Choose from 113 Fun Things to Do in Indonesia
ShowingFilter 81-100 of 113 listings.
Taman Mini Indonesia Indah
Situated to the southeast of Jakarta, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (or ‘Beautiful Indonesia Miniature Park’) covers some 250 acres and features famous mini buildings and landmarks from all over Indonesia.
The park is not only a visual attraction and recreation area, but also serves to showcase authentic examples of the different cultures and heritages of the people of Indonesia. It consists of traditional houses for each of the country’s provinces, supplemented with ornaments and motifs from each territory, along with displays of clothing and handicrafts.
The park also features a cable-car ride, an IMAX theatre, a mini-scale borobudur, an orchid garden, a bird park, and various museums. In addition, the park hosts a number of dance and cultural events, particularly on Sundays.
Practical Info
Taman Mini Indonesia Indah is situated approximately 20 kilometers from Jakarta’s city center. The easiest way to reach it is by taxi, although the Koridor 7 bus to the Kampung Rambutan terminal and then a T15 MiniMetro will also get you there.
Address: Jalan Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, Jakarta 13820, Indonesia
Hours: 8am-6pm
Admission: Adult: Rp. 6000 / Child: Rp. 4000
From $ 56
Water Castle (Tamansari)
The name Tamansari literally means “garden park” and visitors will find the lush grounds—complete with water fountains and reflecting pools—are just that. A quiet respite from the hustle of city streets, Water Castle is the site of a former royal garden and once served as a workshop, meditation center and even a political hiding place.
The bountiful grounds are edged with well-kept gardens, lush foliage and brightly colored flowers. An artificial lake, bathing complex, tiny islands and open pools are just part of the features that make Tamansari a destination for travelers seeking urban escape. The buildings on site are all connected via a network of underwater passageways, some of which are still accessible to visitors.
Practical Info
Water Castle is located on the grounds of the Kranton in Yogyakarta.
Address: Jalan Taman (Kraton), Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Admission: 7,000 Rupiah
From $ 28
Sanur Beach
Sanur Beach offers travelers the chance to step back in time. Sure, this famed destination may not lead visitors into ancient history like nearby temples and archeological ruins, but these sandy shores still offer up a bit of old school flavor. That’s because Sanur Beach is one of Bali’s first beach resorts, and while some things have changed, its original laid-back vibe and surf-ready waves remain constant.
Middle-age travelers and the family set find this to be one of Bali’s best beaches, thanks to a slightly more-mature energy that’s perfect for relaxing. It avoids the wild shot-slinging feel of some of Bali’s other more party-hearty beaches and offers up the perfect setting for soaking up sun and absorbing local traditions. Cultural activities like the International Kite Festival and the Le Mayeur Museum, as well as historical sites like the Pura Blanjong temple mean there’s plenty for visitors to do away from the sand, too.
Practical Info
Samur Beach is located on the eastern side of Bali’s isthmus, just opposite Kutu. It’s a 20-minute taxi ride from Ngurah Rai International Airport.
Address: Bali, Indonesia, Indonesia
From $ 44
Sewu Temple
One of the temples that make up the Prambanan UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sewu Temple (Candi Sewu) dates back to the 8th century AD. Its name, which means “thousand temples,” refers to the 249 shrines that make up this Buddhist temple complex. Its grand scale makes it second only to Borobudur in religious and historical significance.
The Basics
To visit Sewu Temple, buy an admission ticket to the Prambanan temple complex—prices for foreigners are in line with historical attractions in the western hemisphere. You don’t need a guide or a tour to visit, but as signs are few and far between and both Prambanan and Candi Sewu are complex sites, many will value the expertise of a local guide. You can hire a guide on-site or book a tour in advance.
Sewu Temple is typically visited as part of a broader Prambanan tour. A few tours visit both Sewu and Borobudur in a single day, but most dedicate a full day to Prambanan.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A must for history buffs, Sewu Temple is one of Prambanan’s most atmospheric ruins.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a lot of walking, as the Prambanan site is large.
- Candi Sewu is a sacred site, so visitors should cover shoulders and knees.
