Choose from 113 Fun Things to Do in Indonesia
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 113 listings.
Candi Sukuh
Built in the 15th century, this ancient temple sits atop the rolling hills of Gunung Lawu, some 900 meters above the Solo plain. It’s a destination for travelers looking to venture into an unfamiliar world where mysterious fertility cults once practiced sacred rituals and ornate carvings and life-like statues prove unlike those in Java’s more traditional Hindu and Buddhist temples.
Visitors will find three statues of turtles upon entering Sukuh, as well as a giant phallus that reiterates the temple’s focus on birth and sexuality. The ground’s central pyramid is the tallest of the three located on site. While typical Hindu gods, like Ganesha, are stationed around the site, relief work, carvings and statues at Sukuh more often depict intercourse and genitalia, making it a truly unique stop on a tour of typically more conservative temples.
Practical Info
Candi Sukuh is open daily from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. Admission is 10,000Rp per person. The easiest way to access the temple is on an organized tour, though public transportation is possible, though complicated. Visitors can take a bus from Solo to Karangpandan, then catch a minibus to Kemuning.
Address: Indonesia
Hours: Open daily from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Admission: Admission: 10,000Rp
From $ 37
Monas National Monument of Indonesia
The National Monument sits in the center of Jakarta’s Merdeka Square and was built to commemorate Indonesia's struggle for independence. The tower’s construction began in 1961 under President Soekarno, and the monument – also known as Monas – was finally opened to the public in July 1971.
The tower stands at more than 130 meters tall and is topped with a burning flame, symbolizing that the spirit of the Indonesian people will never be extinguished. The flame is made from bronze metal and coated with gold foil, while the main structure symbolizes a rice pestle and mortar, thereby representing Indonesia’s agricultural history. These objects are also said to symbolize fertility by representing the male and the female.
A lift on the southern side of the monument takes visitors up to the viewing platform at 115 meters above ground level. The National Monument is surrounded by a well-kept park, often used for sports and recreational activities.
Practical Info
The National Monument is situated in the center of Merdeka Square. The entrance is to the northern side of the structure, down some steps and through a tunnel. There is a popular fountain display at the park every Saturday and Sunday evening from 7pm.
Address: Jalan Silang Monas, Jakarta 10110, Indonesia
Admission: Varies
From $ 38
Gunung Mas Tea Plantation
Set in Puncak, high in the cool West Java hills around Bogor, the Gunung Mas Tea Plantation dates back to the Dutch colonial era. At the 6,000-acre (2,428-hectare) site, today owned by the Indonesian government, visitors can tour the tea factory and plantation and opt for hiking, horseback riding, and even paragliding in season.
The Basics
A private Gunung Mas Tea Plantation tour includes a visit to the tea fields, a factory tour, a tasting, the opportunity to buy some tea, and perhaps a guided hike or horseback ride. Gunung Mas is also a popular stop on wider Java highland tours, which typically include the Bogor Botanical Gardens.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Gunung Mas is a must for tea tipplers.
- Java’s roads are overloaded, so don’t underestimate your travel time.
- Temperatures in Puncak can drop as low as 64℉ (18℃), so bring layers—and extra if you plan to paraglide.
- The Gunung Mas Tea Plantation is often rainy. You can pick up an inexpensive poncho at minimarts such as Indomaret, Alfamart, Coco Mart, or Circle K.
How to Get There
The Gunung Mas Tea Plantation is located just before the Puncak Pass, a couple of miles off the highway between Bogor and Bandung. Most visitors opt for a round-trip door-to-door tour or private driver. Alternatively, you can catch the bus or train from Jakarta to Bogor, then pick up a Bandung-bound bus. Expect the journey by private transit to take at least five hours.
When to Get There
Tea is harvested in Indonesia year-round, so it’s possible to visit Gunung Mas Tea Plantation at any time. If tandem paragliding in Puncak is on your agenda, then June, July, and August offer the best potential for dry weather, although paragliding is possible year-round if the weather cooperates.
Tea in Indonesia
Javanese tea has a legacy dating back to the 19th century. The Dutch in Indonesia were the first colonial power to grow tea outside China, and tea plantations are still scattered across Java, Sumatra, and other islands. Today the 12th-largest tea producer in the world, Indonesia exports almost all of its tea for brands such as Twinings.
Address: Puncak, West Java, Indonesia
From $ 84
Campuhan Ridge Walk
The classically Balinese combo of rice fields and river gorges is what makes Ubud’s landscapes so beloved, and the Campuhan Ridge Walk, the best-known walk in Ubud, is the perfect way to appreciate them. Starting at Pura Gunung Lebah, choose between a 2-hour circular route around Campuhan and Sanggingan or a longer hike to Keliki and Taro.
