Best of Bangkok: Discover Thailand's capital city's hidden gems and top attractions. Find out how to make the most of your trip with our expert tips and Thailand travel guides.
Experience Bali's enchanting blend of volcanic peaks, captivating coastline with rolling waves, lush jungles, and ornate temples, as you explore one of Indonesia's most sought-after destinations.
rnBali, a serene and picturesque paradise, effortlessly marries its renowned white-sand beaches and world-class surfing with a landscape defined by volcanic summits and vibrant green rice fields, adorned with ancient temples. The island's lively Hindu culture forms an integral part of its essence, showcasing traditional music, dance, intricate ceremonies, and captivating gamelan performances at every step. Beyond the coastline, Bali's volcanic heartland reveals itself through dense forests, colonial hill towns, and terraced rice paddies that gracefully contour the hillsides, offering a genuine immersion into Balinese life and its welcoming people.
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Exploring Bali's Rich Tapestry of Experiences
1. Embrace the Dawn from Mount Batur
Ascend the sacred Mount Batur, an active volcano cradled within nested calderas. Watch the sunrise from its three smoldering peaks, overlooking a serene caldera lake. The best time to climb is before dawn, offering a breathtaking vista of the surrounding mountains. Afterward, unwind in the lakeside hot or cold springs and enjoy a meal with a view.
2. Journey Through Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, Pura Batukaru Temple, and Lake Bratan
Escape the bustling south coast to explore the tranquil heart of Bali. Immerse yourself in the emerald expanse of Jatiluwih's glistening rice terraces, where they gracefully contour the hillsides, under the watchful gaze of the mighty mountains. Nearby, Pura Batukaru beckons with its exquisite temple complex nestled amid forested slopes. As you ascend further into the hills, Lake Bratan welcomes you with the iconic 17th-century Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, perched on a small island near the lake's edge.
3. Be Enthralled by a Kecak Dance Performance
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Balinese culture with a mesmerizing Kecak dance performance. Based on the Hindu epic Ramayana, the dance is a compelling synergy of synchronized chanting and clicking, performed by a large ensemble of artists. Surrounded by the troupe's energy, the performance unfolds to the rhythmic and undulating cadence, mirroring the story's dynamic emotions. Two ideal venues to witness this enchanting performance are the Chedi Club at Tanah Gajah and Uluwatu Cliff Temple, each offering a unique atmosphere and setting.
4. Dive into Bali's Underwater Realm: USS Liberty Wreck and Menjangan Island
Bali's underwater world beckons divers of all levels. Explore the renowned USS Liberty wreck, located just 80 feet from the shore in Tulamben's northeast. It's a remarkable site for both day and night dives, offering encounters with humphead parrotfish, massive groupers, and elusive moray eels during nocturnal escapades. For a different marine adventure, set course for Menjangan Island within Bali Barat National Park. Here, you'll find dramatic drop-offs, hidden caves, sheltered lagoons, and an array of underwater wonders, including turtles, barracudas, sharks, and vibrant reef life.
5. Ride the Waves in Seminyak
Bali's reputation as a surfer's paradise extends to its suitability for beginners. The gentle waves and sandy shores of Seminyak provide an ideal environment for novice surfers. The warm waters, laid-back ambiance, and professional instructors ensure that even first-time surfers will have the chance to catch their first waves within an hour. It's an authentic way to claim the title of 'I surfed in Bali.'
6. Discover Munduk's Tranquil Hideaway
Munduk, a former Dutch colonial hill station, offers a serene escape surrounded by tropical rainforests, terraced rice fields, and authentic rural life. This enchanting setting is perfect for trekking and cycling adventures, leading to hidden waterfalls, traditional villages, coffee plantations, and sacred lakes. Experience the leisurely pace of life while exploring misty hillside trails, bathing in natural pools, learning about coffee cultivation, and canoeing to lakeside temples.
7. Sail to Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan is a small island paradise embraced by pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral gardens. It offers a serene escape from Bali's bustling south coast. After a day trip from Benoa, where you embark on a catamaran journey that takes about one and a half hours, you can indulge in relaxation at your choice of accommodations. Take advantage of the facilities, including swimming pools, kayaking, snorkeling, or joining a seaweed farm tour.
8. Unmissable Bali Festivals and Events
Plan your visit to coincide with Bali Spirit, Nyepi (Balinese New Year), Galungan, or Kuningan to partake in these unique cultural celebrations, parades, rituals, and vibrant local traditions.
Embark on your unforgettable Bali journey, where a diverse array of experiences awaits at every turn.
Our itineraries offer insights into the possibilities when exploring Ubud. They highlight routes that have proven successful. Consider them a source of inspiration, as each trip is custom-crafted by our specialists to suit your unique preferences.
Browse through our handpicked Bali Island tour plans, which showcase routes that have excelled. Remember, your adventure will be meticulously designed by one of our dedicated specialists.
Best of Bangkok: Discover Thailand's capital city's hidden gems and top attractions. Find out how to make the most of your trip with our expert tips and Thailand travel guides.