Ever wondered what makes Bali’s attractions so special? Bali offers something for everyone, from adventure seekers to culture lovers. The island is a mix of stunning landscapes and rich traditions, ready to be explored.
In this guide, we’ll show you the top spots in Bali. You’ll see the island’s beauty and culture up close. Highlights include the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, Uluwatu Temple, and the Ubud Art Market.
13 Best Bali Tourist Spots to Visit
- Swim with Mantas at Manta Point Nusa Penida
Manta Point is a top spot for diving in Bali. You can see manta rays here all year, but they’re most active from March to June.
The water is deep enough for diving, with clear views up to 15 meters. It’s great for snorkeling and diving. This spot is peaceful, and perfect for practicing free diving.
Manta rays eat plankton here, attracting turtles and other rays. Snorkeling tours cost about $20 and last 3 hours. Mantas can be found at Manta Bay and other beautiful spots like Gamat Bay and Crystal Bay. Most tours include all the gear you need.
Divers can explore deeper areas, like the manta ray cleaning stations at 30 meters. These areas are full of life, giving you amazing underwater views. Manta Bay has gentle currents, making it great for snorkeling.
Experience one of Bali’s best diving spots. Discover the steps on how-to get there, and what to prepare before diving with mantas at one of Nusa Penida’s iconic Dive Sites. Manta Point offers divers a chance to witness these majestic creatures up close. Don’t miss out on the vibrant underwater world that makes this destination truly unforgettable.
- Step Back in Time at Bali’s Gunung Kawi Temple
The Gunung Kawi Temple is nestled in terraced rice fields, about 15 km northeast of Ubud. It’s a top historic site in Bali. The temple has ten rock-cut shrines, each 7 meters high, carved into cliffs. It was built in the early 11th century by King Anak Wungsu for the Udayana dynasty.
To see the Gunung Kawi Temple you must go down 300 steps into the river valley. It’s a journey that’s both physical and spiritual. At the bottom, you’ll find a peaceful place to think and admire the temple’s beauty.
The temple is split into three parts, with four shrines on one side and five on the other. This creates a beautiful mix of nature and spirituality.
International visitors pay IDR 50.000 for adults and IDR 25.000 for kids aged 5 to 11. Domestic visitors pay IDR 30.000 for adults and IDR 15.000 for kids. Kids under five get in free. You must wear a sarong and sash, which can be rented at the entrance. Traditional customs may not allow menstruating women to enter.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. It’s a 30-minute drive from Ubud. There’s a small parking fee of IDR 2.000 for scooters and IDR 5.000 for cars.
Local guides can be hired to give you more insight into the temple. The best time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is dry and clear.
- Capture Heaven’s Gates at Lempuyang Temple
Lempuyang Temple is a sacred site in Bali known for the Gates of Heaven. It offers a spiritual and photo journey you won’t forget. The temple frames Mount Agung perfectly, making it a top spot for photos.
The temple sits at 1.175 meters above sea level. It has seven temples, each representing a spiritual level. To get to the main temple, Pura Lempuyang Luhur, you must climb over 1.700 stone steps.
The temple is open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Some areas are open 24/7 for prayer. This makes it a special place for both photos and spiritual moments.
For the best photos of the Gates of Heaven, go early in the morning or late afternoon. These times have fewer crowds and better light. But, be ready for long waits, up to three hours, during busy times.
Getting to Lempuyang Temple is easy. It’s a two-hour drive from Ubud and 2.5 to 3 hours from Denpasar or Seminyak. Shuttle services cost 45K IDR one way. Guided tours start at $45 for private tours and $65 for the Bali Instagram Tour.
The temple is beautiful all year, but the wet season can make the steps slippery. During Hindu festivals, it gets very busy. So, plan your visit during less busy times for a better experience.
Visiting Lempuyang Temple is more than just seeing beautiful views. It’s about experiencing one of Bali’s most sacred sites. Whether you’re a photographer or a spiritual seeker, this temple offers a unique and enriching experience.
