Let me preface this by saying: writing this text has been a ache within the rear finish. You’d assume developing with a listing of Bali sights could be simple. I imply, how onerous may or not it’s to checklist down temples, seashores, and waterfalls, proper? Unsuitable. The issue isn’t discovering issues to do in Bali. It’s that there’s loads to do right here: numerous sights that may be organized into excursions in many various methods.
Though it’s attainable to achieve among the vacationer spots DIY-style, essentially the most standard manner is by occurring a tour. You possibly can be a part of a bunch tour with a set itinerary. Or you possibly can prepare a personal tour so you’ve got management of your time and stops. So apart from their location, I organized this checklist by following how operators divide and bundle these sights into excursions. I may even be sharing with you the hyperlinks to the place we booked our excursions. Hopefully, it’s extra useful this manner.
WAIT, WAIT, WAIT! In case your are touring quickly and nonetheless on the starting stage, you may also go to our The Poor Traveler Masterlist. Right here, we compiled journey necessities, together with immigration necessities and all our advisable resorts and excursions. Simply go to this web page: TPT Masterlist. We’ve a compilation for locations world wide.
CHARTERING A PRIVATE RIDE
However if you’d like even extra flexibility, you possibly can drive a rental automobile or bike. However in case you don’t wish to drive like us, you possibly can constitution a automobile with a driver. We did simply that on different days, simply so we may attempt it and canopy it on this weblog. Listed below are the charges we gathered.
CAR FOR 1-3 PAX
- Period: 6 Hours
Charge: IDR 482,000 (USD 29, P1700)
Be aware: With Driver - Period: 10 Hours
Charge: IDR 623,000 (USD 37, P2200)
Be aware: With Driver
CAR FOR 1-5 PAX
- Period: 6 Hours
Charge: IDR 517,000 (USD 31, P1825)
Be aware: With Driver - Period: 10 Hours
Charge: IDR 694,000 (USD 41.50, P2450)
Be aware: With Driver
There are additionally choices for 12 hours, and teams of 6, 10, 14, 24, 32. You possibly can verify the charges right here:
Be aware that the majority pre-arranged excursions already cowl the doorway charges. However in case you’ll pull a DIY or constitution a personal journey, you’ll need to pay them your self individually.
✅ If you happen to’re extra snug utilizing Klook companies in your excursions and tickets, please use our promo code THEPOORTRAVELERKLOOK for as much as P300 OFF or TPTKLOOK5 for as much as P500 OFF. These codes would possibly change sooner or later, so greatest to simply go to thepoortraveler.internet/klook to redeem up to date low cost codes!
With out additional ado, let’s begin with my favourite tour.
NORTH BALI
Northern Bali is a far cry from the busy and crowded seashore areas within the south. It’s quieter and greener, but in addition full of iconic landmarks and pure magnificence. Give your self a full day to take pleasure in every little thing with out dashing.
Handara Gate
Our first cease was Handara Gate, which stands on the entrance of the Handara Golf & Resort. However the gate rapidly grew to become a pictures hotspot for vacationers, providing a much less hectic and fewer crowded various to the Gate of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple. It appears related however with out the Mt. Agung backdrop.
Whereas the Gate of Heaven can have you ever ready for hours, right here at Handara Gate, you possibly can have a photograph taken in round an hour in case you come early. Once we visited, we solely waited for 45 minutes for our flip. However observe that there’s nothing else to do right here aside from taking photographs.
Ulun Danu Temple
Ulun Danu Temple was in-built 1633 to honor Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, and sits on the shores of Lake Beratan. The temple’s multi-tiered meru towers are iconic. Guests can discover the temple grounds, watch native ceremonies, and study its cultural significance in Balinese water rituals.
Banyumala Twin Falls
Banyumala Twin Falls is tucked within the jungle. From the car parking zone, you possibly can stroll or constitution a motorbike to get to the beginning of the path. Then, a brief trek alongside stone steps down the steep hillside will lead you to the bottom, the place you can be greeted by the falls.
