Bali
❤️ 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝘀𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗼𝗱𝘀 𝗵𝗮𝘀 𝘀𝗼 𝗺𝘂𝗰𝗵 𝘁𝗼 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿, 𝗶𝘁 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗸𝗲𝗲𝗽𝘀 𝗺𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲. 𝗕𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮 𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗼 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗿, 𝗮 𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗿, 𝗮 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘆𝗺𝗼𝗼𝗻 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗸𝗶𝗱𝘀, 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲'𝘀 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗶. Which are your favorite spots? ⭐ Here's a list of must-sees and less known places (and what I honestly thought about them all) to inspire you. ⭐ 5 days perfect itinerary! ⭐ Pro tips with every post, for all your trip-planning needs. 💸 Scam Alert! Unfortunately, Bali's tourist spots are rife with scams. Familiarize yourself with the most common ones at each location and avoid falling prey to them! 🙏 Disclaimer: admission fees to many locations fluctuate like tides in Bali. I give them to the best of my knowledge at the time of posting. Please take them as indicative and always check with the location prior to visit.
Updated 3 years ago
Editor's PickThis list is a comprehensive guide of must-see places in Bali. From cafes, restaurants, beaches, and temples, follow this growing directory of what to do and where to go on this beautiful island!
The new airport is a far cry from what it used to be, with lively shops, quaint lounges and a live band to keep you entertained while you wait for boarding. And at arrival, I was relieved that the dreaded harassment from taxi drivers is no longer a thing. ‼️ A new rule forbids taking selfie sticks and tripods into the airport. While you can bring them into arrival, they will not pass the security check at departure. Be prepared to check-in your expensive gear, or you'll end up having to abandon it 😢 👍 Taxis from the airport are always overpriced, and even the information counter will be completely unhelpful. Here are 2 budget-friendly alternatives to consider: 1️⃣ Book an airport transfer to your hotel with KLOOK. It's half the price of a Grab. (Note: you need to book it at least 3 hours before pick-up time). ❤️ If you're new to KLOOK, you can use my referral code D7VCLL when you register to get a sign up bonus ❤️✌️ 2️⃣ Ride the Kura Kura bus (only for major tourist destinations). While it cannot enter the airport, its nearest stop is the T-Galleria, which is located at less than a 5 minute ride. After that, 5USD will buy you a day pass that could take you all the way to Ubud. Plus, this bus is so fun to ride.
Jalan Raya Gusti Ngurah Rai, Tuban, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80362, Indonesia
3
I'm the first to admit I'm more of a beach girl, but a trip to Bali would not be complete without a visit to 𝗨𝗯𝘂𝗱. The flourishing crafts centre of Bali, Ubud's jungle and terraced landscapes are among the island's most famous. This lively art town is surrounded by iconic rice fields and many ancient holy grounds, making it the perfect base for your explorations. 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝟮 𝗱𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗨𝗯𝘂𝗱: 🔸 Relax at a jungle pool. 🔸 Stroll through the Art Market. 🔸 Enjoy traditional balinese dances at the Royal Palace. 🔸 Tour the craft villages. 🔸 Play with the macaque in the Monkey Forest. 🔸 Explore Tegallalang and swing above the terraced rice paddies. 🔸 Bathe in holy waters at an ancient temple. 🔸 Trek through the jungle and swim at a waterfall.
Ubud, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
4
If traditional crafts are your souvenir of choice, this bustling art market is your one-stop shop for all things balinese. The chaotic alleyways are lined with stalls overflowing with handmade wares, mostly gathered from the neighbouring craft villages. 👍 Bargaining is key here, so never settle for the initial offer. Don't be shy, because it is common for the shopkeeper to call you back if you walk away. You should have little problem going home with your desired item at less than 50% of the initial price!
Jalan Raya Ubud Number 35, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
2While strolling around the Art Market, take a detour to visit the Royal Palace. Traditional balinese dances are held daily from 7pm to 9pm. 👍 While the dance show doesn't usually get overcrowded, be there earlier to get a good seat, as seating is entirely based on first-come, first-served. Admission: Free (admission to the show is separate and costs 100'000IDR)
Jl. Raya Ubud No.8, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
2End your stroll through Ubud's Market at Lazy Cats Cafe, an industrial-bohemian styled restaurant / café / bar and gallery. The interior has a truly unique flair to it, with its combination of rich vegetation and vintage furniture. Secure a spot on the second floor terrace to enjoy some people watching while unwinding to a delicious cup of specialty coffee. No real cats are present, but as the owner puts it, guests are encouraged to "indulge in the art of feline indolence and serenity" 🐈. 👍The menu has a great selection catering to vegetarians and vegans' needs.
