Bali

Bali Travel Guide

The Island of the Gods, a top-ranked tropical paradise. Ubud's terraced rice fields and artist village, Seminyak's chic beach clubs, Kuta's surf culture, and Uluwatu's clifftop temple each reveal a different side of Bali. Morning prayers at Hindu temples, flower-and-incense offerings (canang), and traditional Kecak dance performances create a unique spiritual culture that enchants travelers. An all-round destination for honeymooners, surf enthusiasts, yoga practitioners, and more.

Essential Bali Travel Info

Must-Visit Places in Bali

★ 4.7

Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot is one of Bali's most revered Hindu temples, standing on a rock formation in the sea. It is said to have been founded in the 16th century by the Javanese priest Dang Hyang Nirartha. At high tide the rock is surrounded by water for a mystical atmosphere, while at low tide you can walk close to the temple. The silhouette against the Indian Ocean sunset is one of Bali's most iconic vistas. Admission IDR 60,000. About 1 hour by taxi from Kuta.

HoursDaily 07:00-19:00

LocationTabanan, Bali

TipsTime your visit with sunset for the best view. Only Hindu worshippers may enter the temple itself.

View Details→

★ 4.5

Ubud Monkey Forest

Spread across 12.5 hectares of dense tropical forest, the Ubud Monkey Forest shelters over 700 Balinese long-tailed macaques. Three Hindu temples lie hidden among moss-covered statues and towering banyan trees, creating a mystical mood. The monkeys are used to people and may come close, but they will also snatch belongings, so stay alert. Admission IDR 80,000. A 10-minute walk from central Ubud.

HoursDaily 08:30-18:00

LocationUbud, Bali

TipsStash sunglasses, hats and water bottles inside your bag - monkeys may grab them. Don't bring food into the forest.

View Details→

★ 4.4

Kuta Beach

Stretching about 2.5 km along Bali's southwestern coast, Kuta Beach is a surf mecca and the island's most popular beach. Gentle waves make it perfect for beginners, and surf schools line the shore. The breathtaking Indian Ocean sunset is the daily highlight, and the surrounding bars and clubs come alive after dark. Free admission (beach). About 15 minutes by taxi from the airport.

HoursOpen 24 hours

LocationKuta, Bali

TipsA 2-hour surf lesson typically runs USD 20-30. Confirm a fair price before booking with beach touts.

View Details→

★ 4.7

Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple stands on the edge of a 70m limestone cliff on the Bukit Peninsula, one of Bali's six key directional temples. Founded in the 11th century by the Javanese sage Empu Kuturan, it is believed to guard Bali from sea demons. The nightly sunset Kecak dance — over 50 men chanting 'chak-chak-chak' while performing the Ramayana epic against the Indian Ocean sunset — is an unforgettable spectacle. Admission IDR 50,000; Kecak dance IDR 150,000. About 40 minutes by taxi from Kuta.

HoursDaily 07:00-19:00 (Kecak dance starts at 18:00)

LocationPecatu, Bali

TipsArrive early for the Kecak dance to secure good seats. Watch out for monkeys near the temple that may snatch belongings.

View Details→

★ 4.6

Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Tegallalang Rice Terrace, north of Ubud, is Bali's most famous terraced paddy landscape. The traditional Balinese irrigation system called 'subak' is inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Emerald-green paddies cascading down a steep valley create one of Bali's most photographed scenes. Trekking paths wind through the terraces for a close look at farming life, and nearby swing activities and cafes abound. Admission IDR 25,000. About 15 minutes by taxi from central Ubud.

HoursDaily 08:00-18:00

LocationTegallalang, Bali

TipsVisit early morning for fewer crowds and beautiful light. Wear comfortable shoes — the steps between terraces can be slippery.

