7 things you must do in Bali

The beautiful island of Bali in Indonesia is known for its rich culture, stunning nature and warm hospitality. Bali has long been a popular travel destination and attracts visitors from all over the world with its charming diversity.

But what should you see and do in Bali? The island offers many unforgettable travel experiences, so whether you’re interested in art, adventure or culinary experiences, Bali has something for everyone.

We’ve curated a list of seven essential experiences that you simply can’t miss during your visit to this island gem.

1) Ubud – a cultural and spiritual hub

Ubud is Bali’s artistic epicentre, where art and crafts flourish. Walk through the cobbled streets and explore local galleries displaying amazing works of art and unique crafts.

The town is also home to traditional Balinese dance and music performances. Visitors can experience colourful dances such as Legong and Barong, which recount ancient legends through dance and music. These performances provide a deep insight into Bali’s cultural heritage and ancient traditions.

2) Munduk – Bali’s hidden gem in the mountains

Munduk, a picturesque mountain village in northern Bali, is the perfect place to get away from the more hectic hustle and bustle of the town and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the island’s unspoiled nature and culture. Munduk is known for its incredible nature, green rice fields, cascading waterfalls and tranquil atmosphere. There are many good hiking routes and fantastic viewpoints to be found here.

An absolute must-see is the impressive Red Coral waterfall, which plunges from a height of 20 metres. Enjoy the breathtaking surroundings, surrounded by lush vegetation, and swim in the clear, cool water.

3) Mount Batur – a magnificent climb to the top

For adventurous souls, a hike up the volcano is an unforgettable experience. Located in the northern part of the island, Batur is an active volcano and one of the most popular destinations for visitors seeking adventure and stunning scenic views.

You can also enjoy the spectacular sunrise from the top of the volcano and be enchanted by the breathtaking view of the island and the surrounding landscape. Climbing Batur to see the sunrise is one of the most popular activities in Bali. The trek typically begins early in the morning, and hikers head up the trails with torches to reach the summit before dawn. As the sun begins to rise above the horizon, the enchanting sight of warm golden tones appears – an experience that stirs the soul.

4) Culinary experiences – A feast for the taste buds

Bali entices culinary enthusiasts with its rich tapestry of flavours, featuring authentic Balinese delights like Nasi Goreng, Satay, and tropical fruits.

For a hands-on experience, you can take a traditional Balinese cookery class. You’ll visit a market together with a chef and find the ingredients to be used in your cooking. Back at the school, you start out by learning a little about the classic Balinese cooking methods before embarking on conjuring up some delicious dishes.

5) Bali’s paradise beaches and water activities – An underwater adventure

With its golden sand and calm waters, the beach at Sanur is the perfect place to relax and swim in the Indian Ocean. Let the sun’s rays warm your skin as you listen to the waves lapping the shore.

If you’re looking for an adventure under the sea, the island is also known for its exciting snorkelling and diving spots, which are within easy reach, and where you can experience rays, turtles and beautiful fish. Bali is also world-famous for its spectacular surfing, and the island’s shores offer an incredible variety of waves to suit surfers of all levels.

6) Uluwatu Temple and Uluwatu Sunset Point – magic at sunset

One of Bali’s most iconic sights is the Uluwatu Temple, a treasure perched high on the cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean. This majestic temple is known for its spectacular location, impressive architecture and rich history, making it a must-see place for any visitor to the island.

A mere 20-minute drive from the temple is Uluwatu Sunset Point, where you can experience the magical sunset, painting the sky in beautiful shades of orange and pink.

7) The rice terraces of Tegalalang – A mosaic of green steeped in history

Tegalalang’s rice terraces are part of the traditional Balinese agricultural system that has existed for centuries. The rice terraces were created by the ancient Balinese farmers who so beautifully shaped the terrain to maximise the flow of water from spring to rice field.

These terraces are not just fields; they’re living treasure troves of greenery that stretch as far as the eye can see, telling the story of Bali’s rich agricultural traditions.

Bali is not just an island. It’s a journey through colourful cultures, scenic wonders and unforgettable adventures. No matter what experiences you choose, Bali will amaze you with its beauty and hospitality. So off you go and discover this amazing island, just waiting to be explored.

TourCompass – From tourist to traveller