The Basics
You don’t need a guide to explore Ubud’s Campuhan Ridge, although many walkers appreciate the insights a guide can provide.
Campuhan Ridge Walk tours typically introduce Bali’s “subak” shared irrigation system, which has earned UNESCO World Heritage status, and the island’s highly individual brand of Hinduism. Some guides will also share information about on the abundant bird life amid the rice fields and in the valleys of Wos Barat and Wos Timor.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Campuhan Ridge Walk is a must for photographers and nature lovers.
- Snacks are available along the way, but be sure to bring a water bottle anyway.
- The route follows made and unmade sections, and there are steps, so wear comfortable shoes.
- Save time by joining a tour—or arranging a private driver—that collects you at Bangkiang Sidem or Sanggingan.
How to Get There
You can reach the starting point of the Campuhan Ridge Walk on foot from most central Ubud accommodations. If you’re visiting from south Bali, catch the Kura Kura tourist bus from Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Seminyak, Kuta, or Sanur to the Puri Lukisan Museum, then walk about half a mile (800 meters).
When to Get There
To enjoy the best views and capture the best photos of the Campuhan Ridge Walk, visit either early or late in the day: an early start is ideal if you prefer relative solitude. Walking in Bali is most fun during the dry season (roughly May to October), when temperatures are cooler and it rains less than it does during the wet season.
The Campuhan Ridge Walk Loop Route
About 330 feet (100 meters) before the Campuhan Bridge, turn off the main road to Pura Gunung Lebah, then follow the ridge to Bangkiang Sidem. Turn left after the village temple onto a made road, and follow that through Payogan and Lungsiakan to Sanggingan, then back to Campuhan.
Address: Keliki, Tegallalang, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
From $ 18
Lake Batur
Backed by the volcanic slabs of Mount Batur and Mount Abang, Lake Batur (Danau Batur) is a striking crater lake considered sacred by the Balinese. Besides sunrise trekking, Mount Batur offers hot springs, canoe trips, and tours of Trunyan village, where the local Bali Aga people expose their dead to rot in the open air.
The Basics
Set in the heart of the Kintamani farming highlands, Lake Batur can be appreciated on a range of levels. One popular option is a buffet lunch at the strip of restaurants set high above the lake. However, a sunrise climb of Mount Batur is probably the favorite stand-alone tour. A visit to the lake as part of a tour is also sometimes combined with excursions to rice terraces and the island's art villages.
Volcanic hot springs feed a series of pools around the lake, which also offer services from Balinese massage to restaurants. Boat trips on the lake typically run to Trunyan village, where villagers practice a type of sky burial unique in Bali. Canoes are also available for rent.
Things to Know Before You Go
- While the waters of Lake Batur are cold, the hot springs are toasty warm: Bring swimwear.
- Guides are required for the sunrise climb of Mount Batur.
- Please dress respectfully, if visiting the dead at Trunyan village.
How to Get There
Set in the highlands of east-central Bali, Lake Batur’s main attractions are spread out along the shore. As such, having your own transport—whether a private driver, self-driving, or an organized Bali day tour—is essential. The easiest place to base yourself for Batur day trips is Ubud, around an hour’s drive from the lake.
When to Get There
Lake Batur can get choppy in the afternoon and evening, so if you’re planning water-based activities, it’s best to visit in the morning. As with most touristic restaurants in Indonesia, the lakeview restaurants are typically full of large groups at lunch time: If this is a priority for you, consider visiting a little earlier or later in the day.
Exploring Kintamani
While Mount Batur, an active volcano, is Kintamani’s star attraction, the area around the lake has plenty of charm. Kintamani is a farming country, known for its orchards and coffee plantations. Many Lake Batur tours include stops at one of the plantations that produces Bali’s famous Kintamani coffee, as well as cacao and spices.
Address: Bali, Indonesia
From $ 32
Puri Agung Karangasem
Like the better-known—and busier—Tirta Gangga Water Palace, this east Bali palace is an atmospheric reminder of the power the kings of Karangasem once held when they ruled much of Lombok. Highlights of Puri Agung Karangasem include the tiered entry gate, vintage photos, and tranquil fish ponds. Descendants of the last raja still use the space.
