Bali had long captured my imagination as a haven for wellness and relaxation. Its tales of rich heritage, pristine beaches, and interesting traditions had beckoned me for years.
Finally, when the opportunity to visit arose a few months ago, I understood why it's often referred to as the jewel of Indonesia. With its unique culture and breathtaking landscapes, Bali truly exceeded all my expectations, cementing its place as a must-visit destination.
Where is Bali, Indonesia?
Bali is situated between the islands of Java and Lombok. Geographically, it lies approximately 8 degrees south of the equator in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. As you can see on the map (click to enlarge), it is really close to the continent of Australia.
How do you get there?
Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar serves as the main gateway for international travelers. Many major airlines operate direct flights to Bali from key cities worldwide, including Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Sydney, Melbourne, Dubai, Doha, Amsterdam, and more. Travelers can fly to one of these international hubs and then take a connecting flight to Bali.
When is the best time to visit?
The dry season is Bali is between May - September. This is the peak tourist season. The wet season is between October - April when you may see frequent but short downpours but it still offers its own charm with fewer tourists, lower accommodation prices and opportunities for cultural experiences. My visit was in early March and it was great.
How to plan a week-long trip?
Planning a week-long trip to Bali and focusing on two cities, Seminyak and Ubud, offers a well-rounded experience that combines the best of beach relaxation, vibrant nightlife, cultural immersion, and natural beauty.
Suggested Plan
Day 1: SEMINYAK
Fly into Bali's Denpasar International Airport
Drive to Seminyak, and check in to your hotel by the beach
We stayed at Hotel Indigo, which was great!
Check out the night scene! There is a concept of beach clubs - and the one called Potato Head is popular!
Day 2: SEMINYAK
Go up north along the coast closer to an area called Canguu and then further north to Tanah Lot temple.
Have coconut water by the temple. Find the lady nearby who sells Klepon (pandas-coconut mochi-like balls) - delicious!
Enjoy lunch in Canguu (consider M.Mason), drive back to your hotel in Seminyak
In the evening, go shopping at the boutiques near by, enjoy the beach at Seminyak
Watch the sunset from Alila, Seminyak. This hotel is right on the beach and their restaurant called Sea Salt is amazing. So plan dinner here.
Day 3: SEMINYAK
Go down South to Kuta (beach-front) and then further south to Uluwatu Temple
On your way, if you have time, visit the Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue is a 122-meter tall statue located in Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park, Bali.
Catch the early evening cultural fire and dance show - Check out Kecak Uluwatu, buy tickets online, in advance. These tickets are in addition to the tickets you need to enter the Uluwatu temple grounds which you need to buy at the entrance
Consider going to the Rock Bar at Ayana Estate Resort and watch the sunset while enjoying cocktails
Day 4: UBUD
Check out of your Seminyak hotel and make your way up north to Ubud and check in at your Ubud hotel
We stayed at Chapung Sebali, which was quite unique with a fantastic restaurant. We booked a two-bedroom villa with a pool - so amazing.
The hotel was not handicap-friendly, though
Explore the city center, shops and boutiques in Ubud. This area is all about wellness, yoga and meditation! Good spot to buy quality souvenirs
Day 5: UBUD
Visit a rice terrace and a waterfall
Get Insta-worthy photos swinging high.
Visit the Tirtha Empul temple and experience ritualistic bathing in holy springs.
This is essentially your travel day, so a reasonably-priced Viator tour like this one is a good idea. Spend the day visiting the Tegenungan Waterfall, Tirta Empul Temple, Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Terrace River Pool Swing, Celuk Village and Ubud Traditional Art Market.
Day 6: UBUD
Take a Balinese cooking class - Yes, vegetarian options are plenty
Get a Balinese massage coupled with a flower bath
Day 7: UBUD
Request a floating breakfast
Check out of your hotel in Ubud and drive to Denspasar for your flight out of Bali. It takes time to get out of Ubud. This area is congested and you have to plan for extra time (at least two extra hours) to get to the airport
Now, let's deep dive.
Here are some of the experiences to consider doing on your visit:
Experience a Balinese Massage + Flower Bath
In Bali, relaxation takes center stage. The Balinese oil massage is known for its long, sweeping strokes - this is a soothing massage technique. Following this experience, immerse yourself in a flower bath, where colorful petals adorn the water, creating an atmosphere of pure bliss. This is a quintessential Bali experience.
Consider the spa at Alila or Hotel Indigo in Seminyak. For a more traditional, local spa experience, consider Tamarind Spa in Ubud. We also enjoyed our spa experience in our hotel, Chapung Sebali.
Explore the Spiritual Sanctuaries: Temple Visits
Regardless of your religious beliefs, a visit to Balinese temples is a must. Positioned in picturesque locations, these temples offer awe-inspiring views.
Tanah Lot Temple near Seminyak, stands resolute on a rock amidst the sea, accessible only during low tide. Surrounding it are architectural marvels adorned with intricate Balinese designs.
Uluwatu Temple, famed for its cliffside setting and fantastic sunsets, promises a beautiful experience, even if entry to the inner sanctum is restricted to locals.
For a deeper immersion into Bali's culture, Tirta Empul Temple in Ubud offers the chance to witness traditional bathing rituals and perhaps even watch a prayer session.
Soar High with Happy Swing Bali, in Ubud
For an Instagram-worthy adventure, consider taking a swing with Happy Swing Bali.
With well-maintained harnesses and the option to capture memorable moments with your own phone, Happy Swing Bali guarantees an experience that will leave you soaring with joy.
Marvel at Bali's Rice Terraces
No trip to Bali is complete without a visit to its iconic rice terraces. Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Ubud is a popular choice, allowing visitors to witness these intricate agricultural landscapes up close. The terraced hillsides offer a glimpse into Bali's agrarian heritage and natural beauty. Uma Ceking in Ubud is a good one to check out as well.
Experience the Kecak Dance
Immerse yourself in Bali's rich cultural traditions with the Kecak Dance. This traditional performance, steeped in myth and legend, narrates the epic tale of Ramayana through rhythmic chants and repetitive movements. As bare-chested men chant in unison, a sense of ancient mystique envelops the audience, transporting them to another realm. Set against the backdrop of a setting sun, the Kecak Dance is a cultural spectacle not to be missed! Hanuman's fire dance toward the end is the highlight of the show. This Kecak show takes place at the Uluwatu Temple itself so combine it with your visit.
Take a cooking class!
To get a better understanding of Balinese food, take a cooking class! I would recommend Pemulan Bali which offers a free shuttle from Ubud, classes at different times, as well as special vegan / vegetarian classes in addition to their regular sessions. The folks who taught the class were young and funny and definitely knew what they were doing! We picked food from the farm on the premises and then cooked multiple dishes. In the end, we sat down and enjoyed our meal!
If you are staying longer than a week or are looking for an activity-filled week, here are some other things to explore:
Nusa Penida - diving and snorkeling activities
Temple Of Penataran Agung Lempuyang - sunrise photos by the gates (wake up early). Stop by Besakih Temple on the way
Go Northwest to Jatiluwih Green Land (rice terrace) and the end with Ulun Danu Beratan Temple (further northwest)
Monkey Forest - Watch out for them monkeyyyyyyys
Botanical Gardens near northwest of Ubud