The dual streams cascade right into a pure pool, and the water is chilly, excellent for a fast dip. It’s considered one of Bali’s quieter waterfalls, making it superb if you wish to keep away from massive crowds and benefit from the forest environment.
Wanagiri Hidden Hill
Wanagiri Hidden Hill, additionally known as Wanagiri Heaven, overlooks Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan. It’s well-known for its swings, chicken’s nests, and picture platforms. The spot grew to become common for vacationers, because of Instagram. Going early helps beat the gang and allows you to benefit from the surroundings with out ready in your activate the swings.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage web site and canopy tons of of hectares with fastidiously maintained paddies. The terraces use the normal subak irrigation system, which has been practiced in Bali for hundreds of years. Strolling alongside the paths provides you a better take a look at the farmers at work and loads of alternatives to understand the size and design of the panorama.
North Bali Excursions
As talked about earlier, that is my favourite Bali Tour as a result of I favored all 5 stops. We booked our tour on Klook. You’ll discover a number of operators providing this tour, however particularly, we booked this North Bali Instagram Tour:
✅ BOOK NORTH BALI INSTAGRAM TOUR HERE!
This web page has a number of choices, so be sure to select NORTH BALI. It is a personal tour, that means it was simply Vins and me sharing the automobile. However don’t fear, even personal excursions in Bali will not be costly, in comparison with different locations. The distinction between a personal tour and a join-in tour per individual isn’t a lot.
However in case you’re on a funds and you actually wish to be a part of a bunch tour with different vacationers, I discovered this on Klook, too. However we haven’t booked this one. Simply presenting another choice.
✅ BOOK NORTH BALI INSTAGRAM TOUR HERE!
CENTRAL BALI
Central Bali encompasses a number of regencies, however most of the beloved sights within the area are within the northern half of Badung and Gianyar Regencies. And at its coronary heart lies Ubud, mentioned to be the cultural core of Bali.
There’s loads to see and do in Central Bali, so that you’ll discover numerous iterations of this tour, normally together with 4 to 5 websites, however some gadgets change. Listed below are among the most standard stops:
Sacred Monkey Forest
The Sacred Monkey Forest is dwelling to over 600 long-tailed macaques and three predominant temples that date again tons of of years. Strolling by means of the shaded paths lined with historical statues and mossy carvings, you get a way of how these temples have been a part of native life for generations. The monkeys roam freely, stealing snacks and inspecting guests’ luggage, so maintain on to your belongings.
Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Tegalalang Terraces are a traditional instance of the subak irrigation system that has formed Balinese agriculture for hundreds of years. The terraces rise in neat steps alongside the hillsides, with small paths that allow you to stroll among the many paddies. Many farmers nonetheless work right here, planting and harvesting rice utilizing conventional strategies, which makes it simple to understand the size and energy behind the gorgeous surroundings.
Entry right here normally begins at properties that provide large swings and plenty of different picture alternatives. You’ll need to pay for these, however you possibly can completely skip them in case you don’t wish to.
Tirta Empul
Tirta Empul Temple, in-built 926 AD, is legendary for its holy spring the place locals and guests take part in ritual purification. You possibly can take part, stepping from fountain to fountain as water flows over every individual. Or you possibly can simply admire from a distance or stroll across the temple complicated, composed of swimming pools, fountains, and shrines devoted to Vishnu. It’s an interesting glimpse into Bali’s non secular traditions.
Ulu Petanu Falls
There are two predominant Central Bali Excursions obtainable on Klook, they usually differ primarily within the final cease. One ends the tour at Ulu Petanu Falls. It is a lesser-known waterfall. The trek to achieve it’s brief however entails some uneven terrain and stepping stones over streams. As soon as there, the water crashes into a large pool surrounded by rocks and greenery.
✅ BOOK UBUD BALI INSTAGRAM TOUR HERE!
Penglipuran Village
The opposite tour’s finale is at Penglipuran Village. It has preserved conventional Balinese structure and customs for hundreds of years, making it among the finest examples of cultural heritage on the island. The village streets are lined with bamboo fences and stone pathways, and households keep their houses based on outdated guidelines. Visiting right here affords a glimpse of day by day life in a group that takes pleasure in conserving its traditions intact whereas welcoming curious vacationers.