The Basics
Once you’ve made it to the sleepy town of Amlapura, Puri Agung Karangasem is easy to explore independently. There’s a small ticket charge, and staff provide English-language information sheets. If you’re very lucky, a member of the royal family may be available to assist. That said, you’ll likely get more out of the experience if you travel with a guide who can provide transportation, cultural context, and historical details. (In general, due to heavy traffic, winding roads, and language barriers, booking a private guide or joining an organized tour can help you get the most out of your entire Bali trip.) Some east Bali tours bundle Puri Agung Karangasem with other Karangasem regal highlights, particularly Tirta Gangga Water Palace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Puri Agung Karangasem is an excellent choice for fans of Balinese culture, history, and architecture.
- While today east Bali is one of the poorest parts of the island, Karangasem was one of the most powerful of Bali’s sundry kingdoms.
- It is possible to stay in the Puri Agung Karangasem, as some rooms are available as a bed and breakfast.
- The main building of the palace is known as Maskerdam—an adaptation of the word Amsterdam—as it was a gift from Dutch colonial forces.
How to Get There
Set in Amlapura, just off Bali’s main east coast road, Puri Agung Karangasem is reasonably quick to reach with a private car and driver. Local buses operate from Batubulan, north of Denpasar, and Singaraja. Perama runs shuttle buses from popular tourist destinations including Amed, Ubud, and south Bali to Tirta Gangga, approximately 4.5 miles (7 kilometers) north of Puri Agung Karangasem.
When to Get There
Puri Agung Karangasem is open from morning until late afternoon daily and is blissfully uncrowded throughout the year, so there isn’t a bad time to visit. If visiting during Bali’s wet season (roughly October until March), consider coming in the morning for a slightly better chance of beating the rain.
I Gusti Bagus Djelantik, Karangasem’s Last King
The last raja (king) of Karangasem, Gusti Bagus Djelantik (Jelantik) ruled under the title Anak Agung Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem until 1966. Besides having a dozen wives, he was a master builder, expressing abstract meditations in architectural form. He built three water palaces: the Tirta Gangga Water Gardens, the Ujung Water Gardens (destroyed in a volcanic eruption), and the Puri Agung Karangasem.
Address: RT. Amlapura, Bali, Indonesia
Admission: Varies
From $ 61
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan
Set on the shores of Lake Bratan (Danau Bratan), close to the town of Bedugul, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is one of Bali’s most photographed temples. Built, like Taman Ayun Temple, by the king of Mengwi, the combination of multi-roofed shrines with mountains and reflecting lake is incredibly photogenic—one reason it’s so popular with tourists.
The Basics
Made up of five separate shrines, including one that’s actually in the lake and accessible by canoe, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan dates back to the 17th century. Around 4,065 feet (1,239 meters) above sea level, it’s a highlight of the misty Bedugul Highlands on the road to north Bali. Tours typically combine Pura Ulun Danu Bratan with other Balinese water temples, such as Tanah Lot and Taman Ayun, or with north Bali attractions, such as waterfalls and dolphins.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A regular scene on Bali postcards and, increasingly, Instagram, Ulun Danu Bratan temple is a must for aspiring photographers.
- If you choose to explore Bedugul, bring plenty of layers: Temperatures can drop so low that restaurants have open fires.
- It’s well worth buying fresh strawberries from the vendors: They’re locally grown.
How to Get There
Ulun Danu Bratan temple is in Bedugul on the main road north to Singaraja. The most convenient way for non-Indonesians to reach Bedugul independently is via the Perama shuttle bus from Kuta, Ubud, Sanur, Lovina, Padang Bai, or Candidasa. Some opt to self-drive, but the winding road can be tiring for a day trip, so many prefer a driver or an organized Bali tour.
When to Get There
Bedugul’s highland climate can turn surprisingly cold, particularly during the rainy season (roughly October through March). (Bedugul is cool and damp enough for strawberries to grow.) Arrive early in the morning to beat the worst of the crowds and have the best chance at a rain-free visit to Pura Ulun Danu Bratan.
Bali’s Subak System
Around 1,000 years old, Bali’s “subak” system of cooperative rice cultivation has been recognized with UNESCO World Heritage status. Water temples, such as Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, and the lake goddess Dewi Danu, play a major part in keeping the rice terraces growing—one reason you’ll see so many pilgrims here.
Address: Candi Kuning, Indonesia
From $ 11
Canggu Beach
Long an under-the-radar destination for surfers, Bali’s Canggu beach district boasts some of the island’s most vibrant nightlife. Set on the west coast north of Seminyak and south of Tanah Lot, it draws party lovers, surfers, and yoginis with a vibrant blend of wave-pounded beaches, serene rice fields, and top-notch bars and restaurants.
