bratan or Floating Temple which is seen on a lot of Bali souvenirs is also worth visiting. Tana Lot Temple, Pura Lempuyang Luhur, with the landmark Gates of Heaven, is also very popular among tourists who want to post Instagram pics.
Explore the rice terraces
The Balinese consider rice a gift from God, and rice fields and terraces are an integral part of the Bali Landscape. They are also part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bali. The Jatiluwih rice terraces near Ganung Batukaru are the largest. But if you stay close to Ubud, Tegallalang rice terraces are your best option. The emerald green rice terraces are pleasing to the eye and are the backdrops of most Bali Swing pics you see on Instagram. You will also spot rice terraces when visiting some coffee plantations and Gunungkawi Temple.
Watch a local dance in Bali
There are several dance styles in Bali and these have been included in UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. We had the opportunity to watch the Kecak dance in which the story of Ram and Sita from Ramayan was enacted. The elaborate costumes, intricate dance movements and storytelling as a dance drama make this a superlative performance. Dozens of bare-chested men wearing black and white checked sarongs sat in groups and chanted ‘cak cak cak’ as some walked on fire or carried giant dragon installations. GWK Cultural Park, Uluwatu Temple and Ubud’s Pura Dalem Taman Kaja are popular locations to watch a Kecak dance performance in Bali.
Visit famous waterfalls
Cascading waterfalls amongst dense forests are sought by tourists not so much for their natural beauty and refreshing cool waters to escape the tropical heat. But more to pose for Instagram-worthy pics. Tegenungan Waterfall in Ubud is easily accessible and boasts a picturesque setting. Sekumpul Waterfall, a cluster of 7 waterfalls, is another famous waterfall.
Seek thrills on a giant Bali swing
If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush and want Instagram-worthy pics, swinging on a Bali swing over rice terraces and tropical forests is a must-do experience. The girls can even wear an outfit in vibrant colours with a long trail that soars through the air. Here is a spoiler: many women screamed in fear and were in tears as they were pushed onto the swing. Their husbands and boyfriends kept cheering them, saying they would have more likes on social media for these incredible pics. You will find these swings in Tegallalang rice fields, Ubud, coffee plantations, etc.
Do coffee tasting at a coffee plantation
Bali is known for its coffee plantations, where you can do some coffee tasting. We visited the Baturiti Luwak Coffee Plantation, where the coffee cultivation and making process was explained. The world-famous Kopi Luwak is unique to Bali. It is made of partially digested coffee cherries eaten and defecated (yes, you read that right) by an animal called Asian palm civet or Luwak. You can sip on your favourite coffee or click pics on swings and nest installations in various shapes in the picturesque surroundings of the plantation.
Shop for handcrafted products and bohemian items
Bali is a shopper’s paradise; shopping in Bali is retail therapy at its best. One can buy several handcrafted artisanal and Bohemian products without burning a hole in one’s pocket. You will get everything from dreamcatchers to rattan bags to woodwork, jewellery, crocheted and macrame products. The markets near the temples, Ubud, and Kuta, are where you will find these. Do encourage the local artists by buying these painstakingly made handmade products. There is separate article on shopping in Bali which you can read here.
Eat local fruits and delicacies
While in Bali, savour an array of local fruits like the hairy rambutans, tangy starfruits and mangoes, vibrant pink dragon fruits, mangosteens, citrus pomelos, snake fruits, juicy pineapples and so on. Most markets have a kiosk where these fruits are proudly displayed for you to pick and choose. Nasi Goreng, which is fried rice and Mee Goreng or fried noodles, are the most popular local cuisines you can’t go wrong with.
Watch the local artisans at work
Do watch skilled artisans who create intricate handcrafted products using traditional techniques. We saw artisans transforming coconut shells into intricate lamps, doing crochet or weaving palm leaves to make temple offering baskets. Making handmade items is a lesson in mindfulness as it grounds you in the present moment. I wondered if this mindfulness was the reason behind the serene calmness and smiles that the artists exude. I purchased several handcrafted items by the artisans to support local art and craft. As a macrame artist, I understand the countless hours each of these works of art takes.
Bali is the perfect destination with a captivating blend of stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, historical temples and artistic heritage. Whether you seek relaxation, a glimpse of Balinese culture or an immersive heritage experience, Bali will never cease to impress.
GETTING THERE
Nearest Airport: I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, known as Denpasar International Airport, is the main airport of Bali, Indonesia. From India, there are no direct flights to Bali. We flew from Mumbai via Bangkok to Bali and returned via Singapore.
Where to Stay: A separate blog can be written just for this. Some of the most popular places with tourists are Ubud, Seminyak, and Kuta. There are lots of options available depending on budget and comfort.
Best Time to Visit Bali: The best time would be from April to September due to less rainfall.
Travel Trip: When visiting the temples, dress appropriately or carry a sarong to cover your legs. Women during menstruation are not allowed entry to certain temples. When visiting Gunungkawi Temple, do take frequent breaks when ascending and descending the 300 steps.
Travel Support: Wayan from Bali Explore Tour arranged for a car service to explore Bali. We got excellent service, and Wayan helped us optimize our travel plans. https://www.baliexploretour.com/ +62 812-3720-7337
Other Bali Blogs on ‘So Many Travel Tales’
Exploring Bali UNESCO World Heritage Site
Exploring Bali UNESCO World Heritage Site
Things to Shop in Bali