Discover Bali Tourism: Bali is also known as the “Island of the Gods.” It’s a beautiful island with rich cultural, spiritual, and natural wealth. Being mostly Hindu, the island is successfully fusing the old with modern attractions. Bali is indeed heaven for travellers worldwide. Here is a detailed account of what Ms. Shrishti Jaiswal, Editor-in-Chief of TheStyle.World, and her team witnessed during their unforgettable trip to this paradise. Bali’s tourism is one of the major ways of growing the country’s economy and here are the reasons why this island should be a place to visit in your travel bucket list!
Balinese Hinduism:
The spiritual nature of Bali is heavily based on Hinduism. There are temples everywhere that act as religious sites and tourist attractions. Each temple has its own unique traditions, and you’ll find locals offering daily canang sari (offerings) to the gods. These offerings, often made of flowers and incense, are placed in homes, temples, and even on streets. These elements make Bali tourism really special for the tourists who visit for the first time.
Rich in history and devotion, there stand some beautiful temples, mostly dating back to the 10th century. For example, they are magnificent architectural wonders not found elsewhere in the world, such as the Besakih Temple, often called the “Mother Temple,” whose foot lies at the mountain of Agung and, therefore, carries enormous spiritual significance. Other notable temples are Uluwatu Temple and Tanah Lot Temple, which show fine carvings and stand in awesome locations. Each temple has an interesting story behind its erection and the rituals performed.
Daily Prayers And Offerings:
Great portions of Balinese culture comprise making daily offerings to gods. People prepare those with banana leaves, flowers, as well as other things in rice to put up these arrangements of good thanks and reformation in each house, shop, or even street. If the tourist has interest, they surely will be welcome to view it and will be taken under some respect within the activity as a part of Bali tourism.
Discover Bali Tourism- Reaching Bali:
Modes Of Transport To The Island Of Gods
Bali is accessible via Ngurah Rai International Airport, which connects major cities worldwide. A multitude of Asian and Australian cities feature direct flights; European and American travellers can link through hubs as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Bangkok. Ferry services are the mode of transport between nearby Indonesian islands such as Java or Lombok.
Local Culture Of Bali:
The official Balinese is spoken there, although most of its residents are bilingual in the Indonesian language. Generally speaking, English is frequently used in many touristic zones, so not even local speech will be extremely challenging for most travellers. Making your experience perfect and learning minimal Indonesian phrases such as “Om Swastiastu” (hello) and “Suksma” (thank you) makes everything more personal among the locals. The currency for this place is the Indonesian Rupiah and this is equivalent to $1 for about 15,000. ATMs are very much available, but it is still advisable to carry cash for small shops.
What To Pack For Bali?
Lightweight Clothing:
Breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or rayon are a good choice. Sundresses, shorts, and loose-fitting tops are great. Flowy maxi dresses or skirts are perfect for beach days and casual evenings.
Swimwear:
- Sarongs or cover-ups are useful when you’re not in the water, especially for beach club visits.
Comfortable footwear:
- Flip-flops or sandals for the beach
- Comfortable walking shoes for temple hiking or running around
Temples require respectful outfits
- Wrap yourself in a sarong and sash, which can be rented or bought outside the temple for the most part.
- Scarf or shawl over your shoulders when entering sacred premises
Hat and sunglasses:
- Wide-brimmed hat, plus UV-protected shades for sunny days.
- Light Jackets or Wraps:
- For those cool, breezy evenings or over-air-conditioned restaurants, a light jacket or scarf will do.
What Not to Wear:
Heavy or Dark Clothing:
- Ditch heavy fabric such as denim or tightly fitting clothes, which will just chafe in the humidity. Reveal Your Garb in Temples:
- Casual wear such as shorts and tank tops is just fine for street attire, but religious sites are very restrictive about such attires and looks.
High Heels:
Skip heels unless you’re heading to a high-end club or event. Many roads and pathways are uneven.
Expensive Jewelry:
Avoid wearing valuable accessories, as they can draw unnecessary attention or get lost during activities.
Overly Flashy or Branded Clothing:
Keep it casual and simple—Bali’s vibe is relaxed and laid-back.