The Basics
Canggu offers shopping, eating, and drinking opportunities aplenty, but perhaps its biggest attraction are those stunning waves, especially when backed by a Balinese sunset. Among the best-known beaches in Canggu are Echo Beach, Old Man’s Beach, and Berawa Beach. The area is a common stop on Bali beach and surfing tours.
If you want to learn to surf in Canggu, you have a range of options: Rent a board at the beach and experiment, hire a teacher on spec, or join an organized surfing tour or class. Old Man’s Beach is popular with beginners (and offers more advanced breaks, too), while Echo Beach is good for those with at least intermediate skills. The most experienced surfers often frequent less busy beaches a little farther afield.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Canggu is a must for surfers (or the surf-curious) and photographers.
- The surf on Canggu beaches is too intense for younger children, with some rip currents.
- Canggu is no place to learn how to ride a motorbike. Tourists die here regularly.
How to Get There
Until recently Canggu was a very rural district—it still retains plenty of rice fields—and approach roads can be choked with traffic during July and August. Self-driving can seem a tempting option, especially as the informal local taxis charge exorbitant fares. Especially if you plan to drink alcohol, a private driver is much safer.
When to Get There
Either end of the dry season—from April to early May and from September to early October—is the best time to enjoy Canggu. Traffic is unpleasantly heavy from May to October, during the dry-season peak. This is also surfing season on Bali’s west coast, and lineups get very crowded in July and August. Stay close to the shoulder seasons for the best weather with the fewest crowds.
Canggu Beach Nightlife
Canggu is a large area, so pick a beach or subdistrict you’d like to focus on, and start there. Old Man’s Bar, Finn’s Beach Club, and the Deus ex Machina bike store–cum–gallery are universally known landmarks and good starting points for a bar crawl on foot. Or just head to the Batu Bolong strip, the epicenter of thumping nightlife in Canggu.
Address: Canggu, Bali, Indonesia
From $ 35
Prambanan
Though not quite as large as nearby Borobudur, the ancient Hindu temples that make up the impressive Prambanan are spectacular in their own right. Built by the Mataram Kingdom in Central Java around 860 CE, the first temples here were meant to honor Lord Shiva. While many of the later temples erected on this site fell to ruins in an earthquake curing the 16th century, Prambanan still attracts visitors from across the globe seeking to experience walking through one of the Hindu religion’s most prized sites.
Prambanan is divided into three main zones, which include an outer open space, a middle zone housing rows of 224 identical shrines, and an inner zone where eight temples and small shrines dedicated to gods are located.
Practical Info
The complex opens at 6 a.m. daily and locals say it takes the better part of a day to truly experience Prambanan’s wonder. Crowds typically begin arriving by 9 a.m., so travelers seeking to wander in silence and free of foot traffic would do well to arrive earlier.
Address: Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Hours: Opens at 6 a.m. daily
Admission: Donation of Rp 5,000 is requested
From $ 10
Candi Kuning Market (Pasar Candi Kuning)
A popular stop on Bedugul tours, Pasar Candi Kuning (Candi Kuning Market) is a traditional Balinese market that’s been beautified for tourists. It’s a great place to enjoy the fruit and vegetable bounty of Bedugul’s farms, although prices are higher than normal. Other specialties in the market include rabbits and orchids.
The Basics
There’s no fee to enter Pasar Candi Kuning, which is a working fruit and vegetable market. Most travelers visit as part of a Bedugul tour, which will probably also stop at Lake Beratan and Pura Ulun Danu Bratan temple. Some private guides can arrange visits to the family farms that supply the produce, providing fascinating insight into life in these cool highlands.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Foodies and photographers will adore Pasar Candi Kuning, but always ask permission before photographing sellers or their wares.
- At around 5,000 feet (1,500 meters) above sea level, Bedugul can get surprisingly cool, so bring a jacket.
- Many orchids on display are from protected species. Even if your home country allows you to bring in flowers, you may face a fine on attempting to take them out of Morocco.
- Vendors inflate their prices for tourists. Haggle hard if you want to buy.
How to Get There
Pasar Candi Kuning sits conveniently in the heart of Bedugul, about half a mile (800 meters) from the Bali Botanic Gardens and 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) from Pura Ulun Danu Bratan. Bedugul is in the central highlands, on the main road north to Singaraja. Perama shuttle buses connect it to Kuta, Sanur, and Ubud, as well as Padangbai, Candi Dasa, and Lovina.
