Blessed with sea temples, volcanic mountains, coral reefs, gorgeous beaches, and verdant rice fields, Bali is a mesmerizing Indonesian island that every traveler aims to explore. Surfers visit this island for its legendary swells, hikers to trek up incredible volcanic peaks and explore jaw-dropping waterfalls, and cyclists to bike through lush greenery dotted with traditional hamlets and rice terraces. Magnificent sea temples, rich art scene, outstanding shopping venues, and rejuvenating spa treatments are other prominent factors that draw tourists to Bali. So, if you are heading out to Bali for your coming vacations, learning popular things on this fascinating island can make your travel experience here more enjoyable. You are more than welcome to plan ahead and check out some of the best Airbnb vacation rentals and beachfront villas for your upcoming vacation as well. Get to know this magnificent island, and read on to learn about the best things Bali is famous for.
1. Bali Safari and Marine Park
One of the best places to visit in Bali that’s going to entertain all ages is Bali Safari and Marine Park. This wildlife and safari park on the island is located in Gianyar and features facilities like the waterpark, the Fun Zone, and the Amazing Bali Theatre, among others. Ganesha Park, a mini-park with a huge statue of the elephant-headed deity Ganesha, is found in this attraction as well. Tourists may come across elephants bathing in this area of the park. There is also a temple, Pura Safari, at the park where people of Hindu Dharma can worship.
Bali Safari and Marine Park
Address: Jl. Profesor Jl. Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra No.km 19,8, Serongga, Kec. Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80551, Indonesia
Website: Bali Safari and Marine Park
2. Bunut Bolong
An interesting attraction in Bali that you should pay a quick visit to is Bunut Bolong. It’s definitely one that you should bring out the camera for. Bunut Bolong is a banyan tree that is a few centuries old and has a hollow trunk that serves as a tunnel. This unique natural landmark in Bali is located in the idyllic village of Manggisari in Jembrana. Besides the fascinating photos that you will capture here, another great thing about visiting this site is that it is free! There are various roadside vendors, though, if you want to bring home a little souvenir.
Bunut Bolong
Address: Desa Manggisari, Manggissari, Kec. Pekutatan, Kabupaten Jembrana, Bali 82262, Indonesia
3. Bali Swing
Perhaps the one thing that Bali is most associated with, especially on social media, is the Bali Swing. It is one of the most Instagrammable sites on the island, and for such good reason! Where better to take scenic photos than this place where you can go high up in the air with the jungle landscape as your backdrop? This attraction is open until 5pm daily and is part of a theme park where you can participate in various tours such as rafting, quad riding, and even a romantic tour aboard a vintage Volkswagen!
Bali Swing
Address: Jl. Dewi Saraswati No.7, Bongkasa Pertiwi, Kec. Abiansemal, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80352, Indonesia
Website: Bali Swing
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Ubud
Ubud belongs to the list of the best tourist areas on the island. This town is nestled between rice terraces in Gianyar. It has served as a major arts and culture center of Bali, being home to the most number of art museums and galleries on the island. Some of the best things to do in this area are taking a scenic walk along Campuhan Ridge Walk, paying a visit to the quaint Pura Taman Saraswati temple, getting to know the textile culture ad Threads of Life, and just enjoying a tour of attractions like Museum Rudana, Goa Gajah, and Agung Rai Museum of Art.
Tip from Content Creator
Ubud was our favourite place in Bali. It is not only full of culture but also offers fun activities and great food. We ate some delicious Balinese food at local warungs here (definitely eat at a local warung if you want a cheaper meal) and also had the best burger we've ever had in our lives! For an amazing photo op, I'd suggest taking about a two-and-a-half-hour drive to Temple Of Penataran Agung Lempuyang.
Tip from Content Creator
Here are some other things you can enjoy in Ubud:
1. Visit the Tegallalang Rice Fields. There is so much to see here! You can walk around the rice terraces and explore the whole park, take photos in birds’ nests and beautiful platforms, swing over the rice fields, and even bike through the sky! Trust me, it’s so worth it!
2. Go waterfall hunting. There are many incredible waterfalls around Ubud. You should rent a bike or go on a private tour and take a day to explore the incredible waterfalls hidden in the Balinese jungle!
3. Check out the Monkey Forest! The Monkey Forest is truly a wonderful place. Monkeys are free to roam around and jump from tree to tree in the presence of visitors. Be careful though; remember that they are wild animals and not tourist attractions and be respectful of the rules.
