Know about Bali’s Nature and Culture|Never miss these 12 Wonders

One of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world; Bali is called the “island of the Gods”. It is the hidden gem of Southeast Asia and a tropical paradise. It has beautiful beaches, rocky coastlines, vibrant temples, relaxing spas and happening nightclubs. In the last two decades, Bali has become a hot pick for travellers across the world. For laid-back travellers, Bali offers white waters and sandy beaches where you can stretch out with a tropical cocktail in hand. For adventurers, Bali has a lot of exciting activities like bungee jumping, paragliding, snorkelling, scuba diving and hiking. Bali’s tourism is based on two things: Nature and Culture.

Bali has got a long list of the best places to visit but before that, you must know how it is going to be in Bali. Till now, you might be thinking that Bali is full of beaches and waterfalls and few temples. But they all are in India as well, so why you should go to Bali?

A good question isn’t it? So, let me throw some facts here which will amaze you and excite you for your trip to Bali.

Some interesting facts about Bali:-

• Bali is an island and province of Indonesia.
• Did you know that most of the Balinese people are Hindus who are minorities in Indonesia? However, 85% of the population of Bali is Hindu.
• Bali is comparatively cheaper than most other islands.
• 1 Indian Rupee is equal to 189.70 Indonesian Rupiah as of 7th January 2023.
• If we consider sources about the daily expenses in Bali then one can live a good life here for just 30 – 40 thousand Indian Rupees for a whole month.
• The time duration to reach Bali from Delhi is even less than 10 hours.
• Indians can get a visa on arrival by paying 500,000 IDR (around 2650Rs).

Bali and Hinduism

If you have just started to get to know about Hinduism and its presence on the world map then also read about the Angkor wat Temple of Cambodia.

This was more like some interesting facts with some important and exciting information to plan your visit. Now, what will you get extra if you finalise Bali over other places you might have in mind?

Bali is suitable for couples’ getaways, family vacations, and even holidays with friends. It has to offer some of the best adventure activities, relaxing spas, pools and the warmest Balinese hospitality. Whether you are a nature admirer or kind of a cultural and religious soul, it is the best option on your list and I can bet for sure.

In case you are wondering why I have been speaking much like Balinese, then just check out this list of the 12 best places to explore in Bali.

1. Ubud

You must definitely visit Ubud. It’s the cultural hub of Bali. It is home to several temples and historical sites. You can find local craftwork, jewellery and textiles. Having a variety of ancient temples, waterfalls, music and dance shows, it is fit for all kinds of tourists. Widely known for its sacred Monkey forest, It is an easygoing and cool town. This place hosts a variety of restaurants, coffee shops, local markets, and high and low-end hotels. People of all kinds of budgets can easily enjoy their time escaping city life. Read more on wiki.

2. Nusa Dua

If you love beaches, you’ll definitely fall for Nusa Dua. It has the best beaches in Bali. You can go swimming in the sea and also try some adventure activities such as snorkelling. It is a great spot for couples and a famous honeymoon destination. The beaches here are relatively less crowded. This place is full of honeymooners and people wanting the luxury experience. This is the place where the 17th G20 summit Meet took place in November 2022. Read more on wiki.

3. Kuta

This city represents the modern era of tourism. It has some of the most happening nightclubs, beach parties and lounges. It has the most crowded beaches. People come here to party and eat cheap food, cheap drinks and buy cheap clothes. It is the nightlife capital of Bali. A lot of backpackers come here to stay but there also are some high-end hotels and resorts. Kuta is the best place to surf if you’re a beginner. The sea waves here are manageable. It is not very far from the airport. Read more on wiki.

4. Seminyak

It is still an upcoming tourist hotspot. It is considered the most developed part of Bali. Horse riding alongside the beach, scuba diving, visiting cafes and lounging by the pool are some of the things to do here. Seminyak is comparatively more costly than Kuta. It has plenty of high-end hotels, restaurants and shopping locations. It is also a destination where people like to spend the evening watching the sunset. Read more on wiki.

5. Gunung Kawi

This is an amazing temple built into a hillside with lush green forest and a rice terrace in its surrounding. You can experience Bali’s true history when you’re here. It is a unique landmark. The entire complex was built in the 11th century as a massive tombstone for the king and his family. It attracts a remarkable number of tourists at times.

6. Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park

It is one of the most interesting places in Bali. World’s 4th tallest statue is here towering at 121 meters and was inaugurated in September 2018. The cultural park includes a waterfall. The Garuda Wishnu Kencana Cultural park dedicates itself to Lord Vishnu and his devotee, Garuda. President Joko Widodo hosted the welcoming cultural dinner of the G20 Summit 2022 at the Lotus Pond area of the park.

