Holidays in Bali: top 22 things to do on the island

Swimming in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and relaxing on the beach is just a small fraction of what to experience in Bali. What to include in the "must have" program to rest was filled with unforgettable impressions?

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Try catching a wave.

Don't miss the opportunity to learn to surf in Bali, renowned for its world-class waves. The island offers numerous spots suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. Head to Kuta Beach to learn the basics of surfing on gentle waves, or test your skills at the famous Uluwatu and Padang Padang spots, where powerful waves and unforgettable experiences await.

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Take a photo at Peace Gate.

Feel yourself on top of the world in Pura Lempuyang, known as the Gateway to Paradise. This temple not only offers stunning views from a thousand steps, but is also considered one of the holiest places in Bali. On a clear day from here you can see the majestic peak of Mount Agung, perfectly framed by the gates of the temple. And take a famous photo when the temple is reflected in the transparent water surface. The pictures are taken here, although there is no water near the temple.

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Climb Mount Batur.

How not to look at Bali from a bird's eye view! Schedule time in your schedule between beaches and cocktails, and climb to the top of Mount Batur to meet the dawn. This easy climb will only take two to three hours and you will be rewarded with stunning views of the volcano, which is part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network.

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Meet the Ubud monkeys

A dense tropical forest, spreading over 12 hectares in Ubud, is home to long-tailed macaques, considered sacred in Balinese culture. The Monkey Forest is one of the most popular destinations for tourists hoping to encounter these charming creatures. Be careful, as the monkeys are not above snatching your belongings. The forest is also home to ancient temples and sacred springs! It is an important cultural and spiritual center of Bali, where various ceremonies and rituals are held.

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Watch traditional Bali dances

In the temple of Luhur Uluwatu you can see the famous dance Kechak (Kecak), performed by more than a hundred men in a circle around the campfire. This mesmerizing dance, accompanied by rhythmic exclamations of “chak”, tells a story from the Ramayana epic and creates a mystical atmosphere.

In the Ubud Palace you can enjoy the grace and grace of the Legong dance, performed by three girls in bright costumes. This dance, full of complex movements and expressive gestures, tells about love, betrayal and revenge.

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Take a walk around the islands

Indonesia is more than 17 thousand islands with lush jungles, volcanoes, exotic wildlife and unique places for diving. Don’t miss out on a trip to the islands around Bali. Just a 40-minute drive from the mainland are Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Cheningan and Nusa Penida. The latter is particularly impressive for its pristine landscapes reminiscent of Jurassic Park. Visit the famous Kelingking Beach, Angel's Billabong natural infinity pool and snorkell to swim with mantas.

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Break out at a party at Seminyak

Explore the fashion district of Seminyak where luxury restaurants, spa centers, beach bars and villas await you. Shoppers will be able to enjoy shopping in the best boutiques of Seminyak. But the main thing that the district is famous for is the bright parties, because the local clubs invite the best DJs and musicians of the world!

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Practice Yoga in Paradise

Sign up for a yoga class at one of the many studios with stunning views of the jungle, rice fields or ocean. In Bali you will find many experienced teachers who will help you improve your practice and achieve harmony of body and soul. Imagine performing asanas against the backdrop of lush jungles, endless rice fields or azure ocean.

Among the most popular places for yoga with stunning views are The Yoga Barn in Ubud, with its outdoor areas surrounded by tropical greenery, Power of Now Oasis in Sanur, overlooking the ocean, and Fivelements Retreat, where classes are held on wooden platforms above the river.

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Tour of the ancient temples of Bali

Visit traditional Bali temples such as Tanah Lot, a sea temple on cliffs overlooking the ocean that is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset. Don't miss Oolong Dana Beratan, a floating temple in the middle of the lake, and the Besakih temple soaring in the sky.

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Try the local cuisine.

You just have to taste Bali. Balinese cuisine is a true gastronomic adventure combining Indonesian, Chinese and Indian tastes. Be sure to order saturated gudeg (fried jackfruit), fragrant nasi goreng (fried rice with vegetables, eggs and meat) or mi goreng (fried noodles with vegetables, eggs and meat). Do not miss the opportunity to taste a juicy sate lilith (kebabs made of chicken, pork, beef or seafood, grilled and served with peanut sauce). For lovers of exoticism, we recommend Babi Guling (a whole roast pig) or Bebek Betutu (duck baked in banana leaves with spices).

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Admire the rice terraces of Ubud

Have you ever seen rice grow? And those most popular photos of Bali, with breathtaking green landscapes, are rice terraces. These picturesque valleys with cascading fields stretching for many kilometers create a unique landscape. Tegallalang terraces are especially popular, located just 20 minutes from Ubud. Here you will find many cafes and observation decks, offering stunning views of emerald terraces and the traditional subak irrigation system. If you want to avoid the crowds of tourists, head to Jatilouvih in the Tabanan Regency, home to equally picturesque but lesser-known rice terraces.