When to Get There
Pasar Candi Kuning is open daily from early morning until early evening. It is a very popular tour bus stop. Beat the crowds and enjoy a more authentic experience by arriving as early in the morning as you can.
Bedugul: Orchard of Bali
Sitting about 5,000 feet (1,500 meters) above sea level, Bedugul has a very different climate from much of the rest of Bali. This makes it Bali’s farming heartland. Besides the strawberries for which the area is known, crops include grapes, carrots, cabbages, onions, and corn. You can buy all of these plus a selection of seasonal tropical fruit at Pasar Candi Kuning.
Address: Bali, Indonesia
From $ 46
Puputan Square
A rare patch of quiet in Bali’s busy capital, Denpasar, Puputan Square commemorates the site of a mass suicide that occurred in 1906. The king of Badung, facing overwhelming opposition from Dutch colonial forces, led his court in committing suicide by keris dagger. A statue of a Balinese family stands in honor of the lives lost.
The Basics
There is no charge to visit Puputan Square, which is a popular destination for local workers on their lunch breaks and for families during evenings and weekends. Most people visit on a Denpasar city tour, with either a private driver or an organized group. The Puputan mass suicide is an important event in the history of both Denpasar and Bali as a whole, so history completists will not want to miss the square.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Puputan Square is worth visiting for history buffs and fans of Vicki Baum’s novel Love and Death in Bali.
- The mother of the Balinese family in the statue is holding her jewelry in her hand, because women apparently threw their jewelry at the Dutch soldiers in contempt.
- Bali was one of the last parts of Indonesia to be occupied by the Dutch.
- Badung, whose king led the mass suicide, is now a province covering south Bali.
How to Get There
Puputan Square (Lapangan Puputan Badung) sits in the heart of Denpasar, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) northeast of the airport. Choked roads, dangerous traffic, and confusing one-way systems make Denpasar a risky choice for self-driving. Unless your Indonesian is good enough to piece together bemo minibuses, hiring a private driver or joining a tour is a must to get around Denpasar.
When to Get There
The square is most lively during weekends, when it becomes a gathering place for Denpasar locals, who feast on satay and other street snacks from the stalls. Children often meet here to fly traditional kites. You can visit pretty much any time during the day on Saturday or Sunday, but sunset is particularly popular.
Love and Death in Bali: The Puputan
First published in 1937, Vicki Baum’s classic novel Love and Death in Bali tells the story of a simple man who survives the Puputan mass suicide. The book also depicts life in Bali before the Dutch arrived. Baum visited Bali in 1935 and stayed in Ubud with the painter Walter Spies, who also figures in the book in thin disguise.
Address: Jalan Udayana and Jalan Gaja Mada, Denpasar, Bali 80235, Indonesia
From $ 44
Fatahillah Square
Fatahillah Square (Taman Fatahillah) is the heart of the Jakarta Old Town (Kota Tua) with a cobbled square with historic colonial buildings. Notable landmarks include the Cafe Batavia restaurant and bar, Wayang Museum of puppetry, and Jakarta History Museum, housed in the old town hall.
The Basics
Fatahillah Square in Jakarta Old Town is a pleasant place to explore, whether to learn more about the puppets at the Wayang Museum, to soak up history at Jakarta History Museum, or for a stop at the historic Cafe Batavia for a drink.
As the center of colonial-era Jakarta and one of the city’s most photogenic locations, Fatahillah Square is an essential stop on any Jakarta history tour. Most Jakarta full-day tours will make a stop here, and it’s a great place to start a guided or self-guided walking tour of Old Town.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With its refurbished colonial buildings, Fatahillah Square is a must for fans of history and architecture.
- Wear comfortable shoes to cope with the cobbled square and streets.
- Save time navigating Kota’s confusing warren of streets by pre-booking an organized walking tour or a comprehensive Jakarta tour that includes hotel transport.
- Fatahillah Square takes its name from the Indonesian national hero Prince Fatahillah, who captured the port from the Portuguese in 1527.
How to Get There
Fatahillah Square sits at the heart of the city’s historic quarter. The pedestrianized square is an easy walk from Kota train station—which you can reach riding the Korridor I busway from Jalan Thamrin. Save time navigating and explore Jakarta with the help of a private driver or on an organized tour. Self-driving is not recommended.
When to Get There
If visiting Old Town’s museums are on your to-do list, avoid visiting Fatahillah Square on Monday, when its museums are closed; a few also close for prayers at Friday around lunch. Museums in Indonesia shut early—typically around 3pm—so aim to visit in the morning or at lunch. Photographers will find the light best and the square less crowded in early morning.