✅ BOOK UBUD w/ PENGLIPURAN VILLAGE HERE!
Whichever of the 2 choices you select, be sure to select CENTRAL BALI within the choices. Different sights in Central Bali which might be usually not included in excursions from Ubud are:
Blangsinga Bridge
Blangsinga Glass Bridge is a brief however thrilling walkway suspended over the Blangsinga River, and the complete ground is evident, so that you see every little thing beneath your ft whether or not you wish to or not. It’s a more recent attraction within the space, constructed to offer guests a fast adrenaline rush with out committing to a full-on hike or excessive sport.
The bridge sways a bit when folks stroll throughout, and crashing sound results play once you step on sure elements, including to the enjoyable. The encircling jungle views additionally make the entire crossing really feel like a mini journey proper in the course of Gianyar.
Tegenungan Waterfall
Tegenungan Waterfall is without doubt one of the most simply accessible waterfalls in Bali, and it’s been attracting guests for many years. However if you wish to get near the cascade, you’ll nonetheless must trek down the steps (which suggests you’ll be climbing again up later).
The water drops into a big pool, excellent for a fast swim. The encircling forest is dense and inexperienced, and the roar of the water drowns out the chatter from the crowds above.
Gianyar Night time Market
Gianyar Night time Market is the proper place to attempt native Balinese avenue meals in a full of life setting. Stalls promote every little thing from satay and fried snacks to desserts like klepon. Consuming right here is informal, enjoyable, and cheap, and it’s a good way to expertise native flavors after a day of sightseeing.
Taman Ayun Temple
A UNESCO World Heritage Web site, Taman Ayun Temple was in-built 1634 by the Mengwi Kingdom and is surrounded by a large moat and well-maintained gardens. Its multi-tiered meru towers and stone carvings are spectacular examples of Balinese temple structure. Strolling alongside the paths, you possibly can see how the temple was designed as each a non secular heart and a royal monument.
Sadly, we failed to go to this temple as a result of we ran out of time. However that is without doubt one of the causes we wish to return!
EAST BALI
The drive to East Bali takes some time. The farther you go, the quieter it will get. It’s the a part of Bali that feels deeply rooted in its previous, the place each cease comes with a narrative. The sights listed here are far aside, however the preferred is certainly Lempuyang Temple.
Goa Raja Waterfall
Goa Raja Waterfall is a type of locations you gained’t discover plastered throughout postcards, which makes it even higher. The title means “King’s Cave,” and true to that, it’s tucked deep inside a forest close to Besakih. The path isn’t too lengthy, but it surely isn’t brief, both. When you hear the water, you’re shut.
The waterfall bursts out of a cave, echoing towards mossy rocks whereas daylight filters by means of from above. Locals say the cave is linked spiritually to Pura Besakih, Bali’s Mom Temple, just some kilometers away. Whether or not or not you imagine that, there’s one thing particular about standing there, half-soaked, surrounded by nothing however water and stone.
However to be sincere, Goa Raja wasn’t even in our authentic itinerary.
Tukad Cepung Falls
We had been supposed to go to Tukad Cepung as an alternative, however for some purpose, it was closed on the time. Our information then proposed to simply go to Goa Raja. However each waterfalls are identified for his or her curtains that cascade alongside a stream of daylight. You may also get near it.
Tirta Gangga
Tirta Gangga was constructed within the Forties by the final King of Karangasem. The title means “holy water of the Ganges,” and even at this time, locals nonetheless deal with it as a sacred web site. The place is a maze of ponds, fountains, and guardian statues.
One pond with stepping stones is especially common amongst vacationers {that a} lengthy line types round it. We weren’t within the photographs, although, so we merely walked across the maze of ponds and admired the fountains and guardian statues. However just for a short time. The solar was scorching that day, so we discovered a shady spot subsequent to a pond and sat for the remainder of our keep.
