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Bali offers many delights for those on the lookout for beachside resorts as well as holiday destinations that are off the beaten track. Tourists flock to this Indonesian island in the hope of a fabulous vacation and they get much more than just tans and splashy fun at the beaches. Bali has so much cultural and historical significance that you will truly be wonderstruck at the sights and sounds that you will soak here. The amazing number of things to do in Bali will ensure that you will not have even a moment of boredom, although boredom in a tropical paradise just isn’t possible.
From beachside views to temple visits, Bali Tourism offers a number of activities that will keep you busy during your stay here and will have you coming back for more. Here’s a list of some of the fun things to do in Bali.
When the choices are so overwhelmingly and seemingly infinite, it becomes difficult to decide what you must include in your Bali sightseeing plan. Beaches, temples, rice fields, cultural stops, water parks – there’s so much to see that you might have to decide beforehand, what are the must see places in Bali for you.
Bali is unique in many ways. Straddling modernity with its cultural traditions, it has emerged as a bridge between both worlds. Religious offerings, ceremonies and traditions are held sacred here and it would be a good idea to keep these in mind. At the same time, Bali’s beach resorts and spas will pamper you and keep you afloat in endorphins. Sightseeing has been elevated into an art here, what with coordinated day trips and excursions that show you all the important spots. You can also explore Bali on your own if you feel like it. Here’s a list of some of the top Bali sightseeing spots that should help you whether you take a tour or go exploring on your own.
A Bali sightseeing list that doesn’t begin with beaches, probably doesn’t exist. The beaches are legendary, crowded at all times, with tourists eager to soak up the sun or sip cocktails as they watch the sun go down. Surfers can also be found here, aiming to ride that perfect wave. There are water activities as well such as scuba diving and snorkelling, so be prepared to get tanned and wet and feel fabulous at all times. Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Ubud, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua – take your pick of the beaches you want to visit! There are more! Sun, sand and surf. It can’t get better than this.
Imagine your bragging rights when you proclaim to your friends back home that you climbed a volcano and lived to tell the tale! Bali’s Kintamani volcano, also known as Mount Batur, is part of a proper trek. Many people consider Mount Batur to be one of the must see places in Bali. As a popular climbing spot, it’s a wonderful place to observe the sunrise on early morning treks. Mount Batur also surrounds a large caldera lake, also known as Batur. The nearby village of Toya Bungkah is popular for their hot mineral springs which are known to be curative and restorative. Do remember that Mount Batur is an active volcano, so please check its volcanic activity alert levels before you head out on a trek here.
Of the many things to see in Bali, the rice terraces are stunning showstoppers. You probably would never expect something as a rice crop to look so amazing and picturesque, but Bali’s rice terraces found in Ubud are renowned the world over. The irrigation system responsible for this verdant brilliance is known as subak, a traditional Balinese system. The photo opportunities here are splendid and out of this world. Vistas of green as far as the eye can see will leave you feeling awed. The Tegallalang Rice Terraces can be reached by driving half an hour north of Ubud. There are several souvenir shops along the way as well and a visit to Pakudui village with its woodwork, carvings and sculptures will complete your Bali sightseeing trip.
Some of the popular things to see in Bali are its temples. Bali is full of temples and shrines that are peaceful and isolated. Some of them have striking locations like Tanah Lot or Uluwatu but irrespective of that, they are all unique because of the sculptures and art work inside them. Some of the temples are more famous than others, such as Goa Gajah or Besakih. Most of the temples in Bali are Hindu temples but there are a few Chinese ones as well such as Ling Gwan Kiong in Buleleng. During festivals and other temple events, the temples convert into places of great activity. There are traditional dance performances as well as other events that attract crowds. Bali’s temples are unique in many ways. Some face the mountains, some face the seas, and some look towards sunrise. Whichever way they face, one thing is for sure. The sense of spirituality is real and true.
One of the really fun things to do in Bali would be to go on a seawalker tour. Those without any experience of diving or even swimming can join in it. The sea walks last for half an hour and are safe as participants have a constant flow of air to breathe underwater. Going on a sea walk can be lifechanging as not many would have interacted with marine life at such close quarters. Colourful tropical fish, stunning reef formations and so much more awaits those who go on the seawalker tour.
There are several waterfalls in Bali and each is unique and incomparable in its own way. Here, water gurgles down and nature beckons you as you absorb the breathtaking scenery all around you. In North Bali, near Singaraja, there are the Aling Aling waterfalls. To reach Banyumala falls, you need to trek past the forest and valleys but it’s certainly worth it. Blahmantung waterfalls has a steep drop of more than 100metres and can get quite spectacular during the rainy season. One of the most popular waterfalls would be Gitgit which is quite enchanting as it falls from 40 metres into a rocky pool below.
Bali offers so much more than just lazing by the beach options. With such an eclectic list to choose from, it’s no wonder that people keep coming back here for more. Do remember to check the SOTC website so you don’t miss out on exciting offers and deals on Bali packages for your trip to Bali.
