Bali Indonesia is a renowned tourist destination – it has something for everyone. There’s no shortage of things to see and do on this Indonesian island, from stunning beaches and lush rice paddies to vibrant temples and delicious food.
To help you make the most of your time in Bali, we’ve put together a list of the 10 best things to do. Trust us; you won’t want to miss out on any of these experiences.
1. Visit Tanah Lot Temple
One of Bali’s most iconic temples, Tanah Lot is a must-visit for anyone spending time on the island. Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the ocean, the temple is an incredible sight, especially at sunset when the light casts a beautiful orange hue over the whole site.
Tanah Lot is a rock formation off the Indonesian island of Bali. The temple complex comprises several shrines, including a sea temple, and is considered one of the most important tourist attractions in Bali.
The name Tanah Lot means “land in the sea” and refers to the fact that the temple was built on a large rock outcropping that is surrounded by the sea.
The temple was constructed in the 16th century by the Javanese priest Danghyang Nirartha, who also built several other temples on the island, including Uluwatu Temple.
Tanah Lot is claimed to be one of the seven directional temples meant to protect Bali from evil spirits. It is said that the temple is guarded by snakes, which can be seen in the crevices of the rock.
The best time to visit Tanah Lot is during the day when you can see the beautiful sunset over the water. The temple is open to visitors from 9 am to 6 pm.
2. Explore Ubud Monkey Forest
Ubud Monkey Forest is one of Bali’s most popular attractions, and it’s easy to see why. Home to around 700 wild monkeys, the forest is a magical place where you can watch the monkeys play and swing through the trees. Just be sure to keep your belongings safe – these cheeky creatures are known for stealing sunglasses and hats!
The Ubud Monkey Forest is a Nature Reserve and Hindu Temple complex in Ubud, Bali. The Sacred Monkey Forest of Padangtegal is home to long-tailed macaques, and its sanctuary provides shelter, food, and medical care for them.
The forest is also Balinese Hindus believe an important cultural landmark. It is believed that the forest was originally created by a holy man named Rsi Markandeya in the 11th century.
The Philippines NGO Yayasan Sinta Dewi manages the Ubud Monkey Forest. The sanctuary was founded to help conserve the area’s native macaques and educate the public about them.
The Forest is home to more than 700 long-tailed macaques. The monkeys are divided into four social groups, each of which has its own distinct territory within the forest.
The Forest’s main entrance is located on Jalan Monkey Forest, just off of Ubud’s main street, Jalan Raya Ubud. The best time to visit the forest is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the monkeys are most active.
Admission to the Forest is IDR 10,000 (US$0.75) for adults and IDR 5,000 (US$0.38) for children.
Visitors are advised not to bring food into the forest, as the monkeys may become aggressive in their search for it.
The Ubud Monkey Forest is open daily from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm.
3. Go White Water Rafting on the Ayung River
Look no further than white water rafting on the Ayung River for an adrenaline-pumping activity. With its dramatic scenery and exciting rapids, it’s an exhilarating experience that will leave you feeling exhilarated.
The Ayung River is the longest river in Bali. It is approximately 75 kilometers long and flows from the mountains in the central part of the island all the way to the southern coast. The river has been an important part of Balinese culture for centuries and is still very much a part of daily life today.
The Ayung River is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bali. There are many different ways to enjoy the river, including rafting, tubing, and kayaking.
Several companies offer guided tours of the river. These tours usually include a stop at one of the many temples that line the banks of the Ayung River.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to enjoy the Ayung River, you can take a leisurely cruise down the river on one of the many traditional Balinese boats.
This is a great way to see the lush vegetation that lines the river banks and get a close-up look at some of the temples.
The Ayung River is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bali. There are many different ways to enjoy the river, including rafting, tubing, and kayaking. Several companies offer guided tours of the river.
These tours usually include a stop at one of the many temples that line the banks of the Ayung River.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to enjoy the Ayung River, you can take a leisurely cruise down the river on one of the many traditional Balinese boats. This is a great way to see the lush vegetation that lines the river banks and get a close-up look at some of the temples.
