10 Must-Visit Places in Bali

From sacred temples nestled in lush jungles to cliffside beaches with fiery sunsets, Bali offers endless wonders. This guide pinpoints the exact addresses of its top 10 attractions, reveals their unique highlights, and suggests what to do for unforgettable experiences—whether you're chasing waterfalls, joining cultural rituals, or diving into turquoise seas. Plan smartly and dive deeper into the Island of Gods! 

 

1. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary (Ubud Monkey Forest)

Address: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali

Best time: 7:00–9:00 AM (dry season April–October)

Highlights:

• Hundreds of long-tailed macaques roam freely among towering trees and ancient Hindu temples.
•  Three 14th-century temples (Pura Dalem, Pura Beji, and Pura Prajapati) are tucked deep in the forest.

What to Do:

1. Watch monkeys interact (but hide your snacks and glasses—they will snatch them!).
2. Visit Pura Dalem Agung and admire its eerie stone demon carvings.
3. Follow jungle paths to find hidden waterfalls.

 

2. Tirta Empul Temple (Holy Spring Temple)

Address: Jl. Tirta, Manukaya, Tampaksiring, Gianyar, Bali

Best time: 8:00–10:00 AM (year-round)

Highlights:

• The holy water, believed to be created by Lord Indra, draws worshippers for spiritual cleansing.
•  Balinese locals bathe daily in the spring to purify mind and body.

What to Do:

1. Join a Melukat purification ritual at all 11 spring spouts.
2. View the adjacent Presidential Palace from outside for a panoramic shot.
3. Shop for silver jewelry or sarongs from local artisans.

 

3. Uluwatu Temple & Lovers' Cliff

Address: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung, Bali

Best time: 17:30–18:30 PM (dry season April–October)

Highlights:

• Dramatic cliff temple: Perched on a 70-meter high cliff, the temple overlooks the crashing Indian Ocean.
• Kecak Fire Dance: A powerful sunset performance with chanting and flame-filled theatrics.

What to Do:

1. Arrive early to claim the best sunset viewpoint along the cliff.
2. Watch the 6 PM Kecak Dance (buy tickets at least 30 mins before).
3. Beware of monkeys—avoid flashy jewelry and snacks.

 

4. Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Address: Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Gianyar, Bali

Best time: 6:30–8:00 AM (dry season May–September)

Highlights:

UNESCO-worthy landscape: Iconic terraced fields that look like a dream in the morning mist.

Cultural crossover: Surrounded by artisan woodcarving shops and coffee plantations.

What to Do:

1. Snap “floating” photos on the famous Bali swings (e.g. Alas Harum).
2. Try traditional rice farming and learn about the Subak irrigation system.
3. Visit nearby Tukad Cepung Waterfall for magical light rays through a cave.

 

5. Tanah Lot Temple

Address: Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan, Bali

Best time: low tide period + 1 hour before sunset (dry season April-October)

Highlights:

• Temple on the sea: Accessible by foot only during low tide, it appears to float at high tide.
• Sunset ceremonies: Priests perform floral blessings against crashing waves and chants.

What to Do:

1. Walk across the rocky path at low tide to touch the “Holy Snake Cave.”
2. Sip a cocktail at Rock Bar while watching the sun dip into the ocean.
3. Try coconut gelato shaped like Tanah Lot Temple!

 

6. Mount Batur & Lake Batur (Kintamani Region)

Address: Kintamani Highlands, Bangli, Bali

Best time: 6:30–8:00 AM (dry season May–September)

Highlights:

• Volcano & caldera lake: Mount Batur (1,717m) is still active and looms over a crystal-clear lake.
• Cloud-break breakfast: Climb before dawn and enjoy eggs boiled in volcanic steam at sunrise.

What to Do:

1. Hike Mount Batur (about 2 hours, guide recommended).
2. Soak in Toya Bungkah hot springs post-hike.
3. Visit Trunyan Village to learn about Bali's rare sky burial rituals.

