Let me preface this by saying: writing this text has been a ache within the rear finish. You’d assume arising with an inventory of Bali points of interest can be simple. I imply, how arduous may it’s to checklist down temples, seashores, and waterfalls, proper? Fallacious. The issue isn’t discovering issues to do in Bali. It’s that there’s lots to do right here: numerous points of interest that may be organized into excursions in many alternative methods.
Though it’s potential to achieve a few of the vacationer spots DIY-style, essentially the most normal approach is by happening a tour. You’ll be able to be a part of a bunch tour with a hard and fast itinerary. Or you may prepare a non-public tour so you have got management of your time and stops. So except for their location, I organized this checklist by following how operators divide and bundle these points of interest into excursions. I can even be sharing with you the hyperlinks to the place we booked our excursions. Hopefully, it’s extra useful this fashion.
WAIT, WAIT, WAIT! In case your are touring quickly and nonetheless on the starting stage, you can too go to our The Poor Traveler Masterlist. Right here, we compiled journey necessities, together with immigration necessities and all our advisable motels and excursions. Simply go to this web page: TPT Masterlist. We’ve got a compilation for locations all over the world.
CHARTERING A PRIVATE RIDE
However if you need even extra flexibility, you may drive a rental automotive or bike. However if you happen to don’t wish to drive like us, you may constitution a automotive with a driver. We did simply that on different days, simply so we may attempt it and canopy it on this weblog. Listed here are the charges we gathered.
CAR FOR 1-3 PAX
- Period: 6 Hours
Price: IDR 482,000 (USD 29, P1700)
Be aware: With Driver - Period: 10 Hours
Price: IDR 623,000 (USD 37, P2200)
Be aware: With Driver
CAR FOR 1-5 PAX
- Period: 6 Hours
Price: IDR 517,000 (USD 31, P1825)
Be aware: With Driver - Period: 10 Hours
Price: 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’ll be able to examine the charges right here:
Be aware that almost all pre-arranged excursions already cowl the doorway charges. However if you happen to’ll pull a DIY or constitution a non-public trip, you’ll need to pay them your self individually.
✅ For those who’re extra comfy utilizing Klook providers on 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 may change sooner or later, so greatest to only 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 seaside areas within the south. It’s quieter and greener, but additionally filled with iconic landmarks and pure magnificence. Give your self a full day to take pleasure in every part 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 seems 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 may have a photograph taken in round an hour if you happen to come early. After we visited, we solely waited for 45 minutes for our flip. However word that there’s nothing else to do right here aside from taking pictures.
Ulun Danu Temple
Ulun Danu Temple was inbuilt 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 find out about its cultural significance in Balinese water rituals.
Banyumala Twin Falls
Banyumala Twin Falls is tucked within the jungle. From the car parking zone, you may 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’ll 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 supreme if you wish to keep away from giant 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, fowl’s nests, and picture platforms. The spot grew to become standard for vacationers, due to Instagram. Going early helps beat the group and allows you to benefit from the surroundings with out ready on your activate the swings.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage website and canopy lots of of hectares with rigorously maintained paddies. The terraces use the standard subak irrigation system, which has been practiced in Bali for hundreds of years. Strolling alongside the paths offers you a more in-depth take a look at the farmers at work and loads of alternatives to understand the dimensions and design of the panorama.
North Bali Excursions
As talked about earlier, that is my favourite Bali Tour as a result of I preferred all 5 stops. We booked our tour on Klook. You’ll discover a variety 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 variety of choices, so ensure you select NORTH BALI. It is a non-public tour, that means it was simply Vins and me sharing the automotive. However don’t fear, even non-public excursions in Bali will not be costly, in comparison with different locations. The distinction between a non-public tour and a join-in tour per individual isn’t a lot.
However if you happen to’re on a finances 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 an alternative choice.
✅ BOOK NORTH BALI INSTAGRAM TOUR HERE!
CENTRAL BALI
Central Bali encompasses a number of regencies, however most of the beloved points of interest within the area are within the northern half of Badung and Gianyar Regencies. And at its coronary heart lies Ubud, stated to be the cultural core of Bali.
There’s lots 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 here are a few of the most normal stops:
Sacred Monkey Forest
The Sacred Monkey Forest is dwelling to over 600 long-tailed macaques and three essential temples that date again lots of of years. Strolling via the shaded paths lined with historic 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 basic 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 dimensions and energy behind the beautiful surroundings.
Entry right here normally begins at properties that supply big swings and plenty of different picture alternatives. You’ll need to pay for these, however you may completely skip them if you happen to don’t wish to.