Pro Tip: Pack a raincoat or compact umbrella if you’re visiting during the rainy season (November to March) and don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen to protect Bali’s marine life!
Temple Tips for International Tourists:
When you visit the temples of Bali, remember the following:
- Wear modest clothing and carry a sarong or scarf to cover legs
- Avoid pointing of the feet at religious artifacts
- Do not enter certain temples during menstruation as the same is considered impure
- Follow the signs and instructions that are given by temple authorities
Accommodations Bali Offers For Everyone:
5-Star Resorts: Options are available at The Mulia and Four Seasons with luxury and comfort and scenic views of the surroundings. Most of the resorts are equipped with private beaches, spa facilities, and gourmet dining experiences. Starting from 7000–19000 INR approximately.
Private Villas: For isolation and luxury, private pool villas are the most popular. Less noisy areas include the options found in Ubud or Seminyak that are surrounded by nature. Starting from 5000–10000 INR approximately.
Hotels Budget-Friendly: These options are easily found: Harris Hotels or Grandmas Bali. Hostels with dorms can be booked with ease in areas such as Kuta for backpackers. The range of accommodation payments starts at 1400 INR.
Best Time Of Visitation In Bali
The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, from April to October, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. The peak tourist season is July and August, while the shoulder months offer fewer crowds and lower prices.
Must-Try Foods In Bali
It ranges from traditional cuisine to a wide variety of international tastes. Must-try the local dishes on your Bali trip are:
- Nasi Goreng: Fried Rice
- Babi Guling: Suckling pig
- Satay Lilit: Minced seafood satay
- Lawar: Traditional Balinese salad
The food in Bali is very much affordable and you can try the local cuisines in restaurants and in the streets as well. The food is equally relishing and fresh as it comes. The variety in food and taste is very tingling for your taste buds and very much finger-licking as well.
Now, let us go down the mesmerising experience of our visit to Bali!
Day 1: A Grand Welcome, Tasting Balinese Cuisine And Uluwatu Temple
Starting Our Bali Adventure With Culinary Delights
After reaching Bali, we checked into our hotel, and later we had local delicacies at Bebek Tepi Sawah Restaurant for lunch, like Ayam Betutu Kuah, Nasi Goreng Betutu, Sate Plecing Ayam, & Sate Lilit Ayam. Along with some desserts as well, Es Manado and Es Teler. There was a perfect blend of Balinese spices and chilli in all the dishes also the rich coconut milk in the desserts was absolutely refreshing.
Uluwatu Temple:
The first stop was the majestic Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. It is located in the south-western tip of the Bukit Peninsula in Uluwatu. Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu) is one of six major temples that are known to be Bali’s spiritual pillars and this one in particular is renowned for its magnificent location, perched on top of a steep cliff approximately 70 metres above sea level. It is not just a temple; it is also a gateway to the soul of Bali, where tradition, culture, and the elements portray a powerful display of beauty and reverence.
According to Balinese mythology, Uluwatu Temple was said to have been built to pay honour to the sea gods and protect the island from evil spirits. The meaning of the name “Uluwatu” is derived from the words “ulu,” which translates to “land’s end,” and “watu,” meaning “rock,” to describe its location dramatically on a cliff.
Temple Entry Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
Temple Entry Fee: IDR 40,000 per person (Approx)
Kecak Dance:
As the sun dipped below the horizon, we witnessed the mesmerising Kecak Dance, a captivating performance narrating the tales of the Ramayana. The evening continued with a BBQ seafood dinner at Jimbaran Beach’s Cafe Nyoman. Freshly grilled delicacies, the soothing sound of waves, and the ocean breeze made for a magical start to our Bali journey.
Kecak Dance: Timings: 6:00 PM
Kecak Dance Entry Fee: IDR 80,000 to IDR 150,000 (Approx)
Day 2: Handara Gate, Ulun Danu Temple, Tanah Lot Temple And Kopi Luwak
Handara Gate:
On the second day, we were taken to Handara Gate. It’s one of the very picturesque spots that is photogenic enough due to greenery all around it. But if you want to save your time, it is recommended not to visit this particular place. There are many such places, such as Tanah Lot Temple across Bali, that have similar structures, and the pictures are worth taking there with a lesser crowd.
