A holiday in Bali can be described as a mesmerizing journey through the enchanting Indonesian island known for its idyllic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Bali has captivated travelers from all corners of the globe with its diverse offerings, from pristine beaches and lush rice terraces to ancient temples and vibrant markets. In this guide, we will unlock the secrets of this tropical paradise, revealing hidden gems, must-visit attractions, and tips for immersing yourself in the local traditions. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or a blend of both, Bali promises an unforgettable holiday that will forever leave you with cherished memories. So pack your bags, immerse yourself in the island’s magic, and prepare for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Indonesia.
When it comes to Bali’s exotic destinations, you can enjoy different types of experiences. Start with natural experiences and snorkel with manta rays, feed the meerkats, or swing over rice terraces. Immerse in cultural experiences in Bali by taking a Balinese cooking class or participating in a holy purification ritual. You can also visit the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park and find Candi Gunung Kawi – Bali’s hidden gem. Lastly, don’t forget to try out some of the relaxing experiences Bali offers: taking a dip in hot natural springs or pampering yourself with a luxury spa treatment & flower bath.
Natural Bali
Swim with manta rays
If you are visiting Bali and staying in one of the luxury Bali villas, this is an experience that you shouldn’t skip. You can snorkel with friendly manta rays in Manta Ray Bay, near Bali. You can book a boat tour or a private individual boat to take you to spots where manta rays swim.
Feed the meerkats
Another fun natural experience to enjoy in Bali is feeding the cute meerkats. These curious animals are found at the Meerkat Exhibit at Bali Safari & Marine Park. You get to not only feed them but also to get personal with meerkats. Interaction with meerkats is a truly unique experience. There might even be adorable baby meerkats!
Swing over rice terraces
You probably saw plenty of picturesque swings in Bali on social media – the island has many swings over wonderful places. Alas, Harum in Ubud is one place where you can swing over magnificent rice terraces. You will find swings at various heights, from 15 to 25m here. If you are an adrenaline junkie, try the highest swing at Alas Harum – the Super Extreme Swing.
Cultural Bali
Take a local cooking class
When it comes to cultural experiences to immerse in Bali, there are many rewarding ones. We can start by taking a Balinese cooking class. Many of these classes begin with visiting the local market and getting familiar with Balinese herbs, spices, and traditional foods. You learn about harvesting as well as how locals live by learning to prepare traditional Balinese meals and natural medicines.
Participate in a holy cleansing ritual
As Bali is a highly spiritual place, what you should participate in is a holy purification ritual. Bali is primarily influenced by Hinduism, making it the dominant religion on the island. The sacred purification ceremony holds great importance in Balinese Hindu culture. The water temples serve as a place for locals to undergo ritual bathing, aiming to purify themselves. The holy springs possess magical properties, and those who partake in the bathing ritual are believed to experience purification.
Visit the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
Standing at a height of 122 meters, the Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue ranks as the third largest in the world. This magnificent sculpture depicts the Hindu deity Wisnu seated atop Garuda, a mythical bird creature. You can learn about Balinese heritage, myths, and legends by visiting this cultural park. Other statues, restaurants, exhibitions, and gift shops exist besides the central Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue.
Find Candi Gunung Kawi – Bali’s hidden gem
Candi Gunung Kawi is a combination of ancient shrines encircled by water fountains deep in the forest of Bali. It is Bali’s hidden gem. Carved into the cliff face are ten funeral shrines, each measuring seven meters in height, making this site one of the oldest and most ancient landmarks in Bali. For local people, it is a precious and sacred place.
Relaxing Bali
Take a dip in hot natural springs
When you visit Bali, you must also try out relaxing experiences, as Bali is famous for them. One of them includes taking a dip in Angseri Natural Hot Springs. The hot springs present visitors with a selection of ten pools to opt for, comprising a spacious public pool and nine private natural springs.
Pamper yourself with a luxury spa treatment & flower bath
And lastly, before you leave Bali, make sure that you pamper yourself with a luxury spa treatment and a flower bath.
Bali offers so many exciting things to experience and see – try to make the best out of your holiday!
