Bali Holidays

Dating back to the 9th century, Goa Gajah reveals Bali’s early Hindu and Buddhist influences through its ancient carvings, meditation caves and stone bathing pools. Walking through the cave entrance and exploring the surrounding gardens feels like uncovering a quieter side of Bali’s past.

Carved into the cliffs beside the Pakerisan River, Gunung Kawi’s 11th-century shrines are among Bali’s most remarkable archaeological sites. Surrounded by rice fields and jungle, the walk down reveals ancient stone monuments linked to Balinese royalty and a quieter side of the island’s history.

Built around a sacred spring in the 10th century, Tirta Empul remains one of Bali’s most important Hindu temples. Visitors can witness traditional purification rituals, where locals bathe in its holy waters, offering a glimpse into beliefs that have shaped Balinese life for centuries.

Located in Denpasar, Bali Museum offers a deeper look at the island’s history through ancient artefacts, traditional clothing, royal collections and historic architecture. Officially inaugurated in 1932, it helps travellers understand how Bali’s art, religion and customs have evolved over generations.

Standing in Denpasar, the Puputan Badung Monument remembers the 1906 resistance against Dutch colonial forces. The monument tells the story of Balinese rulers and soldiers who chose a final stand rather than surrender, marking a significant chapter in the island’s modern history.

Built in 1634 as the royal temple of the Mengwi Kingdom, Taman Ayun reflects the close connection between Balinese rulers and Hindu traditions. Surrounded by gardens and a wide moat, its architecture offers a glimpse into Bali’s royal past.

Rising 1,717 metres above sea level, Mount Batur is one of Bali’s most popular sunrise hikes. The climb begins before dawn, with the reward being views across Lake Batur, the surrounding caldera and Mount Agung in the distance. 

Flowing through Bali’s lush interior, the Ayung River is the island’s most popular rafting route. The 12-kilometre journey takes you past forested valleys, waterfalls and carved stone walls, with gentle rapids making it suitable for beginners and families.

Perched on Bali’s southern cliffs, Uluwatu is one of Indonesia’s most famous surf spots, known for powerful waves and dramatic ocean views. Experienced surfers come for its reef breaks, while nearby beaches offer gentler conditions for beginners learning the sport.

The waters around Nusa Penida are among Bali’s best for marine life, with opportunities to spot manta rays, colourful reefs and, at certain times of year, ocean sunfish. Crystal-clear waters and dramatic underwater landscapes make it a favourite for divers and snorkellers.

Ubud’s ATV trails take you beyond the usual tourist routes, passing through rice fields, jungle paths, rivers and traditional villages. The muddy tracks and changing terrain make it a fun way to explore Bali’s quieter countryside.

North Bali’s waterfalls provide the setting for canyoning adventures, where travellers trek through river valleys, climb rocks, slide down natural chutes and abseil beside cascades. Areas such as Gitgit and Sambangan are known for their scenic canyon routes.

Held annually between June and July in Denpasar, the Bali Arts Festival celebrates the island’s creative traditions through music, dance, theatre and handcrafted art. Performers from across Bali come together, making it one of the best times to experience local culture in one place.

Celebrated every 210 days according to the Balinese calendar, Galungan and Kuningan mark the victory of good over evil. Bamboo penjor line village streets, families gather at temples, and the island takes on a festive atmosphere rooted in Balinese Hindu traditions.

Held each October, the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival brings together authors, journalists and artists around the world. Alongside book discussions, visitors can enjoy cultural performances, workshops and conversations that explore literature, creativity and contemporary issues.

Usually held in Ubud, the Bali Spirit Festival combines yoga, live music, wellness workshops and cultural performances. It attracts visitors from around the world while celebrating Bali’s long-standing connection with spirituality, movement and community.

Usually held in October, Nusa Dua Fiesta brings together cultural performances, live music, food stalls and local craft exhibitions along Bali’s southern coast. It offers visitors the chance to experience traditional arts alongside family-friendly entertainment in a relaxed seaside setting.

Held in Jembrana, West Bali, Makepung began as a friendly competition between local farmers after the harvest. Today, brightly decorated buffaloes race across specially prepared tracks, keeping one of Bali’s oldest rural traditions alive while drawing spectators from across the island.

As the sun goes down, Seminyak comes alive with rooftop bars, beachfront lounges and live music venues. Whether you prefer sunset cocktails or late-night DJs, it is one of the island’s most popular places to enjoy an evening by the coast.

Beach clubs have become part of Bali’s laid-back lifestyle, especially along Seminyak, Canggu and Uluwatu. Spend the afternoon by an infinity pool, enjoy live music or watch the sunset with ocean views before the evening crowd arrives.

In the heart of Ubud, this bustling market is a great place to browse handcrafted souvenirs, woven bags, wood carvings and locally made jewellery. Arriving early gives you the best chance to explore before the busiest crowds and afternoon heat.

Performed in Nusa Dua, the Devdan Show combines contemporary theatre with traditional Indonesian dance, aerial acrobatics and special effects. The performance takes audiences on a journey across the archipelago, making it an entertaining evening beyond Bali’s beaches.

As evening approaches, seafood restaurants along Jimbaran Bay set tables directly on the sand. Freshly grilled fish, gentle waves and sunset views create a relaxed dining experience that has become one of Bali’s favourite ways to end the day.

Located in Kuta, Waterbom Bali is one of Kuta’s most popular water parks, with slides ranging from family-friendly rides to high-speed drops. Tropical gardens and shaded pools make it just as enjoyable for visitors looking to relax between adventures.

Performed as the sun sets over Bali’s southern cliffs, the Kecak dance brings scenes from the Ramayana to life through chanting, movement and storytelling. Unlike traditional gamelan performances, it uses a chorus of voices instead of musical instruments.

Observed every year on the Balinese New Year, Nyepi brings the entire island to a standstill for 24 hours. Streets empty, flights stop and locals spend the day in silence, fasting and reflection as part of a spiritual cleansing tradition.

Around 80% of Bali’s population follows Hinduism, shaping everything from daily offerings and ceremonies to temple rituals. Small shrines, flower offerings and community prayers are part of everyday life, giving travellers a glimpse into the island’s spiritual traditions.

Ubud has long been considered Bali’s artistic heart, where generations of families continue traditions in painting, wood carving, dance and crafts. Exploring its galleries and workshops offers a closer look at the skills that have shaped Balinese creativity for centuries.

Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage tradition, Bali’s subak system has connected rice farming, community cooperation and Hindu beliefs for over a thousand years. The network of canals and terraces reflects how agriculture and spirituality have grown together on the island.

Known for preserving traditional Balinese architecture and community customs, Penglipuran offers a look at village life beyond Bali’s busy tourist areas. Its carefully maintained homes, bamboo forests and shared traditions show how local communities continue to protect their heritage.