- The train between the Prambanan temple complex and Sewu Temple cannot be accessed with a wheelchair.
How to Get There
Sewu Temple forms part of the Prambanan temple complex, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) east of Yogyakarta city. TransJogja Route 1A runs from central Yogyakarta to Prambanan. Almost always visited as part of a broader Prambanan trip, Sewu sits around half a mile (800 meters) north of the main complex, accessible by walking, a small train, or by bicycles that are available to rent.
When to Get There
Sewu Temple is one of the less visited areas of Prambanan, so is rarely overly busy. It’s still worth visiting during the week rather than on weekends to beat the crowds, and it’s a good idea to avoid the Lebaran holiday at the end of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. Waisak, Indonesia’s annual celebration of Buddha’s birthday (generally in May or June), is sometimes celebrated here.
Buddhist Java and the Shailendras
There are more Muslims in Indonesia than in any other country in the world, and Java is today an overwhelmingly Muslim island. Yet its most famous religious monuments were built by the Buddhist Shailendra kings and the Hindu Mataram emperors between the 8th and 10th century. It was the Shailendras who built both Sewu Temple and Borobudur.
Address: Jl. Raya Yogya - Solo, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia
From $ 23
Theta Spa by the Sea
Set on the grounds of the Ramada Bintang Bali Resort in Kuta, Theta Spa by the Sea is a contemporary spa with Indian Ocean views. Tropical rituals, massages, and remedies use techniques from China, India, Indonesia, and beyond. Natural ingredients such as fresh herbs, and organic essential oils are used in treatments set in a luxury-minded spa.
The Basics
Guests to Theta Spa by the Sea can visit independently, or opt for package deals that include hotel transfers. This luxurious beachfront Kuta spa is within 10 minutes’ drive of Bali airport, making it a great choice for a pre-departure splurge. Besides the Indonesian lulur body scrub and massage rituals that are typical of Bali, holistic treatments include remedies for jet lag and sunburn.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The oceanside location makes Theta Spa by the Sea perfect for anyone who wants to relax and de-stress.
- Pre-departure packages at Theta Spa by the Sea include access to many of the hotel’s facilities, including pools, whirlpool, and beach.
- Rather than navigating Kuta’s crazy traffic or negotiating with taxis, book a package that includes transfers from your hotel.
How to Get There
Less than half a mile (800 meters) from Discovery Mall, Theta Spa by the Sea sits within the 5-star Ramada Bintang Bali Resort in the heart of bustling Kuta, a 10-minute drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport. To reach the hotel by public transport, catch the Kura-Kura bus to Lippo Mall, a few hundred feet (300 meters) away.
When to Get There
Theta Spa by the Sea is open morning to late-evening, seven days a week. To make the most of the sea views, it’s best to visit during daylight; sunset appointments, around 6pm or 7pm, are in high demand. It’s wise to book ahead over the weekends and during Bali’s tourist peak (from roughly mid-June through August).
The Art of Balinese Massage
Skilled Balinese massage therapists are in demand across the region. To ensure a relaxing massage anywhere on Bali, be sure to confirm your preferred room temperature—some like it cool, others like it warm—and your desired level of pressure.
Address: Jalan Kartika Plaza, South Kuta Beach, Kuta, Bali 80361, Indonesia
From $ 63
Sebetan Village
In 1963 this picturesque village was covered in a layer of ash after nearby Gunung Agung, an active volcano, exploded, making it impossible to cultivate the land. Luckily, locals discovered the Salak-palm and it’s prized “snake fruit” could grow our of this destroyed land and it has since become a specialty in this tiny village known for its eco tourism, clean air and laid back vibe.
Travelers who make their way to Sibetan can explore stunning mountain views and wander the forested trails with the help of friendly locals who are eager to share their culture, customs and way of life with visitors, which means outsiders are welcome to bear witness to traditional ceremonies when they take place. Woman can cook and prepare meals with the local matrons, and anyone can learn to harvest the popular “snake fruit” in the vast open fields.