- Enjoying the view of Bali from the GWK Statue
The GWK Statue is a huge tribute to Indonesian art and mythology. It stands at 121 meters tall, finished in 2018 after 30 years of work. It’s in a big cultural park in Bali, showing Lord Vishnu on Garuda, a mythical bird.
The statue gives amazing views of Bali. It’s placed to show off the best views. Visitors can go up in an elevator to see even more.
The GWK Cultural Park is more than the statue. It has cultural shows, like the Kecak dance at 6:30 PM. These shows are part of your ticket, letting you see Bali’s art.
There are fun things to do here, like photos in Balinese costumes. It’s great for families and those who love culture. The park is always getting better, making it a great place to visit.The GWK Statue shows the heart of Bali. It mixes old stories with new art, standing as a symbol of pride and beauty.
- Snap a Pic at Bali’s Handara Golf
When you visit the Handara Golf & Resort Bali, you must take a photo at the iconic gates in Bali. These gates are a top Bali photography spot. They offer a beautiful view of lush, green mountains.
The gate is in the Bedugul highlands, 1.200 meters above sea level. It’s a stunning view among scenic spots in Bali. The drive from Ubud, Seminyak, or Kuta takes 2 to 2.5 hours. Ubud to here is 1.5 to 2 hours. Munduk is just a 30-minute drive away.
Photoshoots cost IDR 30.000 to IDR 50.000 per person (about $2 to $3.50 USD). The wait time can be 5 minutes or 2 hours. Only one person can take photos at a time for 5 minutes.
The best times are early morning or late afternoon. Sunrise scenes are magical with misty backdrops. Parking is easy for cars and scooters near the ticket booth. The Handara Golf gate is a must-see in Bali. It offers a peaceful and scenic experience. From the golf courses to the traditional gate, it’s unforgettable.
- Explore Bali’s Ulun Danu Batur Temple
The Ulun Danu Batur Temple is a must-see in Bali. It sits on the calm shores of Lake Bratan. When the water is high, it looks like it’s floating.
Visit early in the morning to see it at its best. It opens at 7 am. People come after sunrise to see the peaceful water reflections. The temple is 1500 meters up, which keeps it cool. This makes visiting very pleasant.
Ulun Danu Batur is a key spot for travelers in Bali. It’s a major spiritual site, honoring Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. It’s even on the 50.000 IDR banknote, showing its cultural value.
Getting to Ulun Danu Batur is easy from many places. It’s a 1.5-hour drive from Ubud and 2 to 2.5 hours from Kuta. You can also see waterfalls and rice terraces nearby, adding to your Bali experience.
The entrance fee for foreigners is 50,000 IDR. It’s a great value for such a rich experience. Ulun Danu Batur is a symbol of Bali’s spiritual and natural beauty. It’s perfect for meditation or photography, showing the best of Bali’s tranquility and culture.
- Meet the sacred snake at Tandah lot
Tanah Lot Temple is a famous Bali temple. It sits on a rock, making a stunning seascape. Founded in the 16th century, it’s full of cultural and spiritual meaning. It’s one of seven sea temples along Bali’s coast, protecting the island.
People visit Tanah Lot for its magical stories and atmosphere. It’s known for its sacred sea snakes. These snakes live in the sea caves under the temple. They keep evil spirits away and bring luck.
The temple’s outer area is open to visitors. But the inner part is sacred for Balinese worship. To see the sacred snake, go to a special cave for a priest’s blessing. It’s a way to connect with Tanah Lot’s spiritual side.
Tanah Lot is also a top spot for sunsets in Bali. Watching the sun set behind the temple is breathtaking. It’s perfect for photographers and couples. Visit early morning or just before sunset for the best views.
Nearby, there’s Pantai Seseh beach and beautiful paddy fields. Renting a car and driver is a good idea because of the distance and roads. Tanah Lot is unforgettable, whether you’re interested in the sacred animals or the sunsets.
