Places to visit in Bali

When visiting Bali for a holiday, tourists often stick to the more commercialised tourist places and attractions. However, if we look past what’s available on the surface level, we can find an array of hidden gems that can enhance your vacation experience tenfold. In this brief but detailed guide, we have included some of the most popular and lesser-known attractions in Bali that you can include in your trip itinerary.

Top Attractions

Bali is a cluster of many cities, towns, villages, neighbourhoods and regions. Here are the area-wise top tourist attractions that you can check out on your visit to Bali in Indonesia;

1. Denpasar

Denpasar is the capital city of Bali and being just 13 kilometres from the main airport on the island, it is often the first destination tourists like to explore on their holidays. It is a place where you will find a smooth blend of different cultures alongside an array of famous museums, important monuments, white sandy beaches and much more.

Tourist attractions in Denpasar:

Bajra Sandhi Monument, Sindhu Night Market, Werdhi Budaya Art Centre, Museum Le Mayeur, Sakenan Temple, Bali Museum, Badung Market, Bali Wake Park, etc.

2. Canggu

Canggu is another popular tourist destination in Bali. It is a quaint coastal resort village featuring a 10-km long stretch of beach and massive rice fields. While it is mainly known for its laid-back vibes, Canggu is also becoming an ideal spot for beach parties, fueling the regional nightlife. Whether it's enjoying the majestic sunset or taking part in thrilling water sports, Canggu is the way to go.

Tourist attractions in Canggu:

Splash Waterpark, Echo Beach, Tanah Lot, Canggu rice terraces, etc.

3. Kuta

Kuta is administered as an urban village in Bali and is one of the island’s most sought-after tourist destinations. Located roughly 8 kilometres to the south of Denpasar downtown, Kuta is a hub of natural and adventure tourism. From bustling night markets, glittering city streets, and charming promenades to posh restaurants, golden beaches and ancient temples, Kuta has it all.

Tourist attractions in Kuta:

Kuta Theatre, Waterbom Waterpark, Upside Down World, Dream Museum Zone, the Ground Zero Monument, Kuta Square, Kuta Night Market, Kedonganan Beach, etc.

4. Ubud

Ubud is a charming town in Bali, quite famous among tourists for a variety of reasons. It is a major centre of culture and arts and is also home to some of Bali’s most renowned natural attractions. If you are looking for a scenic getaway away from the busy city life, consider dropping by and staying in Ubud for a few days on your vacation.

Tourist attractions in Ubud:

Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest, Komaneka Fine Art Gallery, Ubud Celuk Village, Ubud Art Market, Pura Taman Saraswati Temple, Goa Gajah, Blanco Renaissance Museum, Ubud Palace, Tegallalang Rice Terraces, etc.

5. Uluwatu

Uluwatu is a small village in Bali, mainly renowned for being the home of the revered Uluwatu Temple. Located on Bukit Peninsula’s southwestern end, its name translates to “rocky end of the land” in the Balinese language. Tourists like to visit Uluwatu to witness the stunning scenic visuals and enjoy seafood to their heart’s content. The view of the sunset and the scope for surfing adventures in Uluwatu also deserve massive praise.

Tourist attractions in Uluwatu:

Uluwatu Temple, Green Bowl Beach, Suluban Beach, Nyang Nyang Surfing Beach, etc.

Did you know?

The Bali Bird and Reptile Park has a new 4D cinema theatre where you can enjoy watching various kinds of birds and their natural habitat. It is an ideal experience that many don’t know about, perfect for families visiting with children.

National Parks in Bali

The island of Bali is a treasure trove for nature lovers, featuring acres of forested land that houses over 60 wildlife species, distant flora, and more. Here are some popular nature parks in Bali that you can visit;

1. Safari and Marine Park

Located in Gianyar, the Safari and Marine Park is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Bali for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to hundreds of animal species, including endangered ones like the Bali Mynah Bird, Komodo Dragon, etc. If you want to witness these beautiful creatures up close, consider going for the night safari, bus safari, jeep safari, tram safari or elephant back safari.

