Best Things to Do in Bali in 2024
Introduction
Exploring the enchanting wonders of Bali offers a journey into a realm where spirituality intertwines with natural splendor. From the serene rice terraces to the majestic temples, each destination unveils a unique facet of the island’s rich cultural tapestry. Let’s embark on a captivating odyssey, delving into the vibrant traditions and breathtaking landscapes that define Bali’s allure.
Discover Rice Terraces
Bali’s iconic rice terraces are a testament to the island’s rich agricultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Located primarily in the regions of Ubud and Tegalalang, these lush, green terraces have been cultivated for centuries using traditional methods. The stepped landscapes, created through the subak irrigation system, are not only vital for local farming but also offer breathtaking vistas that attract visitors from around the world. Walking through these terraces provides an immersive experience, allowing you to appreciate the intricate and labor-intensive process that sustains Bali’s rice production. Whether you visit at sunrise or sunset, the serene and picturesque rice terraces offer a glimpse into the harmonious relationship between the Balinese people and their land.
Practise Yoga
Ubud has emerged as a global hub for yoga, while the trendy Canggu area is challenging its traditional dominance with a more hedonistic vibe. In Ubud, you can find everything from affordable drop-in sessions to ‘complimentary’ classes at luxury hotels costing thousands of dollars per night. The Yoga Barn and Radiantly Alive are the leading yoga studios, each with a dedicated following and a friendly rivalry. Both studios are renowned for their serene environments and for attracting some of the world’s best instructors, ensuring that you’ll have a top-notch yoga experience no matter which one you choose.
Discover Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
Situated on the shores of Lake Bratan in the central highlands of Bali, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Temple is one of the island’s most picturesque and spiritually significant sites. Dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of lakes and rivers, this water temple dates back to the 17th century and is vital for the irrigation of central Bali. Often appearing to float on the lake’s serene waters, the temple complex features stunning traditional architecture set against a backdrop of misty mountains. Visitors can explore the intricately carved shrines, serene gardens, and reflective lake, making Pura Ulun Danu Bratan a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the unique spiritual and natural beauty of Bali.
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Explore Tirta Empulu Temple
Tirta Empul Temple is a sacred site renowned for its holy spring water, where Balinese Hindus go for ritual purification. Located in the village of Manukaya, near Ubud, the temple complex dates back to 962 AD and is dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu god of water. Visitors can witness devotees participating in traditional cleansing ceremonies, where they bathe in the series of stone pools fed by the sacred spring. With its serene atmosphere and cultural significance, Tirta Empul offers a profound glimpse into Bali’s spiritual heritage and is a captivating destination for those seeking a deeper connection to the island’s traditions.
Surf in Crystal Waters
Surfing has always been an integral part of the Bali experience. The island boasts numerous world-class breaks that challenge even professional surfers, particularly around the southern Bukit Peninsula. However, Kuta Beach remains one of the top spots for surfing, offering numerous board rental stands and a lineup of instructors ready to help beginners. The Bukit Peninsula’s Dreamland surf break and Canggu’s famous Old Man’s are ideal for skill development, featuring gentler waves that break over sand rather than reefs. Baliboarders, a group of seasoned local surf instructors, offers their expertise as both teachers and guides throughout the island, ensuring surfers of all levels can find the perfect wave.
Visit Tanah Lot Temple
Temple Perched off the coast of Bali in the village of Beraban, the sacred Tanah Lot Temple often appears to float on the sea. This temple is one of seven sea temples along Bali’s coast, dedicated to sea gods and believed to shield the island from evil spirits. Tanah Lot not only holds spiritual significance but also provides one of the most breathtaking and unique views of the crashing waves against the Balinese coast. This picturesque setting makes it a must-visit destination for both its cultural importance and its stunning natural beauty.
Embark on a Blissful Spa Retreat in Bali
Indulging in a spa retreat in Bali promises a transcendent experience where ancient healing traditions merge seamlessly with modern luxury. Bali’s traditional spa centers offer a sanctuary for rejuvenation, combining time-honored rituals with contemporary comforts to refresh both body and soul. Surrounded by the island’s lush landscapes, a spa treatment transcends mere physical renewal, offering a holistic journey towards inner peace and serenity. Explore a world of holistic wellness where every moment is dedicated to nourishing the mind, body, and spirit, creating an oasis of tranquility amidst the island’s captivating atmosphere.
Swim Beneath a Waterfall
Bali’s volcanic peaks experience tropical rainfall, leading to numerous waterfalls as the island’s vital waters flow down to the terraced paddy fields. Some waterfalls have become famous “beauty spots” but are now cluttered with garbage. However, there are still some hidden gems that remain pristine due to their remote locations. Tegenungan Waterfall, with its 15-meter drop, is popular for its proximity to Ubud. Nungnung Waterfall, which requires a 1000-step journey into an untouched gorge, is even more breathtaking. Further away, on the island’s north side, Sekumpul Waterfall offers a refreshing swim in a pool created by seven cascading falls. The main waterfall plunges 80 meters, making it unsafe to swim directly beneath it.
Dive Balinese reefs
While the southern coast of Bali attracts thousands of surfers, the north coast offers world-class diving that surprises even seasoned divers. Menjangan Island, located off West Bali National Park, provides stunning snorkeling and diving opportunities, barring any garbage brought in by rainy season currents. Here, divers can encounter sharks, rays, turtles, and occasionally whale sharks. Both Lovina and Pemuteran have easily accessible reefs from the shore. However, Amed stands out as Bali’s premier dive location, featuring several remarkable wreck dives. Bali Hai, the largest dive operator on the island, offers day trips to offshore reefs around Nusa Lembongan Island, with ‘Manta Alley’ being a major highlight.
Catch the sunrise on Mount Batur
Dubbed ‘The Morning of the World’ due to its captivating tropical sunrises, Bali’s 1,717-meter-high Batur Volcano summit is arguably the premier location to experience this spectacle. Each morning, hundreds of hikers embark on a trek starting at around 3am, aiming for a spiritual encounter with the sunrise—or often, the perfect selfie. Though it’s a well-known destination, it remains a must-see due to the breathtaking views of Mount Agung (Bali’s tallest peak) and Mount Rinjani (on neighboring Lombok). For a more serene and reflective experience, consider ascending the less-visited Batukaru, Bali’s second-highest mountain at 2,276 meters.