Practical Info
Be sure to try Sibetan’s prized beverage—salak wine—on a visit to the village. It’s the only place in Bali where this tempting spirit is made.
Address: Sibetan, Indonesia
From $ 61
Serangan Beach
Widely recognized as one of Bali’s best, the shores of Serangan Beach rank among Indonesia’s top destinations. Stationed on the island of Serangan, the epic waves, stretches of white sand and easy access from the mainland are part of what makes this beach tops. Experienced travelers can ride the waves on their own, while novice visitors who want to hang ten can take their pick of the dozens of surf schools that have popped up on the island.
Sandy shores are perfect for sunbathers and the family set will enjoy touring the Turtle Conservation and Education Center where local naturalists educate travelers on the importance of hatch turtles to the oceanic ecosystem and offer protected breeding grounds for these gentle giants. Numerous island hotels offer up plenty of options for accommodations and insure that regardless of budget, travelers are well covered on a visit to this beautiful island getaway.
Practical Info
Serangan Beach is located on Serangan Island about 25 minutes from Ngurah Rai Airport. It is easily accessible by private taxi or rented motorbike. A public bridge connects the island to mainland.
Address: Serangan Island, Bali, Indonesia
From $ 20
Wayang Museum
Wayang is the ancient art of Javanese storytelling – a theatrical performance using puppets that are usually made from leather or wood. The Wayang Museum in Jakarta houses one of the widest collections of wayang puppets in Java. It’s located in the Old City part of Jakarta, opposite Fatahillah Square in a building that dates back to 1912.
The Wayang Museum displays wayang puppets from across Indonesia, along with collections from countries such as China, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, India, and France. It also features a number of wayang paintings and sculptures, and even hosts wayang performances at 10am on every second, third, and fourth Sunday of the month.
Practical Info
The easiest way to reach Wayang Museum is to take a taxi or use the TransJakarta Busway and alighting at Kota Tua. It makes sense to combine a visit to the Wayang Museum with the other attractions near Fatahillah Square, including the Jakarta History Museum and the Fine Art and Ceramic Museum.
Address: Jalan Pintu Besar Utara 27, Jakarta 11110, Indonesia
Hours: 9am-3pm Tuesday to Sunday
Admission: Rp. 2000
From $ 38
Tenganan Village
The village of Tenganan undoubtedly belongs to one of the rarest sights in Bali. Unlike the rest of the island, Tenganan is not inhabited by Hindus, but by the Bali Aga, a small part of the population who has kept their pre-Hinduistic faith and traditions. They have no caste system and they also reject other Hindu customs, such as cremation and choose to bury their dead instead. Thus, Tenganan has always been strictly isolated from the outside world and even weddings are only permitted within the village community. Those who don’t adhere to the rule are expelled and it doesn’t come as a surprise, that the population is dwindling and today, only about 500 people live in the town.
The village with its rectangular center and checkered floor plan consists of only two parallel roads and is surrounded by a long boundary wall. The simple houses with their thatched roofs look like Polynesian long houses, mixed in are some shrines and pavilions and roosters, dogs and cows roam the streets. Apart from a couple modern power poles, the architecture remains largely authentic. Since the Bali Aga see themselves as artists and guardians of their religion, they not only have this unique building style, but also practice very distinct dances, cultural expressions and one famous craft: weaving the valuable double ikat fabrics. These textiles as well as typical Balinese maps hand drawn with macadamia ink on bamboo leaves can be purchased in the stalls. Nothing is mass produced and instead, is handmade in long and intricate processes, which of course, comes with a price.
Practical Info
Tenganan is located about 65 kilometers from Denpasar in the Manggis District. It’s easy to get there with either public or private transport via the coastal town Candidasa, which is well served by local busses. Tenganan Village can be found only 4 kilometers inland from Candidasa.
Address: Tenganan, Bali, Indonesia, Indonesia
From $ 39
Sekumpul Waterfall
Spilling down from dizzying heights of up to 260 feet (80 meters), Sekumpul Waterfall, a series of seven narrow cascades, is hidden away amid lush tropical foliage. Dirt paths lead to elevated viewpoints overlooking the falls and to rock pools at the foot, where visitors can cool off with a refreshing swim.
