Choose from 80 Fun Things to Do in Bali
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Jimbaran Bay
A strip of golden sand with calm, gentle waters perfect for families—and stand-up paddleboarding—Jimbaran Bay is a popular beach renowned for its beauty. Besides the charms of the ocean, Jimbaran offers stunning Balinese sunsets and a wealth of restaurants serving Indonesia’s signature dish: grilled fish (ikan bakar).
The Basics
Jimbaran Bay is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Bali, so it’s no surprise most activities here revolve around the water. On the beach, sun loungers and water-sports equipment are available to rent, and most vendors—including those at seafront restaurants and the fish market—speak English. Many tours visit Jimbaran Bay as one stop on a broader Bali itinerary, typically swinging by for sunset followed by a fresh-fish dinner.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Jimbaran Bay is a must for beach lovers and photographers.
- Be sure to establish prices for the specific fish you are eating in Jimbaran fish restaurants before you dine.
- A good fish restaurant will encourage you to inspect the fish and pick the one you want. Look for bright eyes, red gills, and shiny, firm skin.
- Accompany your fish with sambal, Indonesia’s national chili condiment.
How to Get There
Jimbaran Bay is 5.5 miles (9 kilometers) south of Kuta and Ngurah Rai International Airport and is reasonably well signposted from elsewhere in south Bali. From Kuta, the public shuttle bus Kura-Kura services Jimbaran Bay. If you’re braving Bali’s traffic and left-side driving, parking is ample and inexpensive.
When to Get There
For the Bali sunset connoisseur, Jimbaran Bay is a must, with the sun sinking gently into the ocean between 6 and 7 all year round. While you can eat lunch at the seafood restaurants, dinner is more popular. Seafood is least likely to be fresh on Sunday, when many boats stay in.
Jimbaran Fish Market
Test your haggling skills at Kedonganan fish market (Pasar Ikan Tradisional Kedonganan) in Jimbaran. After you choose your fish, local vendors will cook it up with rice, sambal, and an Asian green known as water spinach (kangkung) for a delicious plastic-chair feast. Pick carefully: Some of the swimmers here are showing their age.
Address: Bali, Indonesia
From $ 15
Jimbaran Fish Market
Widely known as Jimbaran Fish Market, the market that locals call Pasar Ikan Tradisional Kedonganan (Kedonganan Traditional Fish Market), is an essential Balinese experience. Every morning, brightly colored traditional fishing boats—and larger commercial vessels—unload an impressive catch. Locals will grill your purchases for a small fee.
The Basics
Jimbaran Fish Market is easy enough to visit independently, though you’ll likely get more out of it with a good guide who can explain the types of fish and the tricks of the vendors’ trade, and direct you to quality product. Kedonganan is a popular stop on Bali food tours, while a few island tours that feature sunset fish dinners on Jimbaran Beach take you to the market first. (In general, due to heavy traffic, winding roads, and language barriers, booking a private guide or joining an organized tour can help you get the most out of your entire Bali trip.)
Things to Know Before You Go
- Jimbaran Fish Market is a must-do for foodies and market fans.
- As you’d expect of a fish market in the developing world, Kedonganan is a smelly place—exercise caution if you’re sensitive to smell or bringing small children.
- Especially late in the day, catch on display can be far from fresh. Purchase fish with bright eyes, shiny skin, firm flesh, and red gills. Or opt for squid or (farmed) shrimp, which are generally safe bets.
How to Get There
Kedonganan is a pleasant, if lengthy, stroll north along the beach from the Jimbaran beach resorts. Your best bet for public transportation from elsewhere—unless you have the Indonesian language skills and patience to navigate the bemo minibus system—is the Kura Kura tourist bus, which departs from the DFS mall in Kuta and stops near the market.
When to Get There
For the best and most authentic experience, visit Jimbaran Fish Market around dawn on a working day. You will see locals unloading their catch, have a chance at the best fish, and might even be able to buy a tasty grouper, red snapper, or parrotfish fresh from the boat. If you’re visiting later in the day, shrimp and squid may be a better choice than not-so-fresh fish. Generally, your chances of clear weather for a fish feast are highest during the dry season, roughly May to October.
Ikan Bakar: Indonesian Grilled Fish
An archipelago nation of approximately 18,000 islands, Indonesia thrives on fish. One of the few elements that unites its disparate population is a passion for grilled fish (ikan bakar), barbecued to perfection over slowly smoldering coconut husks. Accompanied with a selection of sambals—the chile condiment that’s a staple of the nation—and fluffy white rice, it’s both core sustenance and pure deliciousness.
Address: Jimbaran, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia, Indonesia
From $ 65
Karangasem
The regency of Karangasem in east Bali was once a powerful kingdom ruling over much of Lombok. Today, it offers a sleepy, untouched charm beneath the towering presence of volcanic Mount Agung (Gunung Agung). Highlights include historic Amlapura, the district capital; traditional villages; Besakih and Lempuyang temples; Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung water palaces; and Amed and Tulamben for diving.
