Are you looking for the best places to see, stay, and eat in Bali? Look no further! This guide will show you all the must-see sights, luxurious hotels, and delicious restaurants.
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I’ve been fortunate to have travelled to some pretty amazing places around the world and few locations have ever struck such a chord with me like Bali. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or luxury, this Indonesian paradise has something for everyone. From its amazing culture and cuisine to its stunning beaches and world-renowned resorts and spas, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Bali.
Here is a guide to the best places to see, stay, and eat at while visiting this tropical gem.
MUST SEE SIGHTS
Nusa Dua Beach
1. Taman Ayun: This beautiful temple complex is located in Mengwi and features a mix of Balinese architecture and gorgeous gardens. The site was built by the King of Mengwi in 1634 as his family temple and it has been beautifully preserved to this day. With its impressive temples, stunning statues, tranquil ponds and lush gardens, Taman Ayun is home to some of the best sights on the island. It's easy to spend hours here taking in the beauty of Bali's culture and history. Visiting this magnificent attraction will give you an insight into the unique heritage and culture of the people who inhabit this incredible place. Make sure Taman Ayun is one of your stops when visiting Bali!
2. Pura Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: This 11th century sacred site is located in the Bedugul highlands and was built by the Majapahit dynasty. Surrounded by beautiful lakes and lush greenery, this Balinese Hindu temple allows visitors to experience a taste of true Balinese culture. From its stunning architecture to its tranquil grounds and spiritual atmosphere, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan captures the essence of what makes Bali unique!
3. Tanah Lot Temple: This unforgettable 16th century Hindu temple is perched atop a rock formation surrounded by sea. It's a great spiritual place for exploring Balinese culture and contains several shrines and temples dedicated to various gods and goddesses. Tourists come here to admire its picturesque beauty, partake in cultural performances like the Barong Dance, Kecak Dance and Fire Show, and take in stunning ocean vistas. Visiting Tanah Lot is an enriching experience that shouldn't be missed!
4. Jatiluwih Rice Terrace: The majestic sight of the terraced rice paddies provides a perfect backdrop for a relaxed day. Take your time exploring the area, marveling at its beauty, and enjoying the natural scenery. You won't regret spending some time at one of Indonesia's most iconic destinations!
5. Tirta Empul Temple: This ancient Balinese Hindu temple is located in the town of Manukaya, Bali, and is a popular tourist destination in the region. Built around 962 A.D., this holy site features two pools of sacred spring water with 30 different purification fountains, each associated with various healing benefits. Visitors can experience traditional cleansing rituals from the temple’s priests and enjoy the stunning architecture and majestic atmosphere of Tirta Empul Temple. The temple also offers a chance to learn about Balinese culture and traditions first-hand, making it a truly unforgettable visit for any traveler to Bali.
6. Ubud Temple: Ubud Temple is located in the cultural heart of Bali -- the village of Ubud. The temple is home to ancient Balinese Hindu shrines and statues surrounded by lush tropical rainforests. Visiting Ubud Temple offers visitors a chance to experience Balinese culture up close and to pay their respects to the gods while soaking in the serenity of nature. Visitors can also enjoy a glimpse into traditional life as locals perform traditional ceremonies and rituals at the temple throughout the week. Ubud Temple is an inspiring destination that encourages both contemplation and celebration!
7. The Monkey Forest: Monkey Forest is a natural sanctuary where over 700 long-tailed macaques live peacefully among lush greenery and intricately designed Balinese temples. It's a perfect place to explore tropical wildlife and learn about their conservation. Enjoy seeing the monkeys play and interact with each other, as well as marvel at the nature around you. A visit to the Monkey Forest can leave you in awe of this remarkable world.
8. Beaches: Bali, Indonesia is a beautiful destination for those looking for stunning beaches. Here are the four best beaches to visit and why:
Sanur Beach - With its perfect sunset views, this beach is always flooded with tourists at sunset. It is also teeming with activity during the day because of the many water sports offered on the beach such as surfing, windsurfing, jet skiing and snorkeling.