Jl. Raya Ubud, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
3A mere 15 minute walk from the Art Market, the Monkey Forest is a great place to get close and personal with the macaque that live in this Hindu temple complex. 👍 The monkeys are not afraid to approach people, and may even climb on your shoulders if you allow them too. While this may be a great photo op, be careful of your valuables, and avoid wearing hats and sunglasses. Also, do not carry drinks or food. Monkeys will steal anything they get their hands on! Admission: 50'000IDR Required time: 2 hours
Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
3If you're looking for a good eat in Ubud, I can't rave enough about this place. It may be challenging to find, but it's worth it. Once you have found the side-alley with greeting sign and menu, climb the steps, walk along someone's backyard shamelessly wading through their hanging laundry, and you'll finally get to the actual restaurant. A couple of the tables are western style, but for a true balinese eating experience, kick off your shoes and settle down down on the floor cushions. It may look fancy, but the prices are hard to beat and the taste is amazing. Almost all the food on the menu comes with a picture to help you order. In doubt, the Nasi Campur set will allow you to sample a bit of all. I loved the food and atmosphere, I just wanted to sit there and nibble my way through the whole menu! 👍This "secret spot" is actually very popular on Trip Advisor, so be ready for a wait. It closes at 9pm so come early to guarantee yourself a table! Price range: 25'000~40'000IDR
Jl. Jembawan 1 No.2, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
6If you're looking for a truly budget friendly option, central Ubud is filled with affordable homestays and family run hotels. Considering how a room and breakfast for 2 people is actually cheaper than ordering a couple of Frapuccinos (in Singapore), I wasn't expecting any luxuries. The smiling Muka House family still welcomed us with a complimentary fresh fruit smoothie on arrival. And enjoying breakfast in the lush garden gazebo overlooking the koi pond? Priceless. 👍 If you plan on living in homestays during your trip, pack your own toothbrush and toiletries. Most places will only provide a bar of soap for all your washing needs!
Jl. Sandat, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
4
Known as Elephant Cave, this ancient temple is famous for its intricate stone carvings of Hindu Gods. As the name suggests, the cave is a prominent feature, with its entrance shaped into the gaping mouth of a demon. Waterscaping completes the surroundings. 💸 Temples in Bali require that both men and women wear sarongs while visiting the grounds. It is common to see peddlers selling overpriced sarongs in the parking lots, but sarongs are offered for free or for a small rental fee at the temple entrance. You can buy your own at the market or at a batik workshop! Admission: 50'000IDR (sarong rental additional fee)
Jl. Raya Goa Gajah, Bedulu, Kec. Blahbatuh, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
3Hei, don't diss this place just because it's a food court! It may not be fine dining, but it churns out some pretty fine desserts. I chanced upon this place after a long afternoon wandering session, so I didn't try any of their main courses. But the dadar gulung (pancakes filled with sweetened shaved coconut) was the best I had in Bali, and 15K for 3 rolls is hard to beat. 👍 Service is veeeery slow, so be prepared for a long wait after ordering. Relax and take a nap 😆 This is the true essence of a lazy and carefree holiday in Bali!
Jl. Sukma Kesuma, Peliatan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
4Looking for a honeymoon escape with a romantic setting and a jungle pool with an amazing view? 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘆𝗮 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝗿𝘁 has it all and more, boasting also excellent service and delicious food. Did I mention some of the rooms come with a private pool where you can enjoy the iconic Balinese floating breakfast? If you decide to never leave the resort, various activities from yoga to dance classes will keep you entertained throughout the day.