4. Stay at a bamboo villa! It is the coolest experience ever, especially if, like me, your villa has the most incredible rice field as a view.
Bali Tour Guide
Toni Kenpachi
Hello my name is Toni and I live in Jakarta- Indonesia, I've been working as a Tour Guide since 2008, I have licensed from Jakarta City Government Tourism Office, I choose to be a Tourist guide due to my background education because I graduated from Tourism Academy, I'll be glad to assist your trip in Indonesia especially in Jakarta and surrounding areas also if you would like to do overland t... Read more
Tours by Toni
Bali Tour Guide
Dori Januhari
I am a legal and licensed tourist guide from Indonesia. I have been guiding for 20 years. I live in Jakarta, Indonesia, but I have traveled to many places in the country. My guiding areas are Java, Bali, and Lombok Island. I obtained my license from the Indonesia Tourism Ministry. On days when there is no tour, I work as an English and German private teacher, teaching mathematics and science ph... Read more
Tours by Dori
5. Seminyak
Bali sure is a hotspot for beach lovers. One of its best areas with luxurious beaches and accommodations is Seminyak on its southern end. It is a playground for those who want to splurge. Seminyak is home to various upscale hotels, villas, and spas. It is the perfect combination of old and new, with high-end and sophisticated restaurants and other shops located amongst the quiet nature. Here is where you’ll find the pristine and white Seminyak Beach as well as the enchanting Pura Petinget Temple.
6. Kecak dance
Kecan dance is a magnificent and traditional dance performed in Bali. It is often performed in the Uluwatu temple. Gaze at the sweeping views of the sunset from the temple area while you watch the performers. It is a fire dance portraying a story of the Ramayana, enacted in a dramatic manner. Kids love watching the character of Hanuman, and you are sure to enjoy watching this amazing dance, which portraits an ancient tale in the form of an appreciable performance.
Kecak dance at Uluwatu Temple
Address: Kecak dance, Uluwatu Temple, Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Website: Kecak dance
Opening hours: 6pm - 7pm (daily)
Price: 10 USD
7. Kuta Beach
What is Bali known for that may appeal to most travelers? Kuta Beach! It is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. It gained popularity due to a great number of surfers visiting it and backpackers exploring it while traveling through Southeast Asia. The gentle and small waves and the soft sand make it an ideal beach for people to learn and practice surfing. Besides surfers, yoga enthusiasts, joggers, and groups of visitors playing volleyball and football often throng the beach. So, if you are a beach lover, make sure you visit Kuta Beach during your excursion in Bali.
Kuta Beach
Address: Kuta Beach, Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia Kuta 80361, Indonesia
Website: Kuta Beach
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Definitely go here for the sunset. What's good about Kuta Beach is that it is only a few steps away from malls, restaurants, bars, and stores. In fact, there are bars right at the beach area. Grab yourself a cold beer or a glass of fancy cocktail, pick a beanbag with the best, unobstructed view of the ocean, and just enjoy your afternoon. It doesn't even have to be a full day at the beach either. You can make Kuta Beach a quick stop on your shopping day.
8. Ubud Art Market
Ubud Art Market is a famous, local market which sells exquisite artifacts, created by Balinese artists. You can find it across the Ubud Palace. Shop for interesting artsy stuff here. You can find intricate statues, multicolored T-shirts, beautiful rattan bags, accessories, hats, and many other wonderful things to buy for yourself and as souvenirs. So, make it a point to visit Ubud Art Market when vacationing in Bali.
Ubud Art Market
Address: Ubud Art Market, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Website: Ubud Art Market
9. Mount Batur
Mount Batur is a magnificent active volcano situated in the northwestern part of Bali. Discover the amazing Lake Batur while there. The trip to the Batur Lake also takes you to Ulun Danu Batur temple, Toya Bungkah, and a number of hot springs. Capture panoramic views of the breathtaking Mount Batur between 10 am to 3 pm. Mount Batur is also famous for climbing and hiking. Enjoy exploring this Bali attraction on your upcoming holiday!
Mount Batur
Address: Mount Batur, South Batur, Kintamani, Bangli Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Website: Mount Batur
Opening hours: 24/7
Price: 20 USD
10. Goa Gajah
Goa Gajah, which is also popular as the Elephant Cave, is a historical site. It is situated near Ubud on the island of Bali. Goa Gajah was constructed in the ninth century. Fierce faces, whose purpose is believed to have driven away evil spirits, are carved into the stone. A Ganesh stone statue is also present inside the temple. So, make sure you visit Goa Gajah when in Bali.
