Bali City Guide

General Information / Guide

Bali, often referred to as the "Island of the Gods" and Indonesia's top destination, features a captivating landscape with mountains, rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, lush rice terraces, and volcanic hillsides. This picturesque setting provides the backdrop for Bali's vibrant culture. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its rice terraces and water temples, Bali reflects the Tri Hita Karana Philosophy through the Subak System. Offering world-class diving and surfing, diverse attractions, and various accommodation options, Bali appeals to a wide range of visitors, from backpackers to the affluent. Welcoming millions of visitors each year, Bali stands out with its unique blend of tradition and modernity, offering a haven for relaxation and adventure.

Climate / Weather / When to Go

Bali experiences pleasant daytime temperatures ranging from 20–33⁰C year-round. The west monsoon from December to March brings heavy showers and high humidity, mainly in the late afternoon or evening, but days remain often sunny. From June to September, humidity is low, and evenings can be cool, with minimal rain in lowland coastal areas. The Bukit Peninsula usually enjoys sunny, dry days even during island-wide rainfall. However, central Bali and mountainous areas may have cloudy skies and showers throughout the year. Higher elevations, like Bedugul or Kintamani, become distinctly chilly after sunset, requiring a sweater or jacket.

How to Get There

Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport, located about 13 km from the city center, is accessible via direct and connecting flights from various locations. Upon arrival, transportation to the city center is convenient through taxis or airport shuttles, with both options typically taking around 30 minutes. Additionally, tourists can explore other transportation choices such as ride-hailing services and private car rentals.

Food / Restaurants / What to Eat and Drink

Bali's diverse culinary scene offers must-try dishes such as Nasi Campur Bali, a national dish combining steamed rice, shredded chicken or pork, vegetables, a fried egg, and spicy sauce. Babi Guling, a slow-roasted suckling pig, is served crispy with spicy sauce and rice. Sate Lilit features small skewers of minced meat grilled with peanut sauce and rice. Ayam Betutu, a spicy Balinese chicken, is cooked with spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and served with rice. 
Other highlights include Lawar, a traditional Balinese salad, Serombotan, a spicy vegetable dish, and Tum Bali, a seaweed salad. Balinese desserts like Jaje Bali offer sweet delights. Explore local warungs for authentic, budget-friendly options and try Indonesian classics like nasi goreng. Kaki lima vendors provide an authentic experience with dishes like bakso. Padang restaurants offer budget-friendly, authentic Indonesian cuisine, including rendang sapi. 
Balinese specialties like satay lilit and babi guling showcase unique flavors. Noteworthy dishes include bebek betutu, lawar, and urutan—a spicy Balinese sausage. Balinese cuisine emphasizes pork, as seen in dishes like ayam panggang bumbu bawang mentah. Bebek timbungan, tum ayam/ketopot, ikan kakap bakar bumbu terasi, and pelecing kangkung are other delicious Balinese specialties. Explore Ubud's bustling markets for authentic Balinese dishes, and don't forget to sip on a refreshing coconut or try the renowned Luwak coffee.

Important Places / Places to Visit

• Ubud: Ubud, located in central Bali, is renowned for its vibrant art scene, picturesque rice paddies, and the Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional Balinese dance performances and explore museums and galleries.
• Tanah Lot: Tanah Lot, a temple perched on a rock off Bali's shore, stands as one of the island's iconic landmarks. It's a popular destination for witnessing breathtaking sunsets over the Indian Ocean.
• Uluwatu Temple: Situated on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple is another iconic Balinese temple. Visitors can experience traditional Kecak dance performances against the backdrop of a stunning sunset.
• Mount Batur: An active volcano, Mount Batur is a favorite for hiking and trekking. Adventurers can ascend to the summit for a sunrise view or relax in the hot springs at the mountain's base.
• Tegalalang Rice Terrace: Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Tegalalang Rice Terrace is famous for its breathtaking rice paddies. Visitors can stroll through the terraces or savor a traditional Balinese meal at one of the overlooking restaurants.
• Nusa Lembongan: A small island off Bali's coast, Nusa Lembongan is known for its beaches, surfing, and snorkeling. Yoga and meditation classes add to the island's tranquil appeal.
• Nusa Penida: Another small island off Bali, Nusa Penida boasts beautiful beaches, cliffs, and Crystal Bay. Visitors can engage in activities like snorkeling, diving, and cliff jumping.
• Seminyak: Seminyak, a beach resort town, is famed for its luxurious hotels, upscale restaurants, and boutiques. Visitors can relax on the beach, surf, or indulge in shopping at designer stores.
• Kuta: Kuta, a beach resort town with vibrant nightlife, is a surfing hotspot. Visitors can enjoy late-night entertainment at bars, clubs, and restaurants or catch waves at popular surf breaks.
• Sanur: Sanur, a laid-back beach resort town, offers family-friendly activities. Visitors can engage in swimming, snorkeling, and sailing, or embark on boat trips to nearby islands.