View Details→

★ 4.6

Tirta Empul Temple

Founded in 962 AD, Tirta Empul is one of Bali's most important water temples, built around a sacred spring. Visitors can participate in the Balinese Hindu purification ritual (melukat) at pools fed by 30 purification fountains, making it a unique experience for travelers worldwide. The sacred pond, where crystal-clear spring water has risen continuously for over a millennium, has been a place of prayer for devotees. Admission IDR 50,000 (sarong rental free). About 30 minutes by taxi from Ubud.

HoursOpen daily 08:00-18:00 (some sources list opening from 07:00). Expect large numbers of worshippers on Balinese religious days.

LocationTampaksiring, Bali

TipsYou must wear a sarong to participate in the purification ritual — available free at the entrance. Bring a change of clothes as you will get wet.

View Details→

★ 4.5

Seminyak Beach

Seminyak Beach extends north from Kuta and is Bali's most upscale coastal strip. World-famous beach clubs like Potato Head and Ku De Ta line the shore, and beachfront restaurants serve cocktails with Indian Ocean sunset views. More peaceful and stylish than Kuta, it suits travelers seeking a refined atmosphere, with plenty of boutique shopping and spas nearby. Free admission (beach). About 30 minutes by taxi from the airport.

HoursOpen 24 hours (beach clubs 10:00-midnight)

LocationSeminyak, Bali

TipsBeach clubs accept walk-ins, but reservations are recommended for sunset hours. Potato Head's sunset session is especially popular.

View Details→

★ 4.5

Besakih Temple (Mother Temple)

Pura Besakih, the 'Mother Temple,' sits at about 1,000m elevation on the slopes of Mount Agung (3,142m), Bali's highest peak. This vast complex of 23 individual temples has a history spanning over a millennium. The terraced temple grounds offer stunning views of Mount Agung framed by clouds, and the most important Balinese Hindu ceremonies are held here. Admission IDR 60,000. About 1.5 hours by taxi from Ubud.

HoursDaily 08:00-17:00

LocationKarangasem, Bali

TipsUnofficial guides may approach — buy tickets only at the official booth. A sarong is required and can be rented at the entrance.

View Details→

★ 4.7

Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is an island a 30-45 minute ferry ride from mainland Bali, known for dramatic sights like Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Angel's Billabong. It has become one of Bali's top day-trip destinations thanks to social media fame in recent years. Getting around requires a scooter or rental car, and some roads are rough, so caution is needed. Speedboats run from Sanur Harbour.

HoursOpen all day (speedboats run 07:00-17:00)

LocationNusa Penida, Klungkung, Bali

TipsLeave early in the morning to beat the tour groups and enjoy Kelingking Beach's views at a relaxed pace.

View Details→

★ 4.6

Gunung Kawi

Gunung Kawi is an 11th-century site in a valley near Tampaksiring, featuring ten rock-cut shrines (candi) about 7 meters tall lined along a river. It is believed to be associated with the Balinese Warmadewa dynasty and is one of Bali's oldest and largest rock-cut monuments. Reaching it requires descending roughly 300 steps through rice terraces. Admission is about IDR 50,000.

HoursDaily 08:00-17:00

LocationTampaksiring, Gianyar, Bali

TipsWear comfortable shoes for the steep steps, and visit in the morning to avoid the heat.

View Details→

★ 4.5

Bali Bird Park

Bali Bird Park is a roughly 2-hectare themed park in Batubulan housing about 250 species and 1,000 birds from Indonesia and around the world, including birds of paradise, Victoria crowned pigeons, and Javan hornbills. Visitors can observe rare birds up close, and bird shows run regularly. Combined tickets with the adjacent Bali Reptile Park are also available.

HoursDaily 09:00-17:30

LocationBatubulan, Gianyar, Bali

TipsVisit in the morning to see the birds at their most active.

View Details→

★ 4.4

Goa Gajah

Goa Gajah ('Elephant Cave') is a Hindu-Buddhist site believed to date from around the 11th century. Behind its fearsome carved entrance lies a narrow cave housing a Ganesha statue and a Shiva lingam. Outside the cave are bathing pool ruins with carved fountain figures, and the site is an easy 15-minute drive from Ubud. Admission is about IDR 50,000.

