The sights of Bali are so numerous and diverse that even a seasoned tourist will explore them with undisguised surprise and delight. Read our article to the end, and you will know that you should definitely see Bali. Our review is designed for people with different preferences and interests.
What to see in Bali first of all
Bali’s main attractions are scattered all over the island. Therefore, get ready for the fact that your sightseeing trip will not only be entertaining, but also long.
Bali’s experienced guides recommend that you definitely see the following natural beauties, architectural and historical monuments:
1. The city of Ubud
Ubud City Center Michelle Maria
Few Bali attractions are as mysterious and romantic as the famous center of music, dance, crafts and fine arts called Ubud. This place is rightfully called the pearl of Indonesia, and is ready to please its guests with numerous souvenir shops and organic cafes, waterfalls and holy springs, temples, parks and museums. If a trip to the island interests you with the opportunity to get acquainted with the secrets of yoga or try a healing massage for yourself, you should definitely visit Ubud.
Bali | Hotels at competitive prices
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2. The forest of monkeys in Ubud
The Sacred Forest of Monkeys in Ubud
Speaking about the best sights of Bali, it is impossible not to tell about the area covered with large trees, juicy shrubs and impenetrable thickets. However, it is interesting not only for its green spaces, but also for the huge number of macaques living here. As well as unique stone sculptures and temples. Tourist reviews indicate that primates are absolutely not afraid of people and are happy to take pictures with them.
Official website: https://www.monkeyforestubud.com
3. Waterbom Bali Water Park
Attraction at the Waterbom Bali Water Park
Many attractions in Indonesia are designed only for adults. However, this wonderful place will surprise vacationers of all ages. Buy a ticket for one or several days, and the 4–hectare water park will offer you a sea of entertainment – from amusement rides and pools to a volleyball court and a climbing wall.
Official website: https://www.waterbom-bali.com
4. Ujung Water Palace
View from the observation deck of the Taman Ujung Water Palace
The most beautiful building on the island is also included in the list of “the most interesting places in Bali”. Every bush of the palace grounds is carefully trimmed and well maintained. An amazing view of the ocean and the water pools of Ujung itself opens from the upper part of the park area. The palace was built as a residence for the royal family of Karangasem. Today, everyone can visit it for walks, photo shoots and weddings.
5. Tirtha Gangga Water Palace
Non-standing stones and statues in the pond of the Tirtha Ganga Water Palace
If you are tired of a beach holiday, considering the available excursions to Bali, pay attention to this object of three luxurious palace complexes. Even the most detailed description will not be able to convey all the greatness of the statues of demons and gods located here, the beauty of fountains and ponds with carp, the splendor of a blooming garden, picturesque alleys and exquisite bridges.
Be sure to watch this beautiful video about Bali!
6. Agung Rai Museum of Art
One of the four halls of the Agung Rai Art Museum Mario Manalu
Don’t know what to see in Bali in 1 day? Come to Ubud and buy a ticket to this art museum. You will be able to get acquainted with the best works of painters and craftsmen from Bali and other Indonesian regions. The exhibitions feature paintings by foreign artists created by them on the island. Many of the paintings here are unique.
Official website: https://www.armabali.com
7. Neka Museum
Exhibits of the Neka Art Museum in Ubud agapelover4u
A must-visit place for those who don’t know what to see in Bali. It is here that the most valuable art collection on the entire island is located. You will be able to understand Indonesian culture, learn a lot of interesting information about the traditions and way of life of local residents.
Official website: https://www.museumneka.com
8. Pacific Museum
Painting at the Pacific Museum in Nusa Dua sbamueller
Do you want to see all the variety of cultural artifacts of the Pacific and Asian states? Then now you know what to visit in Bali. You will be able to join the art world of the Pacific region. The museum is located in one of the most elite and expensive resorts in Indonesia and the world – Nusa Dua. The compositions are represented by paintings, sculptures, masks and other similar attributes. In total, more than 600 works of art are collected in 11 galleries of the museum.
Official website: https://museum-pasifika.com
9. Jatiluvi Rice Terraces
Dawn over the endless rice terraces of Jatiluvi
A natural kaleidoscope – black, red and white varieties of rice, all kinds of vegetables, bananas, coffee and coconuts grow on a site measuring over 300 hectares. The terraces themselves are built in the form of stairs. The local lands are still being plowed by buffaloes. There are observation decks for tourists. Do you dream of getting unique photos? Then here you are. Angseri hot springs are conveniently located near the terraces.
