12 Best Tourist Attractions to Visit in Bali

Bali, an island paradise in central Indonesia, has long been one of Southeast Asia's top tourist destinations. Bali is endowed with a richness of tourist resources. Its extraordinary natural beauty has won the island popular acclaim as the Poetry Island and the Island of Gods. It is home to many ancient water temples, extremely appealing coasts, and thrilling mountains. With so many things to see and do, it can be challenging to choose which attractions to visit first. Here, we highlight the top 10 Bali attractions that you should not miss.

Indonesia is Calling

Pura Tanah Lot

"Pura" means temple in Balinese. Located on a rock formation in the sea, Tanah Lot Temple is one of the three most famous temples in Bali. The temple is believed to have been built in the 16th century and is dedicated to the Balinese sea gods. The interior of the temple is generally not open to the public, but the complex's unique location on the ocean makes it an excellent spot to watch the sunset and photograph. Near Tanah Lot temple, you may walk through lushly planted pathways to picturesque Batu Bolong. You can take in the stunning views of the Indian Ocean from a causeway that is solitary. Before sunset, you can get something special along paths lined by souvenir vendors. There are many restaurants and cafés at the top of the cliffs. You may be served wonderful Kopi Luwak, a locally famous civet coffee.

Pura Tanah Lot

Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang

Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang, best known as The Gate of The Sky, is situated on the slope of Mount Lempuyang, and is an immensely popular destination for photography. The temple features a complex of several smaller temples. The 1700-step summit of Lempuyang is accessible. Along the way, before you get to the "gate", you can admire beautiful architecture, lush forests, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The gate is formed by two towering, elaborate staircases in front of a pristine water pool. Its strikingly spectacular scenes are common settings for Instagram photos. The Gate looks out towards dreamy clouds, the hazy volcanoes of Agung, and a crystal-clear sea. All make Pura Lempuyang Temple charming and photogenic. As most tourists do in Lempuyang Temple, you can be part of a perfect picture by standing between two beautiful staircases. Anyway, the Gate of the Sky symbolizes Lempuyang Temple, making it a sacred shrine for nature lovers to purify spirits.

Uluwatu Temple

Located on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple is another famous temple in Bali. The Hindu sea temple is dedicated to Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa and acts as the island's keeper of peace and stability. The location on a seaside cliff offers Uluwatu Temple a majestic picture of the sun setting as Tanah Lot Temple is given. For surfing lovers, the sea cliffs Uluwatu Temple is perched on are wonderful surfing spots. Apart from the breathtaking seascape and magnificent temple complex, every day at 6 p.m., a Kecak dance performance based on the Ramayana is performed on the cliffside at Uluwatu Temple. You can watch the traditional Kecak dance performed at sunset, which tells the story of the Ramayana. The temple is inhabited by a group of monkeys that form a lively sight to behold. But some of them may be mischievous, you might be careful when close to them.

Uluwatu Temple

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Temple

Hindu and Buddhist temples are an essential part of Balinese culture and attractions. As one of the major Hindu Shaivite temples, Pura Bratan holds great attention for both domestic and foreign tourists. The highlight of the entire complex is the main pagoda that appears to float on the surface of Lake Bratan. This iconic scene forms the main attraction in Pura Bratan temples, which attract a large number of visitors every year. Pura Bratan contains many Buddhist stupas and pavilions decorated with bright red datura flowers and lush banyan trees, some surrounded by water. You can go sailing on the lake to admire elegant temples or enjoy a day's fishing. If you prefer to stay on the land, you can enjoy the fine altars and shrines. Throughout the year, many festivals like Tari Kecak and fire dance, are held in Pura Bratan, during which you have the potential to see musical performances and religious ceremonies and have a meal at a food stall.

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Ubud

Ubud is one of the most absorbing towns in Bali. Situated among the terraced rice fields along the slopes of Bali's central highlands, the famous town is proud of its attractively expensive rice terraces and full of diverse cultural forms. Ubud is a vibrant art place filled with museums, temples, and art galleries. You can visit the Neka Art Museum, which houses a vast collection of Balinese paintings. The lively local art market, Ubud Art Market, and craft shops are good destinations to see. There are exquisite handicrafts and accessories, as well as fancy clothes like colorful sarongs, to choose from. The Puri Saren Royal Ubud Palace, located directly across from the market, is also worth a visit. Besides, spectacular dance and music performances take place throughout the year in Ubud. The town gives tourists an intriguing window into modern Balinese art and the modern way locals live.

Ubud

Ubud Monkey Forest

Ubud Monkey Forest is a sanctuary and natural habitat for Balinese long-tailed macaques. The forest, also known as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, is located in Ubud and is inhabited by over 700 monkeys. The monkey paradise is a hotspot for photographers and all lovers of animals. You can walk through the forest and watch the monkeys playing, grooming, and interacting with each other. However, it's essential to keep in mind that the monkeys can be quite naughty, so it's essential to follow the rules and regulations set by the park. The sanctuary is home to more than 180 species of plants and trees. Many parts of the park, such as the ravine and stream, are accessible thanks to several guided trails. It's wonderful to explore plants and animals in the forest. Another focus of the forest may be a scattering of statues of monkeys, Komodo dragons, and carved deities. The forest also includes three temples and other leisure facilities like a public hall and gallery and an open stage. You can enjoy yourself by experiencing various activities here.

