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Let me preface this by saying: writing this text has been a ache within the rear finish. You’d suppose developing with a listing of Bali points of interest could be simple. I imply, how exhausting may or not it’s to checklist down temples, seashores, and waterfalls, proper? Fallacious. The issue isn’t discovering issues to do in Bali. It’s that there’s lots to do right here: numerous points of interest that may be organized into excursions in many alternative methods.
Though it’s potential to succeed in a few of the vacationer spots DIY-style, probably the most ordinary approach is by happening a tour. You possibly can be part of a bunch tour with a hard and fast itinerary. Or you may prepare a non-public tour so you may have management of your time and stops. So except for their location, I organized this checklist by following how operators divide and bundle these points of interest into excursions. I will even be sharing with you the hyperlinks to the place we booked our excursions. Hopefully, it’s extra useful this manner.
WAIT, WAIT, WAIT! In case your are touring quickly and nonetheless on the starting stage, it’s also possible to go to our The Poor Traveler Masterlist. Right here, we compiled journey necessities, together with immigration necessities and all our really useful resorts and excursions. Simply go to this web page: TPT Masterlist. We now have a compilation for locations all over the world.
CHARTERING A PRIVATE RIDE
However if you’d like even extra flexibility, you may drive a rental automotive or motorbike. However should you don’t wish to drive like us, you may constitution a automotive with a driver. We did simply that on different days, simply so we may attempt it and canopy it on this weblog. Listed below are the charges we gathered.
CAR FOR 1-3 PAX
- Length: 6 Hours
Fee: IDR 482,000 (USD 29, P1700)
Word: With Driver - Length: 10 Hours
Fee: IDR 623,000 (USD 37, P2200)
Word: With Driver
CAR FOR 1-5 PAX
- Length: 6 Hours
Fee: IDR 517,000 (USD 31, P1825)
Word: With Driver - Length: 10 Hours
Fee: IDR 694,000 (USD 41.50, P2450)
Word: With Driver
There are additionally choices for 12 hours, and teams of 6, 10, 14, 24, 32. You possibly can test the charges right here:
Word that the majority pre-arranged excursions already cowl the doorway charges. However should you’ll pull a DIY or constitution a non-public trip, you’ll need to pay them your self individually.
✅ When you’re extra snug utilizing Klook providers to your excursions and tickets, please use our promo code THEPOORTRAVELERKLOOK for as much as P300 OFF or TPTKLOOK5 for as much as P500 OFF. These codes would possibly change sooner or later, so finest to simply go to thepoortraveler.internet/klook to redeem up to date low cost codes!
With out additional ado, let’s begin with my favourite tour.
NORTH BALI
Northern Bali is a far cry from the busy and crowded seaside areas within the south. It’s quieter and greener, but in addition filled with iconic landmarks and pure magnificence. Give your self a full day to get pleasure from every little thing with out dashing.
Handara Gate
Our first cease was Handara Gate, which stands on the entrance of the Handara Golf & Resort. However the gate shortly grew to become a images hotspot for vacationers, providing a much less hectic and fewer crowded different to the Gate of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple. It seems to be related however with out the Mt. Agung backdrop.
Whereas the Gate of Heaven can have you ever ready for hours, right here at Handara Gate, you may have a photograph taken in round an hour should you come early. After we visited, we solely waited for 45 minutes for our flip. However word that there’s nothing else to do right here apart from taking pictures.
Ulun Danu Temple
Ulun Danu Temple was in-built 1633 to honor Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, and sits on the shores of Lake Beratan. The temple’s multi-tiered meru towers are iconic. Guests can discover the temple grounds, watch native ceremonies, and study its cultural significance in Balinese water rituals.
Banyumala Twin Falls
Banyumala Twin Falls is tucked within the jungle. From the car parking zone, you may stroll or constitution a motorbike to get to the beginning of the path. Then, a brief trek alongside stone steps down the steep hillside will lead you to the bottom, the place you may be greeted by the falls.