The Basics
Visitors who explore Karangasem independently often stay in Candidasa or Amed, although Tirta Gangga and Sidemen also offer accommodations, some with rice-field views. Many visitors take in the regency’s diverse attractions on an east Bali tour, whether with a private driver, in a retro Volkswagen, or as a small group. Some Karangasem tours focus on temples and palaces, some hone in on the photogenic landscapes, while others focus on historic villages such as Tenganan.
Things to Know Before You Go
- History buffs appreciate Karangasem’s historic architecture, spiritual sites, and generally unspoiled culture.
- It typically takes a minimum of two hours to reach Amlapura from Kuta. Don’t be too ambitious about how much of Karangasem you can see in a day.
- Serious scuba divers aiming to explore the USAT Liberty wreck should spend the night in Amed and get an early start the next day to avoid day trip crowds from south Bali.
How to Get There
Perama shuttle buses stop in Candidasa, Amed, Tulamben, and Tirta Gangga, with connections to Ubud, Sanur, Kuta, and Lombok. Public buses from Batubulan in Denpasar and Singaraja in the north run to Amlapura. If you want to see more than one destination in Karangasem in a day, you need to drive, join a tour, or hire a driver.
When to Get There
To soak up Karangasem’s volcano vistas and rice-field views at their finest, visit during the dry season (roughly May to early October)—but east Bali can be beautiful on a misty rainy season morning, too. Aim to arrive at popular attractions such as Besakih and Lempuyang temples or Tirta Gangga water palace early in the day to beat the crowds.
Karangasem’s Holy Mountain: Mt. Agung
East Bali’s sacred volcano, Mount Agung shapes Bali culture. Traditionally, directions follow not the points of the compass but a speaker’s orientation to the mountain. Its stark profile and spirituality heavily influence Karangasem. When volcanic activity permits, the hike to its 9,944-foot (3,031-meter) summit is as rewarding as it is challenging.
Address: Bali, Indonesia
From $ 25
Lake Beratan
One of three lakes within the crater of the long-dormant Bratan volcano, Lake Beratan (Danau Bratan) occupies about 1.5 square miles (4 square kilometers) of highland real estate. The star attraction is the Pura Ulun Danu Bratan water temple, but there are also some World War II–era caves, and boat rides on the lake are available.
The Basics
There is no charge to visit Lake Beratan, although a small fee is required to visit the temple of Pura Ulun Danu Bratan. Most people visit Lake Beratan as part of a tour that includes Bedugul and the central highlands, or Bedugul and north Bali. Many tours focus on the temple, though some include a short boat ride. Hiking is also popular, including a challenging route to the summit of Mt. Catur.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The reflective waters of Lake Beratan make it a must for photographers.
- The lake’s name can be spelled either “Beratan” or “Bratan.” The word for “lake” can be written as “Danau” or “Danu.”
- Duck-shaped boats and a playground may appeal to families with young children.
- Lake Beratan is Bali’s most sacred lake, and is essential to the Subak irrigation system that keeps the island fed.
How to Get There
Lake Beratan sits in the caldera of the ancient Bratan volcano, by the town of Bedugul, on the main road north from Denpasar to Singaraja. It’s a 2-hour drive from Kuta. Self-driving around Bedugul can be slow and tiring if you don’t know the roads, so many visitors opt to book a tour or arrange for a private driver.
When to Get There
Lake Beratan is a popular destination for locals and visitors from elsewhere in Indonesia, so the area can become congested on weekends and public holidays. To beat the tour bus crowds and get the best view of the mirror-like waters, aim to arrive early in the morning.
The Lake Beratan Temple
Lake Beratan has been sacred to inhabitants of Bali since time immemorial, and its temple, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, dates back to the 17th century. Dedicated to the goddess of the lake (Dewi Danau), the temple was created by the same king of Mengwi who built Taman Ayun Temple, and the two buildings share a similar style of architecture.
Address: Tabanan, Indonesia
From $ 35
Mt Batur
Bali is known for it beautiful beaches, but the interior has its own appeal. Here you’ll find one of the region’s most active volcanoes, Mt. Batur (Gunung Batur), rising 5,633 feet (1,717 meters) above sea level In the highlands of Kintamani.
The Basics
To best appreciate the Mount Batur experience, sign up for an early-morning trek to the summit. Such excursions typically depart from Ubud at 2am or 3am and arrive at the base of the volcano while it’s still dark. Trekkers then make the 2-hour journey to the top of the volcano using headlamps and the light of the moon, an effort rewarded with amazing sunrise views of Mt. Agung and the surrounding mountains. Since Mt. Batur is an active volcano, you’ll likely also get to experience a very unique breakfast of eggs boiled on the lava-heated rocks. After you’ve made the trip, nearby Lake Batur offers hot springs perfect for relaxing tired muscles. It’s also possible to combine your Mt. Batur sunrise trek with whitewater rafting on the Ayung River or a coffee plantation tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Climbing Mt. Batur volcano is a must for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure travelers.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Dress in layers; it’s chilly before sunrise but will warm up significantly once the sun comes up.
- Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat for the trek down.
How to Get There
While it’s possible to climb Mt. Batur without a tour guide, it’s much more convenient (and safe) to visit as part of a guided tour that includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Ubud, as well as breakfast at the top. The starting point for the hike is usually the village of Toya Bungkah, about an hour by bus from Ubud.
When to Get There
Since Mt. Batur remains one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes, it’s important to inquire about current activity before making the trek. For the best chance of clear skies and dry weather, plan to visit between April and October. July and August tend to be busiest on the trails.
Who Can Make the Climb
It takes about two hours to make the ascent to the top of Mt. Batur, and the hike is almost entirely uphill over jagged volcanic rocks. It’s a moderately difficult hike suitable for those with at least an average fitness level.
Address: Mt Batur, Bali, Indonesia
From $ 10
Gitgit Waterfall
A popular stop between Singaraja and Denpasar, Gigit Waterfall is considered to be one of the most beautiful on the island. Easy to reach from the road, the falls have a drop of 131 feet (40-meter) into a picturesque pool where visitors can swim. There are actually three falls in the area—the other falls being smaller twin waterfalls. All are signposted from the road and reached by a short hike.
The Basics
Most travelers visit Gitgit Waterfall en route to somewhere else on the island, including Sekumpul Waterfall. Many tours to the dolphins at Lovina or the attractions at Bedugul, including Ulun Danu Bratan, stop at Gitgit Waterfall en route to south Bali. Gitgit Waterfall tours typically include a short hike, a photo stop, and a swim or splash in the pool below.
Things to Know Before You Go
- You can swim, or at least splash, in all three Gitgit falls just about year-round. Bring your bathing suit: There are simple changing rooms.
- Local myth claims that couples who visit Gitgit together will ultimately split up.
- Souvenir vendors can be persistent. A raised hand and a polite “no thank you” will often do the trick.
- The hike to the main falls is well made but includes stairs.
How to Get There
The Gitgit falls sit on the main road between Denpasar (and south Bali) and Singaraja, on the north coast. Unless you speak enough Indonesian to negotiate the “bemo” minibus system, they are not accessible by public transport. It’s possible to self-drive, but most visitors prefer to join a tour or arrange a private driver/guide, and combine the trip to the falls with visits to Bedugul, Lovina, or north Bali.
When to Get There
As with most Bali waterfalls, the Gitgit falls are at their most impressive during the rainy season (roughly October to May), or after rain during the dry season. The falls can get very busy so it’s best to arrive in the morning, before 10am, to avoid the crowd.
Bali’s Best Waterfalls
Lush landscapes and stark black rock make Bali’s waterfalls stand out, despite their relatively small scale. Besides Gitgit, Sekumpul Waterfall, near Singaraja, is a popular attraction; Tegenungan Waterfall near Ubud offers a theatrical cascade; and Melanting Waterfall is the tallest and most impressive of the three falls around Munduk.
Address: Jalan Raya Tumanggal, Sukasada, Buleleng, Indonesia 81161, Indonesia
From $ 29
Klungkung (Semarapura)
Klungkung is a small Balinese town of great historical, cultural, and artistic importance. It was the seat of rule for Bali's most powerful dynasty of rajas, Dewa Agung. During this time, the island experienced an illustrious period of rich cultural and artistic significance, and Klungkung was at the center of it all.
Klungkung Palace was built in the early 18th century, but largely destroyed by the Dutch at the beginning of the 20th century. The most fascinating remains of the palace include the Bale Kambang, also known as the Floating Pavilion, and the famous Kertha Gosa, or Hall of Justice. The latter was used as a court for the Klungkung kingdom, where disputes and cases were raised and settled. This open-sided pavilion is a superb example of traditional Klungkung architecture, and has a ceiling completely covered with intricate murals.
Elsewhere in Klungkung, there are a number of markets and shops to amble around, along with several museums and galleries, with a particular focus on the traditional Indonesian wayang artform.
Practical Info
Klungkung is situated around 25 kilometers from Ubud on the main route towards the eastern towns of Padang Bai, Candidasa, and beyond.
Address: Klungkung, Bali, Indonesia
From $ 39
Lake Batur
Backed by the volcanic slabs of Mount Batur and Mount Abang, Lake Batur (Danau Batur) is a striking crater lake considered sacred by the Balinese. Besides sunrise trekking, Mount Batur offers hot springs, canoe trips, and tours of Trunyan village, where the local Bali Aga people expose their dead to rot in the open air.
The Basics
Set in the heart of the Kintamani farming highlands, Lake Batur can be appreciated on a range of levels. One popular option is a buffet lunch at the strip of restaurants set high above the lake. However, a sunrise climb of Mount Batur is probably the favorite stand-alone tour. A visit to the lake as part of a tour is also sometimes combined with excursions to rice terraces and the island's art villages.