 

7. Seminyak Beach
 

Address: Seminyak, Badung, Bali

Best time: 15:00–18:00 PM (all year round)

Highlights:

Chic coastal vibe: Home to boutique shops, Insta-famous cafes, and luxury beach bars.

Black sand surf: Ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers.

What to Do:

1. Order a sunset cocktail at Potato Head Beach Club and lounge by the pool.
2. Take a surf lesson (best done early morning or at sunset).
3. Explore Seminyak Flea Market for handmade jewelry and Boho dresses.

 

8. Jimbaran Bay Seafood Dinner

Address: Jimbaran Beach, South Kuta, Badung, Bali

Best time: 15:00–18:00 PM (all year round)

Highlights:

• Seafood with a sunset view: Beachfront dining with freshly grilled lobster, fish, and local sambal.
• Fisherman culture: Watch the boats return with the day’s catch and haggle like a local.

 

What to Do:

1. Arrive before 6 PM and pick a beachfront restaurant (Lia Café is a favorite).
2. Order the seafood platter with lobster, squid, and clams (~200 RMB/person).
3. Walk barefoot post-dinner while locals fly kites or play games.

 

9. Besakih Temple (Mother Temple of Bali)

Address: Besakih, Rendang, Karangasem, Bali

Best time: 15:00–18:00 PM (all year round)

Highlights:

• Spiritual capital: The island's largest and holiest temple complex, set on Mount Agung’s slopes.
• Living legacy: Hosts hundreds of rituals annually, including the once-a-century Eka Dasa Rudra.

 

What to Do:

1. Hire a local guide to explain the symbolic Hindu cosmology.
2. Dress in a sarong and join a simple prayer ritual.
3. Catch a clear view of Mount Agung’s summit on a clear day.

 

10. Nusa Penida Island

Address: Nusa Penida, Klungkung, Bali

Best time: 6:00–8:00 AM (year-round)

Highlights:

• Cliffs & natural wonders: Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Broken Beach offer surreal views.
• Manta rays galore: Snorkel with giant mantas in Manta Bay.

 

What to Do:

1. Rent a scooter or hire a driver to explore the island's rugged beauty.
2. Snorkel/dive with Mola Mola (sunfish) from July–October.
3. Watch the sunset at Crystal Bay while munching on grilled corn with spicy sauce.

 

How to Plan a Trip in Bali?

Trip Overview

• Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

• Theme: Cultural Exploration (40%) + Nature Adventure (30%) + Beach Relaxation (30%)

• Transportation: Private car (4 days) + Fast boat (Nusa Penida) + Walking/Scooter

• Accommodation Recommendations:

  • Ubud (2 nights) – Cultural heart of Bali

  • Seminyak or Canggu (2 nights) – Trendy beach town

  • Uluwatu (1 night) – Cliffside sea views

  • Nusa Penida (1 night) – Remote island paradise

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Day 1: Arrival in Bali – Cultural Introduction in Ubud

Morning:

• Arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport → Private car to Ubud (1.5 hours)

Afternoon:

• Visit Ubud Palace (Free) → Explore Ubud Art Market (bargaining encouraged!)

• Head to Tegallalang Rice Terrace and snap sunset photos on the Alas Harum Swing

Dinner:

• Try the famous smoked duck at Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Diner)

Stay:

• Jungle-style homestay in Ubud (e.g., Kamandalu Ubud or budget-friendly Green Field Hotel)

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Day 2: Deeper Into Ubud – Holy Springs & Jungle Walks

Early Morning:

• Arrive at Tirta Empul Temple by 7:00 AM for a peaceful purification ritual

Late Morning:

• Discover Tukad Cepung Waterfall – best light from 9–11 AM

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a light trek at Campuhan Ridge Walk (1 hour, free)

• Visit the Neka Art Museum

Evening:

• Join a traditional Balinese cooking class (e.g., learn to make fish grilled in banana leaves)

