Sure, Bali is famed for its ocean, surf and dive conditions, but there are so much more to the island than just the beaches.
The Island of Gods is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations in Indonesia. Sure, Bali is famed for its ocean, surf and dive conditions, but there are so much more to the island than just the beaches. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller looking for something off the beaten track, we’ve got you covered.
Visit Balinese temples
Today tourists come in the thousands and development of the island has progressed very rapidly. Despite that, Balinese festivals, ceremonies, rituals and culture are still very much intact and an important part of the island. Below are some of the key temples in Bali:
Pura Tirta Empul, the Holy Water temple
Local Balinese and Hindu believers have visited Pura Tirta Empul for many centuries, for its waters and sacred springs are thought to have healing properties. Some people even come with bottles to bring home the holy waters!
Tradition has it that after making an offering in the temple, believers enter the spring and soak their heads under the fountains. Of course, there are also foreigners who are just here for the experience. If you are visiting without a local guide, approach a local Balinese for an authentic experience. They will offer guidance and explanations on the different fountains, for each has its own meaning and purpose. Don’t be shy because given their warm disposition, Balinese people are more than happy to share about their culture.
Pura Luhur Uluwatu (Uluwatu Temple)
One of the sea temples in Bali, Uluwatu Temple is one of the nine temples in Bali that is meant to protect the island from evil. Perched on the edge of a rocky cliff, Uluwatu Temple overlooks the ocean, much like a trusty guard on duty.
Not to forget, Uluwatu Temple is one of the best spots in Bali to enjoy the sunset. There are also hundreds of free roaming monkeys here, which is quite a sight to behold. Just be careful, for these mischievous creatures are known for stealing visitors belongings.
Trust me, I’d know – one tried to steal my slipper off my feet.
A Kecak Fire Dance performance also takes place at the temple every evening. Based on traditional Balinese rituals and the Hindu story of Ramayana, the impressive performance lasts over an hour. The storyline builds to a climax as the sun goes down and the sky darkens. Many travellers also recommend this as a must see in Bali, so you know you shouldn’t miss out.
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Tanah Lot
On the west coast of Bali is one of the island’s most sacred and important landmarks. The name “Tanah Lot” stands for “Land in the sea” in Balinese language, and fittingly so. Two temples in Tanah Lot – Pura Batu Bolong and Pura Tanah Lot – sit offshore.
Pura Batu Bolong, an important site for purification
Purification ceremonies such as Melasti Ceremony are held at Pura Batu Bolong during full moon. There are also ceremonies held here every Wednesday so if you can, don’t miss this glimpse into local tradition and culture.
Pura Tanah Lot, built to appeal to the gods of the seas
First built in the 16th century, Tanah Lot is now one of the most widely used symbols for Bali. It draws large crowds during twilight hours for the fact that it is another great spot for viewing the sunset.
Purportedly, the priest who instructed fishermen to build a shrine on the rock turned his sash into a snake as protection against intruders and evil spirits. True enough, beneath the temple is a cave of venomous sea snakes, and believers take them to be guardians of the temple.
Take a dip in waterfalls
Bali is home to many spectacular waterfalls and sometimes it’s hard to pick just one to visit. From the easy-to-access Tegenungan to the remote Banyumala, there is bound to be a waterfall to fit all types of travellers. Here are some of our favourites:
Banyumala Waterfall
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Looking for somewhere that’s off the beaten track and away from the tourist crowd? Banyumala Waterfall will be your idea of a paradise. Hidden in the jungles of Buleleng, getting in to the beautiful twin waterfall will requires a 15 to 20 minute trek – but we promise the journey will be worth it.
We essentially had the whole place to ourselves on our visit. That’s how remote this place is. Absolutely perfect for a quiet afternoon in Mother Nature, the natural pool invites you in with its clear turquoise waters. Feel free to hop in, bathe in tranquility and listen to the roar of cascading waters.