Tirta Empul
Tirta Empul Temple, inbuilt 926 AD, is known for its holy spring the place locals and guests take part in ritual purification. You’ll be able to take part, stepping from fountain to fountain as water flows over every individual. Or you may simply admire from a distance or stroll across the temple complicated, composed of swimming pools, fountains, and shrines devoted to Vishnu. It’s a captivating glimpse into Bali’s non secular traditions.
Ulu Petanu Falls
There are two essential 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 quick 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 the most effective examples of cultural heritage on the island. The village streets are lined with bamboo fences and stone pathways, and households keep their properties based on outdated guidelines. Visiting right here provides a glimpse of day by day life in a group that takes pleasure in preserving its traditions intact whereas welcoming curious vacationers.
✅ BOOK UBUD w/ PENGLIPURAN VILLAGE HERE!
Whichever of the 2 choices you select, ensure you select CENTRAL BALI within the choices. Different points of interest in Central Bali which are 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 whole ground is evident, so that you see every part beneath your ft whether or not you wish to or not. It’s a more moderen 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 individuals stroll throughout, and crashing sound results play while you step on sure elements, including to the enjoyable. The encompassing jungle views additionally make the entire crossing really feel like a mini journey proper in the course of Gianyar.
Tegenungan Waterfall
Tegenungan Waterfall is likely 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 have to 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 encompassing 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 right place to attempt native Balinese avenue meals in a energetic setting. Stalls promote every part 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 inbuilt 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 may see how the temple was designed as each a non secular middle and a royal monument.
Sadly, we failed to go to this temple as a result of we ran out of time. However that is likely 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 points of interest listed here are far aside, however the preferred is certainly Lempuyang Temple.
Goa Raja Waterfall
Goa Raja Waterfall is a type of locations you received’t discover plastered throughout postcards, which makes it even higher. The identify means “King’s Cave,” and true to that, it’s tucked deep inside a forest close to Besakih. The path isn’t too lengthy, however it isn’t quick, both. When you hear the water, you’re shut.
The waterfall bursts out of a cave, echoing in opposition to mossy rocks whereas daylight filters via 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 trustworthy, Goa Raja wasn’t even in our authentic itinerary.
Tukad Cepung Falls
We have 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 only go to Goa Raja. However each waterfalls are recognized for his or her curtains that cascade alongside a stream of daylight. It’s also possible to get near it.
Tirta Gangga
Tirta Gangga was constructed within the Nineteen Forties by the final King of Karangasem. The identify means “holy water of the Ganges,” and even right now, locals nonetheless deal with it as a sacred website. The place is a maze of ponds, fountains, and guardian statues.
One pond with stepping stones is especially standard amongst vacationers {that a} lengthy line varieties round it. We weren’t within the pictures, 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 alleged to this point 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 certain 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 very best circumstances, you’ll need to get up actually early, hours earlier than daybreak. You see, this temple is situated near the easternmost tip of the island, two to 3 hours away from Kuta or Seminyak, and even Ubud, relying on the site visitors scenario.
Whenever you arrive on the car parking zone, you’ll want to attend and board a shuttle that can convey you to the doorway. Right here, you’ll be given a queue quantity. You’ll additionally have to 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, it will likely be arduous to foretell the precise time you’ll be known as for the pictures. Mt. Agung won’t be seen when it’s your flip, and there’s nothing you are able to do about it.
There is no such thing as a bodily queue. You’ll be able to spend the wait time exploring the temple, though after we visited, most elements have been closed as they have been making ready for a pageant the following day. There are different picture spots too.
When it’s lastly your flip, the picture session will occur rapidly. In a short time. In all probability only a minute or two. It’s free, however you’re anticipated to make a donation.
Lempuyang Temple is a historic and vital non secular and cultural website. For those who’re visiting since you like temples and also you respect historic websites, go for it. For those who’re right here for a photograph, I don’t assume the drive and the lengthy wait are price it. I imply, it’s an awesome shot, however I don’t assume I’d anticipate hours once more only for pics. I haven’t even posted my pictures 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 truly 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 instances are a giant 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 if you happen to desire the dawn tour, e book 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 may 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 almost all vacationers know, with well-known seashores, iconic temples, and cultural points of interest all packed right into a small space. Visitors might be chaotic, however the views, sunsets, and picture ops make it well worth the drive.
Most excursions have three to 4 of the next points of interest 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 website for worship, and the sundown views draw crowds each night. The waves crash in opposition to the rocks beneath, making it one of the photographed spots on the island.
Padang Padang Seaside
Padang Padang Seaside grew to become well-known after a sure Hollywood film was filmed right here, however it’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 seaside. It’s standard with surfers and sunbathers, so count on some firm throughout peak hours.