Goa Gajah
Address: Goa Gajah, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Website: Goa Gajah
Opening hours: 24/7
Price: 1.15 USD
11. Rich culture (from USD 60.0)
Balinese culture is famous worldwide, and it’s known for its unique Indonesian art and culture steeped in an age-old tradition. Balinese culture is popular for its sculpture, dance, and drama. Even in the countryside and rural areas one can find magnificent temples and talented artists. You can perceive the outstanding skills of Balinese artists through their art and craft. You are sure to be impressed with art forms, such as painting, sculpture, woodcarvings, and performing arts. So, appreciate the rich culture of Bali as you tour through this fascinating Indonesian island.
Volcano Unveiled Tour In Kintamani Batur Volcanoes
Duration: 10 hours
12. Silver in Celuk (from USD 47.0)
Silver in Celuk, Bali is quite popular. Celuk village on an Indonesian island is known for amazing crafts in silver which you can then get at quite affordable prices. You can find beautiful silver articles here. In fact, Celuk village in Ubud is widely popular for its production of exquisite jewelry. Craftsmen create magnificent silver crafts in their shops and home, and the skills have been carried over through generations. So, don’t miss visiting Celuk when in Bali. Buy your choice of silver craft or jewelry from here.
Ubud Make Your Own Silver Jewelry Small-Group Half-Day Class
Duration: 3 hours
13. Rice terraces (from USD 64.0)
Bali is also famous for its emerald rice terraces, which every tourist in Bali should visit. Rice paddies here are a crucial part of the heritage of the people. Subak, which is a centuries-old traditional Balinese irrigation system, can be found here. One of the prominent rice terraces here is Jatiluwih, has also been included by UNESCO in its list of world cultural landscapes. Tegallalang features spectacular rice terraces across the valley. Sidemen, Rendang, Pererenan, Papuan, Munduk rice fields, and Soka rice fields are other popular rice terraces in Bali which you should definitely visit.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
I love Ubud's peaceful vibe. I usually pick a cafe by the rice terraces, order one fresh young coconut, and just sit there with my laptop to work. These rice terraces are owned by locals and are authentic, so you would occasionally see cows and ducks roaming around. Better not forget to bring your camera!
Ubud Village, Rice Terrace and Ubud Swing with It Bird Nest
Duration: 7 to 8 hours
14. Temples (from USD 93.0)
Ancient temples in Bali are prominent attractions that dot the coastline and highlands. Bali is home to more than 10,000 religious places. You can find magnificent temples in this Indonesian island with exotic backdrops, and they feature beautiful ancient architecture. You can also find incredible sea temples in Bali. Tanah Lot and Uluwatu are some of the marvelous temples which you simply can’t afford to miss. Besakih Temple, Goa Gajah, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Gunung Kawi Temple, Taman Ayun Temple, and Batukaru Temple are some of the mesmerizing temples which you should visit when touring through Bali.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
I have been to many temples in Bali, and I recommend Taman Ayun Temple near Denpasar if you want to experience the genuine vibe without having to travel too far from the city. From my own experience, this temple has never been so packed with tourists as they prefer other more popular temples such as Tanah Lot and Uluwatu. By itself, it is an architectural gem. And my main reason to keep coming back here is the tranquility of this temple. I like having a picnic with my family in one of their gazebos next to the river.
Full-day Balinese Culture and Temples Tour of Bali
Duration: 8 hours
15. Ubud Monkey Forest (from USD 60.0)
Ubud Monkey Forest is a wonderful sanctuary, a tranquil natural habitat of the Balinese long-tailed monkeys. The forest is in Padangtegal, Ubud in Bali. It is home to about 749 monkeys and the monkeys are divided into six different groups, namely the forest conservation group, Michelin group, in-front-of-the-main-temple group, eastern group, cemeteries group, and central point group. Villagers of Padangtegal regard the Monkey Forest as a crucial spiritual, educational, economic, and conservation center of the village. So, make sure you visit this amazing sanctuary. You can also visit Tegalalang Rice Terrace after visiting it.
Ubud Full-Day Tour with Monkey Forest, Rice Terraces, Coffee
Duration: 9 hours
Experience the true spirit of Bali
Bali is a mesmerizing Indonesian island which is world famous for its beautiful places, rich culture, history, arts and crafts, gorgeous beaches, and many more things. So, when you visit Bali during your vacation, do check out this list of famous things in Bali, Indonesia.
Frequently asked questions about the things Bali is famous for
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