• Entry fee – Domestic= 80,000 IDR (₹390) and 60,000 IDR (₹300) for students and children.
• International= 125,000 IDR (₹600) for adults and 100,000 IDR (₹500) for children.
• Timings – 9a.m to 8p.m on all days of the week.

7. Ulun Danu Beratan temple

Most of the pictures you would have seen of Bali might belong to this temple. Yes. that’s true. This is the most commonly photographed temple that you’ll find in Bali. It sits atop the Beratan Lake. You’ll find a Botanical Garden right here on Lake Beratan. In the background, you’ll find the volcano Beratan. It is situated uphill 1200 metres high. It takes 2-3 hours to reach here from Kuta.

• Entry fee – 50,000 Indonesian Rupiah per person. (₹263.91/$3.20)
• Timings – 7a.m to 7p.m on all days of the week.

8. Handara Gate

It is a very popular place to take pictures. People consider this place to be the spot for that perfect Instagram photo. Although it is only good for taking pictures because you cannot go beyond the gate. It is a golf course entryway based on Balinese mythology.

9. Tirta Gangga Temple

It is situated in the Northern part of Bali. The temple was once a royal palace. As you might have already guessed, it is named after the sacred river Ganga (Ganges) in Hinduism. It includes the Karangasem royal water palace, bathing pools, Koi fish pond, Patirthan temple and many exquisite artworks representing the Balinese culture. Tourists find it one of the most engaging water temples among many others in Bali.

• Entry fee – 50,000 IDR (₹263.91/$3.20)
• Timings – 8a.m to 5p.m on all days of the week.

10. Tanah Lot Temple

It is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Bhatara Segara (the sea god). It is a rock-cut formation off the coast of Bali. However, in case you don’t know, the world’s largest collection of rock-cut sculptures is in India. Amazed? Yes, the rock-cut sculptures of Unakoti are already on the tentative list of UNESCO and have a total of 99,99,999 sculptures. A 15th-century religious figure Dang Hyang Nirartha’s Tirtha yatra (pilgrimage journey) to Bali inspired the construction of this temple. It is believed that Bhatara Segara created a poisonous snake in order to protect the temple. The locals believe the sea snake is still alive and living at the base of the island and guarding the temple against evil intruders. In order to get to the temple, you need to cross a shallow waterway so make sure you dress accordingly.

• Entry fee – Domestic= 20,000 IDR (₹105.85/$1.28)
• International= IDR 60,000 (₹317.54/$4.20) for adults and for kids is IDR 30,000 (₹158.71/$1.92).
• Car parking fee= 5,000IDR (₹26.46/$0.32)
• Bus parking= 10,000 IDR (₹52.90/$0.64).
• Timings – 6a.m to 7p.m on all days of the week.

11. Tirta Empul temple

It is a Hindu water temple built in 926 AD. The temple is famous for its natural spring water which is considered to be holy. People go there for purification and blessing. The Hindu God, Indra created and blessed the water here. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu who is considered the water god in Hinduism. There are many temples dedicated to various Gods inside the complex; which includes temples of Lord Shiva, Brahma, Vishnu, Indra and Mount Batur. Former US President Barack Obama with his wife Michelle Obama and daughters Malia and Natasha visited this temple in 2017 and received the holy blessing.

• Entry fee – 50,000 IDR (₹263.91/$3.50) for adults and for kids 25,000 IDR (₹132.28/$1.60)
• Car parking= 5,000 IDR (₹26.46/$0.32)
• Motorcycle parking= 2,000 IDR (₹10.58/$0.13)
• Timings – 7a.m to 5p.m on all days of the week.

12. Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang

It is a Hindu temple or Pura located atop the Bisbis Hill of Mount Lempuyang. It is one of the oldest and most highly regarded temples among the six holy temples of Bali. The main attraction here is the famous Gateway of Heaven. It is also known as the Temple of Thousand Steps. There are a total number of 1700 steps to get to the temple.

• Entry fee – 50,000 IDR (₹263.91/$3.50)
• Timings – 6a.m to 7p.m on all days of the week.

Before you start your journey do check out the Top 10 things I wish I would have packed for my Bali trip.