The dual streams cascade right into a pure pool, and the water is chilly, good for a fast dip. It’s one among Bali’s quieter waterfalls, making it supreme if you wish to keep away from giant crowds and benefit from the forest environment.
Wanagiri Hidden Hill
Wanagiri Hidden Hill, additionally referred to as Wanagiri Heaven, overlooks Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan. It’s well-known for its swings, hen’s nests, and picture platforms. The spot grew to become fashionable for vacationers, due to Instagram. Going early helps beat the group and allows you to benefit from the surroundings with out ready to your activate the swings.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage website and canopy lots of of hectares with fastidiously maintained paddies. The terraces use the standard subak irrigation system, which has been practiced in Bali for hundreds of years. Strolling alongside the paths provides you a more in-depth have a look at the farmers at work and loads of alternatives to understand the size and design of the panorama.
North Bali Excursions
As talked about earlier, that is my favourite Bali Tour as a result of I appreciated all 5 stops. We booked our tour on Klook. You’ll discover a number of operators providing this tour, however particularly, we booked this North Bali Instagram Tour:
✅ BOOK NORTH BALI INSTAGRAM TOUR HERE!
This web page has a number of choices, so be sure to select NORTH BALI. It is a personal tour, which means it was simply Vins and me sharing the automotive. However don’t fear, even personal excursions in Bali aren’t costly, in comparison with different locations. The distinction between a non-public tour and a join-in tour per particular person isn’t a lot.
However should you’re on a funds and you actually wish to be part of a bunch tour with different vacationers, I discovered this on Klook, too. However we haven’t booked this one. Simply presenting another choice.
✅ BOOK NORTH BALI INSTAGRAM TOUR HERE!
CENTRAL BALI
Central Bali encompasses a number of regencies, however most of the beloved points of interest within the area are within the northern half of Badung and Gianyar Regencies. And at its coronary heart lies Ubud, mentioned to be the cultural core of Bali.
There’s lots to see and do in Central Bali, so that you’ll discover numerous iterations of this tour, often together with 4 to 5 websites, however some gadgets change. Listed below are a few of the most ordinary stops:
Sacred Monkey Forest
The Sacred Monkey Forest is house to over 600 long-tailed macaques and three principal temples that date again lots of of years. Strolling by means of the shaded paths lined with historic statues and mossy carvings, you get a way of how these temples have been a part of native life for generations. The monkeys roam freely, stealing snacks and inspecting guests’ luggage, so maintain on to your belongings.
Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Tegalalang Terraces are a traditional instance of the subak irrigation system that has formed Balinese agriculture for hundreds of years. The terraces rise in neat steps alongside the hillsides, with small paths that allow you to stroll among the many paddies. Many farmers nonetheless work right here, planting and harvesting rice utilizing conventional strategies, which makes it simple to understand the size and energy behind the beautiful surroundings.
Entry right here often begins at properties that provide large swings and plenty of different picture alternatives. You’ll need to pay for these, however you may completely skip them should you don’t wish to.
Tirta Empul
Tirta Empul Temple, in-built 926 AD, is known for its holy spring the place locals and guests take part in ritual purification. You possibly can take part, stepping from fountain to fountain as water flows over every particular person. Or you may simply admire from a distance or stroll across the temple complicated, composed of swimming pools, fountains, and shrines devoted to Vishnu. It’s an interesting glimpse into Bali’s religious traditions.
Ulu Petanu Falls
There are two principal Central Bali Excursions out there on Klook, and so they differ primarily within the final cease. One ends the tour at Ulu Petanu Falls. It is a lesser-known waterfall. The trek to succeed in it’s quick however entails some uneven terrain and stepping stones over streams. As soon as there, the water crashes into a large pool surrounded by rocks and greenery.
✅ BOOK UBUD BALI INSTAGRAM TOUR HERE!
Penglipuran Village
The opposite tour’s finale is at Penglipuran Village. It has preserved conventional Balinese structure and customs for hundreds of years, making it among the finest examples of cultural heritage on the island. The village streets are lined with bamboo fences and stone pathways, and households keep their houses based on outdated guidelines. Visiting right here gives a glimpse of day by day life in a group that takes satisfaction in protecting its traditions intact whereas welcoming curious vacationers.