HoursDaily 08:00-17:00

LocationBedulu, Gianyar, Bali

TipsThe cave interior is narrow and dark, so a phone flashlight app is handy.

View Details→

★ 4.7

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a 17th-century temple on the shore of Lake Bratan at about 1,200 meters elevation, dedicated to Dewi Danu, goddess of the lake. Depending on the water level, the temple appears to float on the lake, a scene famous enough to appear on Indonesia's 50,000-rupiah banknote. The cool climate of the Bedugul highlands makes it pleasant to visit year-round.

HoursDaily 08:00-18:00

LocationBedugul, Tabanan, Bali

TipsVisit in the early morning when mist over the lake makes the scene most striking.

View Details→

★ 4.5

Sanur Beach

Sanur Beach has been Bali's original beach resort area since development began in the 1960s. Sheltered by an offshore reef, its calm waters suit families, swimming, and paddleboarding. A roughly 5km beachfront promenade is popular for cycling and jogging. Unlike west-coast Kuta and Seminyak, Sanur faces east and is known for sunrise rather than sunset.

HoursOpen all day

LocationSanur, Denpasar, Bali

TipsSanur's harbour has speedboats to Nusa Penida, making it a convenient base for island day trips.

View Details→

★ 4.4

Tegenungan Waterfall

Tegenungan Waterfall, about a 20-minute drive from Ubud, drops roughly 15 meters into a wide pool where swimming is allowed. Its easy access makes it one of Bali's busier waterfalls, but also one of the better equipped with facilities. During the wet season (November-March) the flow is at its most dramatic.

HoursDaily 08:00-18:00

LocationKemenuh, Gianyar, Bali

TipsWear sneakers rather than sandals since the steps can be slippery, and visit on a weekday to avoid crowds.

View Details→

★ 4.6

Nusa Dua Beach

Nusa Dua is a planned resort district in southern Bali developed by the government from the 1970s, known for white sand, calm waters, and reef protection that suit families and luxury travelers alike. It hosts large resorts such as The St. Regis and The Mulia, and nearby is Water Blow, where waves crash dramatically against cliffs. It is about a 20-minute drive from Bali's international airport.

HoursOpen all day

LocationNusa Dua, Badung, Bali

TipsVisit Water Blow during the wet season when waves are higher for a more dramatic show.

View Details→

★ 4.5

Bali Safari and Marine Park

Bali Safari and Marine Park in Gianyar lets visitors view around 60 species, including Komodo dragons, Sumatran tigers, and elephants, up close via safari tram in open enclosures. It also features a water park, animal shows, and animal encounter programs, making it popular with families. It's about a 30-minute drive from Ubud.

HoursDaily 09:00-17:00

LocationGianyar, Bali

TipsBook the tram tour in the morning to see the animals at their most active.

View Details→

★ 4.4

Gitgit Waterfall

Gitgit Waterfall, about 35 meters tall, sits in the mountains of Buleleng Regency in northern Bali, reached by a 10-15 minute walk through lush jungle trails. Cool air from the surrounding highlands makes it noticeably cooler than southern Bali, and a nearby twin waterfall can be visited on the same trip. It's about a 30-minute drive from Ulun Danu Beratan Temple.

HoursDaily 08:00-18:00

LocationBuleleng, Bali

TipsTrails can be slippery in the wet season, so wear waterproof shoes.

View Details→

Things to Do in Bali

Nature

Ubud Rice Terrace Trekking

Trek through the UNESCO-listed Tegallalang Rice Terraces and surrounding paddies. Walk scenic paths through lush green fields and experience the tranquil Balinese countryside.

Price Entry IDR 15,000-25,000Duration About 1.5-2.5 hours

🎟️ Check prices & book →

Adventure

Bali Surfing Lesson

Learn to surf at Kuta Beach with a professional instructor. Gentle waves are perfect for beginners. Board and rash guard included. Master basic paddling and standing in a 2-hour lesson.