2. West Bali National Park

The West Bali National Park is another fine example of a tourist attraction suitable for nature lovers. It was initially established to protect endangered Bali Starling birds but has now become home to over 160 species of birds and many other animals. Some examples of fauna that reside at this park are the Wild Bull, Indian Muntjac, Large Flying Fox, Leopard cat, Menjangan, Wild boar, etc.

3. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

When talking about holidays in Bali, one can’t miss mentioning the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. It is probably one of the most illustrated tourist attractions on the island, drawing the attention and curiosity of tourists and nature and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Located in Ubud, it is a natural habitat of over 600 Balinese long-tailed monkeys. The forest is also of major religious importance and has over 100 species of plants and trees. The frolicking monkeys, doing mischievous activities at all times is actually a positive feature of this tourist hotspot.

4. Bali Bird and Reptile Park

The Bali Bird and Reptile Park is another important nature park that you can visit to observe a vast collection of reptiles and birds. It is home to over 1000 birds and 250 distinct reptile species. You can explore the park grounds at your own desired pace and enjoy these vibrant and majestic creatures up close.

Historical & Cultural Sites in Bali

One of the best ways to learn and experience the wonders of a region is by checking out its historical and cultural landmarks. Following is a list of such tourist attractions that you can explore;

1. Besakih Temple

The Besakih Temple is one of the most famous, sacred and largest temples in Bali. Nestled at a height of 1000 metres up Gunung Agung’s side, the complex is home to 23 separate temples, with the most popular one being the Pura Penataran Agung. Believed to be in existence since ancient times, the temple plays a huge role in Balinese Hinduism and the local culture and history.

2. Puri Saren Palace

The Puri Saren Agung, also known as the Ubud Palace, is an architectural splendour that tourists can visit in Bali. It serves as the royal residence and features stunning and detailed carvings, gardens, art exhibits, etc. Its construction started in 1800 and took 23 years to finish. It is no surprise that the palace is a well-revered cultural and historical attraction in Bali.

3. Ujung Water Palace

Surrounded by a scenic backdrop, the Taman Ujung Water Palace is yet another popular cultural and historical attraction in Bali. Spanning 10 hectares, it features a Balinese mixed-European style of architecture, with massive pools and detailed ancient stone pillars, statues and other structures.

4. Mount Batur

This active volcano on the island is both religiously and historically significant. Mount Batur is believed to be the manifestation of Pradhana and the dwelling place of Lord Brahma. Hence, its cultural importance in Balinese Hinduism is massive. It is located in the middle of two calderas, believed to have formed thousands of years ago. It has erupted more than 24 times since the year 1800.

5. Bajra Sandhi Monument

The fascinating Bajra Sandhi Monument was created to honour the struggles of the Balinese people through the pages of history. Its significance is deeply tied to Bali’s history, where thousands of locals lost their lives during the Dutch invasion and colonialism. The monument has a small museum, where you can learn about the local history.

6. Goa Gajah

Goa Gajah is a name that reverberates whenever one talks about religion, history and culture in Bali. Also called the “Elephant Cave”, it is believed to be built in the 9th century A.D. The cave is filled with Shaivite and Buddhist relics and intricate carvings, along with a beautiful entrance, a peaceful pool and fountain and a meditation area inside.

Cool fact:

Melukat is a crucial purification ritual in the Balinese culture, which aims to purify one’s soul, mind and body. It is performed in the holy springs, an essence which tourists can experience along with the locals by taking the sacred bath at Tirta Empul.