Jl. Kelabang Moding, Tegallalang, Ubud, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Gianyar Regency is home to Ubud's famous craft villages. A half-day tour is the most convenient way to visit all the villages, if you are unsure where to go. Your driver will chaperone you to various workshops, where you can watch the artists at work. After that, leisurely browse through the shops. Continue reading in the next posts to learn what to expect in each of them: 🔸 Mas - wood carving 🔸 Batuan - paintings and eggshell painting 🔸 Celuk - gold and silver works 🔸 Batubulan - stone carving 🔸 Tohpati - batik art
Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
Mas is one of the prominent craft villages located just outside central Ubud, and it's mostly known for its wood carvings. Wood carving is an ancient tradition in Bali, and, until the 20th century, used to be reserved for devotional purposes alone. The interest shown by foreigners helped it broaden its scope to what it is today. This handicraft now encompasses everything from home decor to everyday utensils. There are many unique styles of woodcarving, but famous artists from Mas privilege the "elongated style": smoothly sanded hardwood comes to life into statues of soft contours and surreal shapes. I have a soft spot for the wooden "paintings". The intricate layering gives depth and brings the scene to life. The mastery required to carve such fine details never ceases to amaze me!
Jl. Raya Mas, MAS, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
Heading south from Mas, you will reach the craft village of Batuan, famed for being the originator of one of the 3 prominent balinese painting styles (the other 2 being Ubud style and Sanur style). In this style, minute details and somber monochrome evoke a strong sense of supernatural in scenes otherwise depicting everyday activities. Batuan artists are also known for their eggshell and seashell paintings. 👍 When buying framed art, carefully inspect the wood. Ensure it shows no borer holes or other signs of bug infestation. If possible, get a frame that has been varnished or sealed. Untreated wood can get confiscated at the airport!
Batuan, Sukawati, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
Continuing south from Mas, stands another famous craft village, reknown for its highly skilled gold and silver smiths. 👍 Many of the shops where tours shepherd the tourists are known for marking up the prices. Exploring the less trodden alleys may allow you to find a venue with better offers. Even if items have price tags, bargaining is still possible. Like in the art market, start at half the shown price and haggle your way from there.
Celuk, Sukawati, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
3Batubulan is a craft village south of Ubud, supposedly known for its stone carvings, but famous among tourists for its Barong Dance theatre (if it's on your Bali bucket list, buses and private drivers all stop here). In case you were wondering, the Barong is a lion-dog mythological creature. The colourful and energetic dance weaves a (very complicated) mixture or myth and history. You'll be offered a pamphlet with the summary of the story at the entrance, but good luck keeping up with the plot. 👍 Arrive a little early to get the chance of taking a photo with one of the beautiful dancers.
Batubulan, Sukawati, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
One river crossing away from Batubulan, the craft village of Tohpati is a great place to experience balinese batik art. The word batik means "to write with dots" in Javanese, and the use of a little pen-like instrument is in fact at the core of this ancient dyeing technique. In 2009, UNESCO designated Indonesian batik as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. In the batik workshop, local ladies dressed in colourful sarongs will take you through the whole process step by step. While nowadays many batiks are printed, the dyeing of a single sheet using the traditional method can take up to a year! So slowly admire these true works of art.
No. Индонезия, Jl. Raya Batubulan No.9, Batubulan, Kec. Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80237, Indonesia
4A few years ago, I would have given Ubud's rice terraces a flying 5 star rating. They have always been one of my favourite places in Bali to visit again and again. But ... Nowadays, the touristy side has taken over, with swings and Insta-props marring the once beautiful landscape. More construction is underway, a telling cue that my most recent trip may have been the last to this location. If you're doing it for the gram, you're in for a treat (note: all photo attractions cost additional fees). Personally, I'm off on a quest to find unspoiled rice terraces for my perfect morning stroll. Admission: 10'000IDR Required Time: 30 min~2 hours (depending on how much time you spend taking photos 😆)
Jalan Raya Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
Located a mere 15 minute drive from the Tegallalang rice terraces, this thousand years-old temple has been drawing worshippers and tourists alike to its lush gardens and holy waters. The name Tirta Empul literally translates as "holy water spring", with the spring feeding the various bathing pools and fish ponds located within the complex. 13 sculpted water spouts line the main bath. After praying at the shrine, worshippers step into the cold waters, bowing under the gushing waters. Legend says that the sacred spring was created by angered god Indra, who at the time waged war against a Balinese ruler who denied his subjects religious practices. The ruler poisoned a spring, causing many of Indra's troops to die. Indra then thrust his staff into the ground, and the holy purifying spring of Tirta Empul spurted out, curing the poisoned soldiers and bringing them back to life. 👍 Consult your guide first if you wish to take part in the purification bath, as this is a formal religious ritual. Please be respectful while on sacred grounds!