Handara Gate Entry Fee: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Handara Gate Timings: IDR 30,000 for Local Visitors and IDR 50,000 for International Tourists
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple:
Our next place was the serene Ulun Danu Beratan Temple on the shores of Lake Beratan. The temple, perched on a rocky outcrop surrounded by the ocean, provided breathtaking views and sculptures.
Temple Entry Fee: IDR 75,000 per person
Temple Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM
Relishing taste buds with lunch:
During the lunch after visiting the spiritual and scenic wonder, we treated ourselves at a local restaurant called Billy’s Bar and Restaurant. Here we tried Traditional Bali Salad, Tilapia (a fish dish) and our taste buds took a roller coaster ride with the tangy taste of lime and a strong hit of red chillies in the marination of the fish. We also refreshed ourselves with local beer Bintang.
Kopi Luwak:
Next we had a taste of the world’s some of the most amazing and unusual coffees, brewed from civet cats. Any coffee enthusiast would love the experience. Kopi Luwak is the world’s most exclusive (and most expensive) coffee. It is produced from coffee beans that have been partially digested by the Indonesian palm tree Civet Cat and then excreted. Yes, it sounds kind of gross, but not to worry! The outer layer of the coffee bean is removed during processing and the remaining beans are completely cleaned before being roasted and sent to you. It is noticeably not bitter and is intensely aromatic. It has a complex flavour profile that is smooth, earthy, and sweet with a hint of chocolate. Our visit to Kopi Luwak was not just knowledgeable, but it was also very refreshing.
Entry Fee: No Entry Fees
Visiting Timings: 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM
Tanah Lot:
Tanah Lot Temple is one of the landmark sites in Bali and it was our one of the most memorable destination. As an island site, Tanah Lot is an ancient Hindu shrine that sits atop an outcrop amidst crashing waves. The temple is dedicated to the sea gods; its construction dates back to the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries when Dang Hyang Nirartha made a sacred journey to Bali called ‘tirtha yatra’. The temple sits atop a huge coral rock separated by erosion from the mainland, which still remains well preserved as a religious site to the Balinese.
Temple Entry Fee: IDR 75,000 for adults | IDR 40,000 for children
Temple Entry Timings:7 AM to 7 PM
Day 3: Tanjung Benoa Watersports
Water Sports, Scuba Dive, and Underwater Experience:
Thrill seekers will love the water sports in Bali. For our day, we went to Tanjung Benoa Beach for an unforgettable experience of jet skiing and a very heavenly tour to a place where we saw some really exotic creatures like turtles, cuckatoos, and more. The activities were so exhilarating and affordable as well. Tanjung Benoa, Bali’s top destination for water sports, where you can experience the thrill of banana boat rides, parasailing, and jet skiing while soaking in stunning views of the coastline. Next, we took a dive into the vibrant underwater world with a snorkelling session guided by a local expert, who provided all the necessary gear.
Jet Ski: IDR 185,000 per person
Scuba Dive: IDR 325,000 per person
Turtle Island:
We explored Turtle Conservation Island by glass bottom boat in Tanjung Benoa. This island is a 15 minute boat ride from Tanjung Benoa. A glass bottom boat is designed to see the underwater from upside the boat. On this boat, you can see baby turtles in a tube, with also a huge turtle roaming around. If the time comes, you can release these baby turtles for free life. Turtle Islands are located in Tanjung Benoa and are located on a small island. To go to a small island, you need a boat to get there, and the boat used is a boat that is often used in Bali Glass Bottom Boat activities. Travelling by boat takes about 10 minutes if you go straight to go there, but you can combine it with a glass bottom boat. Besides seeing small fish, you can also see turtles in this conservation.
Turtle Island Fee: IDR 250000 per person
Turtle Island Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Snorkelling Fee: IDR 995000 per person- For groups of 11–15 people
Snorkelling Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Finger-licking lunch:
After the exhilarating and unforgettable experience, there was a very special treat of lunch with some really nice seafood and more delicious treats like Shrimp fried rice served with lots of lime, shrimp chips and delicious coconut sorbet as well at be ja na – Nusa Dua- Bali. Every dish served had a refrshing taste and Balinese flavours are always a mix of spice and tang also the usage of banana leaves in this restaurant was to pack rice beautiufuly. Babecued meat was served with bamboo sticks instead of regular skewers- very authentic and earthy.