The Basics
While visitors can trek to Sekumpul Waterfall independently, many go with a guide who can help navigate the paths, provide commentary about the area, and point them toward the best swimming spots. Part of the experience is trekking to the waterfalls; the trail leads through dense tropical foliage and features many rocky steps.
At the falls, most tours include free time so visitors can swim and relax. Some tours combine Sekumpul Waterfall with other sights in North Bali, such as Pura Ulun Danu Bratan and Kintamani Highland, as well as a visit to a local coffee plantation.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Sekumpul Waterfall is a must for nature lovers.
- Wear sturdy water shoes as you’ll have to negotiate slippery rocks, a stream, and—if it’s been raining—muddy paths.
- Getting to Sekumpul Waterfalls requires hiking along uneven surfaces and navigating numerous steps; therefore, it’s not suitable for visitors with mobility issues.
How to Get There
The trek to the falls begins at the village of Sekumpul, which is situated in Buleleng, North Bali. The village of Sekumpul is around 17 miles (27 kilometers) from Lovina and about 13 miles (21 kilometers) from Singaraja. If you don’t have a car, it’s best to come as part of an organized tour. Tours often include pickup and drop-off from hotels in Denpasar, Ubud, Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur, and Nusa Dua.
When to Get There
Unlike other waterfalls in Bali, Sekumpul always flows, even during the dry season (May–September). In fact, during the dry season, the falls are often easier to reach as low water levels make the trek easier than in the wet season. Visiting during the wet season is still possible, though it’s best done with a guide.
Other Waterfalls in Bali
For adventurous travelers who want to see more of this Indonesian isle’s hidden natural treasures, there are many more waterfalls to discover. Among the most well-known is the 115-foot (35-meter) Gitgit Waterfall in Singaraja, just outside Ubud, where you’re likely to see monkeys swinging around in the surrounding trees. Then, there is Niagara Munduk in Buleleng, which comprises a pair of falls (Munduk and Melanting) and features rocky wading pools amid verdant forest surroundings.
Address: Bali, Indonesia
From $ 35
Tegalalang Rice Terrace
The stunning Tegalalang Rice Terrace, part of the Cultural Landscape of Bali Province UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprises cascading emerald-green fields worked by local rice farmers. Just outside Ubud, it has become a destination for travelers making their way between Bali’s sandy beaches, towering mountains, and steaming volcanoes.
The Basics
The Tegalalang Rice Terrace, an agricultural icon on the cliffs of a traditional Balinese village, make for an ideal place to spend a morning or afternoon absorbing the natural peace of remote island life. Many guided day tours from Ubud include a visit to the rice terrace along with stops at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Ubud Palace, Balinese temples, the Ubud craft villages, Sekumpul Waterfall, a coffee plantation, or the active volcanic landscape of Kintamani.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a must-see for photographers and first-time visitors to Bali.
- Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water—Bali can get quite hot and humid.
- A full-day tour that visits a number of sites from Ubud can last upwards of 10 hours.
How to Get There
If not visiting the terraces with a tour guide, one of the best ways to get there is by scooter. It is about a 25-minute drive from Ubud, and parking can be found right on the edge of the fields.
When to Get There
If you want to snap some photos of the rice paddies without other visitors getting in the way, plan to visit first thing in the morning. The terraces are often at their most beautiful just after planting, when the small green shoots are just emerging from the glassy pools.
Things to See Near the Tegalalang Rice Terrace
Near Tegalalang you will find a small café and several souvenir shops, including villagers selling hats made from woven coconut leaves. You can purchase wooden carvings from the nearby village of Pakudui.
Address: Tegallalang, Kec. Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia, Indonesia
From $ 10
Setia Darma House of Mask and Puppets
The Setia Darma House of Mask and Puppets is a unique and fascinating museum that aims to preserve this important part of Indonesia’s cultural heritage. The museum is home to a vast and eclectic collection of ceremonial masks and puppets from across the country, as well as other parts of Asia and the rest of the world.