Some other places to satiate your wanderlust spirit in Bali are:-

• Monkey Forest
• Tegallalang rice terrace
• Jimbaran
• Uluwatu
• Canggu
• Tegenungan waterfall
• Banyumala Twin waterfalls
• Pandawa beach
• Padong Padong beach
• Gili island
• Tibumana waterfall

Some do’s and dont’s suggested by people who have visited Bali:-

• The traffic gets pretty hectic hence it is advised not to rent a bike or scooter until and unless you’re quite experienced.
• Do wear your helmet while driving. You need to have an international driving license and passport in order to rent a vehicle.
• Remember not to step on any flower offerings as they have a religious significance.They are called Canang Sari. Palm leaves are woven into a small box and flower petals herbs, money, and snacks are inside.
• Do not step on a place of worship. Do not spit and speak harshly inside the temple premises.
• Menstruating women are not allowed to enter the area inside the temple.
• Dispose of trash in the dustbins provided.
• Please bring extra clothes, towels, sarongs, scarves, and plastic bags. This is necessary if you want to soak in the bathing area at Tirta Empul Temple, Tampak Siring.
• Wear a sarong while visiting any temple complex and make sure bare knees and shoulders are not visible.
• No kissing or any other form of PDA (public display of affection) is allowed in public.
• Don’t take photos directly in front of worshippers.
• Anyone with a running sore or bleeding wound is considered impure and not to be allowed into any Balinese temple.

More than being a first choice for couples

Bali, being the best tourist destination for couples, also is a great place to understand other aspects of Hinduism. There are many temples, places and rivers which have references from Indian origin. The beautiful island boasts of its rich culture and natural wonders. With a very modern approach towards life, people from this unique island have admirably preserved their culture.

Although many websites or videos might tell you that you can explore the place in a week yet, it’s not like that. One needs to spend at least 15 days in order to get to know this island in its own way. That is why the visa you get is valid for 30 days and is even extendable for the next 30 days. I hope you are now quite clear about your upcoming trip to Bali. Let’s read some FAQs together to make it effortless. Although I have tried to address most of them, you can always post a question or suggestion in the comment section.

FAQs

Q. How to reach Bali from India?

Ans. Regular direct flights are available to Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar. There are flights to Bali from most big cities in India.

Q. How to get a Visa for Bali from India?

Ans. Indian tourists do not need a prior visa as Bali offers a visa on arrival for 30 days. This can be further extended by another 30 days.

Q. What are the requirements for the visa on arrival?

Ans. Here is the complete guide on how you can get the visa on arrival.

• You have to fill up the eHAC international form before departure.
• After arrival, you have to have your vaccination certificate ready. ( You need to have a double vaccination certificate. If you’re vaccinated only with a single dose then you will be quarantined for 5 days at your own expense.)
• Your eHAC and hotel booking will be checked at the airport.
• After going through multiple checkpoints which include checking for health insurance and an onward flight ticket within 30 or 60 days; you’ll have your visa on arrival.
• You can pay with a visa or MasterCard.
• Collect your luggage and your visa and go to a transportation point.

Q. What is the currency required?

Ans. Remember to carry the Indonesian Rupiah while travelling to Bali. There are a lot of places with money exchange services in Bali but you have to make sure to pick an authentic one. Try to carry smaller amounts for easy transactions.

Q. What is the best time to visit?

Ans. April to October. The temperature remains between 25°C to 30°C. The months of April to June receive the most tourists. August to November is ideal for sightseeing. December to March is generally considered off-season due to heavy rains.

Q. How to do adventure activities?

Ans. Make sure you pick a certified operator when you try water sports.

Q. Where to stay?

There are a wide variety of options available. You can find suitable accommodation for every kind of budget easily.

• Bali has a great range of luxury hotels such as –
• Viceroy Bali in Ubud
• Grand Hyatt in Nusa Dua
• Some comfortable mid-range hotels are –
• Byasa Ubud
• Villa Costa Plenty
• Some budget hotels are –
• Green Garden Hotel
• Bali Agung Village
• Some homestays are –
• Umahode
• Utu homestay

Q. What to eat in Bali?

Ans. You must try the local dishes. Pisang Goreng, Mi Goreng and Nasi Goreng are some of the amazing local delicacies.

Q. How many days are enough to explore Bali?

Ans. Generally, 10-15 days are enough to enjoy the best of Bali.

Q. Where and what to shop in Bali?

Ans. Clothes, paintings, souvenirs, hats, wind chimes and other kinds of local artwork are some of the best things to shop for. There are plenty of tattoo parlours in Bali.

Q. Is Bali expensive?

Ans. Bali is relatively cheaper than most other islands. It is affordable for people of all budgets.

Q. How to commute in Bali?

Ans. Bali does not have many public transport facilities. Transport is quite inexpensive. Taking a taxi from the airport to Kuta or Nusa Dua will cost you around 100.000 IDR (₹528.75/$6.40). I would recommend you to take a Blue Bird taxi as they have a metre system. Renting a scooter will cost you around 50.000 IDR daily (₹264.36/$3.20). Do negotiate before renting.

Q. What are the apps to download before coming to Bali?

Ans. Download these 5 apps to make your trip effortless.

• WhatsApp
• Facebook
• Grab
• Gojek
• Google maps (offline maps)