Munduk Waterfall
Buleleng is home to most of Bali’s waterfalls, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that this place is sometimes called the ‘Heaven of Waterfalls’. Another well known waterfall here is Munduk, and although a short trek of about 700 m is required to get it, it is one of the easiest to get to without a guide. Sitting at over 800 m above sea level, visitors will be greeted by the cool mountain air and vibrant greenery, far away from the heat of the city.
Tegenungan Waterfall
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Tegenungan is another a well-known waterfall in Bali and one that is not tucked away in the highlands. It is one of the easiest waterfall to get to – 165 steps separates you and the waterfall. Going down is relatively easy, but coming back up might have you huffing and puffing just a little bit.
You might not have this place to yourself at all, but time your visit to be early in the day in order to avoid the tourist crowd. There are also many eateries that overlook the waterfall, providing a panoramic view of the falls and surrounding jungle.
Explore the beaches of Bali
Bali’s tourism stem from its beaches. Kuta beach may be the most famous (and crowded) of them all, but the island is home to many hidden gems and exotic beaches. One lifetime might not even be enough to explore them all! If you need some ideas on the next great beach to visit, here are some recommendations:
Green Bowl Beach
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Located at the base of a cliff, this beach can be rather difficult to reach but that is also the reason why there aren’t many visitors. From the parking area, visitors have to descend almost 400 steps to get to the white sand beach. The hard work will be well paid off. Apart from being one of the most secluded beaches in Bali, there are top notch waves for surfers, and at low tide this is a great spot for snorkelling.
Some of us might not be big fans of baking under the sun, preferring to stay away from the heat. Fret not, for at Green Bowl there are large caves to provide shade and shelter.
Tegal Wangi Beach
Tegal Wangi may not be popular amongst tourists but it sits in plain sight at the south of Jimbaran. Until recently, this beach was a well-kept secret between wedding photographers. True enough, on our visit there were only locals and we spotted no foreigners.
This beach is truly picturesque and one of the best places for watching the sunset with your loved ones. Note that if you are hopping into the waters for a swim, extra caution needs to be taken. The wave breaks near the shore and there are also many sea rocks.
Matahari Terbit Beach
Away from the west coast, on the east side of the island in Sanur is Matahari Terbit. This is undoubtedly the best place to watch the moon give way to the sun. The ocean here is also relatively calm, making it a good place for swimmers. In the morning you’ll find local Balinese here making sunrise prayers, walking their dogs, on a morning jog or swim.
Sure you’ll have to get out of bed really early for this, but we assure you it will be so worth it!
Pick up a new skill
As the Chinese idiom goes, one is never too late to learn. We are continually growing and learning, so what best way is there to facilitate this growth than to learn something new? There are so many things to learn in Bali, from picking up a new sport, yoga retreats to art classes. Here are some of our recommendations:
Learn how to surf
A big part of why so many people love Bali is because of the great surf conditions. And let’s admit it – not much is cooler than being a surfer. Bali is a great place to start learning how to conquer the waves.
Why not take your lessons at UP2U Surf School, which is ranked number 1 on TripAdvisor? I have surfed with them for a couple of times now and their humorous instructors will ensure that you have a good time. They can arrange for free pick up and drop off in Kuta, Legian and Seminyak area. There is also an in-house photographer to capture all your glamorous (and not-so-glamorous) moments in the surf!
Take a cooking class
Home to some of the world’s best cuisines and restaurants, taking a cooking class is a great way to compliment your experience in Bali. Most cooking classes in Bali also involve a local market tour and will introduce you to the Balinese people’s way of life. At the end of the lesson you will not only leave with a full stomach and new Balinese recipes, but also with a better knowledge of the Balinese food culture.
Learn silversmithing
Always dreamed of designing your own jewellery? Fulfil your dreams by learning from a local silversmith.
Many of these classes are found in Ubud, and apart from jewellery-making some studios even provide a range of Balinese art workshops from traditional painting, woodcarving, batik painting and Balinese music.
In a silversmithing class you will be able to create an original piece and customise a one-of-a-kind jewellery to call your own. We can’t think of a better souvenir to bring back home and remind you of your time in Bali!