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Tegalalang and Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

It is certain that the rice terraces are one of Bali's greatest attractions. Most of Indonesia's rice terraces, especially the Tegalalang and Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, make frequent appearances in Indonesia's travel brochures and postcards. The Tegalalang and Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are stunning examples of Bali's ancient agricultural practices. Both of these fascinating landscapes are owed to the way "subak," a widely accepted Balinese irrigation system, works. Located in Ubud, the terraces are a series of stepped rice paddies that have been cultivated for centuries. You can take a walk along the famous terrace trails and learn about the local farming methods. It's better to have a wide view of lush terraces while relaxing in a restaurant or café overlooking the fields. Whether to experience the lifestyle of Balinese people or to shoot satisfactory pictures, both of these rice terraces have iconic scenery to offer, making them a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Mount Batur

Mount Batur is an active volcano located in the north-central part of Bali. It is one of the grandest mountain scenes in Bali. The mountain top is an excellent spot to appreciate a dramatic sunrise. Visitors can take a guided trek to the 1,700-meter summit of the volcano and watch the sunrise over the beautiful lake Batur. The trek is not too difficult, making it accessible to most visitors. But it's essential to get stout hiking shoes for reasons of comfort and security. The lush mountains are picturesquely shrouded in mist against the backdrop of the first signs of dawn. Photograph lovers can find the caldera hazy in the distance. At the summit of Mount Batur, you can get a peek at the beauty of this volcano, which features a lake, four craters, and scattered villages. Besides, Mount Batur is home to Pura Ulun Danu Batur which comprises nine separate temples with a total of 285 shrines and pavilions. When visiting Mount Batur, you can also experience a festival of odalan at the Pura Ulun Danu Batur, which celebrates the heritage and performance arts of Balinese Hindus.

Mount Batur

Pura Besakih

Pura Besakih, once known as the Mother Temple, is the largest and most important Hindu temple in east Bali. The temple complex is located on the slopes of Mount Agung, which is 1,000 meters in altitude, and is made up of 23 separate pagoda-like temples. The temple complex caught the world's attention first in 1963 and was designated a potential UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. Surrounded by lush rice paddies and forests, Pura Besakih shows you stunning landscapes before you visit the temples inside. You can explore the complex and learn about Balinese Hinduism by climbing its time-honored stairs and admiring various revered deities. It's essential to dress respectfully (or hire a local guide, if needed) when visiting the temple to learn more about its history and significance of the temple. Moreover, each of the temples in Pura Besakih has its own temple festival, or odalan, locally. One of the biggest temple festivals is Batara Turun Kabeh, when Balinese worship the gods of all temple shrines and make a slow procession. You can visit temple after temple in Pura Besakih and partake in different Hindu ceremonies.

Nusa Dua Beach

Nusa Dua Beach is a popular worldwide beach located in the southern part of Bali. It is a part of the Nusa Dua tourist resort area. The beach itself is a long stretch of golden sand with quiet and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. Nusa Dua Beach is widely praised for its safety, with a team of lifeguards stationed along the beachfront to keep tourists safe. The beach serves as an excellent destination for families with children, who can participate in some interesting water activities such as jet skiing and banana boating. If you prefer to stay on land, you can take a leisurely walk and enjoy the scenic views of the ocean, as the beach offers a long walkway along the shore. What's more, the nearby beach is well equipped with facilities, consisting of some famous, luxurious hotels, international golf courses, and other cafes and shops. If you're a fanatical golfer, you can't miss the Bali National Golf Club. Nusa Dua Beach, as well as the neighborhood, have plenty of joy and excitement to enjoy. It is really worth a visit.

Nusa Dua Beach

Kuta Beach

Kuta features what is reputedly one of the most beautiful beaches, Kuta Beach. Kuta Beach, not far from Bali's international airport, has evolved from a small tranquil village into a hopping resort. Kuta Beach has a long stretch of flat and soft sand, making it a wonderful place to sunbathe. With the pleasant weather and frequent dancing of coastal waves, the beach enjoys the exceptional advantage of being sought-after surf spot among surfers around the world. You can take surfing lessons and rent surfboards and boogie boards directly from vendors. If you prefer peace, you can have fun with children in the water, just splashing around. In addition to water sports, numerous cafés, restaurants, and shopping malls fill the nearby beach. You'll be dazzled by window displays that include Balinese handicrafts, famous Batik clothing, and handmade souvenirs. The vibrant nightlife may be an intoxicating part of your trip to Kuta. You can watch dance performances, such as monkey dance, fire dance, and balloon dance, as well as savor tasty seafood and beverages.

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The Sidemen Valley

The Sidemen Valley, located northeast of Ubud, is home to a population of Balinese aborigines. In the valley perch sleepy villages encircled by lush terraced rice fields. The scenic landscape and tranquil countryside lifestyle here hold great attraction for those who are eager to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The remarkable picture of the Sidemen Valley is made up of cloud-capped Mount Agung, vibrant rice terraces, and antique houses. You can take a relaxing stroll along the lush rice field, involving yourself in local farming and living. You can also go trekking to the summit of Mount Agung and explore the mountain-top temples. Other attractive activities include river rafting and yoga retreats at the health spa. The Sidemen Valley offers high-end accommodations such as eco-friendly Camaya and Hideout, where it could be fun to participate in local dancing, traditional weaving, or carving.

Bali has a lot to offer, from ancient temples to stunning natural landscapes, from which you can get a lot of enjoyment. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Bali Island can always treat every traveler to its diverse displays of natural landscapes and cultural heritage. The above-mentioned ten attractions are just a few examples of what this beautiful island has to offer, so if you want to explore and discover all of Bali's fascinations, get in touch with us. We're happy to offer you relevant information about this island. You can travel independently or travel with Odynovo. Odynovo will tailor travel arrangements based on your needs to ensure you have a good time during your trip around Bali. Travel with Odynovo, and you can enjoy the best experience with us.