Jl. Tirta, Manukaya, Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80552, Indonesia
Boasting an award winning pool, this was on my bucket list of places to splurge in Bali. Many websites recommended it as one of the best hotels to stay in Ubud. But! A tight schedule saved me from what might have been a regrettable experience. Having no time to spend a night there, but still wanting to check out the pool that made for some stunning Instagram shots, I hopped over to Google Maps to see if I could get some information on pool packages. Grinding through the comment section had me tick this place right off the list. And it wasn't entirely the mind boggling price that put me off (that's a matter of perspective, this is a luxury resort after all). The way the staff responded to the bad reviews was appalling. And some of those reviews made for true holiday-horror stories.
Desa Buahan, Payangan, Bali, Indonesia
6
A trip to Ubud is not complete without a stop at a jungle pool. Just as the name implies, enjoy floating in an infinity pool overlooking a sprawling jungle landscape. Located within the Kayon Resort (a 30 minute detour from the Tegallalang rice terraces), Wanna Jungle Pool and Bar offers entrance packages starting from 800K IDR (don't trust the prices shown on Google Maps!). The packages include use of the pool and a voucher to spend at the restaurant. The food & drinks are not too overpriced, and quite yummy (I do not recommend the burger though, it's way too greasy). The view is simply amazing all around. Towel, locker and shower room provided. 👍 Always double check the prices on their website. It would be a bummer to drive all the way there just to discover it's off your budget charts!
Banjar, Desa, Bresela, Payangan, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80572, Indonesia
3Among the tallest waterfalls in Bali, boasting a 50m drop, the beautiful jungle enclave that surrounds Nungnung attracts many the waterfall-chaser. Since you have to trek 2 km among hills and lush rice plantations and climb down (and then back up!) some 500 steep and slippery steps to reach it, you'll find it to be less crowded than other more readily accessible locations. A thundering sound makes the waterfall's presence known before it actually comes into view. Crashing water creates a magical mist over the pool, and the lush greenery of the enclosing jungle is the perfect backdrop for a refreshing swim after the hike. 👍 Always be extra-cautious while swimming in waterfalls. Slippery stones and strong suction can easily wash the careless away! ❗ Double-check the actual conditions if you are visiting during the dry season, as there may be no waterfall at all! Admission fee: 10'000IDR
Nungnung Waterfall, Belok/Sidan, Petang, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
6Iconic floating temple dedicated to the worship of the Hindu trinity and water-goddess Dewi Danu. Located at 1200m in the mountains near Bedugul, thin mist often enshrouds the temple, adding to its mystique. The most famous part of the temple is definitely the small island with its tiered meru. Everybody was snapping away furiously trying to get that perfect shot of themselves for the gram, hardly even glancing at the details of the unique architecture or the variety of iris flowers in the manicured garden. I almost felt awkward sneaking past trying to just take in the beauty of the shrines and the oddity of some of the decor (Spongebob, what happened to you!). 👍 Take a sunrise ride across the lake for truly breathtaking views. To best appreciate the floating quality of the temple, it is recommended to visit when the lake's level rises. 👍 This lake area is located in the mountains, so the temperatures are considerably lower than in other parts of Bali (it was around 15°C during my last visit!), so dress accordingly to avoid freezing to death! Admission Fee: 50'000IDR (fun fact: this temple features on the 50K note) ~ though to be honest, I'm still not sure if the ticket was really necessary 😅 Required time: 1 hour
Jalan Denpasar-Singaraja, Candikuning, Tabanan, Bali, Indonesia
On the road between Lake Beratan and Lake Buyan stands a very traditional Hindu gate. The entrance to the Handara Golf Resort had been ignored for years, until it's recent Insta-fame boom. It costs 30K to enter the location and you will have to wait in line to take your photo. It may be your alternative to Lempuyang's Gate to Heaven, if you don't wish to trek all the way to Eastern Bali and wait 3 hours for an iconic balinese photo-op.