✅ BOOK UBUD w/ PENGLIPURAN VILLAGE HERE!
Whichever of the 2 choices you select, be sure to select CENTRAL BALI within the choices. Different points of interest in Central Bali which might be typically not included in excursions from Ubud are:
Blangsinga Bridge
Blangsinga Glass Bridge is a brief however thrilling walkway suspended over the Blangsinga River, and your complete flooring is obvious, so that you see every little thing beneath your ft whether or not you wish to or not. It’s a more moderen attraction within the space, constructed to present guests a fast adrenaline rush with out committing to a full-on hike or excessive sport.
The bridge sways somewhat when folks stroll throughout, and crashing sound results play once you step on sure components, including to the enjoyable. The encircling jungle views additionally make the entire crossing really feel like a mini journey proper in the course of Gianyar.
Tegenungan Waterfall
Tegenungan Waterfall is among the most simply accessible waterfalls in Bali, and it’s been attracting guests for many years. However if you wish to get near the cascade, you’ll nonetheless must trek down the steps (which suggests you’ll be climbing again up later).
The water drops into a big pool, good for a fast swim. The encircling forest is dense and inexperienced, and the roar of the water drowns out the chatter from the crowds above.
Gianyar Evening Market
Gianyar Evening Market is the right place to attempt native Balinese road meals in a vigorous setting. Stalls promote every little thing from satay and fried snacks to desserts like klepon. Consuming right here is informal, enjoyable, and cheap, and it’s a good way to expertise native flavors after a day of sightseeing.
Taman Ayun Temple
A UNESCO World Heritage Website, Taman Ayun Temple was in-built 1634 by the Mengwi Kingdom and is surrounded by a large moat and well-maintained gardens. Its multi-tiered meru towers and stone carvings are spectacular examples of Balinese temple structure. Strolling alongside the paths, you may see how the temple was designed as each a religious heart and a royal monument.
Sadly, we failed to go to this temple as a result of we ran out of time. However that is among the causes we wish to return!
EAST BALI
The drive to East Bali takes some time. The farther you go, the quieter it will get. It’s the a part of Bali that feels deeply rooted in its previous, the place each cease comes with a narrative. The points of interest listed below are far aside, however the preferred is unquestionably Lempuyang Temple.
Goa Raja Waterfall
Goa Raja Waterfall is a kind of locations you received’t discover plastered throughout postcards, which makes it even higher. The title means “King’s Cave,” and true to that, it’s tucked deep inside a forest close to Besakih. The path isn’t too lengthy, nevertheless it isn’t quick, both. When you hear the water, you’re shut.
The waterfall bursts out of a cave, echoing in opposition to mossy rocks whereas daylight filters by means of from above. Locals say the cave is related spiritually to Pura Besakih, Bali’s Mom Temple, only a few kilometers away. Whether or not or not you imagine that, there’s one thing particular about standing there, half-soaked, surrounded by nothing however water and stone.
However to be sincere, Goa Raja wasn’t even in our unique itinerary.
Tukad Cepung Falls
We had been supposed to go to Tukad Cepung as a substitute, however for some cause, it was closed on the time. Our information then proposed to simply go to Goa Raja. However each waterfalls are identified for his or her curtains that cascade alongside a stream of daylight. You can too get near it.
Tirta Gangga
Tirta Gangga was constructed within the Forties by the final King of Karangasem. The title means “holy water of the Ganges,” and even right now, locals nonetheless deal with it as a sacred website. The place is a maze of ponds, fountains, and guardian statues.
One pond with stepping stones is especially fashionable amongst vacationers {that a} lengthy line varieties round it. We weren’t within the pictures, although, so we merely walked across the maze of ponds and admired the fountains and guardian statues. However just for a short time. The solar was scorching that day, so we discovered a shady spot subsequent to a pond and sat for the remainder of our keep.
