Bali Travel Guide — What Kind Of Traveller Are You?

Check out the best things to do and the best places to visit in sunny Bali, also known as the “Island of the Gods”.

Known for its picturesque sunsets, pearly white beaches and out-of-this-world villas, Bali is the place for you if you enjoy basking in Vitamin D.

But Bali isn’t just about suntanning on daybeds, there is a myriad of activities that you can do. From catching their traditional dances and visiting a volcano to indulging in a Balinese massage and participating in a cooking class, you can plan your itinerary based on the activities you enjoy doing.

So without further ado, we’ve narrowed down some of the best things to do and places to visit according to the kind of traveller that you are.

Planning for your Bali trip? Check out the best travel insurance plans.

Table of contents:

• For those who appreciate culture
• For the adventure-seekers
• For the beach club enthusiasts
• For the spa lovers

For those who appreciate culture — Ubud

Catch the Kecak Fire Dance

Bali Trekking Tour

Nothing screams a quintessential Bali experience more than catching their traditional Kecak Fire Dance. It is a dance and music drama that ties back to Balinese Hinduism roots, and is usually known for performers chanting “chak, chak, chak” on repeat. 

There are many locations that showcase the Kecak Fire Dance in Ubud, which are all mainly quite similar in terms of experiences. Be sure to come early as seats are usually taken up pretty fast. The dance usually starts at 7pm or 7.30pm during sunset, and typically lasts for 1 hour. You’ll also be required to pay a fee of about Rp 10,000,- which may vary based on location.

If you’re willing to travel out of Ubud, one of the best places to catch the dance is at Uluwatu Temple as you’ll be able to admire the spectacular sunset as a backdrop too. And where better to have the performance than a traditional temple right?

Participate in a Balinese cooking class

Four Seasons Hotel

If you’re a fan of local Balinese grub and enjoy whipping up a storm in the kitchen, then you should consider attending a Balinese cooking class. Get a taste of how the Balinese make their dishes so delectable by learning more about their techniques, their traditional herbs and spices, and the history behind these dishes!

There are a ton of cooking classes dotted all over the area that focuses on different dishes and techniques. Don’t worry if you have no experience in the kitchen — there are many classes that cater to beginners too!

Appreciate Balinese art at the Agung Rai Museum of Art

Museums of the world

Doubling up as a wet weather plan, appreciating local art at their famous Agung Rai Museum of Art is a great way to soak in Bali’s rich culture, especially for art lovers.

Founded by Mr and Mrs Agung Rai, this museum‘s sole purpose was to preserve art to share its culture with the community. Prepare yourself to be mesmerised by the multiple works of Balinese, Indonesian and foreign artists, as well as the opportunity to enjoy theatre, music, traditional Balinese dance performances and even painting classes within the compound! 

Address: ​​Jalan Bima, Pangosekan, Indonesia
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 9am-6pm
Website

Go temple hopping

Travel Triangle

A Bali trip isn’t complete without visiting one of their local must-go temples, one of which is Bali’s most iconic Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, also known as Bedugul Temple. Besides the picturesque natural setting you’ll undoubtedly enjoy, you’ll also be greeted with several courtyards littered with antique statues and shrines. There is an entrance fee of IDR50,000.

Another temple worth visiting in Ubud is the Pura Tirta Empul Temple which is often called “Holy Spring Water Temple”. As its name suggests, the temple is home to multiple pools of holy water and sprouting fountains. If you’re lucky, you may even join a cleansing ceremony as thousands of pilgrims and devotees come here each year to do spiritual cleansing in the holy water. The entrance fee is IDR 15,000.