One of the best things to do in Bali is to take a dip in one of the island’s many natural hot springs. There are several hot springs located along the Ayung River, and they are a perfect way to relax after a long day of exploring.
So, whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a relaxing way to spend a day, the Ayung River is sure to have something for you.
4. Take a Cooking Class
Bali is renowned for its food, so what better way to immerse yourself in the local culture than by taking a cooking class?
You’ll learn how to cook traditional Balinese dishes using fresh, local ingredients, and you’ll get to enjoy your creations for lunch afterward.
5. Go on a Snorkeling Trip
Bali is a paradise for snorkellers and scuba divers with its clear waters and colorful coral reefs. There are plenty of tour operators offering snorkeling trips, so you can easily find one that suits your schedule and budget.
6. Watch the Sunrise at Mount Batur
Mount Batur is an active volcano located in central Bali. The mountain and its surrounding area are part of the Batur Geopark, which was established in 2000. The geopark is home to a number of unique geological features, including three calderas and a large number of hot springs.
The mountain has been active for over a million years and has erupted more than 25 times in the last 300 years. The last major eruption occurred in 1963 when the north-eastern side of the mountain collapsed. This created a large crater, which is now filled with a lake.
The best time to visit Mount Batur is between April and October when the weather is dry, and there is less chance of rain. The mountain is open to visitors all year round, but some trails may be closed during wet weather.
Here are 10 things you can do at Mount Batur:
1. Hike to the summit
The most popular activity at Mount Batur is hiking to the summit. There are a number of trails to choose from, ranging from easy to difficult. The most popular trail is the one that starts from Toya Bungkah village. It takes around two hours to reach the summit, and you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
2. Go for a swim in the lake
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go for a swim in the crater lake at the top of Mount Batur. The water is fairly cold, but it’s a great way to cool down after a long hike.
3. Visit the hot springs
There are a number of hot springs located in the vicinity of Mount Batur. These springs are said to have healing properties, and they’re a great way to relax after a hike.
4. Take a photo at the sunset point
The sunset point is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Bali. You can get there by hiking for around 45 minutes from Toya Bungkah village.
5. Visit the coffee plantations
Mount Batur is home to some of the best coffee plantations in Bali. You can learn about the process of coffee production and even try some of the locally-grown coffee.
6. Go birdwatching
The Mount Batur area is a great place for birdwatching. More than 150 different species of birds have been recorded in the area, including eagles, kingfishers, and kites.
7. Take a yoga class
There are a number of yoga studios located in the vicinity of Mount Batur. Taking a yoga class with a view of the volcano is a great way to relax and unwind.
8. Go on a nature walk
The Batur Geopark offers a number of different nature trails that you can follow. These trails wind through the forest, past hot springs, and offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
9. Go white-water rafting
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled activity, you can go white-water rafting on the Ayung River. This river flows through the center of Bali and is home to some of the best rapids in the country.
10. Take a cooking class: Mount Batur is home to a number of cooking schools, where you can learn how to cook traditional Balinese food. This is a great way to learn about the local cuisine and get some tips for your own cooking.
7. Visit the Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple is one of Bali’s nine directional temples, which are said to protect the island from evil spirits. The temple is located on a cliff top, offering stunning views of the ocean below. It’s also a great spot to watch the sunset.
Uluwatu Temple is another important Hindu temple in Bali. It is located on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, making it a popular spot for sunset. The temple is also home to many monkeys, which can be both cute and pesky.
Uluwatu Temple is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bali. The temple is located on the southwestern tip of the island, about 10 kilometers from Kuta. Uluwatu Temple was built in the 11th century by the Javanese Hindu priest Empu Kuturan.
It is believed that the temple was built to protect the island from evil spirits. The temple is home to a number of unique statues and reliefs, as well as a stunning view of the Indian Ocean.