From Fatahillah Square to Kota
Many Jakartans know Jakarta Old Town simply as “Kota” (City), and its crumbling buildings are part of the atmospheric. A wander around Fatahillah Square reveals the shapes of the Dutch colonial-era city, Old Batavia, with its canals, grand houses, and administrative buildings. While much of Kota remains slum land, some historic sites are undergoing restoration.
Address: Fatahillah Square (Taman Fatahillah), Jakarta 11110, Indonesia
From $ 38
Kuta Beach
Bali’s first beach hotel opened back in the 1930s on Kuta’s epic sweep of golden sand and metronomic surf. In the ‘60s and ‘70s, Australian surfers popularized the place, and today Kuta Beach is the epicenter of Kuta, Bali’s liveliest and most touristic district. If great waves and beach boys float your boat, Kuta won’t disappoint.
The Basics
Once a sleepy village, the neighborhood around Kuta Beach is now Bali’s busiest—it’s particularly popular with Australians visiting on bargain breaks. But don’t let that put you off discovering the beach: whether bodyboarding or surfing is your thing, there’s fun to be had under the lifeguards’ protective eyes.
Most tours to Kuta Beach focus on those rolling waves. Classic experiences include Kuta surfing lessons and Kuta bodyboarding classes. Kuta surf schools are used to beginners and most have outsize “foamy” boards to help build confidence. While it’s perfectly possible to arrange lessons privately from the many surf rental spots on the beach, many prefer the fixed price guarantee of booking lessons online.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kuta Beach is busy year-round—not a spot for shrinking violets!
- Don’t get Kuta, Bali, confused with Kuta on the neighboring island of Lombok—it’s also a beachy surf town, so it’s easy to muddle the two.
- The waves on Kuta Beach are a thrill for tweens and teens but may well be too much for younger children: east coast beaches, such as Sanur’s, are milder.
How to Get There
Everyone on Bali knows Kuta Beach, or “Pantai Kuta” in Indonesian. The cheapest and easiest way to get there is to ride the Kura-Kura tourist bus, or pick up a motorcycle taxi or 4-wheeled cab. Kuta is no place to learn to ride a motorbike, although tens of thousands try: If you must, stay sober and wear a helmet.
When to Get There
Kuta Beach is popular year-round: sunsets, which fall between roughly 6pm and 7pm, can be particularly stunning, especially washed down with an ice-cold beer. Kuta in general is best avoided during “Schoolies,” a 3-week period from mid-November when Australians graduate high school and descend on Bali en masse.
Where to Surf in Bali
Bali is blessed with year-round surfing, with the east coast picking up when the west coast slows down, and vice versa. Great beaches for beginners include Double Six, Batu Belig, Kuta, and Canggu’s Batu Bolong; Uluwatu and Padang-Padang in the Bukit Peninsula can deliver spectacular swells. For less crowded breaks, consider heading north, perhaps to Keramas on the east coast or Balian on the west coast.
Address: Kuta, Bali, Indonesia
From $ 35
Padangbai
Padangbai is a picturesque town that serves as a port for the ferry connecting Bali with Lombok. While many simply pass through on their way to Lombok, many more stop in Padangbai long enough to appreciate just how much this small beach town has to offer in its own right.
Padangbai is situated within a small bay in eastern Bali and features a pretty strip of sand lapped by turquoise waters. Due to it becoming more popular with passing travelers, basic yet comfortable accommodation and friendly local cafes are the name of the game here, and the town has a definite beachy backpacker’s vibe to it.
There are some fantastic diving and snorkeling opportunities to be had in the waters around the bay, with a number of operators set up to cater for this demand. Other than that, the pace of life is slow, with most visitors opting for a simple life of soaking up the sun, enjoying the beach, and feasting on delicious fresh seafood.
Practical Info
The national bus company, Perama, serves Padangbai with shuttle buses leaving from Kuta, Sanur, Ubud, Candidasa, and Lovina. It’s advisable to reserve tickets one day in advance. Regular bemos (converted vans/minibuses) also serve Padangbai, and these depart from Batubulan terminal in Denpasar. There are also public ferries from Lombok to Padangbai every hour, 24 hours a day, plus fast boat services to and from the Gili Islands.
Address: Padangbai, Bali, Indonesia
From $ 400
Pura Luhur Batukaru Temple
Serene, spiritual, and off the beaten path, Pura Luhur Batukaru was the state temple for the kings of Tabanan. Batukaru Temple nestles high above sea level in the jungled foothills of west Bali. A series of tiered shrines, including a striking 7-roofed shrine, help create a mystic air, as does the general absence of tourists.