Volcanic hot springs feed a series of pools around the lake, which also offer services from Balinese massage to restaurants. Boat trips on the lake typically run to Trunyan village, where villagers practice a type of sky burial unique in Bali. Canoes are also available for rent.
Things to Know Before You Go
- While the waters of Lake Batur are cold, the hot springs are toasty warm: Bring swimwear.
- Guides are required for the sunrise climb of Mount Batur.
- Please dress respectfully, if visiting the dead at Trunyan village.
How to Get There
Set in the highlands of east-central Bali, Lake Batur’s main attractions are spread out along the shore. As such, having your own transport—whether a private driver, self-driving, or an organized Bali day tour—is essential. The easiest place to base yourself for Batur day trips is Ubud, around an hour’s drive from the lake.
When to Get There
Lake Batur can get choppy in the afternoon and evening, so if you’re planning water-based activities, it’s best to visit in the morning. As with most touristic restaurants in Indonesia, the lakeview restaurants are typically full of large groups at lunch time: If this is a priority for you, consider visiting a little earlier or later in the day.
Exploring Kintamani
While Mount Batur, an active volcano, is Kintamani’s star attraction, the area around the lake has plenty of charm. Kintamani is a farming country, known for its orchards and coffee plantations. Many Lake Batur tours include stops at one of the plantations that produces Bali’s famous Kintamani coffee, as well as cacao and spices.
Address: Bali, Indonesia
From $ 32
Mt Batukaru
While travelers flock to more celebrated Balinese peaks such as Mt. Batur and Mt. Agung (when volcanic activity permits), it’s likely you’ll have the wild and unspoiled slopes of Mt. Batukaru to yourself. Even if you don’t choose to summit this 7,467-foot-high (2,276-meter-high) peak, admire majestic views from Pura Luhur Batukaru temple below.
The Basics
Most organized Mt. Batukaru tours either focus on the lower slopes and scenic foothills, view the peak from the pretty highland town of Bedugul, or visit the thatched shrines of Pura Luhur Batukaru temple.
If you’d like to hike, your best option is to arrange a private guide, either online or on arrival at the Pura Batukaru temple office. Expect the guided trek to the summit and back to last a full day. An even more scenic route leads up from near Jatiluwih; you’ll need a private guide and driver to find it.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A must for nature-lovers, the slopes of Mt. Batukaru are home to deer, macaques, palm civets, and more. There are even rumors of big cats.
- Wear comfortable shoes—sneakers are sufficient—and bring layers as it can get cool at the top, especially at sunrise.
- If you plan to stop at Pura Luhur Batukaru temple, dress respectfully, with shoulders and thighs covered.
- Adventurers will find space to set up a tent at the summit of the mountain.
How to Get There
If you’re aiming to reach the summit of Mt. Batukaru, you can start from either Pura Luhur Batukaru temple or near Jatiluwih, famous for its scenic rice fields. Neither is accessible by public transport, so most travelers arrange a tour package that includes a guide and driver.
When to Get There
As with other Balinese volcanic peaks, Mt. Batukaru is best climbed during the dry season (roughly May to September). Leeches can be a particular trial during the wet season. Sunrise from the summit rewards the early morning start with views across to the volcanoes of East Java, the south and north coasts of Bali, and, if you’re lucky, Lombok’s Mt. Rinjani.
Bali’s Sacred Mountains
Bali’s most sacred mountain is its highest peak and most active volcano, Mt. Agung (Gunung Agung). Yet Mt. Batukaru, its second-highest peak, also plays an important role in local beliefs, and the route up from Pura Luhur Batukaru is lined with temples and pilgrims. For people seeking a quieter climb than the ever-popular Mt. Batur, though, rewards go beyond the spiritual.
Address: Indonesia
From $ 54
Mas Village
Mas Village, one of the many artists villages surrounding Ubud, is the best place on the island to find high-quality Balinese woodcarvings -- considered some of the best woodcarvings in the world. Part of the village’s prestigious reputation stems from it being the birthplace of Ida Bagus Tilem, one of the island’s most celebrated artisans. His wife and son continue to operate their own well-respected gallery and workshop.
Visitors to Mas Village will find a style of woodcarving characterized by a synergy between humanism and naturalism. Balinese masks, as well as carvings inspired by Buddhist and Hindu mythologies, are among the more popular items. Even if you don’t plan to buy, it’s worth visiting Mas Village to watch the masters at work and to see some of the large and very impressive carvings.
Practical Info
As with any of the craft villages in Bali, be prepared to haggle in Mas.