The items here are all displayed within a courtyard of renovated Javanese wooden buildings known as joglo. The collection consists of more than 1200 masks and 4700 puppets. Highlights include wayang kulit, used for shadow puppetry, wayang golek (wooden puppets), masks used for topeng dances, and the striking Jero Luh mask.
The museum was established in this area due to it being famous for its woodcarvers, mask makers, and sculptors. Items have been collected, stored, and displayed for members of the public to view and appreciate since 2006. The museum buildings are set within vast grounds of tropical gardens filled with lotus ponds and banyan trees, and beyond this, undulating rice fields.
Practical Info
The Setia Darma House of Mask and Puppets is situated in a small village around a 15-minute drive from Ubud. The easiest way to reach it is by taking a taxi. The museum staff will arrange transportation back upon request.
Address: Jalan Tegal Bingin, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Hours: 8am-4pm
Admission: Free (donations welcomed)
From $ 49
Seminyak Beach
Located north of Kuta Beach and Legian Beach, Seminyak Beach is a sweeping strip of sand that’s drawn those in-the-know to Bali for decades. More upscale than Kuta or Legian, Seminyak is home to some of the island’s most iconic beach clubs and restaurants, as well as fun surf breaks. Behind the shore, Seminyak proper is a shopping and dining mecca.
The Basics
In addition to some of Bali’s most luxurious accommodation, Seminyak Beach hosts a world-class selection of beach clubs and restaurants, including KU DE TA, Potato Head Beach Club, La Lucciola, and Mejekawi (within KU DE TA).
The spectacular sunsets on Bali’s west coast are made for sundowners; in fact, some Seminyak beach tours duly focus on bars, nightclubs, and nightlife. However, there’s more than consumption to these sandy shores. Leisure activities include surfing, horseback riding, and kite-flying (popular with young families). Alternatively, simply pull up a beanbag at a beach bar and chill out.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Perfect for the good-time traveler who likes to flaunt their bathing-suit bod, Seminyak’s beach club scene is world class.
- Most high-end bars, beach clubs, and restaurants in Seminyak have a dress code that forbids sports- or alcohol-branded attire—that means no Bintang singlets.
- You normally don’t need to reserve ahead of time for Seminyak beach clubs. That changes on nights with big-name international acts or events such as New Year’s Eve.
- Seminyak Beach is no place to learn how to ride a motorbike.
How to Get There
There are limited public transport options in Seminyak, although the tourist Kura Kura Bus service stops in the general area of the beach. It’s easy for unqualified, inexperienced motorcyclists to hire scooters and ride them through the area’s hectic traffic, often drunk and without a helmet. If you’re bar hopping, hire a driver for the night, or haggle with taxi drivers: Blue Bird cabs are most likely to use the meter.
When to Get There
A sundowner overlooking those epic Seminyak sunsets is a must. Arrive between 6pm and 7pm, depending on the time of year. Like the rest of Bali, Seminyak Beach is at its busiest in August. During peak rainy season (December to February), avoid visiting early in the morning and wait until workers have removed the plastic trash that sweeps onshore.
In High Spirits: the Dangers of Illegal Liquor
Indonesia has extremely high taxes on alcohol, both domestic and imported. This means spirits-based drinks are relatively extremely expensive. Illegal home-brew liquor, often sold in fake international-brand bottles, is hugely common, and kills scores of people every year in Indonesia. If a spirits-based drink seems suspiciously cheap, avoid it: It’s almost certainly fake.
Address: Bali, Indonesia, Indonesia
From $ 65
Tampak Siring
This picturesque town in central Bali is known for its ancient temples and famed archeological sites. The Gunung Kawi Temple and Senang Hati Foundation have been drawing history-loving travelers to their gates for decades and the sloping hills of this former kingdom prove ideal for visitors looking to explore the natural landscapes of this stunning island.
Travelers can explore the iconic Tirta Empul Temple, with its natural pools and public showers used for sacred cleansing rituals, or tour the larger-than-life stone reliefs of Gunung Kawi. Tampak Siring is also home to one of six presidential palaces. A visit to this more modern structure, which was built in the late 1950s for President Soekarno, offers up incredible views of nearby Tampaksiring Tirta Empul Temple and Mount Agung.