Lempuyang Temple
Lempuyang Temple, one among Bali’s oldest and most sacred temples, is claimed to this point again over a thousand years. Most guests come for the well-known “Gate of Heaven,” the wildly Instagram-famous temple gates that completely body Mount Agung within the background. I’m certain you’ve seen the picture. It’s all over the place! The reflection impact is only a mirror trick, however that didn’t cease the crowds from, nicely, crowding.
However right here’s the factor: If you wish to keep away from falling in line for hours otherwise you’re after one of the best situations, you’ll need to get up actually early, hours earlier than daybreak. You see, this temple is situated near the easternmost tip of the island, two to 3 hours away from Kuta or Seminyak, and even Ubud, relying on the site visitors state of affairs.
Once you arrive on the car parking zone, you’ll want to attend and board a shuttle that may carry you to the doorway. Right here, you’ll be given a queue quantity. You’ll additionally must put on a sarong and hike up a bit to the precise temple.
Keep in mind that you’ve little or no management over your time. Because you’re queueing, it is going to be exhausting to foretell the precise time you may be referred to as for the pictures. Mt. Agung won’t be seen when it’s your flip, and there’s nothing you are able to do about it.
There isn’t any bodily queue. You possibly can spend the wait time exploring the temple, though once we visited, most components had been closed as they had been getting ready for a pageant the following day. There are different picture spots too.
When it’s lastly your flip, the picture session will occur shortly. In a short time. Most likely only a minute or two. It’s free, however you’re anticipated to make a donation.
Lempuyang Temple is a historic and essential spiritual and cultural website. When you’re visiting since you like temples and also you respect historic websites, go for it. When you’re right here for a photograph, I don’t suppose the drive and the lengthy wait are price it. I imply, it’s a terrific shot, however I don’t suppose I might look ahead to hours once more only for pics. I haven’t even posted my pictures on-line, haha. Bali has different extra picturesque spots. However that’s simply my private opinion.
As a result of our teammates went right here at daybreak, Vins and I opted for a sundown go to. So this was really our LAST cease.
Our timing wasn’t good, and the climate didn’t cooperate. After ready for hours, when it was lastly our flip for the picture, it was so overcast that Mount Agung hid behind the clouds, and so did the solar. We didn’t get to see the sundown in any respect. However that’s not likely the fault of the tour operator. It’s simply that climate and wait instances are a giant issue right here, and operators haven’t any management over them.
If you need the sundown tour, that is the precise tour that we booked on Klook:
✅ BOOK LEMPUYANG SUNSET TOUR HERE!
However should you desire the dawn tour, guide this as a substitute:
✅ BOOK LEMPUYANG SUNRISE TOUR HERE!
Handle: Lempuyang Temple, Purwa Ayu Village, Abang District, Karangasem, Bali, Indonesia
Entrance Price: IDR 70,000
Shuttle Fare: IDR 50,000
Taman Ujung Water Palace
Taman Ujung was constructed within the early twentieth century by the King of Karangasem and combines open ponds, bridges, and conventional Balinese structure. Strolling throughout the stone pathways over the water, you may get pleasure from fountains, pavilions, and statues whereas taking in views of the hills and sky with out bumping into anybody.
Different excursions additionally make a cease at Taman Ujung Water Palace, however this wasn’t a part of our itinerary.
SOUTH BALI
Southern Bali is the a part of the island that the majority vacationers know, with well-known seashores, iconic temples, and cultural points of interest all packed right into a small space. Visitors could be chaotic, however the views, sunsets, and picture ops make it definitely worth the drive.
Most excursions have three to 4 of the next points of interest of their itineraries. It’s only a matter of choosing the proper mixture for you.
Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot is one among Bali’s most well-known sea temples, perched on a rock formation simply off the coast. Constructed within the sixteenth century, it’s nonetheless an lively website for worship, and the sundown views draw crowds each night. The waves crash in opposition to the rocks beneath, making it one of the crucial photographed spots on the island.
Padang Padang Seaside
Padang Padang Seaside grew to become well-known after a sure Hollywood film was filmed right here, nevertheless it’s nonetheless price visiting for its small cove, white sand, and clear water. The trail down entails stairs carved into the rocks, which provides a little bit of journey earlier than you hit the seaside. It’s fashionable with surfers and sunbathers, so count on some firm throughout peak hours.