Nusa Dua Beach - This beach is one of the most picturesque in Bali and offers travelers amazing views of crystal clear turquoise waters and whitest sand. Relaxation and calmness reign here while activities like sunbathing, swimming or simply strolling around can be enjoyed.
Jimbaran Beach - For panoramic views of Bali's Indian Ocean coast, this white-sand beach lined with palm trees is a must-see! Spend your day soaking up the sun or head out to the sea to indulge in various attractions like parasailing or kite surfing.
Kuta Beach - Famous for its bright, sunny shores, Kuta Beach has something for everyone: shopping, surfing lessons and nightlife all ensure that visitors have plenty to do when they get there! The inviting waves also make it one of Bali's top destinations for avid surfers.
RESTAURANT SUGGESTIONS
Merah Putih
1. Merah Putih: This restaurant offers mouthwatering Balinese dishes with a modern twist in a chic contemporary setting.
2. Seasalt: Located on the beachfront of Seminyak, Seasalt serves up delicious seafood dishes with breathtaking views of the ocean.
3. The Plantation Grill: Located at the W Hotel in Seminyak, The Plantation Grill offers diners a luxurious experience complete with classic American steaks and cocktails made from locally sourced ingredients.
4. Mamasan: This is a must-visit destination for food lovers. The atmosphere is inviting, the menu is diverse, and the staff are all incredibly friendly. From traditional Indonesian dishes to modern fusion cuisine, there truly is something for everyone at Mamasan.
5. Ku De Ta: This upscale beach club and restaurant located in Seminyak offers globally influenced dishes made from fresh local ingredients along with spectacular views of the Indian Ocean from its rooftop terrace.
6. La Lucciola: La Lucicola's open-air pavilion provides guests an alfresco dining experience where they can enjoy Mediterranean-style dishes complemented by signature cocktails served on their outdoor patio overlooking Petitenget Beach.
7. The Grille at Luxe: At the Grille at Luxe, you can enjoy Australian Black Angus & Wagyu steaks, grilled seafood dishes, a selection of wines and classic and exotic cocktails. During the day, the atmosphere is casual; night-time brings intimacy and romance.
HOTEL RECOMMENDATIONS
Komaneka Tanggayuda
1. Komaneka Tanggayuda: Komaneka Tanggayuda is a luxury resort in Ubud, Bali offers an unparalleled experience for its guests. Located on the edge of a lush valley and surrounded by wild jungles, the resort features an abundance of activities and amenities such as a spa, infinity pool, organic gardens and more. The villas are luxuriously appointed with modern amenities and traditional Balinese design elements.
2. Hanging Gardens of Bali: Unwind amidst nature at Hanging Gardens of Bali, situated amidst vineyards and rice paddies near the banks of Bali’s Ayung River valley just outside Ubud town center.
3. Alila Villas Uluwatu: Enjoy breathtaking views of Bali's iconic limestone cliffs while being surrounded by lush vegetation at Alila Villas Uluwatu situated atop a cliffside in Uluwatu on the southern coast of Bali.
4. COMO Uma Canggu: Boasting panoramic views over one of Bali’s longest beaches, COMO Uma Canggu provides an idyllic escape steps away from Canggu's bustling main road yet still close enough to enjoy all that it has offer nearby restaurants, shops and art galleries as well as hip bars and nightclubs just down the street
5. The St. Regis Bali Resort: Relax in lavish suites & villas at the St. Regis Bali Resort featuring Balinese art, marble bathrooms & balconies. Swim in calm lagoons or enjoy spa treatments, fitness center, award-winning bars & restaurants and a children's learning center - all with signature St. Regis Butler Service.
6. The Mulia: Discover pure luxury at The Mulia located directly on Nusa Dua Beach offering unprecedented access to some of Indonesia’s best beaches as well as offering exclusive amenities such as private butlers who will attend your every need during your stay in paradise.
THE TAKE AWAY
Whether you’re looking for a secluded escape or an urban adventure filled with activities and fine dining experiences, Bali is sure to have it all! With its stunning scenery and luxurious amenities, why not make your next vacation destination ‘the Island Of The Gods'?