Regional Highlights in Bali

Here are some regional highlights in Bali that you can refer to in order to draw up the perfect trip itinerary;

1. Just after landing at the Bali Ngurah Rai Airport, you can begin your Bali exploration by visiting the popular nearby tourist places, such as Sansur Beach, Turtle Conservation and Education Centre, Bajra Sandhi Monument, Bali Museum, Big Garden Corner, etc.
2. Bali is home to an impressive number of pristine beaches, some of the most popular ones being Jimbaran Beach, Kelingking Beach, Seminyak Beach, Green Bowl Beach, Kuta Beach, Nusa Dua Beach, etc.
3. If you are a fan of the Balinese party culture, make sure to check out the nightlife at Kita, Seminyak, Uluwatu, Canggu, etc.
4. If you want to escape the crowd and experience the beauty and serenity of Bali, you can check out Pemuteran, Sidemen, Munduk, Amed, etc.
5. For individuals visiting with their friends and families, experiencing the water and adventure parks in Bali is a must. Some popular names in this list are Circus Water Park, Splash Water Park, Waterbom Park, etc.
6. Bali’s vibrant culture and traditions are best displayed through the exuberant events and festivals that are celebrated on the island. They are major tourist attractions and include the likes of Bali Spirit Festival, Bali Kite Festival, Bali Arts Festival, Nyepi Eve, Saraswati Day, Nusa Dua Fiesta, Sanur Village Festival, etc.

Activities & Experiences in Bali

From slow-paced fun activities to thrilling adventures, Bali offers all kinds of enjoyable experiences that you can consider trying. Some popular ones to look out for are;

1. Bali Swing:

The Bali Swings are some of the most sought-after and Instagrammable experiences one can have in Bali. Swinging 40-50 metres above the ground, overlooking the majestic topography of the region makes for a thrilling experience that you can cherish throughout your life. Some of the best swings in Bali are the ALoha Ubud Swing, Terrace River Pool Swing, Dtukad River Club Waterfall Swing, etc.

2. Swimming with Manta Rays:

If you are interested in Bali’s marine life and watersports, consider the activity of swimming in the crystal clear water with the majestic Manta Rays at Nusa Penida Island.

3. Sacred Bath at Tirta Empul:

Those inclined towards experiencing Bali’s culture and tradition can consider taking the sacred bath at Tirta Empul Temple. It is believed that the sacred springs at the temple are created by God Indra and have certain healing properties.

4. Watching the sunrise from Mount Batur:

If you are planning on taking a hike up Mount Batur, consider lining up your activity at a time that allows you to witness the sunrise from the top. The breathtaking view makes for a great romantic experience that couples can have in Bali.

5. Watch the Kecak Fire Dance:

One of the signature experiences one can have in Bali is watching the Kecak Fire Dance. This exuberant, mythical dance performance is performed on top of Uluwatu Cliff and attracts tourists from all over the globe.

Cool fact:

Even though Kecak Dance was created around the 1930s and is mainly performed as a form of entertainment for tourists, its origin is tied to Sanghyang. It is an ancient Balinese ritual, where participating dances fall into a trance to ward off evil spirits and danger.

Local Markets Shopping in Bali

There are tons of popular markets and shops scattered across the island, ideally in and near the major tourist hotspots. Here are some examples;

1. Badung Market:

Badung Market is one of the main shopping places in the capital city of Denpasar. You can find all kinds of shops, stalls and street vendors at this market. It is not ideally a market for tourists, but more for essential shopping needs for the locals.

2. Sanur Night Market:

The Sanur Night Market is one of the oldest and most popular night markets in Bali. It is located on Danau Tamblingan Road and is mainly famous for its huge range of street food stalls serving regional flavourful delights at affordable prices.

3. Ubud Art Market:

If you are looking for a place in Bali to shop for gifts and souvenirs and keep an interest in art and handicrafts, then the Ubud Art Market is the place you should check out. It is placed opposite the Puri Saren Royal Palace, offering woven skirts, brass statues, oil lamps, ikat woven skirts, and many more things. The products available in this market are of high quality and great variety and are mainly targeted at tourists.