Address: Mas Village, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
From $ 26
Kusamba
The seaside village of Kusamba in eastern Bali fronts a miles-long volcanic sand beach where traditional sea salt harvesting and fishing continue to be important to the local way of life. Although Kusamba is not one of Bali’s best swimming beaches—it’s scorching hot black sand makes lazing uncomfortable—it comes alive at night and in the predawn hours when prahu fishing boats patrol the nearshore waters and salt workers ferry buckets of seawater on bamboo shoulder-top slings from the shore. Fish are displayed in the town market, but salt making is a process that continues throughout the day. The saltwater is spread over sections of the black sand beach and allowed to crystalize in hot sun. The sand is later collected and rinsed with freshwater before being placed into sifters and eventually wooden vats and atop timber planks for drying. The coarse, iodine-rich salt is finally scooped into woven baskets for sale using coconut halves.
Kusamba also serves as the main access point to Nusa Penida, the largest in a cluster of three islands some seven miles offshore. Though it has limited tourism infrastructure, the Island is inhabited by some 40,000 people and is home to several endangered Balinese bird species.
Practical Info
To see the salt workers at their busiest and to snap stunning pre-dawn photos, plan to be on the beach before 6am. Later morning visits to Kusamba are often combined with visits to Goa Lawah, an ancient temple with onsite bat cave, in day tours encompassing the sites of eastern Bali from Ubud. Kusamba is 36 km (22 miles) northeast of Denpasar City and 27 km (17 miles) southeast of Ubud.
Address: Kusamba, Indonesia
From $ 35
Mount Agung
When volcanic activity permits—an evacuation zone has been in place since 2017—the sacred volcano Agung offers one of Bali’s most challenging and exciting hikes. Towering 9,444 feet (2,878 meters) above northeast Bali, it’s typically climbed in one long and tiring day, either from Pura Pasar Agung or from the Mother Temple of Besakih.
The Basics
An experienced mountain guide is not only essential for climbing Mount Agung safely but required by local law. (While the mountain is off limits due to volcanic activity, no guides are available.)
Some tours will bring you all the way to the summit; others stop at the crater rim. Most aim to reach the apex of the climb for sunrise—perhaps Bali’s most beautiful—with sweeping views across the island. The mountain is both steep and sacred to the Balinese: Treat it with respect.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Temperatures at the top of Mount Agung can drop to close to freezing at night: Bring warm clothes.
- The Agung trekking trail is both steep and slippery in places: Proper walking boots are a must.
- Establish whether your guide will provide a headlamp or whether you need to bring your own.
- Mount Agung can take a good couple of hours to reach from Sanur or Nusa Dua: Ubud is a better place to start.
- Mount Agung is one of Indonesia’s harder volcano climbs: Be sure you're reasonably fit.
How to Get There
In Karangasem, northeast Bali, Mount Agung can only be climbed with a guide. Most travelers opt for a convenient sunrise trekking tour that includes round-trip transfers from their accommodation and doesn’t require self-driving after a night climb. Freelance guides are usually to be found at the two main starting points for the trek: Pura Pasar Agung (Pasar Agung temple) and Besakih temple.
When to Get There
For views and visibility, Mount Agung is almost always a sunrise climb. Climbing during the dry season (roughly March to September) is recommended, as rains can make an already steep and challenging path very slippery and further reduce temperatures at the summit.
Which Indonesia Volcano Climb is Right for You?
Indonesia is home to more than 120 active volcanoes, and a volcano climb is a rite of passage when in the country. If Mount Agung is closed due to volcanic activity, or if you prefer a less physically challenging climb, Mount Batur offers beautiful sunrise views, while Mount Rinjani on neighboring Lombok is an epic multi-day hike.
Address: Bali, Indonesia
From $ 27
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
With a history dating back more than 1,000 years, one of Bali’s holiest Hindu sites (and most popular attractions) is a grotto covered in carvings of mythological creatures. While Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) has uncertain origins, it's believed that Hindu priests dug it out by hand to use as a hermitage.
The Basics
Visitors to Goa Gajah temple enter the cave through the gaping mouth of a demon-like creature and pass into a small T-shaped chamber with several ledges carved out from the walls. A statue of Ganesh was added after the cave was first excavated. The courtyard just outside the cave entrance features a series of decorated bathing pools with carved depictions of women pouring water from urns.
Today, the cave remains an active worship site for Hindu devotees and a popular stop on sightseeing tours of Bali. Visitors have several options for touring the cave, including small-group and private tours of Ubud’s highlights (usually Elephant Cave, Ubud Monkey Forest, and the villages of Gunung Kawi Sebatu and Penglipuran), or as part of a temple-themed tour of the island. You can also combine a visit to the cave with a trip to Mount Batur volcano near Kintamani or Tegenungan Waterfall.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Goa Gajah is a must-see for all spiritual travelers, history buffs, and first-time visitors.
- Either wear long pants or bring a sarong to cover your knees while visiting the temple.
- Be respectful of worshippers inside the narrow cave by standing back and refraining from photographing them.
- Give your eyes some time to adjust inside the cave; there’s no artificial light illuminating the interior.