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Go sailing on a yacht.

Rent a yacht and sail on the open ocean, doing sailing, diving and swimming among manta rays. Enjoy the blue sky, crystal clear water, pristine islands and the luxury of your own yacht. In Bali you will find a fleet of new boats and yachts with certified guides and GoPro for underwater photography. They will organize for you a study of the beauty of Bali, Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan.

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Meet the friendly Sumatran elephants

If you want to spend a holiday closer to the animals, visit the Bali Zoo, the first on the island. It is home to more than 500 rare and exotic animals, including endangered species such as the Komodo dragon, Sumatran tiger, orangutan and Balinese starling. You will be able to feed free walking reindeer, watch lemurs and even participate in the program "Elephant mud entertainment". Together with the elephants, you will go to the river where you can swim, clean your new friend and take funny photos.

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Watch the Balinese show

Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Indonesia by attending the Devdan show at the Balinese Nusa Dua Theatre. This 60-minute performance, combining elements of Broadway and Cirque du Soleil, tells the story of two children traveling through Indonesia. You will see stunning tricks, costumes, cultural dances, puppet performances and aerial acrobatics.

Devdan Show at Bali Nusa Dua Theatre

Swim in the waterfalls

Go in search of the waterfalls of Bali to swim, swim under them or just admire the pristine beauty of the mountain streams. In the northern part of the island, outdoor enthusiasts will be able to slide down the natural slide of the Aling-Aling waterfall directly into the cool pool. If you are looking for peace and tranquility, visit the Banyumala Twin Falls, surrounded by lush greenery, or the Secumpool Falls complex, hidden in the dense jungle. For photos of powerful water flows suitable waterfall Tegenungan, located near Ubud, or a unique cascading waterfall Kanto Lampo, creating the impression of a wall of water flowing down the rocks.

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Visit the folk healer.

Remember when the movie “Eat, Pray, Love” started? The main character comes to a session with a Balinese healer-soothsayer who predicts how her life will change. Who knows, maybe your life will be changed. Seize the opportunity while you are in Bali: visit a folk healer and experience the ancient ritual of traditional Balinese healing.

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Try a massage and a Balinese cream bath

Cream bath (mandi lulur) is a traditional Balinese beauty ritual that not only nourishes and moisturizes the skin, but also gives deep relaxation. The ritual begins with a relaxing massage of the head, neck and shoulders, which helps relieve tension and improve blood circulation. A special mask of natural ingredients such as turmeric, rice, avocados and essential oils is then applied to the scalp. The mask is steamed and left for 30 minutes so that the nutrients penetrate deeper into the skin and hair. Then there is another massage. And how not to try the famous spa and massage therapy!

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In the sea on a fishing boat

Set sail by sea on a local fishing boat to see Bali from the outside. You can choose a traditional boat "jukung" or a more modern option, such as the "Black Pearl" in Jimbaran. During the sea trip you can enjoy the salty sea air and admire the dazzling coast of Bali at sunset. Some tours offer a romantic on-board dinner overlooking the sunset, making the experience even more memorable.

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Immerse yourself in the natural hot springs of Bali

In the northeast of Bali, near the majestic Mount Batur, there are hot springs Toya Bungkah and Toya Devasya. They give you the opportunity to relax in the warm waters, rich in minerals, and enjoy stunning views of the volcano and Lake Batur. But the most popular hot springs in Bali are Air Panas Banjar. There are three public and one private pool filled with hot water of volcanic origin, which pours from the mouths of eight stone dragons. Hot water is rich in sulfur and other minerals that are believed to have healing properties.

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Visit the Botanical Garden

In Bedugula there is a magical garden, which presents more than 2 thousand species of plants, including orchids, ferns, palm trees and bamboo. There are several themed gardens here, such as an orchid garden, fern garden, palm garden and bamboo forest. The garden has a lake where you can go boating, as well as several cafes and restaurants. Adult entrance ticket costs 50,000 Indonesian rupees (about US$3.5).

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Take a look at the local market

Visit the morning market to purchase fresh farm produce, handicrafts, luxury fabrics and vintage clothing. If you are looking for modern goods, head to one of the trendy tourist markets where you can buy the latest fashion items, jewelry and organic products.

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Go camping.

If you love nature but don’t want to give up comfort, camping in Bali is a must. There are plenty of accommodation options on the island where you can wake up to birdsong and enjoy stunning views. Choose a place by the lake where you can set up your tent, or stay in one of the equipped glampings located in the Kintamani jungle overlooking volcanoes or the beach in Changu.

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