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Places to visit in Bali: A tropical paradise
Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, located in Indonesia. It is known for its beautiful beaches, unique culture, tropical landscapes, and warm hospitality. People from all over the world visit Bali to relax, explore, and experience something new. Whether you are looking for adventure, peace, or fun, Bali has something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit in Bali.
1. Handara Gate - The Iconic Bali Photo Spot
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One of the most famous and Instagram-worthy places in Bali is Handara Gate. This beautiful and peaceful landmark is located in the northern part of the island, near Bedugul, a highland area known for its cool weather, green landscapes, and scenic lakes.
Handara Gate is the traditional Balinese split gate (called candi bentar) that serves as the entrance to the Handara Golf & Resort Bali. Even though it leads to a golf course, the gate itself has become a tourist attraction because of its unique architecture and stunning mountain backdrop.
The gate is built in the classic Balinese style, which symbolizes the balance between good and evil. It’s made from dark volcanic stone and decorated with traditional carvings. Lush green forests and hills surround the gate, creating a magical and peaceful atmosphere.
Handara Gate became famous because of social media, especially Instagram. Travelers love to take pictures standing in the middle of the gate with the mountains and mist behind them. The combination of nature and culture makes it a perfect photo spot.
Things to know before you visit
Location: Bedugul, about 2.5–3 hours from Ubud or Seminyak by car.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning (around 6–9 AM) to avoid crowds and get soft, golden light for photos.
Entrance Fee: There is usually a small fee (around IDR 30,000–50,000 or about $2–3 USD) for taking photos at the gate.
Weather: Since it’s in the highlands, the weather is cooler and can be misty—bring a jacket!
Nearby Attractions
If you’re visiting Handara Gate, there are other beautiful places nearby that are worth exploring:
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple – A famous lake temple just 10 minutes away.
Wanagiri Hidden Hills – A viewpoint with swings and photo spots overlooking Lake Buyan.
Lake Beratan – A scenic lake ideal for boat rides and relaxing.
2. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple – A Sacred Temple on the Lake
One of the most beautiful and peaceful places in Bali is Ulun Danu Beratan Temple. It is a famous Hindu temple located on Lake Beratan in the mountains of Bedugul, in central Bali. This temple is not only a religious site but also one of the most photographed and visited landmarks on the island.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple (also called Pura Ulun Danu Beratan) was built in the 17th century and is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the Balinese goddess of lakes and rivers. The name Ulun Danu means “the source of the lake,” which shows its importance in Balinese water culture.
The temple is used to give offerings to the water goddess to ensure a good supply of water for rice fields and farming. It is one of the main temples in Bali that supports the island’s subak system—an ancient and spiritual way of managing water for agriculture.
What makes this temple so unique is its location on the water. Part of the temple complex sits on small islands, so when the lake level is high, it looks like the temple is floating on the lake. The misty mountains in the background and calm water all around make the scene feel very magical and peaceful.
Things to Do and See
Take Photos: The temple and its reflection in the lake are perfect for photography, especially early in the morning when the water is calm.
Explore the Garden: The temple is surrounded by beautiful, well-kept gardens with flowers, statues, and walking paths.
Go Boating: Visitors can rent small boats or paddle boats to enjoy the lake and view the temple from the water.
Learn About Balinese Culture: There are information signs around the area explaining the temple’s history, the gods it honors, and the local beliefs.
Useful Information
Location: Bedugul, about 2–2.5 hours from southern Bali (like Ubud or Seminyak).
Entrance Fee: Around IDR 50,000 for adults (~$3–4 USD); extra if you want to rent a boat.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid large crowds and enjoy cooler weather.
Dress Code: As it’s a holy place, visitors should wear modest clothing. Sarongs are usually available to borrow at the entrance if needed.
Nearby Attractions
Handara Gate: A popular photo spot just 10–15 minutes away.
Bali Botanical Garden: A large garden and forest area nearby, great for nature walks.
Wanagiri Hidden Hills: A viewpoint with fun photo spots overlooking Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan.
3. Ubud – The Cultural Center
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Ubud is often called the cultural heart of Bali. It is surrounded by forests, rice fields, and small villages. In Ubud, visitors can learn about traditional Balinese art, music, and dance.
Things to do in Ubud:
Visit the Monkey Forest – A forest filled with trees and hundreds of monkeys. It’s a sacred place where people can see wildlife and ancient temples.
Explore the Rice Terraces – The Tegallalang Rice Terraces are beautiful, green, and show how Balinese farmers grow rice using a special system called subak.
See Traditional Dances – Many local theaters perform traditional Balinese dances at night, such as the Legong and Barong dances.
4. Kuta and Seminyak – Beaches and Nightlife
Kuta and Seminyak are popular beach towns in southern Bali. These areas are perfect for people who enjoy the ocean, shopping, and entertainment.
What to do:
Relax at Kuta Beach – A famous beach where people go surfing, swimming, or just watch the sunset.
Go Shopping – Seminyak is known for its stylish shops and local markets.
Enjoy Beach Clubs – There are many beach clubs with music, food, and swimming pools right by the ocean.
5. Uluwatu – Cliffs and Temples
Uluwatu is located on the southern tip of Bali and is famous for its high cliffs, big waves, and ancient temples.
Highlights:
Uluwatu Temple – A sea temple built on a cliff, perfect for watching the sunset. Every evening, there is a traditional Kecak fire dance performed near the temple.
Padang Padang Beach – A small beach hidden between cliffs. It’s popular for swimming and surfing.
6. Mount Batur – A Volcano Adventure
Mount Batur is an active volcano in Bali. Many tourists climb it early in the morning to watch the sunrise from the top.
Activities:
Sunrise Trekking – The hike starts around 3 or 4 a.m., and after about two hours, hikers reach the top just in time to see the sun rise over the mountains and lake.
Visit the Hot Springs – After the hike, people can relax in nearby natural hot springs that are heated by the volcano.
7. Nusa Penida – A Natural Island Escape
Nusa Penida is a small island near Bali. It is known for its stunning cliffs, clear water, and untouched nature.
Top sights:
Kelingking Beach – A viewpoint with a cliff that looks like a dinosaur head. It’s one of the most photographed places in Bali.
Angel’s Billabong – A natural rock pool that looks like an infinity pool.
Snorkeling and Diving – The waters around the island are full of colorful fish and coral reefs.
8. Tanah Lot – A Temple by the Sea
Tanah Lot is one of the most famous temples in Bali. It is built on a rock in the ocean and is especially beautiful at sunset.
Why visit:
Spiritual Significance – It is an important place for Balinese Hindus and a peaceful spot to enjoy the sea.
Great Photos – The view of the temple with waves crashing around it is perfect for photography.
9. Canggu – The Digital Nomad and Surfer Haven
Canggu has become a hotspot for remote workers and surfers, thanks to its laid-back vibe and creative energy.
Highlights:
Echo Beach – A surfing paradise with black sand and hip cafes.
Tanah Lot Temple – One of Bali’s most iconic sea temples, especially magical at sunset.
Canggu Cafés – Enjoy smoothie bowls and organic coffee at popular spots like Crate Café or The Shady Shack.
10. Sidemen – Bali Off the Beaten Path
If you’re seeking a peaceful, authentic Balinese experience, head to the emerald-green valley of Sidemen in East Bali.
Highlights:
Rice Field Walks – Stroll through terraced fields and quiet villages.
Traditional Weaving – Witness local artisans practicing age-old techniques.
Mount Agung Views – Bali’s tallest and most sacred mountain dominates the horizon.