How to Get There
Goa Gajah is about a 10-minute drive southeast of Ubud past the monkey sanctuary and toward Bedulu village. For those visiting the site independently, the easiest way to get there is by hiring a motorbike or taxi in Ubud.
When to Get There
The Elephant Cave is open daily from morning to late afternoon. Since the cave is typically visited in conjunction with other outdoor attractions, it’s a good idea to plan for Bali’s dry season, between April and October.
How Old Is Goa Gajah?
Historians believe this sacred cave dates back to the 11th century, though even older artifacts have been discovered in the area. The cave was first mentioned in an early 14th-century Javanese poem. While primarily a Hindu temple, the discovery of a nearby Buddhist temple and several Buddhist relics suggest the cave was significant to early Buddhist practitioners on the island as well.
Address: Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Admission: Varies
From $ 26
Ijen Crater (Kawah Ijen)
An East Java highlight, the Ijen Crater (Kawah Ijen) towers above the Ijen Plateau. A highly acidic crater lake yields sulfur for local miners, while burning gases emit an eerie blue glow at night. Views of Java’s most perfect volcanoes, including Mount Merapi and Mount Raung, make the summit worth bagging.
The Basics
Visitors usually climb Iljen Crater, set between Banyuwangi and Bondowoso, before dawn to see the celebrated Ijen blue fire ("blueflame"). The straightforward route eliminates the need for guides, although transport is problematic. Tickets for foreigners cost up to 10 times the price of tickets for Indonesian nationals.
Ijen tours from Bali typically include a night spent in transit, in order to wake up for the summit climb. Ijen tours coming from within Java may include accommodation near the Ijen Crater or the Ijen Plateau. Unless you have your own wheels, an organized tour to Ijen volcano is generally the easiest option. Some Java tour packages include a Bromo tour, and one or more of Malang, Surabaya, and Yogyakarta.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Fumes from the lake can be highly irritating to eyes, nose, and throat—even worse when they’re absorbed into mist. The ranger station sells masks, but they’re of dubious effectiveness.
- Besides the blue fire of Ijen Crater, the cool, coffee-growing landscapes of the Ijen Plateau are a highlight for many travelers.
- Between the early start and the toxic gases, this is not a tour for families with small children.
How to Get There
You’ll need your own transport, a private driver, or an organized tour to reach Ijen Crater. The nearest town is Banyuwangi, which is also the arrival point for ferries from north Bali’s Gilimanuk port. Coming from East and Central Java, your jump-off point is the town of Bondowoso, on the other side of the Ijen Plateau. Given the complexities, most opt to reach Mount Ijen with a tour package.
When to Get There
Climbers typically set out around 4am during the dry season (roughly March to October) and as early as 1am during the rainy season (roughly November to March). Be aware that the crater is occasionally closed due to toxic gases.
The Sulfur Miners of Ijen
As you hike the path to Ijen Crater, you’ll meet sulfur miners coming down, heavily laden with yellow slabs of pure sulfur. They do a grueling and dangerous job, condensing sulfur from clouds of poisonous gas, for very, very little money. Consider buying their little carvings as you return from your Ijen Crater tour.
Address: East Java, Indonesia
From $ 69
Magelang
Located in Central Java about 29 miles (47 km) north of Yogyakarta, the town of Magelang is the closest major town to the UNESCO-listed ancient Buddhist temples of Borobudur. Due to its proximity to the temple, many visitors stop for a night or two in the town to catch the sunrise at Borobudur 7 miles (12 km) away.
Apart from the famous temple, Magelang also serves as a convenient base for explorations of Mount Merapi National Park, home of one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes as well as the beautiful Kedung Kayang Waterfall, and Ketep Pass, where travelers find spectacular views of both Mount Merapi and Mount Merbabu.
Back in town, Magelang is most famous for getuk, a sweet local specialty made with cassava, sugar and grated coconut.
Practical Info
Visitors can reach Mageland by either bus or taxi from Yogyakarta.
Address: Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia
From $ 294
Mother Temple of Besakih
With a history dating back more than 1,000 years, the Mother Temple of Besakih (Pura Besakih), set astride the slopes of Mount Agung, is Bali’s single most important temple. Twenty-three shrines make up the complex: 17th-century Pura Penataran Agung, dedicated to Shiva, is the most significant.
The Basics
Despite what Besakih’s famously persistent touts tell you, you don’t need a guide or a Besakih tour to explore the Mother Temple, and entrance fees are very affordable. However, this is a complicated Hindu temple complex with a long history and almost zero signage, so culture vultures will get more out of the experience with a guide.
Most full-day tours to Besakih temple bundle the complex with Lake Batur and/or Mount Batur plus Kintamani or with east Bali attractions, such as Tirta Gangga Water Palace or Sidemen.
Note: When Mount Agung volcano is very active, access may be restricted.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Spare yourself the hassle of haggling to rent a sarong by wearing long pants or skirts that cover your legs.