8. Go Surfing at Kuta Beach
Kuta Beach is one of Bali’s most popular beaches, and it’s easy to see why. The waves here are perfect for surfing, making it a mecca for surfers worldwide. Even if you don’t surf, it’s still worth checking out Kuta Beach to people-watch and soak up the laid-back atmosphere.
9. See the Sunset at Jimbaran Bay
Jimbaran Bay is famous for its seafood restaurants, which serve up fresh, grilled seafood with spectacular views of the sunset.
It’s the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
10. Shop at a Local Market
Bali is a shopper’s paradise, with plenty of markets selling everything from souvenirs to local handicrafts. bargaining is expected, so don’t be afraid to haggle for a better price. Some of the best markets to visit include Seminyak Square, Legian Art Market, and Ubud Market.
What should you not miss in Bali?
Visit the temples
There are over 10,000 temples in Bali, making it a veritable paradise for those who love architecture and history. The most popular ones include the Besakih Temple, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, and Tanah Lot Temple.
Go on a jungle safari
Bali is home to some of the most beautiful jungles in the world. go on a safari and explore them!
Take a dip in the Infinity Pool at Ubud Hanging Gardens
One of Bali’s most iconic landmarks is the Infinity Pool at Ubud Hanging Gardens. It’s definitely worth a visit!
Go surfing
Bali is one of the best-surfing destinations in the world. The most popular spots include Kuta Beach, Legian Beach, and Seminyak Beach.
Watch the sunset at Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple is one of Bali’s most popular tourist attractions. It’s also the perfect place to watch the sunset.
Visit Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua is a beautiful resort area in Bali that’s home to some of the best beaches on the island.
Go diving
Bali is one of the top diving destinations in the world. The most popular spots include Tulamben, Amed, and Menjangan Island.
Take a cooking class
Bali is known for its amazing food. If you want to learn how to cook Balinese food, there are many cooking classes available.
Go on a day trip to Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan is a small island off the coast of Bali that’s known for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs.
Visit the Monkey Forest
The Monkey Forest is one of Ubud’s most popular tourist attractions. It’s home to hundreds of monkeys that you can watch and interact with.
What is Bali best known for?
Bali is best known for its stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, and vibrant culture.
But there is so much more to this Indonesian island than meets the eye. From hiking to hot springs, here are some of the things that Bali is well known for
1. Beaches
One of the best things to do in Bali is simply relaxing on one of its many beaches. With over 60 miles of coastline, there is no shortage of beach options on the island. Some of the most popular include Kuta Beach, Seminyak Beach, and Nusa Dua Beach. Each beach has its own unique vibe, so you’re sure to find one that suits your taste.
2. Visit a Rice Terrace
Bali’s rice terraces are some of the most iconic landscapes on the island. The most popular spot to see them is at Tegallalang Rice Terrace in Ubud. But there are many other beautiful rice terraces scattered throughout Bali, so be sure to research the best ones to visit.
3. Trekking and Hiking
If you’re looking for a more active way to explore Bali, then go trekking or hiking. There are plenty of trails to choose from, ranging in difficulty from easy to challenging. Some of the most popular include Mount Batur, Gunung Agung, and Lombok’s Rinjani National Park.
4. Temples
Bali is home to hundreds of temples, each with its own unique history and architecture. Some of the most popular temples to visit include Uluwatu Temple, Tanah Lot Temple, and Pura Besakih. But there are many other smaller temples worth visiting as well.
5. Snorkeling or Diving
With its clear waters and abundant marine life, Bali is a great place to go snorkeling or diving. There are many dive spots around the island, but some of the best include TulambenShipwreck, Menjangan Island, and Nusa Penida.
6. Hot Springs
Bali is home to several hot springs, which make for a relaxing day trip from the beach. Some of the most popular hot springs can be found at Air Panas Ubud, Batur Geothermal Park, and Lovina Beach.
7. Food and Cooking
If you’re interested in learning how to cook Balinese food, then sign up for a cooking class. There are many different classes to choose from, but some of the best include those at Siam Sally, Bali Asli, and Spice by Chris Salans.