Practical Info
Tampak Siring is located in central Bali in the Gianyar Regency of Indonesia, about 20 km northeast of Ubud town center.
Address: Tampak Siring, Bali, Gianyar Regency, Indonesia, Indonesia
From $ 28
Telaga Waja
Bali is known for its beautiful beaches and romantic ocean escapes, but travelers looking for the thrill of adventure can find what they’re seeking on the roaring waters of Telaga Waja. With 14 kilometers of grade 3 and 4 rapids this scenic rafting route is also one of the region’s most adrenaline inducing.
Visitors can expect a little less than three hours of epic white water and jungle scenery. While the wild ride requires travelers to paddle like hell and hold on tight, it’s the thrilling 4-meter-high waterfall drop that leaves rafters with an impressive story to tell once they’ve arrived back on land.
Visitors can expect a little less than three hours of epic white water and jungle scenery. While the wild ride requires travelers to paddle like hell and hold on tight, it’s the thrilling 4-meter-high waterfall drop that leaves rafters with an impressive story to tell once they’ve arrived back on land.
Practical Info
Telaga Waja runs through Mount Abang, through Rendang Village before emptying into the sea in Klungkung Regency.
Address: Bali, Indonesia, Indonesia
From $ 25
Selogriyo Temple
Restored in 2005 after landslides destroyed it and rebuilt a second time in 2018, hillside Selogriyo Temple (Candi Selogriyo) is an atmospheric and rarely visited Hindu temple dating back to the 9th century. The rice-field views are especially scenic, while the water from its fountain is said to heal disease and impart eternal youth.
The Basics
There is a token charge for visiting Selogriyo Temple, which is the same for both foreigners and Indonesians. For many, the walk through mountainous rice-field landscapes is a big part of the attraction of a temple visit. Some Borobudur tours include a stop here, particularly bicycle tours, for the beauty of the ride up more than for the temple itself. Many visitors find the temple’s emptiness the perfect counterpoint to the busyness of Borobudur and Prambanan.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Even when Selogriyo Temple is closed for restoration, the timeless Javanese landscapes of rice fields, palm trees, and buffalo are charming.
- The narrow rice-field road can be slippery and the route includes around 200 steps.
- Bring a water bottle as there are no vendors on-site.
- Whether walking, cycling, or riding a motorbike, it pays to wear sunscreen.
How to Get There
Selogriyo Temple stands about an hour’s drive north of Borobudur—20 miles (32 kilometers), with a walk 1.25 miles (2 kilometers) from the nearest car parking. There is effectively no public transport, so most visitors choose to drive, join a tour, or even join a bicycle tour that includes Borobudur.
When to Get There
Selogriyo is rarely busy, but the walk through the rice fields can become uncomfortably hot during the middle of the day. If possible, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to beat the heat. As with elsewhere on Java, avoid travel during the Lebaran holiday period at the end of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, when roads are choked with traffic.
The Cycle of the Rice Fields
As you walk, or cycle, to Selogriyo Temple, meet Javanese villagers working in their rice fields. Rice cultivation is labor-intensive and time-consuming: you might see them ploughing, planting seeds, spreading out young seedlings, harvesting rice, or preparing their terraces for a new crop. Small wonder that the Indonesian language contains at least four distinct words for “rice”.
Address: Selogriyo, Borobudur, Magelang, Indonesia, Indonesia
From $ 106
Waterbom Bali
Waterbom Bali provides water-themed activities for the whole family, with slides, saltwater pools, adrenaline-pumping rides, and kiddie pools—plus dining, shopping, and shaded gazebos. The park is set in a tropical garden and provides habitat for endangered species, with more than 50 percent of its area maintained as natural green space.
The Basics
Waterbom Bali offers enough activities to fill an entire day, or even two. Race on the dueling “Fast ‘n Fierce” or “Twin Racer” slides, test your balance on the “Flowrider” wave field, take a spin in the “Superbowl” aqua-tube, or zip down the terrifying “Climax” slide, which contains a loop and near vertical drop. You can also relax on the waterfall-filled lazy river, get a treatment at the onsite spa, or sip cocktails at the swim-up bar.