- The slope from the parking lot is extremely steep, and the temple involves a lot of stairs.
- Be aware that many shrines and temple areas are reserved for Balinese worshippers.
How to Get There
Set on the slopes of Mount Agung in east Bali, the road to Besakih temple is both slow and winding, and can be grueling when self-driving: The journey takes about 90 minutes from Ubud and considerably longer from Kuta. Between the transport issues and the famously aggressive touts, many may find organized Bali tours—or a private tour—the easiest option.
When to Get There
Besakih temple is one of Indonesia's more popular tourist destinations. Both tour buses and touts start flooding in from 9am so, if possible, enjoy your Besakih temple tour early in the morning. There are colorful ceremonies almost year-round as each shrine has its own “odalan” (birthday): full moon and new moon make an optimal time to see Hindu worshippers in action, though you may need to wear ceremonial gear.
Scams to Avoid at Besakih Temple
Besakih touts sometimes lie about admission fees. As at many religious sites in Indonesia, the ticket should not cost significantly more than 15,000 IDR, although there are separate small charges for parking. Ask for a printed ticket so that you can confirm the price. The complex is full of freelance guides and “temple guardians”: should you decide to hire one, be sure to agree a fee upfront. Their English and their knowledge is often limited.
Address: Bali, Indonesia
Admission: Varies
From $ 38
Kehen Temple (Pura Kehen)
Partially shaded by the dripping trunks of an old banyan tree, Kehen Temple, also known as Pura Kehen, is a many-tiered stone homage to the Hindu pantheon. Bearing stelae inscribed in Sanskrit, Balinese and Javanese that seem to indicate an 11th century founding, this is the state temple of the Bangli kingdom and considered one of the region’s finest. It is said to be a miniature version of Bali’s most significant temple, Pura Besakih, just 13 miles (21 km) away. The complex is comprised of a sloping terraced entryway, the main temple with three interior courtyards and a series of smaller meru shrines and altars.
The main temple is accessed by a series of 38 stone steps, passing eight well-manicured terraced gardens. Its elaborate carvings and tall, slender doors give way to three courtyards, the second bears inlaid Chinese porcelain and the innermost courtyard features an 11-tiered meru roof. Along the base of the buildings’ exteriors, it’s possible to see stylized carvings of snakes and turtles, representing the underworld. Within the central courtyard is an impressive moss-blanketed stone lotus throne. During the many annual religious ceremonies, like Pangerwesi when locals visit temples to guard against evil, it’s possible to see colorful dances on the temple grounds and baskets of fruit laid in tribute.
Practical Info
Kehen Temple in the southern portion of the Bangli region, is just over a mile north of the town of Bangli. It’s 26 km (16 miles) northeast from Ubud (about an hour’s drive in normal traffic) and 43 km (27 miles) north of Denpasar. Adult admission is around 15,000 IDR ($1.15) and children are free. Hours are approximately 9am- 5pm; many visit as part of an organized tour of Bali.
Address: Bangli, Indonesia
Hours: Hours are approximately 9am-5pm
Admission: Adult admission is 15,000 IDR ($1.15), children are free
From $ 60
Kintamani Volcano
Two hours by road from Denpasar in Bali’s northeastern highlands lies the region known simply as Kintamani Volcano. The Indonesian island’s only district without a shoreline, it’s famous instead for its volcanoes. On the rim of the Batur caldera, 4,921 feet (1,500 meters) above sea level, several villages (Penelokan, Batur, and Kintamani) afford impressive views of Mt. Baturn, an active, sacred volcano.
The Basics
Visitors come to Kintamani Volcano not for its beaches (there are none) but for its stunning active volcano, outdoor adventures, and cultural appeal. One of the most popular activities in the region is a sunrise trek to the top of sacred Mt. Batur—an active volcano—though it’s also possible to cycle downhill through UNESCO-listed rice terraces, soak in the hot springs on the shores of Lake Batur, tour a coffee plantation, watch a traditional Barong dance performance, or visit one of the island’s most important directional temples, Pura Ulun Danu Batur.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kintamani Volcano is a must-see for adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Bring a warm layer of clothing; the temperatures here are significantly cooler than the towns of Bali’s coast.
- Experience the region by volcano trekking, downhill cycling, or Balinese cultural sightseeing.
How to Get There
Situated about two hours from the beaches of South Bali, many travelers visit Kintamani on a day trip from Ubud. Daily buses run between Ubud and the villages of the area, but the most convenient way to get there is a guided full-day tour.
When to Get There
It is best to arrive at Kintamani early, as cloud cover and fog often set in by late afternoon, disrupting the views.
Bali Aga Culture in Kintamani
The indigenous Balinese of the highlands, often called the Bali Aga or “mountain Balinese,” have their own distinct traditional culture, often well-preserved due to their isolation in the island’s interior. To experience this ancient culture in Kintamani, pay a visit to the village of Trunyan, known for its excellent views of Mt. Batur and its unusual cemetery, where the deceased are laid to rest out in the open at the foot of a holy tree, simply covered with cloth beneath canopies of bamboo.