Lempuyang Temple
Lempuyang Temple, considered one of Bali’s oldest and most sacred temples, is claimed up to now again over a thousand years. Most guests come for the well-known “Gate of Heaven,” the wildly Instagram-famous temple gates that completely body Mount Agung within the background. I’m positive you’ve seen the picture. It’s in all places! The reflection impact is only a mirror trick, however that didn’t cease the crowds from, properly, crowding.
However right here’s the factor: If you wish to keep away from falling in line for hours otherwise you’re after the perfect situations, you’ll need to get up actually early, hours earlier than daybreak. You see, this temple is positioned near the easternmost tip of the island, two to a few hours away from Kuta or Seminyak, and even Ubud, relying on the visitors state of affairs.
While you arrive on the car parking zone, you’ll want to attend and board a shuttle that can carry you to the doorway. Right here, you’ll be given a queue quantity. You’ll additionally must put on a sarong and hike up a bit to the precise temple.
Keep in mind that you’ve got little or no management over your time. Because you’re queueing, will probably be onerous to foretell the precise time you can be known as for the photographs. Mt. Agung won’t be seen when it’s your flip, and there’s nothing you are able to do about it.
There isn’t any bodily queue. You possibly can spend the wait time exploring the temple, though after we visited, most elements had been closed as they had been making ready for a pageant the subsequent day. There are different picture spots too.
When it’s lastly your flip, the picture session will occur rapidly. In a short time. Most likely only a minute or two. It’s free, however you’re anticipated to make a donation.
Lempuyang Temple is a historic and essential spiritual and cultural web site. If you happen to’re visiting since you like temples and also you respect historical websites, go for it. If you happen to’re right here for a photograph, I don’t assume the drive and the lengthy wait are price it. I imply, it’s a terrific shot, however I don’t assume I’d await hours once more only for pics. I haven’t even posted my photographs on-line, haha. Bali has different extra picturesque spots. However that’s simply my private opinion.
As a result of our teammates went right here at daybreak, Vins and I opted for a sundown go to. So this was really our LAST cease.
Our timing wasn’t excellent, and the climate didn’t cooperate. After ready for hours, when it was lastly our flip for the picture, it was so overcast that Mount Agung hid behind the clouds, and so did the solar. We didn’t get to see the sundown in any respect. However that’s not likely the fault of the tour operator. It’s simply that climate and wait occasions are an enormous issue right here, and operators haven’t any management over them.
If you would like the sundown tour, that is the precise tour that we booked on Klook:
✅ BOOK LEMPUYANG SUNSET TOUR HERE!
However in case you want the dawn tour, guide this as an alternative:
✅ BOOK LEMPUYANG SUNRISE TOUR HERE!
Deal with: Lempuyang Temple, Purwa Ayu Village, Abang District, Karangasem, Bali, Indonesia
Entrance Charge: IDR 70,000
Shuttle Fare: IDR 50,000
Taman Ujung Water Palace
Taman Ujung was constructed within the early twentieth century by the King of Karangasem and combines open ponds, bridges, and conventional Balinese structure. Strolling throughout the stone pathways over the water, you possibly can take pleasure in fountains, pavilions, and statues whereas taking in views of the hills and sky with out bumping into anybody.
Different excursions additionally make a cease at Taman Ujung Water Palace, however this wasn’t a part of our itinerary.
SOUTH BALI
Southern Bali is the a part of the island that the majority vacationers know, with well-known seashores, iconic temples, and cultural sights all packed right into a small space. Site visitors will be chaotic, however the views, sunsets, and picture ops make it definitely worth the drive.
Most excursions have three to 4 of the next sights of their itineraries. It’s only a matter of selecting the best mixture for you.
Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot is considered one of Bali’s most well-known sea temples, perched on a rock formation simply off the coast. Constructed within the sixteenth century, it’s nonetheless an lively web site for worship, and the sundown views draw crowds each night. The waves crash towards the rocks under, making it some of the photographed spots on the island.