Day 4: Lempuyang Temple And Tirta Gangga
Lempuyang Temple:
Our next stop was the revered Lempuyang Temple, also known as the “Gate of Heaven.” Perched high on the mountainside, this ancient temple offered breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Agung, framed by its iconic split gate. As one of Bali’s oldest and most important temples, it was both a spiritual and scenic highlight of the day.
Temple Entry Fees: IDR 150,000
Temple Timings: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tirta Gangaa:
From there, we headed to Tirta Gangga, a former royal water palace surrounded by lush gardens, koi-filled pools, and beautiful fountains. Strolling through the serene palace grounds was a tranquil and refreshing experience.
Entry Fee: IDR 70,000
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Day 5: Bali Swing, Wood Carving And Silver Jewellery
Bali Swing:
Bali Swing is a picture spot where you get great videos and pictures. You have the option to hire a photographer for your pictures at an affordable price per person, and you will undoubtedly receive high-quality images. We personally felt that spots were great but the pictures had a lot of disruption due to the excess crowd. And also once you do a swing, you cannot repeat it.
Entry Fee: 500,000 IDR
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
Bali Wood Craving:
Another astonishing experience was awaiting us as we were told that Bali is famous for its Indonesian woodcraft and silver accessory making. And our experience was nothing less than brilliant and stunning. Afterward, we visited Celuk and Mas Village, famous for their traditional artisans and exquisite craftsmanship in gold, silver, and wood carving. The intricate work on display was a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Bali.
More than silver, we loved the wood carving; it was something absolutely extraordinary and exceptional. There are 4-5 types of wood available in Indonesia on which they carve and each has a different property. Basically, the artists start the sculpture keeping their imagination in mind; they don’t have any references or research; they just start carving with their own thoughts and interpretations, something it takes a few weeks to months to complete an artwork.
Entry Fee: No charges
Entry Timings: Starts at 9:30 AM
Sari Dewi Silver:
The thing about the silver museum, i.e., Sari Dewi Silver, was that there were many items to shop for, from pendants to rings, earrings, and whatnot, but they didn’t give you a price division. All prices are subject to jewellery pieces, and little negotiations are possible. However, we felt it was not worth spending the given amount for those jewellery.
Entry Fee: No charges
Entry Timings: Starts at 9:30 AM
Day 6: Departuring From The Heavenly Place
After a very exciting trip, we had to say good-bye to this picturesque place in this world. It was a great break that we took in our day-to-day routine and hectic life.
Refreshments by hotel:
At the time of departure, we were given a snack box with assorted food items, dessert, and fruits. The time spent at Hotel Golden Tulip Jineng and Vesesa Ubud were unforgettable and very comfortable. The staff was very welcoming, rooms were exquisite and we all had a chance to gather mllion memories in a wonderful place like Bali.
Bali Dos and Don’ts
Tips for a respectful and enjoyable stay
- When engaging in water sports, use a camera with personal waterproof protection
- Be on the lookout for monkeys as they steal some valuables at temples.
- Narrow streets and congested traffic so plan more travel time.
- Rent a bike or even use the online rider app, Gojek, or Grab to make your travels easier.
- Pack a first aid kit and a reusable water bottle, as plastic bag usage is prohibited.
- Learn a few basic words in Balinese.
- Respect local traditions and dress modestly in temples.
- Dispose of waste responsibly and avoid single-use plastics.
- Avoid public displays of affection and pointing with your index finger.
- Don’t disturb wildlife or engage in illegal activities.
- Refrain from touching anyone’s head or stepping on offerings.
To Conclude:
Bali’s charm lies in its ability to cater to every traveller’s desires—from cultural exploration and spiritual retreats to thrilling adventures and tranquil beach days. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or excitement, Bali has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Bali tourism is an enchanting mix of nature’s beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. The journey of TheStyle.World to Bali was nothing short of spectacular. As Ms. Shrishti Jaiswal, Editor-in-Chief of TheStyle.World, states, “Bali is not just a destination; it’s an experience that lingers in your heart forever.” Let this itinerary guide you in planning your own unforgettable trip to this tropical paradise.
