Ready to start? Jump to our 7-day sample bali itinerary in Practical Travel Tips or keep reading for the full bucket list of must-see places and activities.
Iconic Temples to Visit in Bali
1. Lempuyang Temple (Gates of Heaven)
First, head east to Pura Lempuyang, one of Bali’s oldest and most important temple complexes. The site’s iconic “Gates of Heaven” frames Mount Agung on clear days and creates the famous reflective photo when you use the mirror trick. Beyond the photo ops, the place holds deep spiritual meaning and offers sweeping views of the east coast and Mount Agung.
Next, consider the climb: the full complex includes seven temples and roughly 1,700 steps if you plan to visit them all. Most visitors focus on the main gate and nearby viewpoints, where crowds thin as you walk higher. Because this is an active religious area, wear modest clothing; sarongs and sashes are available at the entrance.
- Location: Bunutan, Abang, Karangasem Regency
- Best time: Early morning (6–7am) for clearer Mount Agung views and fewer people
- Tip: Book a guided tour to skip long queues and get local context
2. Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu)
Next, visit Uluwatu Temple, dramatically perched about 70 meters above the Indian Ocean. Built in the 11th century, this temple forms one of Bali’s six spiritual pillars and offers some of the island’s most dramatic coastal views.
Meanwhile, arrive late afternoon to catch the famous Kecak Fire Dance at sunset. The performance tells a Ramayana story through energetic chanting and dance, creating a powerful cultural moment against the ocean backdrop. However, keep your belongings secure: monkeys on the grounds are notorious for grabbing loose items.
- Location: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency
- Best time: Late afternoon for sunset and the Kecak dance
- Entrance: Temple ~50,000 IDR; dance ~100,000 IDR (check current rates)
3. Tirta Empul Temple (Water Purification)
Finally, visit Tirta Empul, a sacred water temple founded around 962 AD where locals perform the melukat purification ritual. The temple surrounds natural springs that feed a central pool divided into sections with 30 water spouts. Each spout carries spiritual significance for worshippers.
If you want to participate, change into a sarong, make a small offering, and enter the water to cleanse under each spout. Many visitors—religious or not—find the experience moving and culturally insightful. After the ritual, stroll the gardens and examine the stone carvings and shrines.
- Location: Manukaya, Tampaksiring, Gianyar Regency
- Best time: Early morning (before 9am) to avoid crowds
- Entrance: ~50,000 IDR; small fee for sarong rental/locker (confirm current price)
Best for spiritual experiences
Book a guided purification tour to learn the correct ritual steps and local meanings.
Natural Wonders and Landscapes
4. Tegalalang Rice Terraces
First, visit the Tegalalang rice terraces just north of Ubud to see Bali’s ancient subak irrigation system in action. These cascading emerald rice paddies create one of the island’s most photogenic views and reveal centuries of agricultural heritage.
Next, walk the narrow paths through the terraces to meet local farmers and learn about traditional planting. If you want a memorable photo, try one of the giant swings or “nests” suspended above the fields. Keep in mind the terraces are working farmland; always ask before crossing private sections and leave a small donation when appropriate.
- Location: Tegalalang, Gianyar Regency (≈20 minutes north of Ubud)
- Best time: Early morning for soft light and fewer crowds
- Who it’s best for: Photographers, culture seekers, and coffee-lovers
5. Mount Batur Sunrise Trek
For a classic sunrise experience, hike Mount Batur. This active volcano rises about 1,717 meters and rewards early-risers with panoramic views over Lake Batur and Mount Agung. Tours usually pick you up around 2–3am so you can reach the summit in time for dawn.
You’ll hike in the dark with a flashlight or headlamp, which adds to the adventure. When the sun rises, expect a spectacular sea of clouds and wide island views — a memorable scene for photographers and hikers alike. Guides often prepare boiled eggs in volcanic steam for breakfast at the top.
- Location: Kintamani, Bangli Regency
- Trek time: ~2 hours up, 1.5 hours down
- Who it’s best for: Active travelers and sunrise chasers
Safety tips: Wear layers, sturdy shoes, and bring water. Hire a local guide, check weather, and allow time for travel — many tours include hot springs afterward to relax.
6. Sekumpul Waterfall
Finally, head to Sekumpul in North Bali — a group of seven waterfalls tucked into the highlands and often called the island’s most beautiful cascade. Reaching Sekumpul involves a scenic drive through less-visited areas followed by a moderately challenging descent through jungle, villages, and rice paddies.