10. Temple of Pura Besakih
Architecture of the Pura Besakih Temple Complex
The “ancestor” of all temples and the main shrine of Bali invariably tops the ranking of the most visited architectural monuments. The complex is represented by more than twenty separate temples stretching to the Gugung Agung volcano. The greenery and moss covering the buildings create a fairy tale feeling in the atmosphere.
Official website: https://www.besakihbali.com
11. Pura Tanah Lot Temple
“The temple of the earth that is in the sea” or the temple of Pura Tanah Lot
This cultural symbol of the country is located on a rock in the sea. It attracts tourists, among other things, because it is allowed to walk through the territory of temple complexes without wearing national Balinese clothes. A statue in a sarong will greet you at the entrance.
12. Uluwatu Temple
Stunning ocean view and Uluwatu Temple
A mysterious sanctuary is built on the edge of a precipice. This is a unique place, even if we do not forget that we are talking about the sights of Bali – unique and mysterious. During the daytime, vacationers enjoy the views of the sea and watch the monkey games, in the evening they watch the Kechak dance.
13. Gunung Kavi Temple
Royal Tombs and the ancient Hindu temple of Gunung Kavi Saranabhi
A grandiose structure and the oldest Hindu cave temple on the island. It will not be easy to get to this Bali landmark – 300 steps lead to it.
Official website: https://www.penaka.com
14. Tirtha Empul Temple
A pool with fountains of holy water with healing properties in the temple of Tirtha Empul
The date of construction is 926 AD. In addition to the most ancient temple, there is a sacred spring on the territory, the pools of which are open, including for tourists. You can feel the life-giving power of holy water on yourself.
15. Lake Bratan and Pura Oolong Danu Temple
Pura Oolong Danu Temple on the shore of the sacred lake Bratan
An architectural complex built on the western shore of a beautiful reservoir, surrounded by mountainous and emerald-green forests, floating in the clouds. Locals claim that by diving into the crystal lake waters, you can give yourself youth and longevity. Their recommendations do not go unnoticed by vacationers.
Official website: https://ulundanuberatan.com
16. Bat Cave — Goa Lavah
The gate to the Goa Lavah Cave Temple
You will not find bats in the Goa Lava Temple itself. But their countless hordes live in a huge cave located nearby. Arriving here at sunset, you can see how these sacred animals of the island fly out by the thousands on a night hunt. Such sights of Bali make your vacation really bright and memorable.
Official website: https://www.balitravelhub.com
17. Elephant Cave — Goa Gajah
The demon’s head above the entrance to the Elephant Cave
A magical place in Ubud, which in previous years served as a sanctuary for meditation and residence of monks. The huge territory of the complex is surrounded by greenery, the cave itself is hollowed out of a solid rock and decorated with unique carvings on the outside. According to legend, the attraction was named after Ganesha, a revered Hindu god. As you know, he is depicted as a man with an elephant’s head. It is also worth visiting the relic because the aborigines still organize traditional festive ceremonies here and perform national Balinese rituals.
18. Bali Bird Park
Colorful tropical Birds in Bali Bird and Reptile Park
In the reserve you will be able to get acquainted with more than 250 species of birds living (mostly) in free conditions, rather than aviaries and cages. The territory covers several hectares. In addition to the abode of birds, the reserve is a plant park (about 2 thousand species).
19. Bali Elephant Park
An inhabitant of the Elephant Park in Bali
There are over 30 elephants of endangered species on a well-maintained site of twenty hectares. There are both adults and very small baby elephants here. As well as some hotels in Bali, the park is located in the middle of the jungle. You can not only feed the local pets, but also ride them, watch a show performance and even bathe them.