Pro tip: Most temples require you to wear a sarong to enter the grounds. It’s good practice to bring one along with you but if you don’t have it, they normally rent out sarongs at the entrance for a small fee.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Address: Danau Beratan, Candikuning, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82191, Indonesia
Opening hours: Mon-Sun (except Sat) 7am-7pm, Sat 5am-7pm

Pura Tirta Empul Temple

Address: Jl. Tirta, Manukaya, Kec. Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80552, Indonesia
Opening hours: Mon- Sun 8am-6pm

Visit the Ubud Palace

Bali Wonder Tours

Another iconic spot that’s rich in culture is the Ubud Palace, which was home to the former royal family. Catch a quick glimpse of how the royalty spent their days here, and immerse yourselves in the intricate architecture and glamorous courtyards. Do note that only a small area is sectioned off to allow the public to enter, so be there early before the crowd starts rushing in!

There are also traditional dance performances in the evening that require a fee of IDR 100,000 at 7.30pm daily, and last for 1.5 hours.

Address: Jl. Raya Ubud No.8, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 7am-5pm

For the adventure seekers — all around Bali

Go white water rafting

Mason Adventures

If you’re an adrenaline-junkie, you should try your hand at white rafting in Bali. It involves a group of about 4-6 people sitting on a raft and navigating through strong currents. But don’t worry, there will always be at least one guide with you on the raft to help steer the raft and keep you from harm.

Depending on the river that you embark on, you’ll normally have a choice of the distance you want to raft. The longer the distance, the more money you’ll have to pay, and sometimes, the thrill level also differs.

Hike up an active volcano

Digital Travel Couple

How often do you get to hike up an active volcano? If you’re in Bali, one activity on the hit list is definitely a hike up to Mount Batur. Though you’ll have to get up at an ungodly hour in order to reach the peak by sunrise, the view is definitely worth it.

You can easily book a tour online that provides you with transport, as well as a simple breakfast when you reach the peak.

If you’re not the fittest person out there, you don’t have to worry as the trek is not as difficult as you think. Though it does get quite steep in some parts, it’s very doable for the average person.

Learn surfing

Swell Bali

Interested in taking up a new hobby? Consider catching the waves at one of Bali’s beautiful beaches with a professional coach. Amateurs and intermediates are all welcome, but psst, you’re going to need a lot of core strength for this one. 

You can easily find a surfing lesson online for a decent price, which normally lasts for about 1.5 to 3 hours. You’ll learn the basics of surfing and even try riding a wave yourself!

Participate in water activities

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Bali takes water activities seriously, and you’ll literally be spoiled for choices! Aside from regular water activities like riding on a Banana Boat, jet skiing or kayaking, Bali offers a myriad of novel water sports.

Think flyboarding which involves you standing on a board charged by water pressure which will make you literally fly, jumping off a cliff, jetpacking, kite surfing, paragliding and many more. Some of these activities may not come cheap, but if it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, then why not splurge a little?

For the beach club enthusiasts — Seminyak/Canggu

Potato Head Beach Club

Youlovetrip.com

If you want to feel the true extent of Bali’s beach clubs, you should consider heading over to Potato Head Beach Club. It may look unseemingly small at the entrance, but you’ll realise just how big the compound is as you’re greeted by towering vintage structures and the iconic rainbow slippers (literally) work-of-art. There’s even a mini museum-esque walkway featuring modern pieces of art for your eyes to feast on as you walk in.

Dip in the pool, vibe to great music, sip on a cocktail or sunbathe on a daybed. There’s also the option of eating at their adjacent restaurant serving up local fare with a modern twist. And trust me, they’re delicious!

Address: Petitenget St No.51B, Seminyak, Kuta Utara, Badung Regency, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Opening hours: Mon-Sun (except Sat) 9am-12am, Sat 9am-2am

Website

COMO Beach Club

COMO Beach Club

COMO Beach Club sets itself aside from the usual beach clubs because of its stylish interiors that scream luxury. Overlooking the lapping waves of the Canggu beach, you’ll certainly enjoy the feel-good vibes all around. 

Equipped with their very own Glow Juice Bar, you’ll be able to sip on refreshing cold-pressed juices before you hit the waves. If you want something more filling, there are plenty of mains and quick bites on their menu as well, from steak and chips to fried tacos.

Address: Echo Beach, Jl. Pantai Batu Mejan, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Opening hours: Mon-Sun open 24 hours
Website