Basic 1- or 2-day admission tickets are available, as well as bundles that include VIP express entry, lunch, gazebo rentals, and family photos. You can also book a private transfer to the park, which includes 1-day admission as well as hotel pickup and drop-off.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Remember to bring sun protection and a swimsuit.
- The “Splash Band” wristband is your key to cash-free transactions within the park—scan it to get food, spa treatments, towel rentals, lockers, and more.
- Five different restaurants, cafés, and bars around the park offer quick eats, drinks, and sit-down meals.
- Spa services include massage, reflexology, nail care, and hair braiding.
- Most paths throughout the park are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Waterbom Bali is located in downtown Kuta, 21 miles (40 kilometers) south of Ubud. The park is 1.8 miles (three kilometers) from Ngurah Rai International Airport, and is within walking distance of Kuta Beach and the Discovery Shopping Mall. As public transit is not prevalent in Bali, taxis or private transfers are good ways to travel.
When to Get There
With year-round temperatures averaging around 80°F (27°C), tropical Bali is a good place to visit year-round. The waterpark is open daily from 9am to 6pm and is closed only on the day of Nyepi, a Balinese public holiday.
A Must-Experience Ride at Waterbom Bali
The park’s “Constrictor” slide slithers an impressive 792 feet (241 meters) through the park’s lush tropical gardens. The ride’s entrance is located in a back corner of the park, near the similar “Python” and “Green Viper” slides. Rde by yourself or hop in a double raft with a family member or friend.
Address: Jalan Kartika, Tuban, Kuta, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Hours: Daily 9am-6pm
Admission: One-Day Pass: IDR 315,000
From $ 33
Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah Lot Temple is one of Indonesia’s most popular religious attractions. Commonly referred to as the “temple of the rock,” this temple off the coast of Bali is set upon a black-stone peninsula that juts into rippling waters. Incredible ocean views, clear mountain air, and a deep spiritual connection draw visitors to this unique sight.
The Basics
Tanah Lot Temple is one of Bali’s most popular sights and a major pilgrimage destination for Balinese Hindus from around the island. Although non-Balinese are not allowed to enter ter, the site is often included in guided small-group or private tours to Ubud from other areas of Bali, or combined with visits to other holy sites like the Pura Ulun Danu Bratan and Pura Taman Ayun temples as well as the nearby Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Many full-day tours to Ubud stop at the temple, oftentimes for sunset.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A Tanah Lot sunset is a must for first-time visitors.
- Bring your camera for the perfect sunset photo opportunity.
- While visitors can walk out to the Hindu temple at low tide, non-Balinese are not allowed to enter the temple itself.
- Expect traffic to back up for several miles during the pre- and post-sunset rush.
How to Get There
Tanah Lot Temple is located about 10 miles (15 kilometers) from Seminyak. While it’s possible to get to the temple on your own by taxi from Ubud or the southern coast, it’s most commonly visited as part of a guided sightseeing or sunset tour.
When to Get There
The best time of day to visit Tanah Lot Temple is at sunset, when rose-colored skies meet the blue waters that surround this popular religious attraction. During low tide, visitors can walk to Tanah by following a winding path lined with bustling souvenir stands. Be advised that it’s more difficult to reach the temple during high tide, when travelers are prohibited from getting near parts of the structure closest to the water.
Bali’s Directional Temples
Tanah Lot is one of nine directional temples on the coast of Bali island that were built to protect the island from evil spirits. Besides Tanah Lot, other directional temples worth visiting include Pura Besakih (known as the “mother temple”) and the clifftop Uluwatu.
Address: Bali, Indonesia
Admission: IDR$ 60,000
From $ 11
Saraswati Temple
Dedicated to the Hindu goddess of learning, wisdom, music, and art, Ubud’s Saraswati Temple is a beautiful spot for worshippers and visitors alike. Water gardens and lotus ponds flow up to the elegant structure, which is enriched with ornate carvings. The temple makes an atmospheric setting for Balinese dance performances.