Official website: https://www.masonelephantlodge.com
20. Safari and Marine park
The audience’s favorites are lions and tigers from Bali Safari and Marine Park Walter Lim
The task of this Bali attraction is to gather all kinds of entertainment in one place. The territory of the marine park complex is incredibly huge. Don’t know what to visit in Bali? Restaurants with national cuisine, a traditional Balinese theater, a water park or an amusement park? Come here and all this will be offered to you at the same time. But most importantly, the park area is reserved for exotic animals (more than 50 species from Indonesia, India and Africa) to live in local conditions. During the safari, you will be able to get to know their lives and habits in the immediate vicinity. Animal habitat areas: aquariums, sectors for herbivores, elephants, tigers, cheetahs and leopards, bird area, reptile area (Komodo Island).
Official website: https://www.balisafarimarinepark.com
We only told you that you should definitely visit Bali. If you have any free time left, continue exploring the unique sights of this island.
Bali Attractions: what else to visit in Bali?
Where to go to Bali if you have an extra hour or day on vacation? We recommend you the following options:
21. Bali Barat Nature Reserve
Transparent water surface in Bali Barat Nature Reserve
Tourists are invited to take a boat ride along the bay through the mangrove forests bordering the coast and enjoy the views of the untouched tropics. Despite the fact that most of the national park is closed to travelers, a visit to this northwestern part of the island with its savannah and lowland, mountainous and tropical forests will not disappoint you.
22. Batur Volcano
Panorama of the Batur volcano
An active volcano with a height of more than 1.7 thousand meters. Scalding steam constantly comes out of its cracks, on which you can fry bananas or boil eggs. Unforgettable emotions will be brought by the view of the mountains and Lake Batur, opening at sunset. There are also legendary thermal springs at the foot of the volcano, where you can relax after climbing the world-famous mountain.
23. Agung Volcano
Majestic Agung Volcano
The sacred stratovolcano, which is the highest point of Bali. The last activity was registered in 2017. The top of Agung is partially hidden in the clouds – you will not see a more beautiful and majestic sight anywhere. It is recommended to climb the mountain, 3142 meters high, with local guides.
24. Sekumpul Waterfall
The breathtaking beauty of Sekumpul Waterfall
The highest (about 75 meters) and most beautiful waterfall of the island, opened to the public only in 2010. On the way to it you will see rice terraces. Gazebos are also located here for a short rest. By the way, the way to the attraction runs through the jungle.
Official website: https://www.sekumpulwaterfalltour.com
25. Tegenungan Waterfall
Tegenungan Waterfall, surrounded by rocks and bright greenery
You can swim in the cool waters and get original photos. The waterfall is small, but the path to it is calm and beautiful, the descent down the steps is short. There is a parking lot next to Tegenungan. For travelers with children, this is the best option.
Official website: https://www.tegenunganwaterfall.com
26. Munduk Waterfall
Munduk Waterfall is one of the most powerful in Bali
Along the way, you will notice several coffee plantations and thickets of spices. One of the advantages of the Chest is the small number of guests. If you want to feel complete unity with nature, go here.
27. Balangan Beach
The coastline of Balangan beach
Because of the bottom, covered with volcanic rock, this beach is called cosmic or Martian. Surf waves, snow–white sand, warungs overlooking the ocean – for recreation and, to a greater extent, surfing, there is everything you need.
28. Nusa Dua Beach
Nusa Dua Beach Line
A three-kilometer sandy line with light yellow sand is equipped for family and romantic couples, and “ordinary” lovers of elite recreation. There are no beach parties, street massage therapists or vendors waiting for you here – everything is clean and comfortable. Available activities: snorkeling, flyboarding, visiting museums and restaurants, tea ceremonies, etc.
29. Pandava Beach
A row of red umbrellas on the first part of Pandava beach
Fine white sand, stunning cliffs and turquoise sea. One of the key features is a well–developed infrastructure. There is a guarded parking for motorcycles and cars, a shower and toilet, a cafe and sun beds with umbrellas. You can rent a gazebo for meditation and solitude, or a kayak to conquer the water element.
30. The path of artists
Picturesque landscape of the Artists’ Trails
A popular tourist route lasting several hours (walking). You can lie down in the stems of the thick grass, enjoying the silence and harmony with nature. The trail stretches between two rivers along the ridge of Champuan Hill. A SPA and cafe will be waiting for you at the end of the way. The best time to visit is the hours of dawn.
Any attractions in Bali can amaze you with their beauty and originality. Combine excursions to sacred sites with acquaintance with natural monuments – and your vacation will be as full and memorable as possible.
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