Uluwatu Temple & Kecak Fireplace Dance
Uluwatu Temple sits on a cliff about 70 meters above the Indian Ocean and is over 1,000 years outdated. Watching the sundown whereas the Kecak Fireplace Dance efficiency unfolds beneath is unforgettable. Monkeys roam the temple grounds, so regulate your belongings, and don’t be stunned if one decides your sun shades are honest recreation.
Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fireplace Dance are often the final two stops in South Excursions. However the different two stops can change.
✅ BOOK TANAH LOT + PADANG PADANG + ULUWATU TOUR HERE!
Different websites that would change Tanah Lot and Padang Padang Seaside are:
Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
Garuda Wisnu Kencana is house to one of many tallest statues on this planet, depicting Vishnu driving the legendary hen Garuda. The park consists of exhibition halls, efficiency phases, and huge open areas to discover. It’s not solely a terrific place for pictures but in addition for studying about Hindu mythology and Balinese tradition.
Melasti Seaside
Melasti Seaside is a cliffside seaside with clear water and dramatic rock formations. It’s much less crowded than Padang Padang, making it simpler to stroll alongside the shore or take pictures. The drive all the way down to the seaside entails steep steps, however the views from the highest alone are definitely worth the effort.
Nusa Dua Seaside
Nusa Dua Seaside is lined with luxurious resorts however nonetheless has a public space the place guests can loosen up on tender sand or swim in calm waters. It’s good for households or anybody searching for a low-key seaside day. The promenade alongside the seaside can also be nice for a leisurely stroll with a view of the Indian Ocean.
When you desire this tour, guide this as a substitute:
✅ BOOK GWK + MELASTI BEACH + ULUWATU TOUR HERE!
KUTA, LEGIAN & SEMINYAK
Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak are all within the southern half of Badung Regency. This space is the epicenter of tourism actions in Bali. If you need crowds, vitality, and choices for actually every little thing, Kuta, Seminyak, and even Legian ship. From lengthy sandy seashores to countless eating places and nightlife, this space is all the time buzzing. No surprise these are the busiest components of the island.
Kuta/Legian/Seminyak Seaside
Kuta Seaside, Legian Seaside, and Seminyak Seaside are literally components of the identical stretch of sandy shore! It’s lined with numerous institutions, dotted with surf faculties, and scribbled by a relentless stream of individuals. Legian sits proper subsequent to Kuta and is barely calmer however nonetheless vigorous. Seminyak Seaside is extra upscale, lined with boutique resorts and seaside golf equipment, and fashionable for watching sunsets over the Indian Ocean. You possibly can simply discover this seaside by yourself. No must guide a tour.
Seminyak Meals Tour
Seminyak has grow to be a foodie hotspot in Bali, providing every little thing from conventional warungs (small, family-run native eateries) to high-end eating places. A meals tour permits you to pattern Balinese staples like babi guling, sate lilit, and contemporary seafood whereas discovering tucked-away cafés. You’ll depart stuffed, somewhat sweaty from strolling, and absolutely satisfied that Balinese meals deserves extra credit score than it will get.
Bali Nightlife
Nightlife in Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak ranges from informal seaside bars to very large golf equipment with worldwide DJs. Kuta has the traditional occasion scene with low cost drinks and reside music. Seminyak leans extra towards upscale lounges and cocktail bars. Both approach, it’s simple to discover a place to bounce, seize a drink, or simply people-watch till your ft complain.
Seminyak additionally has a vibrant homosexual scene. A piece of Jalan Camplung Tanduk Street in Seminyak is the unofficial homosexual strip, with homosexual bars, drag exhibits, and LGBTQIA+-friendly seaside bars.
NUSA PENIDA
Nusa Penida is a separate island, accessible solely by quick boat or ferry from Bali. It’s tough, uncooked, and price each bump on the highway. The island is much less developed than mainland Bali, which suggests roads could be tough, however the surroundings and picture alternatives are unimaginable.