What to Do

Bali offers a rich cultural experience with its Hindu history, vibrant art scenes like shadow puppetry, and various ceremonies. The island boasts hot springs like Air Banjar and Toya Bungkah for relaxation. Spa enthusiasts can indulge in Balinese massages and lulur body scrubs at affordable prices. Bali's diverse yoga and well-being centers in places like Ubud and Seminyak cater to different levels. 
For water activities, Bali is renowned for scuba diving, with sites like Tulamben's USAT Liberty wreck and Nusa Penida's drift diving. Surfing attracts enthusiasts to Kuta, Legian, Canggu, and the Bukit Peninsula, offering both challenging and beginner-friendly breaks. Whitewater rafting in Ubud and canyoning add adventurous options. Sport fishing is gaining popularity, especially near Benoa Harbour and Sanur. Waterbom in Kuta stands as one of the world's best water parks. Golfers can enjoy international courses like Bali Handara Kosaido and Bali Golf & Country Club. Animal lovers can explore the Bali Zoo, Bali Bird Park, Taro Elephant Park, and Bali Marine and Safari Park. 
Adventure seekers have various options, including paragliding, mountain cycling, jungle trekking, and hiking Bali's volcanoes. Nature enthusiasts can observe wildlife in West Bali National Park, visit the Butterfly Park, and explore the Bali Botanical Gardens. The Bali Treetop Adventure Park offers a unique perspective from the treetops.

Nightlife / Bars / Entertainment

Bali offers vibrant nightlife options across many spots. In Kuta, rooftop lounges and megaclubs attract a lively crowd with reggae, top 40, and R&B music. Seminyak, a more refined scene, boasts trendy bars and clubs with high-quality drinks, international DJs, and cutting-edge sounds. Canggu, with its laid-back vibe, combines partying with a celebration of a healthy lifestyle. While not as hyped as Kuta and Seminyak, Canggu's bars draw diverse crowds. Uluwatu, on the Bukit Peninsula, hosts clifftop parties with world-class DJs, breathtaking views, and a classy party atmosphere. Each area offers a unique nightlife experience, catering to different preferences and styles.

Shopping / What to Buy

Bali is a shopper's paradise, offering many affordable products from simple trinkets to high fashion boutiques. Clothing, especially popular sportswear brands, can be found in abundance in Kuta and Legian at prices significantly lower. For a more unique experience, explore chic boutiques in Seminyak, particularly along Jalan Laksmana, where you can support local designers. 
Bali's rich artisan culture is reflected in its arts and crafts, including paintings, basketware, stone and wood carvings, silver and shell jewelry, ceramics, natural paper gifts, and glassware. Consider buying directly from the artisans to witness their craftsmanship. 
Dried spices and coffee make great souvenirs, and bargaining is a common and enjoyable practice, except in higher-end stores with fixed prices. Bali offers diverse shopping options, from small shops to supermarkets, and South Bali boasts 24-hour convenience stores, like Circle K, catering to visitors' needs with English-speaking staff and a range of products, from beer to western foodstuffs.

Festivals/ Events

January: Suwat Water Garden Festival 
January: Mekotek/ Mekotekan 
February: Balingkang Festival in Kintamani 
February: Chinese New Year Celebration 
February: The anniversary of Denpasar City 
February: Berawa Beach Festival 
March: The Anniversary of Singaraja City 
March: Bali Spirit Festival in Ubud 
April: Gianyar Festival 
April: Ubud Food Festival 
April: Semarapura Festival 
April: Tulamben Festival 
May: Festival Bahari Badung 
May: Bali Blues Festival 
May: Buleleng Art Festival 
JUNE
June: Bali Art Festival – Pesta Kesenian Bali 
July: Twin Lake Festival 
July: Bali Kite Festival 
July: Bali International Choir Festival 
July: Tulamben Festival 
July: Makepung Festival 
July: Ubud Village Jazz Festival 
August: Badung Agriculture Festival 
August: Sanur Village Festival 
August: Tirta Gangga Festival 
September: Taman Ujung Festival 
September: Lovina Festival 
September: Balinale – Bali International Film Festival 
October: Nusa Penida Festival 
October: Perang Tipat Bantal 
October: Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 
October: Uluwatu Festival 
October: Nusa Dua Festival 
November: Legian Beach Festival 
November: Sidemen Festival 
December: Pemuteran Bay Festival 
December: Denpasar Festival 
December: Pandawa Beach Festival 
December: Panglipuran Village Festival 
December: Nusa Dua Light Festival 

Holidays / Festivals / Important Days

1 January: New Year's Day    
January/February: Lunar New Year 
March: Day of Silence    
March/April: Good Friday    
1 May: Labour Day    
May/June: Ascension Day    
April/May: Buddha's Birthday    
1 June: Pancasila Day    
17 August: Independence Day
25 December: Christmas Day
31 December: New Year's Eve    
Islamic New Year    
The Prophet's Birthday    
The Prophet's Ascension    
Eid al-Fitr    
Eid al-Adha

Things to Pay Attention to / Important Information

Tourists visiting Bali must show utmost respect for the island's religious and cultural heritage. Dressing modestly, behaving politely in public spaces, and being accompanied by a licensed tour guide who understands local customs are essential. Foreign currency exchange should only be done at authorized money changers. Visitors are strictly prohibited from entering holy spaces within temples unless for prayer and appropriately dressed. Climbing sacred trees, desecrating holy places, littering, and engaging in illegal activities are strictly forbidden. Tourists are expected to communicate respectfully, avoiding harsh words or aggressive behavior. 

Transportation

Getting around Bali can be challenging due to rapid development and traffic issues. Major tourist areas like Ubud, Kuta, Seminyak, and Denpasar face chaotic traffic and daily jams. Excursions often use tours available through hotels or street agencies. Sidewalks are narrow and challenging for walking, but beach areas are more pedestrian-friendly. Public transportation includes Perama buses, Trans Sarbagita and Trans Metro Dewata services, and Kura-Kura Bus oriented towards tourists. Taxis from reliable companies like BlueBird are common in southern Bali. Rideshare apps like Grab and GOJEK offer convenient and cost-effective alternatives but may face restrictions in some areas. Bemos, Bali's traditional minivans, are now less common, with taxis being a preferred mode of transport.