The Basics
As the setting of Pura Luhur Batukaru Temple is reasonably remote, many visitors prefer the convenience of a tour or a private driver over self-drive. Many Pura Luhur Batukaru Temple tours include a trip to the Jatiluwih rice terrace, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as Tanah Lot, the sea temple sacred to the Indonesians, not far from Tabanan.
Entrance tickets are affordable and include the rental of a sarong so that men and women can meet temple standards of decency.
Things to Know Before You Go
- As always at Balinese temples, a sarong (included in the entrance fee) is a must for both men and women at Batukaru Temple.
- As at other Balinese temples, menstruating women are forbidden from entering the site.
- The scenic setting and absence of tourists makes Pura Luhur Batukaru a must for aspiring photographers.
How to Get There
There is no public transport to Pura Luhur Batukaru, so your options are self-drive to Penebel, a private driver, or an organized Bali tour. With patchy signposting and unreliable traffic signals adding to Bali’s roadway hassles, many will prefer to leave the driving to the professionals and opt for a Tabanan day tour with round-trip transport, which might also visit Tanah Lot and Jatiluwih.
When to Get There
Open year-round, Pura Luhur Batukaru, like other temples, is particularly appealing during the key Balinese festivals, when worshippers come to bring offerings and the grounds are alive with colored cloth and bamboo decorations. When visiting during the rainy season, weather is generally more clement in the mornings.
Bali Temple Etiquette
It’s important to show respect at Balinese Hindu temples, such as Pura Luhur Batukaru: Both men and women should wear sarongs. The Balinese welcome visitors to the main sections of their temples, but areas they consider most sacred are typically reserved for worshippers.
Address: Wangaya Gede, Indonesia
From $ 40
Rinca Island
Located just off the western tip of Flores in Indonesia, Rinca Island offers some of the best and most unique wildlife viewing opportunities in the world. It’s one of the few spots on Earth where you can see Komodo dragons in the wild (and it’s often overlooked in lieu of neighboring Komodo Island), and the convergence of nutrient-rich currents in the waters just off the coast create conditions for some of the best diving in the world.
The Komodo dragon, the island’s most popular resident, can weigh in at over 300 pounds (136 kilograms), and they’re easier to spot in the wild on Rinca, as tourism has had less of an impact than on Komodo Island.
The 76-square-mile (198-square-kilometer) island sits within Komodo National Park, and as such, visitors to the island must be accompanied by a guide, as the large lizards can be dangerous—and even deadly—when they (rarely) attack.
Practical Info
Rinca Island is extremely hot throughout the year, so always bring more sunscreen and water than you think you’ll need. April to November is the best period for seeing Komodo dragons in the wild.
Address: East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
From $ 235
Devdan Show
Devdan: Treasure of the Archipelago takes viewers on a 90-minute tour of Indonesia through the story of two young children who stray from a tour group and discover a treasure chest filled with items that transport them — and the audience — to several of Indonesia’s most famous islands.
Traditional and modern dance, Cirque du Soleil-like acrobatics, intricate costumes and an interactive set bring the islands of Bali, Sumatra, Java, Borneo and Papua to life. The theater, located in Nusa Dua, offers four classes of seating at various price points, three of which include free shuttle service to and from your hotel.
Practical Info
Devdan Show runs four nights a week and is a hit with kids as well as adults.
Address: Jl. Nusa Dua Kuta Sel. Kabupaten Badung, Bali, Indonesia
Hours: Four nights a week
Admission: Pricing Varies
From $ 40
Kusamba
The seaside village of Kusamba in eastern Bali fronts a miles-long volcanic sand beach where traditional sea salt harvesting and fishing continue to be important to the local way of life. Although Kusamba is not one of Bali’s best swimming beaches—it’s scorching hot black sand makes lazing uncomfortable—it comes alive at night and in the predawn hours when prahu fishing boats patrol the nearshore waters and salt workers ferry buckets of seawater on bamboo shoulder-top slings from the shore. Fish are displayed in the town market, but salt making is a process that continues throughout the day. The saltwater is spread over sections of the black sand beach and allowed to crystalize in hot sun. The sand is later collected and rinsed with freshwater before being placed into sifters and eventually wooden vats and atop timber planks for drying. The coarse, iodine-rich salt is finally scooped into woven baskets for sale using coconut halves.