Handara Golf Resort Bali
3A total local-geography-fail on my part landed me in this hotel en-route between Ubud and Lovina. For unfathomable reasons, I was quite certain it was located on the shores of Lake Buyan, which indeed it was, just... a 1000m cliff up away. There goes for my sunrise stroll. To be honest, if you have the time, the area is rife with trekking routes taking you on what looks like a mesmerizing journey around the Twin Lakes. As of the hotel itself, the staff felt as cold as the temperature (10°C to be exact) and for the amenities offered, it was much overpriced. ❗ FYI, the Internet service in the mountainous area is non-existent. Even in hotels and warungs boasting free Wi-Fi, expect the speed to be laughable.
Jl. Raya Wanagiri, Wanagiri, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
4FYI, turns out than in Bali all the Insta-spots cost money, be it a swing with a jungle backdrop or a nest on the beach. Hidden Hills Wanagiri is no different. Is 10K IDR worth the entrance fee for the photoshoot? That's up to you to decide.
Jalan Munduk - Wanagiri, Wanagiri, Sukasada, Pancasari, Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali, Indonesia
3One of the three lakes formed from a calder and part of Mount Lesung. The name derives from "tamba", the balinese word for medicine. A great spot to enjoy the sunrise, the steep descent on the north shore offers countless trekking opportunities, winding through mesmerizing jungle and waterfalls. The flat south shore is home to numerous shore-front temples, beautifully untouched by the touristy gimmicks found in more iconic locations.
Lake Tamblingan, Munduk, Banjar, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia
2Facing the calm waters of the northern balinese sea, 5km of black sand waterfront stretch across 7 villages to form Lovina Beach. Compared to bustling Kuta, Lovina's beaches have a calmer, quieter feel to them. The day here begins in the early hours just before dawn, as boats speed out chasing a sight of dolphins in the first light. While an unique experience, the dolphins did not seem all too fond of getting surrounded and cornered, so I hardly feel right recommending this activity. Rather, take that boat out for countless snorkeling and diving opportunities in the beautiful coral reef. 👍 While the easiest way to get to Lovina is by car, there are more budget-friendly alternatives. Did you know shuttle buses ride in from Sanur, Kuta and Ubud?
Lovina Beach, Bali, Indonesia
Singsing are notoriously (?) Bali's most romantic twin waterfalls. Surely enough, a date set by the quiet rippling cascade nestled in the lush surrounding, will be a memorable one indeed. The calm nature of this waterfall makes its fresh plunge pools perfect for a restoring dip. Local belief has it that the mud holds medicinal properties that may benefit your skin! It is an easy stroll to reach the first waterfall, but be prepared for a short but steep climb through thick vegetation if you plan on visiting the bigger twin. 👍 Take note that during the dry season, water will be diverted to the irrigation of the local rice paddies. During this season, the smaller of the waterfalls will almost certainly be dry! 💸 A local guide may approach you in the parking lot, offering to follow you for a donation-basis fee. If you fail to negotiate a price on the spot, that donation may end up turning into a 100K request! By any means, feel free to refuse his company. You don't need any guide to find the waterfall. Admission Fee: Free
Tigawasa, Banjar, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81152, Indonesia
3Hot springs on a tropical island? No matter the current temperature, you'll never hear me declining a chance for a good soak. The therapeutic (and apparently holy) water gushes out from sculpted spouts, collecting in tiered pools set within beautifully verdant gardens. While the hot springs are remnants of the Japanese colonization, they bear no resemblance to the immaculate onsen culture to be experienced in Japan. Expect mossy floors and people bathing in their daily clothes 😅 Admission Fee: 20'000IDR (access to the private jacuzzi is a separate fee at 15'000IDR/hour) ~ I heard recently locker and toilet are no longer free, but have to be paid separately 😕
Banjar, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Still looking for more? No problem! 😉 Check out Part 2 of the Bali: Ultimate Guide https://lemi.travel/wabisavi/20-more-things-to-do-in-bali?utm_source=androidapp&utm_medium=share https://lemi.travel/lemi/bali-living?utm_source=androidapp&utm_medium=share
Indonesia
Exotic, adventurous, and beguiling, Indonesia gives you an infinite chance at new and exciting experiences
Promo name
Special Offer
Promo desc
PHP 999
Shopping bag
Shop name
Shop name Promos
Merchandise Subtotal
Promo Discounts
Order Subtotal
Shipping info
wabisavi