The Basics
Set bang in the heart of Ubud, Saraswati Temple is easy enough to visit independently. It’s also one of the most magical venues at which to watch Balinese dance. Kecak dance-drama performances are held every Tuesday and Thursday evening, and the plastic chairs don’t detract from the majesty of the setting. Most visitors arrive independently, but some Ubud tours stop here for brief photo ops, and private guides with a focus on history and culture can explain the meanings of the elaborate temple carvings.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Saraswati Temple is lovely for fans of Balinese culture and temple architecture.
- There is no fee to enter the temple, though donations are appreciated.
- Wear a sarong for modesty reasons, and note that these are not always available at the door.
- Only the temple’s entrance and initial path are accessible to wheelchair users; beyond that there are steps.
How to Get There
Saraswati Temple is centrally located within Ubud, right by the Ubud Palace, so it’s an easy walk from many downtown accommodations. If you’re coming from outside Ubud, Perama runs tourist shuttles from the airport, Kuta, Amed, Padang Bai, Sanur, and beyond, while the Kura Kura tourist bus has connections via Kuta from across south Bali.
When to Get There
Ubud is at its most appealing early in the morning before the big buses hit town—and that’s also a great time to soak up the lotus views at the Saraswati Temple. But Saraswati is the goddess of dance, so also make time to catch a dance performance one Tuesday or Thursday evening.
Ubud and the Goddess of the Arts
It was Ubud’s royal family who made Ubud the arts and cultural hub of Bali that it is today. As patrons, they spared no expense in honoring the goddess of the arts, Saraswati. The temple you see today was built by I Gusti Nyoman Lempad, famed for his ink drawings and paintings but also a court architect. Some believe he made it all the way to 115 years old before dying in 1978.
Address: Jalan Raya, Ubud, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Admission: Free (donations welcomed)
From $ 54
Tegenungan Waterfall
Not far from Ubud, Tegenungan Waterfall foams in a white cascade over black stone cliffs into a quiet pool. At around 66 feet (20 meters) high, it’s an impressive flow, and that’s not all the site has to offer. Besides climbable cliffs, a secret smaller waterfall, and simple food stalls, a charming grotto houses a sacred spring.
The Basics
Tegenungan Waterfall is a pleasant place to spend a hot, dry Balinese day swimming, climbing to the top of the falls, or just hanging out. Tegenungan features on many tours of Bali’s natural attractions, alongside sights such as Tegalalang Rice Terraces, as well as general cultural tours around Ubud. Tours typically take you up the waterfall steps, leave time for a swim, introduce you to the sacred spring, and perhaps include a dip in the Tukad Petanu River.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tegenungan Waterfall is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and first-time visitors to Bali.
- Do not jump from the cliffs—it is extremely dangerous. Doing so can cause serious injury or death.
- As with other Balinese sacred springs, menstruating women are forbidden from using the sacred spring. Please respect this prohibition.
- Tegenungan Waterfall is not accessible to those with mobility issues due to scores of steep steps that lead up to the top.
How to Get There
The Tegenungan falls are about 7 miles (10 kilometers) south of Ubud. You can reach them from either Tegenungan village (at the base) or Blangsinga village (at the top). As there is no public transportation, your best options are to pay a private driver or join an organized tour.
When to Get There
While many waterfalls are best visited during the rainy season when water levels are high, Tegenungan is at its most attractive during the dry season, when the towering cascade flows down white, not chocolate brown. Generally speaking, Bali’s dry season runs from April until the end of September. Come early in the day to beat the big groups.
Mind the Selfie Gap
Indonesia is currently experiencing a small epidemic of selfie-related fatalities, while visitors have tumbled to their deaths from waterfalls in pursuit of the perfect Instagram. Tegenungan Waterfall has seen at least one selfie death in recent years. Exercise extreme caution when taking selfies high on the cliffs or atop the waterfall itself.
Address: Kemenuh, Sukawati, Kec. Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia, Indonesia
Admission: Varies
From $ 10