Uncovering the 11 Best Things to Do in Bali
Bali is a tropical paradise located in Indonesia, between Java and Lombok. In recent years, it emerged as a top tourist destination for travelers from around the world, mostly because of its beautiful beaches, delicious food, exciting nightlife, and its low cost of living. However: Bali is much more than just a beach destination: it has a rich history and culture, where ancient temples, traditional ceremonies, and breathtaking natural landscapes can be found, which means there are a lot of amazing things to do in Bali.
In the past, Bali was an important center for Hindu and Buddhist religious and cultural activities, with a history that can be traced back to the 8th century, shaped by several cultures and religions throughout the centuries.
Nowadays, Bali is a melting pot of cultures and religions, with a predominantly Hindu population. Luckily its rich cultural heritage can still be experienced through the island’s many temples and ceremonies, which are still an important part of the local’s daily life.
The options for things to do in Bali are endless: sunbathing on the beaches to exploring ancient temples, from enjoying delicious food to partying at nightclubs. This article will highlight our favorite things to do in Bali.
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The 11 best things to do in Bali – listed
In this article, we will take a deep dive into the best things to do in Bali, from the must-see tourist attractions to the hidden gems that only the locals know about. We will cover everything from the beautiful beaches and delicious food to the ancient temples and traditional ceremonies that make Bali such a unique and special destination.
Here is a short overview of the topics we’ll dive into, Keep reading for a comprehensive overview to help you plan your trip!
- Visit the ancient temples of Bali.
- Experience the traditional culture of Bali.
- Go white water rafting.
- Taking a cooking class.
- Visit spas and wellness centers.
- Go on a traditional boat tour.
- Take a hot air balloon ride.
- Indulge in a romantic dinner with delicious food.
- Relax on the beaches of Bali.
- Discover the natural landscapes, waterfalls, and lakes of Bali.
- Visit the vibrant night markets and enjoy the nightlife in Bali.
Best things to do in Bali
One of the best things to do in Bali is to visit its ancient temples; these sacred spaces are not only a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage, but they also offer visitors a glimpse into the spiritual heart of Bali as the island is home to a wide range of temples, each with its own unique history and significance.
One of the most famous temples in Bali is the Uluwatu Temple, located on the island’s southern tip. This temple is one of the most important temples in Bali and is dedicated to worshiping the god of the sea. The temple is perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, providing visitors with stunning views and a sense of peacefulness.
Another must-see temple in Bali is the Tirta Empul Temple, located in central Bali. This temple is famous for its holy spring water, which is believed to have healing powers. Visitors can take a dip in the spring water and participate in a purification ceremony, which is said to bring good luck and prosperity.
It’s worth noting that Bali has more than 20,000 temples, and these are just a few examples of the most famous and significant temples in Bali, each one has its own unique history, architectural style, and significance. Below are a few other impressive temples you might want to visit:
- Pura Besakih: Known as the “Mother Temple” of Bali, it is the most important and largest temple complex on the island, consisting of 23 separate temples.
- Pura Tanah Lot: One of the most famous temples in Bali, it is located on a rock formation in the sea and offers breathtaking views of the ocean.
- Pura Taman Ayun: A beautiful temple located in the Mengwi district, it is surrounded by a moat and features elegant traditional architecture.
- Pura Ulun Danu Bratan: A temple dedicated to the goddess of water and located on the shores of Lake Bratan, it offers picturesque views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Bali’s temples are not only instagrammable places, or must-see destinations for tourists, but they are also places for locals to pray, purify, and make offerings. Visiting these sacred spaces is a great way to immerse yourself in the island’s culture and gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual beliefs of the Balinese people.
Fun things to do in Bali
When it comes to fun things to do in Bali, the island truly offers endless possibilities for entertainment and adventure: from adrenaline-pumping activities to more laid-back experiences.
One of the most fun things to do in Bali for thrill-seekers is to go white water rafting on the Ayung River; this exciting activity allows you to navigate the rapids while taking in the beautiful jungle scenery and is suitable for both experienced rafters and first-timers.
Another fun activity in Bali is taking a cooking class, as the island is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, and learning how to cook traditional Balinese dishes is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and bring home a new skill. Cooking classes are available for all skill levels and often include visiting local markets to learn about the ingredients used in the dishes.
For those looking for a more relaxing experience, the island offers many spas and wellness centers where you can indulge in traditional treatments such as massages, body scrubs, and beauty treatments.
Cool things to do in Bali
When it comes to cool things to do in Bali, the island is truly a paradise for those looking for unique and unforgettable experiences, including off-the-beaten-path activities and one-of-a-kind sights. One thing is sure: Bali offers a wide range of cool experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.
One of the coolest things to do in Bali is to go on a traditional boat tour to see the island’s famous sea temples, such as Tanah Lot and Uluwatu. These temples are located on rocky outcroppings in the sea and offer spectacular views of the surrounding ocean, taking a traditional boat tour to these temples is a unique way to experience the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Another cool activity in Bali is to take a hot air balloon ride over the island’s lush green landscape. This once-in-a-lifetime experience offers breathtaking views of rice fields, mountains, and temples and is a perfect way to get a bird’s-eye view of the island’s natural beauty.
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, Bali offers many activities such as rock climbing, surfing, diving, and parasailing. All of these activities are suitable for different skill levels and provide an exciting and unique way to explore the island.
Romantic Things to do Bali
Even when it comes to romantic things to do in Bali, the island is truly a paradise for couples looking for a romantic getaway.
For those who want to keep it classic, Bali offers couples several options for a romantic dinner with delicious food, as the island is filled with fine dining restaurants that offer a unique and romantic ambiance; Imagine dining under the stars on a rooftop terrace with a view of the sea, or by candlelight in a private villa – truly unforgettable!
Another romantic activity in Bali is to spend a cozy day at the beach, as they offer the perfect setting for a romantic stroll or a picnic. Imagine walking hand in hand with your loved one along the sandy shore, or cuddling up together on a beach blanket while watching the sunset. The island’s famous beaches, such as Seminyak, Kuta, and Sanur offer many romantic views.
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, Bali offers many opportunities to visit waterfalls as it is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, such as Gitgit waterfall, Tegenungan waterfall, and the hidden waterfall in Sekumpul. These waterfalls offer a serene and peaceful setting for a romantic stroll or a picnic.
Bali: Things to Do at night
Next to a great destination to visit the ancient temples and experience the traditional culture, Bali is also an amazing destination that truly comes alive at night, offering a wide range of things to do for those looking for an exciting and memorable evening: from vibrant night markets to lively bars and clubs.
One of the best things to do in Bali at night is to visit the island’s vibrant night markets, as they offer a unique shopping experience and a chance to experience the local culture. You’ll find everything from traditional handicrafts and souvenirs to trendy clothing and accessories. Some of the most popular night markets include Seminyak’s Oberoi Street and Kuta’s Night Market.
Another exciting thing to do in Bali at night is to experience the island’s lively nightlife scene. Whether you’re looking for a casual drink with friends or an all-out party, Bali has a lot of popular spots including Sky Garden in Kuta, and La Favela in Seminyak.
Bali also offers a wide range of dining options for those looking for a more relaxed evening. You’ll find many dining options, from beachfront restaurants to intimate private villas to suit your taste and budget!
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