8. Shopping
Bali is a shopper’s paradise, with countless markets and shops selling everything from souvenirs to clothing to local arts and crafts. Some of the best places to go shopping include Kuta Square, Seminyak Village, and Ubud Market.
9. Visit a Waterfall
Bali is home to many beautiful waterfalls, which make for a great day trip from the beach. Some of the best waterfalls to visit include Gitgit Waterfall, Tegenungan Waterfall, and Aling-Aling Waterfall.
10. Take a Surf Lesson
With its sandy beaches and perfect waves, Bali is a great place to learn how to surf. There are many surf schools around the island, but some of the best include Rip Curl School of Surf, Tropicsurf, and Odysseysurf.
What are the main attractions in Bali?
Bali is a renowned tourist destination for many reasons – its stunning beaches, unique culture, vibrant nightlife, and idyllic setting among the rice paddies. The island has something to offer everyone, making it the perfect place to visit for a tropical getaway.
It can be hard to know where to start when planning your trip to Bali with so much to see and do.
More Places that You can Visit
Ubud Palace
The Ubud Palace is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bali. It is the former residence of the royal family of Ubud and now serves as a museum. The palace is decorated with beautiful Balinese paintings and carvings. Visitors can also watch traditional Balinese dances here.
Tirta Empul Temple
Tirta Empul Temple is one of the most important temples in Bali. It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, the god of water. The temple was built in 962 AD and houses three pools which are used for ritual purification ceremonies.
Pura Luhur Uluwatu
Pura Luhur Uluwatu is one of the most important temples in Bali. It is located on the southwestern tip of the island and is dedicated to the god Vishnu. The temple was built in the 10th century and is famous for its beautiful sunset views.
Nusa Dua Beach
Nusa Dua Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Bali. It is located in the south-eastern part of the island and offers beautiful views of the ocean. The beach is also home to a number of luxury hotels and resorts.
Jimbaran Bay
Jimbaran Bay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bali. It is renowned for its beautiful sunsets and fresh seafood. The bay is also home to a number of luxury hotels and resorts.
Seminyak Beach
Seminyak Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bali. It is known for its beautiful sunsets and luxury hotels and resorts. The beach is also home to a number of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.
Sanur Beach
Sanur Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bali. It is located in the south-eastern part of the island and offers beautiful views of the ocean. The beach is also home to a number of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.
Additional Activities that You Can Do
1. Experience Ubud Art and Culture Festival
Ubud Art & Culture is a 10-day festival that celebrates the arts and culture of Bali.
Held annually in October, the festival features a range of events, including traditional dance and music performances, art exhibitions, workshops and more.
With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that the Ubud Art & Culture Festival is one of the island’s most popular events.
So, what are the 10 best things to do at the Ubud Art & Culture Festival? Here’s our top pick:
1. Watch a traditional Balinese dance performance
2. Listen to gamelan music
3. Attend an art workshop
4. Browse the local markets
5. Visit an art gallery
6. Go on a nature walk
7. Take a cooking class
8. Go whitewater rafting
9. Ride an elephant
10. Get a massage
2. Garuda Wisnu Kencana
Garuda Wisnu Kencana is a statue complex located in Bali, Indonesia. The statue depicts the Hindu god Vishnu riding on the back of Garuda, the mythical bird of Indonesian mythology.
The statue itself is quite large, standing 120 meters tall and 64 meters wide.
The base of the statue is a museum that showcases various aspects of Balinese culture and history.
Visitors can also take a lift to the top of the statue for views over the surrounding area.
3. Shop at Seminyak
Seminyak is one of the most popular shopping areas in Bali. It is known for its high-end shops, restaurants, and bars.
There are many Seminyak Shopping Centers that offer a variety of goods and services. The most popular ones include:
1. Kuta Square
Kuta Square is the most popular shopping center in Seminyak. It is home to many high-end shops, restaurants, and bars.
2. Beachwalk Shopping Centre
Beachwalk Shopping Centre is another popular shopping center in Seminyak. It is home to many high-end shops, restaurants, and bars.