After the trek, you’ll see multiple falls plunging into cool natural pools, with drops of up to roughly 80 meters in some sections. You can view the main falls from a distance or approach for a swim when conditions are safe. Because Sekumpul is remote, the area tends to be quieter than southern attractions.
- Location: Sekumpul Village, Buleleng Regency (North Bali)
- Best time: Morning to early afternoon; rainy season brings fuller flows
- Who it’s best for: Hikers and nature lovers who can handle stairs and slippery paths
Beach and Ocean Adventures
7. Nusa Penida Day Trip
If you prefer dramatic coastal views, take the 45-minute speedboat from Sanur to Nusa Penida. This island packs towering cliffs, secret coves, and some of the best photo spots in Bali. Kelingking Beach — the T-Rex–shaped viewpoint — tops many travelers’ lists; you can admire the view from above or, if you’re fit and careful, descend the steep path to the sand.
Beyond Kelingking, hit Crystal Bay for snorkeling, Angel’s Billabong for its natural infinity pool, Broken Beach for the circular arch, and Diamond Beach for a white‑sand cove reached by a scenic stairway. Roads on Nusa Penida remain rough in places, so many visitors choose guided island tours for safe, efficient navigation.
- Top photo spots: Kelingking, Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong, Diamond Beach
- Travel time: ~45 minutes by speedboat from Sanur
- Tip: Consider staying overnight to explore more slowly and catch sunrise views
Location: 45-minute speedboat from Sanur, Bali
Best time to visit: Dry season (April–October) for calmer seas and better road access
Boat cost: 300,000–500,000 IDR (~$18–30 USD) round trip (as of 2025)
8. Learn to Surf in Kuta or Canggu
For a classic Bali activity, learn to surf at Kuta, Legian, or Batu Bolong (Canggu). These beaches offer gentle beach breaks with sandy bottoms — perfect for beginners. Lessons usually run 2–3 hours and include a board, rashguard, beach instruction, and water practice.
If you advance quickly, explore stronger breaks around Canggu or the Bukit Peninsula’s reef breaks like Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Bingin. Rent a board when you’re ready to surf independently, but take local advice about currents and reef conditions.
- Best beginner beaches: Kuta, Legian, Batu Bolong (Canggu)
- Lesson cost: 250,000–350,000 IDR (~$15–20 USD) for a group 2–3 hour lesson
- When to go: Morning sessions before winds pick up
9. Snorkel or Dive with Manta Rays
If marine life excites you, book a manta ray snorkeling or diving trip around Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan. Manta rays — with wingspans that can reach several meters — frequent cleaning stations like Manta Point and Manta Bay. Encounters often last 30–60 minutes and may include multiple graceful passes beneath you.
Join a reputable operator that follows ethical wildlife guidelines. They provide gear, safety briefings, and local expertise to maximize sightings while minimizing disturbance. Note: currents can be strong; basic swimming ability is important for snorkelers, and divers should hold proper certification.
- Location: Waters around Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan
- Best time: Year-round; peak July–October for clearer seas
- Tour cost: Snorkeling 600,000–1,200,000 IDR (~$35–70 USD); diving 1,500,000+ IDR (~$90+ USD) — prices vary by operator
Experience needed: Basic swimming for snorkeling; certification required for diving
Tip: Choose operators that follow local marine protection rules to help preserve manta populations and coral reefs.
Cultural Experiences and Activities
10. Ubud Monkey Forest
Begin in central Ubud at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a combined nature reserve and temple complex home to over 1,000 long-tailed macaques. Stroll shaded paths to observe these curious animals up close and explore moss-covered temples tucked among towering banyan trees.
Besides the monkeys, the site contains three Hindu temples that date to the 14th century. The mix of ancient stonework and dense jungle creates a mystical atmosphere that contrasts with busy Ubud streets just outside the sanctuary walls.
- Location: Central Ubud
- Opening hours: 8:30am–6:00pm daily
- Best for: Families, wildlife lovers, and photographers
Entrance fee: 80,000 IDR (~$5 USD) adults; 60,000 IDR (~$3.50 USD) children
Tips: Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler temps and active monkeys. Secure belongings, avoid bringing food, and follow staff guidance for safety.
11. Traditional Balinese Cooking Class
For food lovers, join a hands-on traditional Balinese cooking course that starts with a market tour. Learn about key ingredients like galangal, candlenuts, and spice pastes, then prepare 4–8 authentic dishes in a garden-style kitchen under an experienced chef’s guidance.