Kelingking Seaside
Kelingking Seaside is known for its T-Rex-shaped cliff, and sure, it seems to be precisely like the images. The perspective is excessive above the ocean, and a hike all the way down to the sand is steep and difficult, however doable when you have sturdy sneakers. From the highest, the turquoise water and white sand beneath make an effort really feel rewarding, even when your legs are shaking.
Angel’s Billabong
Angel’s Billabong is a pure infinity pool carved into the cliffs the place waves crash into the rocks beneath. The water right here is obvious and calm at low tide, good for dipping your ft or taking pictures. Timing is essential as a result of excessive tide could be harmful, however when it’s proper, it’s an uncommon and beautiful spot.
Damaged Seaside
Damaged Seaside, or Pasih Uug, has a large pure arch that lets ocean water move right into a round cove. The present is powerful, so swimming shouldn’t be suggested, however strolling alongside the cliff provides dramatic views of waves crashing by means of the arch. It’s a fast cease for pictures, however one which exhibits off the uncooked energy and great thing about the island.
Crystal Seaside
Crystal Seaside is one among Nusa Penida’s calmer seashores, with golden sand and clear water that’s good for swimming or browsing. The trail down is steep however manageable, and the waves are often gentler than the west coast spots. It’s a pleasant technique to finish the day after cliff-hopping and pool-exploring, giving your legs an opportunity to loosen up within the sand.
Some excursions change Crystal Seaside with one other seaside.
✅ BOOK NUSA PENIDA FULL DAY TOUR HERE!
DENPASAR
We’re not going to wrap up this text with out dabbling in Bali’s capital — Denpasar. It typically will get overshadowed by Ubud and the southern seashores, nevertheless it’s additionally stuffed with tradition, historical past, and a few of the finest eats on the island. A day right here could be a mixture of exploring conventional websites, wandering public seashores, and sampling meals from road distributors to eating places. It is usually much less touristy than Kuta or Seminyak.
Puri Agung Jro Kuta
Puri Agung Jro Kuta is a conventional Balinese palace within the coronary heart of Denpasar. It dates again centuries and was as soon as house to the royal household of Kuta. Guests can discover the gates, courtyards, and complex carvings whereas studying in regards to the historical past of the native monarchy.
Sanur
Sanur is a quieter seaside space with a protracted public stretch good for strolling or watching the dawn. Alongside the beachfront, there are many native meals stalls, cafés, and eating places serving contemporary seafood, Nasi Campur, and different Balinese favorites. It’s simple to spend just a few hours right here combining a stroll alongside the sand with an off-the-cuff meals crawl.
Meals Tour
Denpasar is good for a food-focused day due to its selection. Avenue stalls promote satay, babi guling, and fried snacks, whereas eating places provide trendy takes on Balinese and Indonesian dishes. Sampling a mixture of flavors is straightforward, and each cease comes with an opportunity to talk with locals and see how conventional cooking is completed.
We booked our tour on Viator:
✅ BOOK DENPASAR FOOD TOUR HERE!
We’ll be making a separate article, whereby we’ll dive into Bali’s meals scene and share with you one of the best dishes we tried within the island.
We’re speaking noodles, babi guling, satay, desserts, and extra! We’ll be hitting up every little thing from road stalls to fancy eating places, making an attempt all of the native favorites and hidden gems!
The place to Keep in Bali
Whereas we’ve got a separate article going deep into the finest technique for selecting your Bali lodging, we’ve additionally rounded up a few of the finest locations to remain beneath to your quick access.
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Prime Resorts in Ubud
Prime Resorts in Kuta
Prime Resorts in Seminyak
Seek for extra Bali Resorts Right here!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is optionally available, however we extremely advocate this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey could be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it provides us peace of thoughts in case of sudden delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, take into account PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You possibly can GET IT HERE. Don’t overlook to make use of WORTHIT for a particular reasonably priced price.
Updates Log
2025 11 23 – First uploaded
Edited by: Asta Alvarez
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