- Take a walk in Tegalalang Rice Terrace
The Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a must-see in Bali. It’s not just beautiful; it’s a deep dive into Bali’s farming traditions. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it shows off a unique irrigation system called “Subak.” It’s a green paradise for those who love nature and culture.
Getting to Tegalalang from Ubud is quick, taking less than 20 minutes. It’s a great escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
There are different ways to enter the terraces. For a cheap option, the eastern side costs 10.000 IDR (about USD $0.70). Uma Ceking offers a more in-depth experience for 50.000 IDR (around USD $3.50).
The terraces are beautiful but have some challenges. The paths can be muddy and narrow. Parking can be hard, but scooters have it worse.
Some landowners might ask for 20.000 IDR (around USD $1.40) for photos. It’s a small price for amazing pictures.
Visiting at sunrise is best. The light creates stunning shadows and highlights. It’s less crowded than midday, making it perfect for photos. Tegalalang is a true piece of Bali’s heritage. It offers scenic walks and a chance to connect with nature. Respect the land and take home unforgettable memories.
- Watch Bali’s Uluwatu Sunset
See the magic of a sunset in Bali at the famous Uluwatu Temple. It’s a cliffside spot with amazing best sunset views. The temple sits on a cliff, overlooking the Indian Ocean, making it a stunning place to watch the sun go down.
The Uluwatu Sunset Tour is a great way to see the sunset. It includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private car. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers. You’ll get to see Uluwatu Temple and the Kecak Dance, mixing culture with nature.
Sunset times in Bali change, from 6 PM to 7 PM. The best time for sunset photography is just before sunset. Arrive early to get the best spot. Other great places for sunsets include La Plancha in Seminyak, Echo Beach in Canggu, and Crystal Bay on Nusa Penida.
The Uluwatu Sunset Tour lets you make your own plan. You can also have dinner at Jimbaran Beach, enjoying local seafood and the calm evening. Watching a sunset in Bali from Uluwatu is a memory you’ll always treasure.
- Feel the Rush on Bali Swing
Get ready for an adrenaline rush at the Bali Swing, a top adventurous activity in Bali. Located in Ubud, it’s perfect for thrill-seekers and those looking for amazing photos. You’ll see stunning views of jungles and river valleys, making it unforgettable.
The Ubud swings offer heights from 10 to 78 meters, for all adventure levels. At Alas Harum, you’ll find swings like the Extreme and Super Extreme. This ensures everyone finds a thrill that suits them.
Bali’s swings are famous, attracting millions each year. Swing parks charge $10 to $30 for entry, with extra activities like ziplining. You can get a 10% discount on app bookings with the code APP10.
For a full Bali experience, visit from April to October. Make sure to book ahead to skip the crowds. Safety is key, with age and weight limits for a fun and safe ride. The Bali Swing offers an adventure you’ll always remember.
- Purify Your Soul at Bali’s Tirta Empu
Tirta Empul Temple dates back to 962 AD, during the Warmadewa dynasty. It’s a sacred Hindu site in Tampaksiring, Bali. The temple is famous for its holy water spring, believed to have healing powers. It offers a unique chance for spiritual cleansing in Bali.
The temple has three main sections. It’s a place where locals and tourists can find a deeper connection and purification.
Inside the temple, you’ll find a large purification pool. It’s fed by a sacred spring through 13 sculpted spouts. The ritual of spiritual cleansing involves moving through the water showers. This journey is a deep cultural and spiritual experience, making it a key Hindu temple in Bali.
The entrance fee is IDR 50.000 for adults and IDR 25.000 for children. You’ll need to wear a sarong, available for IDR 10.000. The best times to visit are early morning and late afternoon to avoid crowds. The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but it’s open 24/7 for prayer.
Many visitors remember the cleansing ceremony. Visiting during the Galungan or Nyepi festivals can make the experience even more special. These festivals bring vibrant decorations and traditional performances. The Galungan festival celebrates the victory of good over evil, while Nyepi marks the Balinese New Year.