Common recipes include nasi goreng (fried rice), mie goreng, satay lilit, and several sambals. The class ends with a communal meal and recipe cards so you can recreate favorites at home. Many schools accommodate dietary needs—ask about vegetarian or allergy-friendly options when booking.
- Popular locations: Ubud, Seminyak, Sanur
- Duration: 4–6 hours (market visit included)
- Cost: ~350,000–700,000 IDR (~$20–40 USD)
What’s included: Market tour, all ingredients, full meal, recipe booklet
Trust tip: Choose a certified school or cookery with strong reviews for authentic technique and food-safety practices.
12. Attend a Traditional Dance Performance
Attend a traditional Balinese dance to witness dramatic storytelling through costume, precise gestures, and gamelan music. The Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu — performed at sunset — is the most famous: a large chorus of men chants as dancers act out episodes from the Ramayana against the cliffside sky.
Other forms to look for include Legong (graceful dance), Barong (good vs. evil drama), and Pendet (a welcoming ceremony). You can catch performances across the island, especially at Ubud Palace, GWK Cultural Park, and Uluwatu.
- Popular venues: Uluwatu Temple, Ubud Palace, GWK Cultural Park
- Duration: 60–90 minutes
- Cost range: ~80,000–150,000 IDR (~$5–9 USD)
Best time: Evening performances, often at sunset in coastal venues
Accessibility: Some traditional venues have stairs and uneven seating—check accessibility if needed.
Sample Ubud cultural day: Morning: Monkey Forest → Midday: Cooking class and lunch → Evening: Ubud Palace dance (or Kecak at Uluwatu if you travel south).
Wellness and Relaxation
13. Balinese Spa Treatment
If you need rest after sightseeing, treat yourself to a traditional Balinese spa treatment. Bali blends ancient healing techniques, aromatic local ingredients, and spiritual rituals to create deeply relaxing experiences for every budget. From simple village spas to luxury resort sanctuaries, you’ll find options across the island.
The signature Balinese massage uses long strokes, skin rolling, gentle stretches, and palm-and-thumb pressure to release tension and boost circulation. Treatments often start with a foot‑wash ritual and finish with ginger tea. Other popular offerings include lulur body scrubs (turmeric-based), flower baths, and herbal hair treatments—each delivering a distinct sensory experience.
- Popular locations: Ubud, Seminyak, Nusa Dua
- Duration: 60–120 minutes
- Cost range: 100,000–1,500,000 IDR (~$6–90 USD) depending on level of luxury
What to expect: Traditional techniques, natural ingredients, and often a calming pre- and post-treatment ritual.
Booking tip: Book high-end spas in advance; local spas usually accept walk-ins.
14. Yoga and Meditation in Ubud
For a deeper reset, book yoga or a meditation session in Ubud. The town’s studios sit amid rice paddies and jungle, creating a peaceful backdrop for practice. The Yoga Barn leads the scene with many daily classes, while Radiantly Alive, Ubud Yoga House, and Intuitive Flow offer varied styles and atmospheres.
Most studios welcome drop-ins and provide mats and props. Classes include Vinyasa, Hatha, Yin, and breathwork, and many venues also run sound healing and full wellness workshops. If you want to go further, multi-day retreats combine yoga, meditation, and healthy meals in a community setting.
- Popular studios: The Yoga Barn, Radiantly Alive, Ubud Yoga House
- Class length: 60–90 minutes
- Drop-in cost: 120,000–200,000 IDR (~$7–12 USD)
Best for: Solo travelers, couples, and anyone seeking a wellness-focused stay.
Booking tip: Reserve morning classes in advance during high season.
Sample 3-day wellness mini-retreat: Day 1 — Balinese spa and rest; Day 2 — morning yoga, rice-terrace walk, afternoon meditation; Day 3 — cooking class or gentle hike and departure. This mix balances rejuvenation with local experiences.
Unique Bali Experiences
15. Visit a Bali Beach Club
If you crave relaxation or nightlife, spend a day at one of Bali’s famous beach clubs. These places blend infinity pools, excellent food and cocktails, and DJ sets to create a cosmopolitan island vibe. Lounge by the pool, watch the sunset, then stay for dinner or an evening event.
In Seminyak, venues like Potato Head and Ku De Ta lead the scene with stylish architecture and sunset sessions. Canggu’s The Lawn and Finns Beach Club attract a younger crowd with lively events. For dramatic views, head to Uluwatu where Sundays Beach Club and Ulu Cliffhouse sit on clifftops overlooking sweeping ocean panoramas.