Address: Kintamani, Indonesia
From $ 29
Lovina
A mellow, family-centered resort on the north coast of Bali, Lovina offers gray-black beaches and more affordable prices than you’ll find at the buzzing resorts to the south. The main attraction is a sunrise dolphin-watching trip. Guests also enjoy diving and snorkeling on the coral reef, and hiking in the hills beyond town.
The Basics
Lovina is a worthwhile destination itself, to chill on the dark sand beaches, hike in the hills, watch dolphins, and explore other coastal attractions. However, many will visit as part of a larger north Bali day tour, combining a sunrise dolphin trip with stops at the Gitgit or Sekumpul waterfalls and in Bedugul. A handful of Lovina dolphin tours also include snorkeling around the spectacular coral near Menjangan Island, a couple of hours west.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lovina is a popular choice for families with children, thanks to its calm waters and affordable accommodations.
- Dolphin-watching boats usually depart at 6am, which requires leaving South Bali at 3am, or even earlier.
- Don’t miss Lovina’s delicious grilled fish called ikan bakar.
- Lovina dolphin tours use small outrigger boats. Boarding requires reasonable balance, mobility, and strength.
How to Get There
Lovina sits on Bali’s north coast, around 6 miles (9 kilometers) east of the city of Singaraja. Perama shuttle buses connect Lovina to the major tourist hubs of Kuta, Ubud, and Sanur, as well as northerly destinations such as Padangbai, Candidasa, and Bedugul. North Bali is generally kinder to self-drivers than south Bali, but many will still find it easier to hire a driver.
When to Get There
If you’re visiting Lovina to enjoy the narrow beach, the weather is most cooperative during the dry months of May to September. Most visitors come for the dolphins, which can be spotted leaping and frolicking in the bay at sunrise. You’ll find smaller crowds if you visit during the low season months of October, November, February, and March.
Where to See Dolphins in Bali
Lovina is famous for its wild dolphins, although many believe that all the noisy dolphin-watching boats may be detrimental to their well-being. Dolphins in captivity in Bali are mainly kept in unpleasant conditions, usually in cramped, and sometimes even chlorinated, pools. Though you can see dolphins in the wild in Lovina, please don’t plan to swim with dolphins on Bali.
Address: Lovina, Bali, Indonesia
From $ 46
Kuta Beach
Bali’s first beach hotel opened back in the 1930s on Kuta’s epic sweep of golden sand and metronomic surf. In the ‘60s and ‘70s, Australian surfers popularized the place, and today Kuta Beach is the epicenter of Kuta, Bali’s liveliest and most touristic district. If great waves and beach boys float your boat, Kuta won’t disappoint.
The Basics
Once a sleepy village, the neighborhood around Kuta Beach is now Bali’s busiest—it’s particularly popular with Australians visiting on bargain breaks. But don’t let that put you off discovering the beach: whether bodyboarding or surfing is your thing, there’s fun to be had under the lifeguards’ protective eyes.
Most tours to Kuta Beach focus on those rolling waves. Classic experiences include Kuta surfing lessons and Kuta bodyboarding classes. Kuta surf schools are used to beginners and most have outsize “foamy” boards to help build confidence. While it’s perfectly possible to arrange lessons privately from the many surf rental spots on the beach, many prefer the fixed price guarantee of booking lessons online.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kuta Beach is busy year-round—not a spot for shrinking violets!
- Don’t get Kuta, Bali, confused with Kuta on the neighboring island of Lombok—it’s also a beachy surf town, so it’s easy to muddle the two.
- The waves on Kuta Beach are a thrill for tweens and teens but may well be too much for younger children: east coast beaches, such as Sanur’s, are milder.
How to Get There
Everyone on Bali knows Kuta Beach, or “Pantai Kuta” in Indonesian. The cheapest and easiest way to get there is to ride the Kura-Kura tourist bus, or pick up a motorcycle taxi or 4-wheeled cab. Kuta is no place to learn to ride a motorbike, although tens of thousands try: If you must, stay sober and wear a helmet.
When to Get There
Kuta Beach is popular year-round: sunsets, which fall between roughly 6pm and 7pm, can be particularly stunning, especially washed down with an ice-cold beer. Kuta in general is best avoided during “Schoolies,” a 3-week period from mid-November when Australians graduate high school and descend on Bali en masse.
Where to Surf in Bali
Bali is blessed with year-round surfing, with the east coast picking up when the west coast slows down, and vice versa. Great beaches for beginners include Double Six, Batu Belig, Kuta, and Canggu’s Batu Bolong; Uluwatu and Padang-Padang in the Bukit Peninsula can deliver spectacular swells. For less crowded breaks, consider heading north, perhaps to Keramas on the east coast or Balian on the west coast.
Address: Kuta, Bali, Indonesia
From $ 35