Price IDR 300,000-500,000Duration About 2 hours

🎟️ Check prices & book →

Wellness

Balinese Spa Treatment

Indulge in traditional Balinese massage and spa treatments. Enjoy flower baths, aromatic oil massage, and body scrub over 2-3 hours at a spa overlooking tropical gardens or rice paddies.

Price IDR 200,000-600,000Duration About 2-3 hours

🎟️ Check prices & book →

Culture

Uluwatu Kecak Dance

Watch the Kecak dance at Uluwatu Temple's cliffside amphitheater, where over 50 men chant and perform the Ramayana epic against the Indian Ocean sunset. An unforgettable cultural experience.

Price IDR 150,000Duration About 1 hour (performance) + travel time

🎟️ Check prices & book →

Adventure

Nusa Penida Island Tour

Day trip to Nusa Penida island southeast of Bali, visiting Instagram-famous spots like Kelingking Beach and Angel's Billabong. Snorkeling with manta rays is also popular.

Price IDR 500,000-800,000 (boat + tour)Duration About 10-12 hours (including transport)

🎟️ Check prices & book →

Adventure

Ayung River White Water Rafting

Raft about 10 km down the Ayung River near Ubud through lush tropical gorges, passing waterfalls and rock carvings along the way.

Price IDR 350,000-600,000Duration About 2-3 hours

🎟️ Check prices & book →

Affiliate link — RoadMento may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Must-Try Food in Bali

Nasi Goreng

🍱 Traditional

Indonesia's iconic fried rice with egg and vegetables - a Bali breakfast staple. About IDR 20,000-50,000 per serving. Try it at warungs (local eateries) in Ubud and Seminyak for authentic flavor.

Babi Guling

🍱 Traditional

Spit-roasted whole pig stuffed with spices, a Balinese celebration dish. About IDR 40,000-80,000 per serving. Ibu Oka in Ubud is the most famous spot.

Mie Goreng

🍢 Street Food

Mie Goreng: Indonesian stir-fried noodles with egg and vegetables. About IDR 15,000-40,000 per serving. Affordable at beachside warungs and night markets.

Lawar

🍱 Traditional

A traditional Balinese mix of minced meat, vegetables, coconut, and spices, essential at ceremonies and festivals. About IDR 20,000-40,000 per serving. Try it at warungs near Ubud's traditional market.

Sate Lilit

🍢 Street Food

Balinese satay made with minced fish or pork mixed with coconut and lime leaves, wrapped around lemongrass sticks and grilled. About IDR 5,000-10,000 per skewer. Try it at beachside warungs in Seminyak and Kuta.

Es Campur

🍰 Dessert

A traditional Indonesian shaved ice dessert with mixed fruits, jelly, red beans, coconut milk, and ice — perfect for tropical heat. About IDR 10,000-25,000 per cup. Easily found at Ubud market and beachside stalls.

Kopi Luwak

🍵 Drink

One of the world's most expensive coffees, made from beans eaten and excreted by the Asian palm civet. About IDR 50,000-80,000 per cup. Tasting experiences are available at coffee plantations near Ubud.

Bali Travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Bali?

The dry season (April-October) is best, with May to August the most pleasant. Travel is still possible during the rainy season (November-March), but expect frequent showers.

How much does it cost to travel in Bali?

Daily budget about $35-85 (lodging $20-50, food $7-20, transport and activities $15-30).

How do I get around in Bali?

Taxis from Ngurah Rai International Airport reach major areas in 30-90 minutes. Around the island, Grab or hiring a private driver for the day is most convenient. SIM cards available at the airport (about IDR 50,000-100,000/week). Street vendors mainly accept cash; hotels and restaurants take cards. Tipping is optional but small tips are common.

Do I need a visa to visit Bali?

Korean passport holders enjoy 30 days visa-free entry, extendable for another 30 days via visa on arrival.

Is Bali safe for tourists?

Generally safe, but mind your belongings in the Monkey Forest and ride scooters cautiously to avoid accidents.

Explore other cities