Uluwatu Temple & Kecak Hearth 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 Hearth Dance efficiency unfolds beneath is unforgettable. Monkeys roam the temple grounds, so keep watch over your belongings, and don’t be stunned if one decides your sun shades are truthful sport.
Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Hearth 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 might change Tanah Lot and Padang Padang Seaside 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 fowl Garuda. The park consists of exhibition halls, efficiency levels, and huge open areas to discover. It’s not solely an awesome place for pictures but additionally for studying about Hindu mythology and Balinese tradition.
Melasti Seaside
Melasti Seaside is a cliffside seaside 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 pictures. The drive all the way down to the seaside entails steep steps, however the views from the highest alone are well worth the effort.
Nusa Dua Seaside
Nusa Dua Seaside is lined with luxurious resorts however nonetheless has a public space the place guests can chill out on delicate sand or swim in calm waters. It’s excellent for households or anybody searching for a low-key seaside day. The promenade alongside the seaside can be nice for a leisurely stroll with a view of the Indian Ocean.
For those who desire this tour, e book 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 part, Kuta, Seminyak, and even Legian ship. From lengthy sandy seashores to countless eating places and nightlife, this space is at all times buzzing. No surprise these are the busiest elements of the island.
Kuta/Legian/Seminyak Seaside
Kuta Seaside, Legian Seaside, and Seminyak Seaside 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 energetic. Seminyak Seaside is extra upscale, lined with boutique motels and seaside golf equipment, and standard for watching sunsets over the Indian Ocean. You’ll be able to simply discover this seaside by yourself. No have to e book a tour.
Seminyak Meals Tour
Seminyak has turn out to be a foodie hotspot in Bali, providing every part from conventional warungs (small, family-run native eateries) to high-end eating places. A meals tour helps you to pattern Balinese staples like babi guling, sate lilit, and recent seafood whereas discovering tucked-away cafés. You’ll depart 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 seaside bars to very large golf equipment with worldwide DJs. Kuta has the basic social gathering scene with low-cost drinks and dwell music. Seminyak leans extra towards upscale lounges and cocktail bars. Both approach, it’s simple to discover a place to bop, 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 seaside 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 highway. The island is much less developed than mainland Bali, which suggests roads might be tough, however the surroundings and picture alternatives are unbelievable.
Kelingking Seaside
Kelingking Seaside is known for its T-Rex-shaped cliff, and sure, it seems 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 you probably have sturdy footwear. From the highest, the turquoise water and white sand beneath 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 beneath. The water right here is evident and calm at low tide, excellent for dipping your ft or taking pictures. Timing is vital as a result of excessive tide might be harmful, however when it’s proper, it’s an uncommon and beautiful spot.
Damaged Seaside
Damaged Seaside, or Pasih Uug, has an enormous pure arch that lets ocean water movement right into a round cove. The present is powerful, so swimming shouldn’t be suggested, however strolling alongside the cliff offers dramatic views of waves crashing via the arch. It’s a fast cease for pictures, however one which exhibits off the uncooked energy and fantastic thing about the island.
Crystal Seaside
Crystal Seaside 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 approach to finish the day after cliff-hopping and pool-exploring, giving your legs an opportunity to chill out within the sand.
Some excursions change Crystal Seaside with one other seaside.
✅ 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, however it’s additionally stuffed with tradition, historical past, and a few of the greatest eats on the island. A day right here is usually a mixture of exploring conventional websites, wandering public seashores, and sampling meals from avenue distributors to eating places. Additionally it is 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 complicated carvings whereas studying in regards to the historical past of the native monarchy.
Sanur
Sanur is a quieter seaside 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 couple of hours right here combining a stroll alongside the sand with an off-the-cuff meals crawl.
Meals Tour
Denpasar is good for a food-focused day due to its selection. Road stalls promote satay, babi guling, and fried snacks, whereas eating places provide fashionable takes on Balinese and Indonesian dishes. Sampling a mixture of flavors is straightforward, and each cease comes with an opportunity to speak with locals and see how conventional cooking is finished.
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 very best dishes we tried within the island.
We’re speaking noodles, babi guling, satay, desserts, and extra! We’ll be hitting up every part 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 a few of the greatest locations to remain beneath on your quick access.
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High Inns in Ubud
High Inns in Kuta
High Inns in Seminyak
Seek for extra Bali Inns Right here!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is non-compulsory, however we extremely suggest this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey might be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it offers us peace of thoughts in case of sudden delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
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Updates Log
2025 11 23 – First uploaded
Edited by: Asta Alvarez