Padang Padang Seashore
Padang Padang Seashore grew to become well-known after a sure Hollywood film was filmed right here, but it surely’s nonetheless price visiting for its small cove, white sand, and clear water. The trail down entails stairs carved into the rocks, which provides a little bit of journey earlier than you hit the seashore. It’s common with surfers and sunbathers, so anticipate some firm throughout peak hours.
Uluwatu Temple & Kecak Fireplace Dance
Uluwatu Temple sits on a cliff about 70 meters above the Indian Ocean and is over 1,000 years outdated. Watching the sundown whereas the Kecak Fireplace Dance efficiency unfolds under is unforgettable. Monkeys roam the temple grounds, so regulate your belongings, and don’t be stunned if one decides your sun shades are honest sport.
Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fireplace Dance are normally the final two stops in South Excursions. However the different two stops can change.
✅ BOOK TANAH LOT + PADANG PADANG + ULUWATU TOUR HERE!
Different websites that would change Tanah Lot and Padang Padang Seashore are:
Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
Garuda Wisnu Kencana is dwelling to one of many tallest statues on this planet, depicting Vishnu driving the legendary chicken Garuda. The park consists of exhibition halls, efficiency phases, and enormous open areas to discover. It’s not solely a terrific place for photographs but in addition for studying about Hindu mythology and Balinese tradition.
Melasti Seashore
Melasti Seashore is a cliffside seashore with clear water and dramatic rock formations. It’s much less crowded than Padang Padang, making it simpler to stroll alongside the shore or take photographs. The drive all the way down to the seashore entails steep steps, however the views from the highest alone are definitely worth the effort.
Nusa Dua Seashore
Nusa Dua Seashore is lined with luxurious resorts however nonetheless has a public space the place guests can calm down on comfortable sand or swim in calm waters. It’s excellent for households or anybody searching for a low-key seashore day. The promenade alongside the seashore can also be nice for a leisurely stroll with a view of the Indian Ocean.
If you happen to want this tour, guide this as an alternative:
✅ BOOK GWK + MELASTI BEACH + ULUWATU TOUR HERE!
KUTA, LEGIAN & SEMINYAK
Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak are all within the southern half of Badung Regency. This space is the epicenter of tourism actions in Bali. If you would like crowds, vitality, and choices for actually every little thing, Kuta, Seminyak, and even Legian ship. From lengthy sandy seashores to infinite eating places and nightlife, this space is at all times buzzing. No surprise these are the busiest elements of the island.
Kuta/Legian/Seminyak Seashore
Kuta Seashore, Legian Seashore, and Seminyak Seashore are literally elements of the identical stretch of sandy shore! It’s lined with numerous institutions, dotted with surf faculties, and scribbled by a continuing stream of individuals. Legian sits proper subsequent to Kuta and is barely calmer however nonetheless full of life. Seminyak Seashore is extra upscale, lined with boutique resorts and seashore golf equipment, and common for watching sunsets over the Indian Ocean. You possibly can simply discover this seashore by yourself. No must guide a tour.
Seminyak Meals Tour
Seminyak has change into a foodie hotspot in Bali, providing every little thing from conventional warungs (small, family-run native eateries) to high-end eating places. A meals tour allows you to pattern Balinese staples like babi guling, sate lilit, and recent seafood whereas discovering tucked-away cafés. You’ll go away stuffed, a bit sweaty from strolling, and absolutely satisfied that Balinese meals deserves extra credit score than it will get.
Bali Nightlife
Nightlife in Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak ranges from informal seashore bars to very large golf equipment with worldwide DJs. Kuta has the traditional occasion scene with low-cost drinks and dwell music. Seminyak leans extra towards upscale lounges and cocktail bars. Both manner, it’s simple to discover a place to bounce, seize a drink, or simply people-watch till your ft complain.
Seminyak additionally has a vibrant homosexual scene. A bit of Jalan Camplung Tanduk Highway in Seminyak is the unofficial homosexual strip, with homosexual bars, drag exhibits, and LGBTQIA+-friendly seashore bars.
NUSA PENIDA
Nusa Penida is a separate island, accessible solely by quick boat or ferry from Bali. It’s tough, uncooked, and value each bump on the street. The island is much less developed than mainland Bali, which suggests roads will be difficult, however the surroundings and picture alternatives are unimaginable.