3. Sunset Road
Sunset Road is a popular shopping street in Seminyak. It is home to many high-end shops, restaurants, and bars.
4. Jalan Raya Seminyak
Jalan Raya Seminyak is a popular shopping street in Seminyak. It is home to many high-end shops, restaurants, and bars.
5. Oberoi Street
Oberoi Street is a popular shopping street in Seminyak. It is home to many high-end shops, restaurants, and bars.
4. Bali Safari and Marine Park
Bali Safari and Marine Park is a world-class zoo and animal conservation center located in Gianyar, on the Indonesian island of Bali.
The park covers an area of 60 hectares and is home to over 100 species of animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, and rhinos.
Bali Safari and Marine Park are more than just a zoo; it is also a conservation center that works to protect endangered species and improve the welfare of captive animals.
The park offers a variety of educational programs and activities for visitors, making it a great place to learn about wildlife and conservation.
5. Jimbaran Beach
Jimbaran Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Bali. It’s known for its white sand and clear blue waters. There are many things to do in Jimbaran Beach, such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and surfing.
One of the best things to do in Jimbaran Beach is to watch the sunset. The sunset here is absolutely stunning. You can also enjoy a romantic dinner on the beach.
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Jimbaran Beach, there are many hotels and resorts to choose from. The prices vary depending on the season. Jimbaran Beach is definitely a great place to visit if you’re looking for a relaxing and scenic vacation.
6. Lempuyang Temple Complex
Lempuyang Temple Complex is a collection of temples located on the island of Bali, Indonesia. The complex is made up of seven temples, each with its own unique history and purpose.
The first temple in the complex is Lempuyang Luhur Temple, also known as the “Gateway to Heaven”. This temple is considered to be one of the most important temples on the island, and it is said that those who visit will receive blessings from the gods.
The second temple is Lempuyang Kidul Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess of fertility. This temple is a popular destination for couples who are hoping to start a family.
The third temple is Lempuyang Tirta Empul Temple, which is known for its holy water. The water is said to have healing properties, and many people come to the temple to bathe in it.
The fourth temple is Lempuyang Kerta Gosa Temple, which is a court of justice. This temple was built in the 16th century, and it is still used today for legal proceedings.
The fifth temple is Lempuyang Nusa Penida Temple, which is located on the island of Nusa Penida. This temple is dedicated to the goddess of the sea, and it is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving.
The sixth temple is Lempuyang Uluwatu Temple, which is located on the cliffs of Uluwatu. This temple is dedicated to the god of the wind, and it is a popular spot for surfing.
The seventh and final temple in the complex is Lempuyang Besakih Temple, which is the largest and most important temple in Bali. This temple is dedicated to the gods of fertility, agriculture, and war.
The Lempuyang Temple Complex is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bali, and it is definitely worth a visit!
7. Waterbom Bali
Waterbom Bali is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bali. It is a water park located in Kuta, about 10 minutes drive from the Ngurah Rai International Airport.
The park has more than 10 different slides and rides, ranging from the mild to the extreme. Waterbom Bali is also home to the world’s largest inflatable water slide, the Mega Slide.
Other attractions at the park include the Lazy River, Wave Pool, and Kids Pool.
For those looking for a more adrenalin-pumping experience, there are plenty of thrill rides to choose from. The Extreme Ride is not for the faint-hearted – it features a vertical drop of almost 10 meters! Other exhilarating rides include the Super Bowl, Boomerang, and Mach 5.
Waterbom Bali is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm. Admission prices start from IDR 250,000 for adults and IDR 150,000 for children (aged 3-12).
8. Explore Pura Ulun Danu Bratan
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is one of Bali’s most sacred and important temples. The temple is dedicated to the goddess of the lake, Dewi Danu, and is an important place of worship for Balinese Hindus. The temple complex is located on the shores of Lake Bratan in the highlands of central Bali.
