Bali Islands is crowned as the world’s second most sought-after destination by TripAdvisor. Nestled on the most popular Island in Indonesia. Bali beckons travellers with its beautiful beaches, culture, and stunning scenic views. From the rhythmic waves caressing its shores to the intricate tapestry of temples dotting its landscape, Bali captivates the imagination and ignites the spirit of adventure.
Bali is chosen as the winner of the Travelers’ Choice Best Award, a destination featuring hotels, restaurants, and attractions that garner the highest praise and feedback from the Tripadvisor community throughout a 12-month duration. Less than 1% of Tripadvisor’s 8 million listings achieve the prestigious Best of the Best recognition, symbolizing the pinnacle of excellence within the global tourism industry.
Here are Some Unique Facts that Make Bali Truly Exceptional
Hindu Enclave in Indonesia
Bali is the only Hindu-majority province in one of the best islands, Indonesia, a predominantly Muslim country. Its ancient Hindu heritage is deeply ingrained in everyday life around the island, from elaborate temple ceremonies to colourful rituals and offerings.
Nyepi: Day of Silence
One of the most unique aspects of Balinese culture is Nyepi, the Hindu New Year, which is observed with a day of silence, meditation, and self-reflection. During Nyepi, the entire island comes to a standstill, with no flights, cars, or activities allowed, offering a rare opportunity for introspection and renewal.
Intricate Architecture and Art
Balinese architecture is characterized by intricate carvings, ornate temples, and traditional pavilions known as “bale.” Balinese artisans are renowned for their craftsmanship, producing exquisite woodwork, stone carvings, and paintings that adorn temples and homes across the island.
Traditional Dance and Music
Bali’s performing arts scene is alive with traditional dance and music performances that date back centuries. From the Legong dance’s hypnotic movements to the gamelan orchestra’s rhythmic melodies, Balinese dance and music offer a glimpse into the island’s cultural heritage and spiritual beliefs.
Volcanic Landscape
Bali is dominated by the majestic Mount Agung, an active volcano that towers over the island and holds great spiritual significance for the Balinese. Surrounding Mount Agung are other volcanic peaks, lush valleys, and crater lakes, creating a dramatic backdrop for exploration and adventure.
Bali’s unique blend of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty makes it a truly remarkable destination, where every corner reveals a new facet of its enchanting allure.
Popular Destinations Around Bali as the Best Islands to Visit
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
The monkey forest is a beautiful setting with lots of interesting statues and places to sit and chill. The place is surrounded by monkeys doing their daily life naturally. It is an awesome place if you are a fan of hundreds of cool monkeys. The place is open every day from 9 AM to 6 PM. Adult tickets are IDR 80.000 for weekdays and IDR 100.000 for weekends.
Besides monkeys as the highlight of this place, it also has Hindu temples that are surrounded by scenic and beautiful greenery. If you plan to visit the temple areas, please wear a sarong and scarf.
Tegallalang Rice Terrace
Bali Zoo
Another popular destination on this beautiful island is Bali Zoo. This place will suit you if you want activities besides the nightlife or scuba diving. There are plenty of selections of animals and opportunities to have an interaction with them, such as pay to feed tigers and goats. Visiting Bali Zoo will give you a different point of view of the best Bali Islands.
Waterbom Bali
Waterbom Bali is a premier waterpark in the heart of Kuta, Bali, renowned for its exhilarating rides. As one of Asia’s top waterparks, Waterbom offers an array of attractions to suit visitors of all ages and interests. Thrill-seekers can brave the heart-pounding slides like the Climax, Pipeline, and Smash Down, while those seeking relaxation can float along the lazy river or soak up the sun. The park’s meticulously landscaped gardens provide a tranquil oasis amidst the adrenaline-fueled excitement, offering ample space for picnics, lounging, and strolls.
Tanah Lot Temple
Located in Tabanan, this sacred sea temple is steeped in legend and reverence, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike to its large island’s mystical shores. As the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the horizon, Pura Tanah Lot becomes an enchanting silhouette against the sky, offering a mesmerizing backdrop for contemplation and photography. Visitors can explore the temple grounds with intricate carvings, ancient shrines, and holy freshwater springs while soaking in the spiritual aura that permeates the air. It is the best place to visit.
Uluwatu Temple
Perched dramatically atop soaring cliffs that plunge into the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple is a mesmerizing icon of Bali’s cultural and natural splendour. Located on the southern tip of the island, this ancient sea temple is a spiritual sanctuary and a testament to Bali’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes. As the sun sets in a blaze of colour, visitors gather at Uluwatu to witness the renowned Kecak dance performances, where fire dancers weave tales of myth and legend against the backdrop of the ocean’s view.
The temple, dedicated to the sea gods, is adorned with intricate stone carvings and Balinese architecture, offering a glimpse into the island’s profound spiritual traditions. Surrounding the temple, sprawling cliffs and panoramic ocean views create an atmosphere of awe and reverence, inviting contemplation and connection with the natural world. With its timeless beauty and spiritual significance, Uluwatu Temple stands as a beacon of Bali’s enduring allure, captivating travellers from around the globe with its enchanting charm and mystical ambience.
Best Nusa Islands Near Bali to Explore
Nusa Penida
Visitors can explore hidden gems like Kelingking Beach, with its iconic T-Rex-shaped cliff and breathtaking views, or snorkel in the coral gardens of Crystal Bay. The island’s untamed beauty also includes natural wonders such as Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool carved into the rocky coastline, and the majestic cliffs of Atuh Beach. Nusa Penida is a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and serenity amidst Bali’s natural wonders.
Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan is located southeast of Bali and is one of the Nusa Islands editions that is great for diving to explore coral reefs and turtles. You can visit this island by boat or walking bridge, and it is an excellent place around Nusa Islands Bali if you are seeking a place away from the busy Bali city.
Nusa Ceningan
Nusa Ceningan is an amazing island, much smaller and quieter than Nusa Lembongan, with stunning views across Penida on one side and of the Blue Lagoon on the other. It is part of the Nusa Islands and is quite popular in Bali. This tiny island gem on the large Island of Bali is worth visiting!