- Who it’s for: Sunset chasers, couples, groups of friends, and partygoers
- When to go: Arrive by 4pm for the best sunset spots
- Sample plan: 4pm — arrive and relax; 6pm — watch sunset; 7pm — dinner or DJ set
Most clubs use a minimum-spend system instead of an entrance fee; the amount usually applies toward food and drinks. During high season, reserve daybeds or cabanas in advance—popular spots can sell out days ahead. If you want a more budget-friendly option, search for venues with no minimum or visit during off-peak hours.
Popular locations: Seminyak, Canggu, Uluwatu
Operating hours: Typically 10am–late
Minimum spend: Usually 300,000–1,000,000 IDR (~$18–60 USD) depending on seating and venue (check current rates)
Practical Travel Tips for Bali 2025
Best Time to Visit
Bali has a tropical climate with two main seasons. Plan by season and crowds to get the most from your trip.
- Dry Season (April–October): Lower humidity and minimal rain — ideal for outdoor activities and beaches. Peak tourism: July–August and December–January.
- Rainy Season (November–March): Short but heavy showers, lush landscapes, and fewer tourists. February–April often has good weather with lower crowds.
For 2025, consider shoulder months (May–June or September) for the best balance of good weather, manageable crowds, and lower prices.
Getting Around
Transport options improved by 2025 — pick what fits your itinerary and comfort level.
- Ride-hailing apps: Gojek and Grab run across major areas and offer affordable rides for short trips and motorbike taxis.
- Scooter rental: The most flexible choice (≈50,000–70,000 IDR/day). Carry an international driving permit and wear a helmet.
- Private drivers: Hire a driver for full-day tours (roughly 500,000–800,000 IDR/day) for air‑conditioned comfort and local knowledge.
- Shuttles and tours: Expanded shuttle services and structured day tours connect popular areas — a good option for short stays and island hopping.
Traffic in southern Bali can be heavy; leave extra travel time, especially during peak hours and festival periods.
Cultural Etiquette
Respect local customs to enjoy better interactions with Balinese people and religious communities.
- Temple visits: Wear a sarong and sash (usually available to rent). Cover shoulders and knees.
- Religious ceremonies: Don’t walk in front of worshippers; observe quietly and avoid flash photography during rites.
- Greetings: A slight nod or handshake works; the traditional gesture is palms-pressed at chest level.
- Head and hands: Avoid touching anyone’s head; use your right hand for giving, receiving, and eating.
Money and Costs
Plan payments and budget expectations ahead of time.
- Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). As of 2025, roughly 1 USD ≈ 16,500 IDR — check rates before you go.
- ATMs & cards: ATMs and card acceptance are common in tourist areas; carry cash for markets and rural spots.
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated — 5–10% for good service.
- Bargaining: Expected at markets; don’t haggle in fixed-price shops or restaurants.
Before you fly — 2025 travel updates: Bali introduced a tourist tax of 150,000 IDR (~$9 USD) per international visitor to support conservation. Airlines or immigration often collect it; confirm with your carrier. Also, several top attractions now require advance online reservations to manage visitor numbers — check site booking pages before you go.
Quick checklist before you go
- Buy travel insurance that covers adventure activities and medical evacuation.
- Pack a universal adapter and light rain layer for sudden showers.
- Check visa requirements for your nationality; some visitors must pre-register or pay entry fees online.
- Download offline maps and contact numbers for local tour operators and your accommodation.
Sample daily budgets (approx.)
- Budget: $25–40/day — guesthouse, local food, scooter or shared transport.
- Mid-range: $60–120/day — boutique hotels, guided tours, nicer meals.
- Luxury: $200+/day — high-end resorts, private drivers, fine dining, premium tours.
Final Thoughts on Your Bali Adventure
Bali still captivates visitors with its mix of dramatic landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and warm island hospitality. Whether you seek spiritual moments at temples, adrenaline-filled hikes and sunrise views, or slow days on the beach, Bali delivers unforgettable experiences for every travel style.
Remember: while this guide lists 15 top things to do in Bali, some of the best things happen when you wander. A hidden waterfall, a chat with a local artisan, or a spontaneous village ceremony can become the highlight of your trip. Give yourself time to explore off-script and let the island surprise you.
Travel mindfully. Support local businesses, respect cultural customs, reduce single-use plastic, and leave places as you found them. By doing so, we help preserve Bali’s beauty and culture for future visitors and local people alike.