Kusamba also serves as the main access point to Nusa Penida, the largest in a cluster of three islands some seven miles offshore. Though it has limited tourism infrastructure, the Island is inhabited by some 40,000 people and is home to several endangered Balinese bird species.
Practical Info
To see the salt workers at their busiest and to snap stunning pre-dawn photos, plan to be on the beach before 6am. Later morning visits to Kusamba are often combined with visits to Goa Lawah, an ancient temple with onsite bat cave, in day tours encompassing the sites of eastern Bali from Ubud. Kusamba is 36 km (22 miles) northeast of Denpasar City and 27 km (17 miles) southeast of Ubud.
Address: Kusamba, Indonesia
From $ 35
Lake Beratan
One of three lakes within the crater of the long-dormant Bratan volcano, Lake Beratan (Danau Bratan) occupies about 1.5 square miles (4 square kilometers) of highland real estate. The star attraction is the Pura Ulun Danu Bratan water temple, but there are also some World War II–era caves, and boat rides on the lake are available.
The Basics
There is no charge to visit Lake Beratan, although a small fee is required to visit the temple of Pura Ulun Danu Bratan. Most people visit Lake Beratan as part of a tour that includes Bedugul and the central highlands, or Bedugul and north Bali. Many tours focus on the temple, though some include a short boat ride. Hiking is also popular, including a challenging route to the summit of Mt. Catur.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The reflective waters of Lake Beratan make it a must for photographers.
- The lake’s name can be spelled either “Beratan” or “Bratan.” The word for “lake” can be written as “Danau” or “Danu.”
- Duck-shaped boats and a playground may appeal to families with young children.
- Lake Beratan is Bali’s most sacred lake, and is essential to the Subak irrigation system that keeps the island fed.
How to Get There
Lake Beratan sits in the caldera of the ancient Bratan volcano, by the town of Bedugul, on the main road north from Denpasar to Singaraja. It’s a 2-hour drive from Kuta. Self-driving around Bedugul can be slow and tiring if you don’t know the roads, so many visitors opt to book a tour or arrange for a private driver.
When to Get There
Lake Beratan is a popular destination for locals and visitors from elsewhere in Indonesia, so the area can become congested on weekends and public holidays. To beat the tour bus crowds and get the best view of the mirror-like waters, aim to arrive early in the morning.
The Lake Beratan Temple
Lake Beratan has been sacred to inhabitants of Bali since time immemorial, and its temple, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, dates back to the 17th century. Dedicated to the goddess of the lake (Dewi Danau), the temple was created by the same king of Mengwi who built Taman Ayun Temple, and the two buildings share a similar style of architecture.
Address: Tabanan, Indonesia
From $ 35
Bedugul
Set on the shores of Lake Beratan, the highland town of Bedugul is an essential stop for visitors who are en route to North Bali. Attractions include strawberry farms and markets, the Bali Botanic Garden, Bali Treetop Adventure Park, the Pura Ulun Danu Bratan temple, and an eerie abandoned hotel known as the “Ghost Palace.”
The Basics
Many visitors would rather not self-drive and find it easier to visit Bedugul as part of a tour that also covers either North Bali or the central highlands, perhaps with a waterfall or two. The signature stop on a Bedugul tour is Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, a beautiful water temple in a spectacular setting. The Bali Botanic Garden also charms visitors, and the Bali Treetop Adventure Park is a popular choice for kids.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The combination of strawberry farms and the Bali Treetop Adventure Park make Bedugul a great choice for a day out with kids.
- Photographers love Bedugul for its rice terrace landscapes and reflecting waters.
- Bedugul can get surprisingly cold. Bring a jacket and be prepared for rain, whatever the season.
- The Bali Botanic Garden covers 388 acres (157 hectares), so allow time to explore.
How to Get There
Bedugul sits on the main road between Denpasar and Singaraja, about two hours north of Kuta. Perama shuttle buses connect Bedugul to Ubud, Kuta, Sanur, Lovina, Candidasa, and Padangbai. Travelers who wish to combine Bedugul with other North and Central Bali attractions often choose to book a tour or hire a driver.
When to Get There
Bedugul is best visited during the dry season (May to September). Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is a popular destination for Indonesian tour groups. Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds, and avoid weekends and public holidays.
Cool Climate Plants in Bedugul
Picking your own strawberries in the tropics might seem a little surreal, but Bedugul’s location in a highland valley creates great weather for strawberries, which vendors sell on the streets and at tourist attractions. The town also seems an odd location for a tropical garden; the Bali Botanic Garden was originally intended to grow conifers.
Address: Bedugul, Bali, Indonesia
From $ 55