Thinking about what places to visit in Bali? For travelers seeking more authentic experiences, there’s no better place to be. The Indonesian island brims with culture and history. There’s no limitations when it comes to the impact these places offer for both culture vultures and nature explorers. Enjoy the ride and feel free to add a comment below and complete the list if you believe there is anything important we left out:
#1. Ubud Royal Palace
The Ubud Palace is a historical moment which is neatly located in the center of Ubud village. The palace used to accommodate the royal family, so if you want to know how it feels to live the good life, make sure to drop by. It’s true that some parts of the palace are off-limits, but you have access to the courtyard, garden, and gates. Many visitors come to see the royal palace of Ubud, taken aback by the breathtaking landscape and the hospitality of the locals. A local guide will answer all your questions about the history of the place and the features of the architecture. Ubud is also near to the Hanging Gardens of Bali, so you can just hop from the Royal Garden to another wonder.
When you’re in Ubud, make sure to visit the Monkey Forest. The monkeys aren’t aggressive or scary. The green sanctuary is located on the south coast of Ubud, yet macaques are able to move around as they please. It’s nice to see the monkeys out of captivity. Besides having loads of fun in the Monkey Forest, you can see a traditional Balinese dance. Dances in Bali are connected to Hindu and traditional folk rituals. Many believe that spirits take over the bodies o the dancers during the performance. Anyway, it’s worth seeing.
#2. Balinese temples
The cultural heritage of Bali owes its glory to the past. Balinese temples can teach you everything there is to know about the local culture. If you’re prepared to immerse yourself in the local culture, make sure the following temples are on your bucket list:
- Tanah Lot Temple – This historical Hindu temple was constructed on an impressive rock foundation. Tanah Lot Temple can be accessed only by the sea. The best time to pay a visit is right before sunset because you’ll be able to see everything. Small temples around the site hold prayer sessions.
- Ulun Danu Beratan Temple – As the name suggests, the temple is located in the middle of the water. If you come to Bali, make sure to pay a visit to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple. You’ll fall in love with the temple’s scenic backdrop. Actually, who wouldn’t? learn as much as you can about Balinese mythology.
- Tirta Empul Temple – Inside the temple, you can find natural spring water. Natural springs and baths are the main attractions of the area. Let’s not forget about the Hindu rituals which energize the mind, body, and soul. In case you didn’t know, Tirta Empul Temple is located only 30 minutes away from Ubud.
#3. Kintamani volcano
Are you thinking about visiting Kintamani volcano on your holiday? If not, you should. You’ll enjoy the cold air of the mountain area, not to mention the natural springs. Even if you stay in the best luxury hotel in Bali it doesn’t compare to swimming in a hot water spring pool. The expedition guide will tell you which water is safe enough before you go splashing around. Interestingly, the locals still respect ancient traditions, which are passed on from generation to generation. Come and see this natural attraction. You have the unique opportunity to see the Australian cockatoos, Bali starlings, and South American Macao. The birds live their lives in giant cages, which mimic their natural environment.
There are shops and restaurants that welcome you arms wide open. If you have never experienced Balinese cuisine, now is the time to do it. Have a taste of the Pisang Goreng or Bebek Betutu. Shops have everything for everyone. However, it’s not a good idea to spend your hard-earned money on just about anything. If you’re going to dig deep into your pockets, you might as well purchase some jewelry. People are capable of crafting stunning pieces of jewelry with precious and semi-precious stones. Chocolate is worth investing in too. Don’t you want to add a little bit of cocoa sweetness to your stay? Of course, you do. Chocolate in Bali absolutely delicious.
#4. Agung Rai Museum of Art
The Agung Rai Museum of Art is located in Ubud. This institution was established for a good reason: to preserve history and make it accessible to the public. As the name clearly suggests, the museum was set up in the 1970s with the help of Agung Rai, who wished to preserve and contribute to the development of Balinese art and culture. Go to the museum and delight your eyes. Exhibits include but aren’t limited to the Kamasan paintings. Artists used natural pigments and worked solely with pens and brushes made by themselves. They had a talent for perfecting the line. Needless to say, the artwork can’t be copied.
Let’s not forget about the Batuan-style work from the 1930s, with themes taken from literary sources. It would be a shame not to enjoy art and music on your vacation. Balinese people loved spending their free time on arts and crafts. The legacy is great. One of the biggest events in terms of art and culture is the Bali Arts Festival, which takes place in July. It’s a month-long event that you’re sure to remember for the rest of your life. numerous competitions are held at this event, so it’s worth participating.
#5. Reptile Park
The Reptile Park may be the last destination on the list, but it’s certainly not the least important one. It’s a one-of-a-kind educational attraction. The mission of the park is to save endangered species by controlling their breeding in captivity. The park staff organizes exotic shows for curious visitors. Each enclosure in the park is accompanied by a thorough description of the animal. So, you’ll get a good understanding of the specimen. The Reptile Park isn’t far from the Bali Zoo. Some say that it’s better than the bird park. Well, you’ll have to see for yourself.