A visit to Tirta Empul Temple is more than just a tour. It’s a deep dive into Bali’s culture. Whether you join the Melukat Ceremony or admire the temple’s architecture, it will touch your soul. Don’t miss this peaceful retreat for a true look into Bali’s spiritual life.
- Climbing Mount Batur at Sunrise
One of the most thrilling experiences in Bali is the Mount Batur trek to see the sunrise. It starts early, with most people waking up at 1:30 AM. They begin their journey at 3:30 AM from Bali Sunrise Villas, which is 1.000 meters high.
The climb goes up about 700 meters, reaching 1.717 meters at the top. It’s considered a “moderate” to “hard” hike because of the steep path and rough terrain. Yet, it’s doable for many, even those who aren’t very active. It takes 2 to 2.5 hours to reach the summit, and the whole trip, including going back down, takes about 5 hours.
The view from the top is stunning, with the caldera and lake lit up by the dawn. You’ll also get a simple breakfast, like banana sandwiches and boiled eggs. Enjoying a cup of coffee for about Rp 30,000 (less than $2) adds to the experience.
The hike is okay for people with average fitness. But, having a guide is a good idea, more so during the rainy season from November to early April. Guides often take you to the Batur Hot Springs, just 20 minutes away, for a relaxing soak after the hike.
Mount Batur is an active volcano, with its last eruption in 2000. It’s not just for the view; it’s also a unique chance to hike an active volcano in Bali.
- Go shopping at Ubud Art Market
The Ubud Art Market is in the heart of Ubud. It’s a place where you can find authentic Balinese culture. With a wide range of handcrafted goods, it’s a lively spot every day from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. It’s a top spot for shopping in Bali, with lots of Bali souvenirs to choose from.
You can find unique items like silk scarves, handwoven rattan bags, and traditional kites. The market is at Jalan Raya Ubud No.35, close to attractions like the Monkey Forest and Ubud Palace. Visiting early helps you avoid crowds and get better prices through friendly haggling.
Ubud Art Market is special because it offers unique handcrafted goods in Bali. You can find wood carvings to silver jewelry. Haggling is common, and you can often get prices down by up to 50%. Remember, the first sale of the day is seen as good luck, so early birds get the best deals.
Shopping at the Ubud Art Market not only adds to your Bali experience but also supports local crafts.
Create Memories in Bali
Use Bali travel tips to make your trip even better. Joining group tours is a great idea, as it adds to the fun and discovery. For those who love adventure, diving with manta rays, watching the Uluwatu sunset, or trying the Bali Swing are unforgettable experiences.
Bali has accommodations for every budget. You can find luxury villas for under $500 a night, or stay in something more affordable for around $20 a night. While some attractions may have a small fee, the beauty and culture you’ll see are worth it.
To make the most of your Bali vacation, dive into local life. Try a cooking class or a street food tour to taste real Balinese food. Also, support eco-tourism to help protect Bali’s natural wonders. As a top tourist spot, Bali offers endless chances to make and keep memories.
Know Before You Go
What is the best tourist spot in Bali?
Bali has many great spots. Uluwatu Temple is famous for its stunning sunsets. Tegalalang Rice Terrace is known for its beautiful landscapes. And Ubud Art Market is great for unique handcrafted goods.
Where can I swim with manta rays in Bali?
To swim with manta rays, go to Manta Point Nusa Penida. It’s a diving spot with clear waters and lots of marine life.
Why should I visit Lempuyang Temple?
Lempuyang Temple is famous for its ‘Gates of Heaven’ view. It frames Mount Agung perfectly. It’s a great spot for photos, even more so at dawn.
What does the GWK Statue represent?
The Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Statue shows Lord Vishnu on Garuda. It’s 120 meters tall, one of the world’s largest statues. It offers amazing views of Bali.
How can I create lasting memories in Bali?
Bali has many ways to make lasting memories. You can explore local crafts, watch cultural shows, or visit mountain temples. This guide helps you find these experiences for a memorable trip.