Kelingking Seashore
Kelingking Seashore is legendary for its T-Rex-shaped cliff, and sure, it appears precisely like the photographs. The perspective is excessive above the ocean, and a hike all the way down to the sand is steep and difficult, however doable when you have sturdy footwear. From the highest, the turquoise water and white sand under make an effort really feel rewarding, even when your legs are shaking.
Angel’s Billabong
Angel’s Billabong is a pure infinity pool carved into the cliffs the place waves crash into the rocks under. The water right here is evident and calm at low tide, excellent for dipping your ft or taking photographs. Timing is essential as a result of excessive tide will be harmful, however when it’s proper, it’s an uncommon and gorgeous spot.
Damaged Seashore
Damaged Seashore, or Pasih Uug, has a large pure arch that lets ocean water circulation right into a round cove. The present is powerful, so swimming isn’t suggested, however strolling alongside the cliff provides dramatic views of waves crashing by means of the arch. It’s a fast cease for photographs, however one which exhibits off the uncooked energy and great thing about the island.
Crystal Seashore
Crystal Seashore is considered one of Nusa Penida’s calmer seashores, with golden sand and clear water that’s good for swimming or browsing. The trail down is steep however manageable, and the waves are normally gentler than the west coast spots. It’s a pleasant method to finish the day after cliff-hopping and pool-exploring, giving your legs an opportunity to calm down within the sand.
Some excursions change Crystal Seashore with one other seashore.
✅ BOOK NUSA PENIDA FULL DAY TOUR HERE!
DENPASAR
We’re not going to wrap up this text with out dabbling in Bali’s capital — Denpasar. It usually will get overshadowed by Ubud and the southern seashores, but it surely’s additionally filled with tradition, historical past, and among the greatest eats on the island. A day right here could be a mixture of exploring conventional websites, wandering public seashores, and sampling meals from avenue distributors to eating places. It’s also much less touristy than Kuta or Seminyak.
Puri Agung Jro Kuta
Puri Agung Jro Kuta is a standard Balinese palace within the coronary heart of Denpasar. It dates again centuries and was as soon as dwelling to the royal household of Kuta. Guests can discover the gates, courtyards, and complex carvings whereas studying concerning the historical past of the native monarchy.
Sanur
Sanur is a quieter seashore space with a protracted public stretch excellent for strolling or watching the dawn. Alongside the beachfront, there are many native meals stalls, cafés, and eating places serving recent seafood, Nasi Campur, and different Balinese favorites. It’s simple to spend a number of hours right here combining a stroll alongside the sand with an off-the-cuff meals crawl.
Meals Tour
Denpasar is right for a food-focused day due to its selection. Road stalls promote satay, babi guling, and fried snacks, whereas eating places supply trendy takes on Balinese and Indonesian dishes. Sampling a mixture of flavors is simple, and each cease comes with an opportunity to speak with locals and see how conventional cooking is completed.
We booked our tour on Viator:
✅ BOOK DENPASAR FOOD TOUR HERE!
We’ll be making a separate article, whereby we’ll dive into Bali’s meals scene and share with you the perfect dishes we tried within the island.
We’re speaking noodles, babi guling, satay, desserts, and extra! We’ll be hitting up every little thing from avenue stalls to fancy eating places, making an attempt all of the native favorites and hidden gems!
The place to Keep in Bali
Whereas we have now a separate article going deep into the greatest technique for selecting your Bali lodging, we’ve additionally rounded up among the greatest locations to remain under in your quick access.
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Prime Inns in Ubud
Prime Inns in Kuta
Prime Inns in Seminyak
Seek for extra Bali Inns Right here!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is non-obligatory, however we extremely suggest this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey will be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it provides us peace of thoughts in case of sudden delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, contemplate PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You possibly can GET IT HERE. Don’t overlook to make use of WORTHIT for a particular reasonably priced fee.
Updates Log
2025 11 23 – First uploaded
Edited by: Asta Alvarez