4. Gianyar Night Market:

This is another popular night market in the streets of Bali that you can explore. Located close to the city centre of Ubud, the Gianyar Night Market is the place where people go to try delicious street food for cheap. The delightful smell of delicious dishes being made takes up the market, making it hard to miss.

5. Pasar Taman Sari Market:

Located just a few minutes away from Seminyak, the Pasar Taman Sari Market is a place where you can shop for usual fruits, fresh drinks, and other products. At night, street food stalls take over the place, selling all kinds of delicious food, including the famous meatball broth, called Bakso.

Food & Drinks

The regional cuisine and street food scene of Bali has a separate fan base among tourists. On your trip to this Indonesian province, make sure to give the following food and drinks a try;

1. Lawar:

A traditional dish comprising a blend of minced meat, coconut, rich spices, vegetables and more, which is then garnished with lemon and chilli to offer a burst of flavour in the mouth.

2. Babi Guling:

It is pig stuffed with spices and roasted in a traditional way over a slow fire. It gets sectioned and a plate usually contains shredded pork meat, satay, lawar, steamed rice, pork soup, etc.

3. Sambal Matah:

It is a raw shallot and lemongrass salsa that is most of the time served alongside grilled meats.

4. Nasi Campur:

It is a yellow or white rice dish mixed with tofu, vegetables, grilled chicken, etc., and cooked in clay and wooden utensils to give it a smokey taste.

5. Bintang Beer:

It is one of the most famous local beers that tourists like to try on their visit.

6. Kopi Luwak:

It is a very expensive and widely popular coffee that is made from beans digested by civets.

Tips to See Places on A Budget in Bali

Exploring Bali can be a bit expensive, however, if you are good at planning, you can save a ton of money on the trip. Here are some tips to help you explore Bali on a budget;

1. You can save a lot of money on food by avoiding eating at high-end restaurants at the major tourist spots in Bali.
2. Most of the tourist attractions in Bali are located in close proximity, so consider relying on your foot to travel from one place to the other.
3. Stick to off-beat destinations as they remain less crowded, hence costing less to visit, stay and explore. Sanur, Uluwatu, Lovina, etc., are some examples of such places.
4. If you want to cover more ground and visit locations far away, choose local ridesharing apps, like Grab and Gojek, to hire a ride.
5. Use your haggling skills up to their full potential in Bali. Everywhere from grabbing a taxi to hiring a local guide to shopping for souvenirs, bargaining helps reduce quite a bit of expense on the trip.
6. Learn about the common scams in Bali and avoid them at all costs.
7. Visit Bali during non-peak season to get deals on transport, accommodation, tours, etc.
8. Utilise the free tourist attractions and experiences available in Bali, like witnessing the sunset at a beach, sunbathing at Kuta Beach, hiking at Campuhan Ridge, etc.

Did you know?

If you want to make the most out of your Pura Besakih visit, consider checking it out during the 10th full moon of the Balinese calendar every year. It is because, on this day, a special ceremony is held called Betara Turun Kabeh. 32 priests lead this ceremony and it marks a major occasion for the people of Balinese Hinduism faith.

Itineraries & Travel Tips Bali

Here are some itinerary ideas for Bali holidays, along with travel tips to make your vacation memorable;

1. For a short, 2-day trip consider sticking to the tourist attractions nearby Denpasar, like Kuta Beach, Bajra Sandhi Monument, Sindhu Market, Cemara Beach, etc.
2. For a long, 6 to 7-day trip, you can hit multiple places and nearby tourist attractions, beginning with Denpasar, followed by Nusa Dua and Uluwatu, Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, and more.
3. Make sure to pack sunscreen and bug spray for the holiday.
4. Book accommodations only after checking reviews online.
5. Learn about the local culture, customs and laws and respect and follow them.
6. Get a local guide if you want to make the most out of your visit.
7. Stay hydrated throughout the journey and avoid eating undercooked or raw meat.