Best Places to Explore on Your Trip to Bali.
Recognized as one of the most beautiful islands in the world,
Bali is an island and province of Indonesia located at the westernmost tip of the Lesser Sunda Islands, with Java to the west and
Lombok to the east. The island is home to an ancient culture that sets it apart from other destinations.
The exotic temples and palaces framed by stunning natural backdrops have made Bali one of Asia's top tourist destinations and one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.
Known as the Island of the Gods, Bali is famous for its stunning beaches, ancient temples, UNESCO heritage sites, volcanic mountains, iconic rice terraces, a vibrant shopping culture, and some exciting adventure sports activities.
Bali is home to the International Film Festival of Indonesia. This Indonesian island also offers endless options for local or international cuisine for food lovers.
Pura Tanah Lot
Considered one of Bali's main attractions, Pura Tanah Lot is an ancient Hindu temple located in the southern part of Bali. Built in the 15th century by Dang Hyang Nirartha, the temple sits on a rock formation amidst constantly breaking waves. There are caves beneath the rock inhabited by sea snakes, believed to be the guardians of the temples.
Due to its unique offshore setting, Tanah Lot is considered the temple that appears most frequently on Bali postcards and one of the attractions you must visit during your trip to Bali.
The Tanah Lot temple is one of seven sea temples located along the Balinese coast. The temple can only be visited during low tide, as it is submerged during high tide. Many tourists come here in the evening to witness the fascinating sunset and to see the Kecak dance that takes place every day after sunset for 45 minutes.
Kuta
Kuta is a famous beach destination located in southern Bali. With its long sandy beach, great waves for surfing, as well as its lively nightlife, numerous bars, and nightclubs, Kuta is considered the center of tourism in Bali and attracts a large number of travelers from around the world. Also known as Sunset Beach, Kuta Beach is famous for its soft golden sand and panoramic sunset views.
The long beachfront promenade is filled with cafes and a wide variety of restaurants. In addition to Kuta Beach, this tourist city also hosts culturally rich markets, museums, restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife that continues into the early hours of the morning.
Mount Batur
Also known as Gunung Batur, Mount Batur is an active volcano located northwest of Mount Agung in the Kintamani district of Bali, Indonesia. At an altitude of 1717 m, this captivating volcano is surrounded by Lake Batur, which spans an area of approximately 13 square kilometers.
The sunrise hike to Mount Batur is one of the most popular things to do in Bali as part of honeymoon packages, as it offers a unique opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable sunrise from the top of an active volcano and also stunning views of Lake Batur as well as Bali. Additionally, you can also visit the Toya Bungkah hot springs, the Pancering Jagat temple, and the ancient and secluded Balinese village of Trunyan, known for its ancient funeral traditions that use an open cemetery.
Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple or Pura Luhur Uluwatu is a well-known Balinese Hindu sea temple located in Bali. Dedicated to Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa, the temple is considered one of the sad kahyangan or six directional temples of Bali. Perched on the edge of a 70-meter-high cliff that juts out into the Indian Ocean, the temple was built in traditional Balinese architectural style.
In addition to its pilgrimage, Uluwatu Temple is also a famous spot for watching the sunset, much like the sunset view at Tanah Lot temple. So, if you want to see a fascinating sunset over the Indian Ocean, the magnificent Balinese architecture, and traditional fire dance and Kecak performances in Bali, then Uluwatu Temple is the best place for you.
Ubud Monkey Forest
Officially named the Sacred Monkey Forest, the Ubud Monkey Forest is a nature reserve and a complex of Hindu temples located near Ubud in Bali. Spread over an area of 27 acres, this is another popular tourist attraction in Bali and a must-visit for animal lovers, as it is home to a large number of long-tailed Balinese macaques.
In addition to observing playful monkeys in their natural habitat, the site offers pleasant walks along paved paths through thick banyan and nutmeg forests. It also houses three Hindu temples: Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, Pura Beji, and Pura Prajapati. The forest is meant to represent the harmonious relationship between humans and animals.
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan
Located on the shores of Lake Bratan, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple or Pura Bratan is an important Shaivite water temple in Bali. Built by the king of Mengwi in 1633 AD, Pura Ulun Danu is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, lakes, and rivers along with the Hindu trinity, Brahma-Vishnu-Shiva.
With the imposing backdrop of Gunung Bratan, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is the most photographed temple on the entire island and one of the must-visit places during the Bali Tour.
The temple complex consists of four sacred buildings called Linga Pura, Pura Puncak Mangu, Pura Teratai Bang, and Pura Dalem Purwa. Pura Teratai Bang is the main temple, and the architecture is truly impressive. There is also a Buddhist stupa in the complex that reflects the adoption of Buddhist beliefs by Balinese Hindus.
The pure beauty of this magnificent structure can be best seen in the pleasant morning light amidst the tranquil waters of the lake and the backdrop of misty mountains. You can also rent a canoe and paddle on the lake to explore the sanctuaries up close.
Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua is a beautiful luxury beach resort town in southern Bali, Indonesia. Long stretches of white sand, clean beaches, and a serene environment make Nusa Dua one of Bali's favorite destinations and one of the must-visit places in Bali. Covering an area of 350 hectares, it has an incredible collection of world-class international chain hotels facing a pristine beach.
Although Nusa Dua is the most developed coastal city in Bali, it is suitable for relaxing family beach vacations, especially with very young children, as there are fewer crowds, less traffic, and calm beaches. Additionally, there are also temples, a museum, a golf course, and a convention center.
Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida are also visited from Nusa Dua, as they are a short boat ride away. Nusa Lembongan consists of pristine beaches with white sandy shores, crystal-clear water, elevated cliff viewpoints, and sea views that can become very idyllic at sunset, with views of the silhouette of Bali's highest peak, Mount Agung, on the horizon. The island offers many water sports activities such as surfing, diving, and snorkeling.
Besakih Temple
Often referred to as the Mother Temple of Bali, Besakih Temple is a complex of Hindu temples located in eastern Bali, Indonesia. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the largest temples in Bali and one of the must-visit places during your trip to Bali.
Surrounded by picturesque rice fields, hills, and streams, Pura Besakih was built on the slopes of Mount Agung, Bali's main volcano. It is an extensive complex of 23 separate temples. Of these, Pura Penataran Agung is the main one. Built on six levels, the temple entrance is marked by a candi bentar (split entrance gate).
Visitors must climb a giant staircase, decorated with carved figures from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, to reach the temple. Pura Batu Madeg, dedicated to Vishnu, can also be found northwest of the main temple, and Pura Kiduling Kreteg, dedicated to Brahma, is located here.
