Indonesia's most iconic island is as perfect in real life as it is in photos and that's what brings us travelers to this beautiful place. Its lush forests, pristine beaches and deep-rooted culture make Bali a complete, fascinating destination to explore.
Bali is a very rich island and depending on where we go or if we decide to stay in the same area, it is likely that we will have a different experience from usual tourist places. This is what makes Bali the place to go for us avid explorers.
From its hidden waterfalls and magnificent temples to a wide variety of culinary specialties, the volcanic island of Bali pampers explorers. Take a look at the best places you should discover on your next trip.
1.) Sunset at Tanah Lot
Probably one of the most famous temples in Bali is Tanah Lot. Year after year, the coastal strip around the temple has become very popular and popular with tourists, so you should not expect a very quiet place. The best time to go is at nightfall, when it is possible to sit back, relax and enjoy the most beautiful Balinese sunsets.
2.) Ubud
Lost in the rainforest of Bali lies the incredibly popular town of Ubud. In recent decades, this quiet place has become a mecca for explorers as a base for their journey to the north of the island.
Be sure to stroll the Campuhan Ridge Walk which will take you to authentic Balinese massages, exploration of the Ubud Palace, small streets filled with artist studios, handmade trinkets and, of course, Balinese coffee.
3.) Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
These waterfalls are a 2/2.5 hour drive from the airport (depending on traffic) but are worth the detour if you're looking to avoid the crowds and see a completely unspoiled and untouched place in Bali. It is a bit difficult to get there so it is best to locate the waterfalls on your GPS and trust it completely.
Once arrived, it takes about 30 minutes of hiking to reach this quiet place. Remember to bring your swimming equipment with you to spend a few hours relaxing in this magnificent place. The fresh water is all the more pleasant as the deep forest around us is humid.
4.) Tuckad Cepung Waterfall
Probably the hardest waterfall to find, Tuckad Cepung is a stunning location hidden through a closed canyon. Arm yourself with a good pair of shoes because you will certainly need to climb a few rocks and cross the river, but once there, the effort is definitely worth it due to the completely unspoilt area. Remember to take plenty of water and good sunscreen with you.
5.) The rice terraces of Tegalalang
There are a few rice fields of this type dotted around Bali and particularly north of Kuta. The best known and most magnificent are those of Tegalalang where it is possible to walk along the rice plantations. Just remember to take some small bills and change with you to make “donations” along the way. The donation amount is up to you, but expect to be stopped several times before arriving at your destination.
6.) Nungnung Waterfall
This waterfall is perched in the interior, about 1 hour from Ubud. This roaring waterfall is definitely the most powerful and also a beautiful place to relax for a few hours. The descent can be a bit steep and takes around 30min with 500 fairly wide steps to descend (remember to take plenty of water).
Once there, take a dip in the water, relax on the edge and enjoy being deep in this tropical canyon.
7.) Sunday's Beach Club
Beach days are the best, right? Our favorite place to indulge is at Sunday's Beach Club where you can stay all day, eat at the beachside restaurant and enjoy cocktails on the white sand beach. Even more, it is possible to go paddle boarding at sunset and even find quiet corners that will seem just idyllic to you.
8.) Pura Bratan
Nestled on the shores of Lake Bratan, Pura Bratan is almost 400 years old. Its entirety can be explored at your own pace but remember to stop by to see Pelinggih Meru and the Buddhist statues. The area around Pura Bratan is a beautiful place to explore. You can even see Mount Batur if you venture into the mountains.
9.) Gunung Kawi Temple
This temple, more than 1000 years old, is one of the most important historical sites on the island. Located northeast of Ubud, it is easy to get there if you have a vehicle or a bike. You have to pay an entrance fee, but you will be loaned a sarong so you can enter for free. There is no need to purchase one from sellers outside of this site (unless you find one that catches your eye)
Pay close attention to spot the sanctuaries which are engraved into the rock. Also, if you missed the rice terraces of Tegalalang, you can be sure to find them here.