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Some of the famous temples to visit in Bali would be Tanah Lot, Uluwatu and Goa Gajah. Visiting the temples is not just a spiritual experience but a calming one as well. Many people find this one of the top things to do in Bali. Apart from their incredible locations that make photographing them such a dream, the temples are often less crowded as not many people think of visiting them.
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Jatiluwih rice terraces are both exotic and stunning at the same time. They remain fresh and green thanks to the traditional ‘subak’ system of water management which goes back to the 9th century. Lush green views that will fill your heart with wonder can be found here. There are several restaurants that offer local and international cuisine, and diners can look out over the terraces as they eat. Surely one of the best things to do in Bali!
A little further from Ubud is the Pura Tirta Empul (Temple of the Holy Water) which is also known as a holy spring. The waters from this sacred spring are known to have healing properties. Many Balinese still offer prayers and bathe in the holy water here. Join them as you tick off another exciting item from your list of things to do in Bali.
A glimpse of eternity is what a sunset promises you. When you’re surrounded by a crowd, intent on having fun, a sunset can be enjoyed with a sundowner from a quiet beachside lounge or restaurant. Sip on a lychee cocktail as you watch the sun set fire to the sea. This is surely one of the best things you can do in Havelock.
Cooking is not a chore when you are here. In fact, signing up for a cooking class is one of the fun things to do in Bali. There are several cooking schools here which will teach you to make delicious steamed duck or satay. Most classes begin with a trip to the local market where you get to choose the fresh ingredients. The Sokasi Balinese cooking school is probably one of the most beautiful cooking schools in Bali. Located among the lush green highlands, the open air school offers you an unforgettable experience, ensuring that the nasi goreng you eat here will be the best you’ve ever tasted.
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If you’ve always wanted to learn how to surf, you could probably learn it here in Bali. Bali is known for some really great breaks such as Uluwatu and Padang Padang but Canggu has three breaks whose waves can suit everyone. Surfing is one of the really fun things to in Bali, be it for beginners or those with intermediate experience. It’s interesting to note that some serious surfers on Bali’s east coast prefer to keep their favourite surf spots secret. But if you go and out explore a bit, you can definitely come across them.
Shopping in Bali can get interesting when you visit some of the many art markets which sell handicrafts and artwork by local craftsmen. What’s amazing about these markets is that they sell everything at bargain prices. Typically, the art markets are arranged in a semi-open air complex while some are inside buildings. If you are serious about buying something here, then you need to hone your bargaining skills. But even if you don’t really want to buy anything, you will surely learn quite a bit about the local art and craft scene. The most famous one is Ubud Art Market and it is one of Ubud’s landmarks. Here, you can find several handmade items such as bags, shirts, silk scarves, baskets and other charming things. The Sukawati Art Market in Ubud is known as the mother of art markets where you can find paintings and sculptures while the Guwang Art Market has several art shops and mini galleries.
Irrespective of what you’re looking for, you will surely come back to your hotel laden with some purchase or the other because shopping in Bali is fun and doesn’t cost too much. Most people don’t consider Bali as a shopping destination but buying something local and handmade is like taking back a part of Bali with you. Do remember to check the SOTC website for some great offers and deals on Bali tour packages
Shopping in Bali doesn’t always have to be souvenirs and cheap knockoffs. There’s a good chance you will find some excellent designer items for your home as well. From ceramic ware to upholstery and furniture, you could find yourself changing not just your look or your wardrobe but the wardrobe itself! There are several modern as well as classical pieces that you can find here. Themes can include batik and tropical and you’ll be surprised at the number of choices there are. Kamala Home Boutique in Ubud has classy furniture that is locally made and sourced while Hobo Bali in Seminyak will allow your bohemian side to exclaim in delight. You might pick up a coffee table here or some funky wall décor too. Carga Bali in Seminyak has a tropical décor which might inspire you to visit even if you don’t plan to buy. It’s an excellent spot to buy gifts such as scented candles or rattan chairs for yourself. When it comes to furniture and homeware, these are certainly some of the renowned shopping places in Bali.
Trendy and luxurious shopping malls can be found in every resort. These often stock the latest in designer brands and are known for their relaxed atmosphere. Along with departmental stores and gift shops, they also have restaurants where you can settle down for a tasty bite if you’re tired from all the shopping. Some of the famous malls would include Kuta Beachwalk which has been designed very differently from regular malls. Apart from its unique design, boutique and designer shops, it’s also known for its splendid views of Kuta beach. Some of the other notable malls that have become renowned shopping hubs include The Village in Seminyak, Lippo Mall in Kuta, Park 23 in Tuban and Mal Bali Galeria in Kuta.
Shopping enthusiasts can rejoice as there are plenty of night markets in Phuket. After all, shopping is one of the great things to do in Phuket. From cheap souvenirs to eye catching knickknacks, the night markets offer a variety of wares. If you’re not in the mood to buy anything, then sample some of the excellent food in the many street food stalls present there or simply snack on one of the many meat-on-a-stick options. Famous night markets in Phuket include Chillva Market, Phuket Weekend Market, Phuket Indy Market and Malin Plaza which can be found in Patong.
