With its iconic rice paddies, coral reefs, beaches, and forested volcanic mountains to mention a few highlights, Bali is a tourist delight offering a range of memorable experiences. With the ease of access, including air transportation from Cathay Pacific services and lots of things to do, Bali is among the must-visit while exploring Indonesia's over 15000 islands. Bali has something for everyone from adrenaline-pumping activities, mouth-watering cuisines, magnificent sceneries, and architectural marvels, to mention a few. While planning your Bali tour itinerary, here are some of the must-include on your bucket list.
Visit Sekumpul Waterfalls
Does the sound of a thundering waterfall give you goose-bumps? Then Sekumpul Waterfall is a must-visit, a hidden gem that skips most of the tourists' plans. Hiking down the foot of the waterfall takes around 40 minutes. Once you make it, you'll be rewarded by an incredible view and the water's feeling hitting the ground underneath your feet. Time your visit to ensure that you head over when the sun shines for a rainbow view at the waterfall's foot.
Explore Ubud Monkey Forest
If a day in nature is your go-to for a beautiful vacation, then Ubud Monkey Forest is a must-visit. Also known as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, and located a few minutes away from the town, the forest offers a fantastic opportunity to interact with animals, such as the long-tailed macaques and other monkeys that freely roam the area. While the pathways leading through the thick forest make it easier to navigate the forest, the jungle setting makes the experience a lot more exciting, a perfect blend of animals and humans' coexistence.
As you tour the forest, you'll come across moss-covered statues and ancient temples, a feature that adds a mystical effect, a charm that makes the tour more fascinating. You'll also be amazed by the rich plant species in the region. The amazing sceneries, such as on the northwest part of the forest where you'll spot Pura Beji, an ancient temple next to a cool stream, make the exploration a memorable experience you'll treasure for a lifetime.
Pura Tanah Lot
Pura Tanah Lot is among the most iconic temples of Bali house, located northwest of Kuta. Considered one of the most sacred temples by the locals, the seaside setting makes it a must-visit due to the spectacular view and atmosphere. The temple is surrounded by a rocky islet crashing with amazing waves, a setting that quickly wows even the hard to please individuals. Join a crowd of tourists from Kuta, Sanur, and Legian every evening, and on your way, stop for souvenirs. While there, check out the sunset behind the temple. Don't forget to taste the famous Kopi Luwak in one of the cafes and restaurants around. While touring the temple, as is the case with any other temple in Bali, remember to pick respectful attire.
Lovina
Are you a water person? Lovina is an ideal scuba diving and snorkeling region owing to the calmer waters. The area is popularly known for its volcanic sand on its 5-mile beach stretch. You'll find locals operating Perahu and ready to take you to some of the best diving areas. The calm sea is excellent for water sports, dolphin watching, and swimming features that make the region a family-friendly tourist destination.
Mount Batur
Mount Batur isn't the highest point on Bali, but its positioning that dominates the northeastern section offers an unparalleled edge. The site includes a lake, several villages, and four craters. Among the pros of visiting the region is that hiking to the top is relatively easy. Within a few hours (two to three hours), you can navigate through the well-marked trails and be at the top taking in that magical sunrise view, a popular activity that attracts many tourists. While touring Mount Batur, don't forget to check out one of Bali's nine major Hindu temples, known as Pura Ulun Danu Batur.
Uluwatu Temple
This is among the most famous temples in Bali, and its location is simply breathtaking. As the temple presides over the plunging sea cliff, the splendid clifftop setting offers a striking view, just above one of Bali's top surf spots. You won't be allowed to enter the temple unless you are a Hindu worshipper. Nonetheless, checking out the scenic pathway and the amazing viewpoints along the way is an exciting and memorable experience. The sunset Kecak dance performances spice up the experience as you learn the region's rich history. It is believed that the monkeys residing in the forest near the entrance protect the temple from bad influences, while the temple protects Bali from evil sea spirits.
Jatiluwih and Tegallalang Rice Terraces
The photogenic rice terraces are simply amazing. The view, the feel, and the overall atmosphere are incredibly amazing, and if you are looking for that Instagram-worthy photo, this would be the perfect spot. The lush green environment is quite relaxing, and as you take in the view, you kick it a notch higher by visiting the cafes and restaurants around the fields for a taste of the local cuisines. The iconic terraces are a must-visit while touring Bali, and their timeless beauty will stick to your memories for a lifetime.
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan
The picturesque temple, lying on a small island along the western shore of Lake Bratan, is quite a fascinating destination. The temples reflect on the lake, a view that transforms the thatched structures into magical and breathtaking scenery. If you visit the area when the water levels are higher, the temple seems to be floating on the surface. The temple is dedicated to Dewi Danu, goddess of the sea and lakes, a fascinating fact, especially noting that Lake Bratan is among Bali's main drinking and irrigation water sources.
Bali is packed with a lot more fascinating attraction sites. While touring the region, don't forget to sample cuisines such as Mie Goreng (stir-fried noodles) barbeque on a stick (Sate-Skewer), steamed fish in banana leaf (Pepes Ikan), and shaved rice (Es Campur), among other mouth-watering delicacies.