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Day 3: Volcano Sunrise & Central Bali Adventure

Early Morning (2:00 AM):

• Start hiking Mount Batur with a guide (approx. 2 hours)

• Enjoy a sunrise breakfast above the clouds (boiled eggs & banana sandwiches)

After Hike:

• Relax in the Toya Bungkah Hot Springs

Afternoon:

• Visit Besakih Temple, Bali’s largest and holiest site (1.5 hrs drive)

• Optional stop at Tirta Gangga Water Palace

Evening:

• Drive to Seminyak and check into your beach hotel

Dinner:

• Dine with ocean views at La Lucciola in Seminyak

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Day 4: South Bali Beaches & Luxury Sunset

Morning:

• Take a 2-hour surf lesson at Seminyak Beach (perfect for beginners)

• Browse Love Anchor Market for stylish souvenirs

Afternoon:

• Drive to Tanah Lot Temple for a scenic visit

• Stop at cozy countryside cafés en route

Sunset:

• Reserve a table at Rock Bar Uluwatu (cliffside drinks)

• Watch the Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple (starts ~6:00 PM)

Stay:

• Cliffside luxury resort in Uluwatu (e.g., Alila Villas Uluwatu)

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Day 5: Nusa Penida Island Adventure

Early Morning:

• Take a fast boat from Sanur Port (7:00 AM, ~1 hour) to Nusa Penida

Island Tour (4WD recommended):

• Visit Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Broken Beach

Snorkeling:

• Join a guided snorkel at Manta Bay to swim with giant manta rays

Evening:

• Return to the mainland → Stay near Jimbaran Beach

Dinner:

• Enjoy a beachfront seafood BBQ at Lia Café in Jimbaran

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Day 6: Chill Day – Spa, Surf, and Sunsets

Morning:

• Relax at Padang Padang Beach (surf or snorkel; famous from Eat Pray Love)

• Visit Uluwatu Temple again for a peaceful walk

Afternoon:

• Indulge in a luxury spa experience (recommended: Jari Menari or Karsa Spa)

• Optional: Explore Canggu cafés or shop in Seminyak

Sunset:

• Unwind at Potato Head Beach Club with a cocktail and infinity pool vibes

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Day 7: Departure or Free Day

Morning (depending on flight time):

• Optional stop at Discovery Mall Kuta for last-minute shopping

• Airport massage or chill at a beachfront café

Shopping Suggestions:

• Balinese coffee beans

• Essential oils and floral hydrosols

• Handwoven bags and beachwear

 

Travel Planning Tips

Transportation:

• Private car hire: ~$60–$80 USD/day (incl. fuel & driver meals) – book via Klook or local agents

• Avoid airport scams! Use Grab or Blue Bird Taxi with meter

Time-Saving Tricks:

• Arrive early (before 8:00 AM) at popular temples like Tanah Lot and Tirta Empul to avoid crowds

• Mount Batur hike must be booked at least 1 week in advance (~$40 USD incl. guide & breakfast)

Budget Guidelines (Per Person for 7 Days):

• Budget: ¥4000–5000 RMB (~$600–700 USD) – Hostels + scooters + group tours

• Comfortable: ¥8000–10000 RMB (~$1100–1400 USD) – 4-star hotels + private car + curated experiences

• Luxury: ¥15000+ RMB (~$2000+ USD) – 5-star villas + private yacht + high-end spa

Plan B (Rainy Weather or Fatigue):

• Swap sunrise hike with Kintamani viewpoint breakfast + Lake Batur boat ride

• Do only West Nusa Penida (Kelingking + Angel’s Billabong) if time or energy is limited

 

Final Reminders

• Visa: Chinese passport holders get 30-day visa-free entry (Passport valid >6 months)

• SIM Card: Buy Telkomsel at the airport (25GB ~ ¥50 RMB / ~$7 USD)

• Safety: Avoid street drug offers; keep valuables safe from curious monkeys!