The temple complex is made up of several buildings, all of which are elaborately decorated with reliefs and carvings. The most notable building is the main shrine, which has a multi-tiered roof adorned with carved figures of dragons and other mythical creatures. There are also several smaller shrines and pavilions scattered around the complex.
Visitors to Pura Ulun Danu Bratan can explore the temples and grounds, and witness the daily rituals and ceremonies that take place there. There are also a number of shops and stalls selling souvenirs and local handicrafts.
9. The Sidemen Valley
The Sidemen Valley is a beautiful valley located in the center of Bali. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island. The valley is home to stunning rice terraces, traditional Balinese temples, and an array of activities that will keep you entertained throughout your stay.
Here are 10 of the best things to do in the Sidemen Valley:
1. Take a walk through the rice terraces.
2. Visit a traditional Balinese temple.
3. Watch a sunrise or sunset from Mount Batur.
4. Go on a hike through jungle paths.
5. Explore waterfalls and natural pools.
6. Meet some of the friendly locals.
7. Learn about traditional Balinese culture.
8. Visit a coffee plantation.
9. Go on a bird-watching tour.
10. Relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
10. Nusa Dua Beach
Nusa Dua Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Bali. It is known for its white-sand beaches and clear blue waters.
There are many things to do on Nusa Dua Beach, such as swimming, sunbathing, and windsurfing.
11. Sekumpul Waterfall
Sekumpul Waterfall is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bali.
It is located in the village of Sekumpul, which is about an hour’s drive from the capital city of Denpasar. Several small rivers and cascades feed the waterfall down a cliff into a large pool below.
Visitors can swim in the pool or hike to the top of the waterfall for a better view.
12. Neka Art Museum
Neka Art Museum is one of Bali’s 10 best things to do. It’s an art museum that was founded in 1976 by Wayan Neka. The museum showcases traditional and contemporary Balinese art, including paintings, woodcarvings, and textiles.
The museum is located in Ubud, which is the cultural center of Bali. Ubud has many other art museums and galleries, but Neka Art Museum is the most comprehensive and well-respected.
Neka Art Museum is a great place to learn about Balinese culture and see some of the island’s best artwork.
The museum also has a beautiful garden with sculptures and a café. If you’re interested in art or history, Neka Art Museum is a must-visit.
13. Museum Gedong Kirtya
Museum Gedong Kirtya is a museum that houses one of the world’s oldest manuscripts, the Lontar Palm leaf manuscript.
The museum is also home to Balinese musical instruments, weapons, and other artifacts.
Visitors can learn about the history and culture of Bali at this museum.
14. Luhur Uluwatu Temple
Luhur Uluwatu Temple is one of Bali’s most important temples. It’s located on the island’s southwestern tip, perched atop a cliff with stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
Visitors can explore the temple complex, which includes several shrines and courtyards, and watch traditional Balinese dance performances.
There are also a number of restaurants and cafes in the area, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a meal or refreshing drink while taking in the incredible views.
If you’re looking for an activity-filled day, Luhur Uluwatu Temple is definitely one of the best things to do in Bali.
15. The Yoga Barn
The Yoga Barn is a yoga studio and retreat center located in Ubud, Bali. The center offers a variety of yoga classes, workshops, and retreats, as well as other wellness services.
The studio has since become one of the most popular yoga studios on the island, with over 60 classes per week and a variety of retreats and workshops offered each month.
The Yoga Barn is more than just a place to practice yoga. It is also a community center that offers a variety of events and programs that promote health and wellbeing. These include weekly meditation classes, sound healing sessions, ayurvedic treatments, and more.
The Yoga Barn is a beautiful and peaceful place to relax, rejuvenate, and connect with yourself and others. If you are looking for a place to unwind and find some inner peace, the Yoga Barn is definitely worth a visit.
Thoughts and Conclusion
By now, you’ve probably realized that there are an endless amount of things to do in Bali.
There is something for everyone in this Indonesian paradise, from exploring temples and hiking volcanoes to relaxing on the beach and enjoying the nightlife.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Bali today!
You can also check out how to travel around Bali conveniently.
