With its mystical volcanoes and wild jungles, postcard-perfect rice paddies, and spectacular coral reefs, Bali is sure to get under your skin and haunt you long after you’ve left. Although famed for its world-class surfing and diving, the island’s real charm lies far beyond its sun-kissed beaches, in the unique and gorgeous spiritual culture and the people who define it. From diving with Manta Rays to exploring the island’s most awe-inspiring rice terraces, these are the experiences that will transform your Bali escape into the trip of a lifetime.
Soak Up the Art in Ubud
Teeming with artists’ workshops and galleries, beautiful temples, historical sites, and traditional dancing shows, Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali. The town, situated in the center of the island, is surrounded by a number of wonderful artisan villages, each with its own specialty craft. Start your art discovery with a visit to the Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung) in the middle of town.
This wonderful historical building complex serves as the official residence of the royal family, but it’s also a great place to admire Balinese architecture and watch a traditional Barong dance performance. To learn about the development of painting in Bali, head to Neka Art Museum, one of the island’s most remarkable galleries. On display are more than 400 works of art, ranging from ancient wayang paintings and historic black-and-white photographs of Bali to contemporary Indonesian art.
Explore the Stunning Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
When in Bali, you will find no better place to escape the crowds and noise of everyday life and reconnect with nature than the marvelous Jatiluwih rice terraces. Located in central Bali, 7000 meters above sea level, these UNESCO-protected fields in the shadow of Mount Batukaru make up one of the island’s most stunning landscapes. Moreover, a day trip here will give you a true taste of rural Bali and a unique insight into the island’s agricultural life.
There are lots of authentic little villages to explore in the area, as well as great restaurants serving genuine local food along with peaceful views of the emerald green paddies. To visit the Jatiluwih rice terraces, you can either hire a driver or opt for a full-day excursion organized by one of the local tour operators.
Dive with Manta Rays on Nearby Nusa Penida Island
A little developed island off the southeastern coast of Bali, Nusa Penida is one of the region’s best diving destinations. The surrounding crystalline waters are teeming with exotic marine life, and there are plenty of dive centers and shops along its coasts. Among the most notable diving sites on Nusa Penida island are the stunning coral-filled Crystal Bay, famed for its rare oceanic sunfish (Mola Mola), and Manta Point, where Manta Rays can be spotted all year round.
Marvel at the Tanah Lot Temple
Built in the 16th century to honor Baruna, the Hindu God of the Sea, Pura Tanah Lot is the most photographed of the seven ocean temples lining the southwest coast of Bali, and rightly so. The venerated structure sits on top of a massive rock formation in the middle of the sea, and can only be accessed at low tide. Foreign tourists are not allowed to enter the shrine, but the mesmerizing sunset backdrops and fantastic photo opportunities are worth the trip alone.
The adjacent beach is brimming with souvenir shops, while the restaurants perched on the clifftop above offer excellent views of the shrine. Tanah Lot Temple is only 30 minutes by car from Ubud and less than an hour’s drive from Kuta and Seminyak.
Spend an Eco-Nature Stay at Nandini Bali Jungle Resort & Spa
The Nandini Bali Jungle Resort & Spa is a dreamy destination located on the slopes of the Ayung River Valley in Indonesia’s most famously tranquil region. This opulent resort simply presents Balinese village which is constructed with finest materials on raw nature of forest where descending forested river gorge beneath. Concealing an oasis of luxury and serenity, these five star villas are nestled in natural terraced landscaped connected with winding paths and exclusive monorail. Located amid the raw nature of forest, rice terraces and banana clusters, perched in the hillside of Ubud above of the river flowing serenely, you can enjoy this paradise however you want to. Relax with a book amid palm trees and frangipanis, do some laps in the hillside swimming pool or soothe yourself in an outdoor Jacuzzi. You can also take full advantage of the resort’s restaurant and Spa with tempting massage pavilions.
Amidst in the valley, 18 traditionally built alang-alang roofed villas are melted on a slope, allowing each stay in an experience of luxury, exclusivity and sophistication. All rooms of Nandini Bali Jungle Resort & Spa are designed with the traditional Balinese influence, with thatched-roof buildings using local materials and build by local architects. Walls are built of local Bamboo and wood. Fully consideration to each detail was taken to highlight the creativity and quality of craftsmanship that reflects the natural design. The bathrooms have the amazing views of the jungle. Whether you are resting in your bed, sitting on your balcony, relaxing in the bath or enjoying the shower, you will enjoy the unspoiled views. Enjoy the culinary experiences created by combining the finest local produce with the skills and expertise of their chefs to provide and tempt you with the aromas, tastes and sensations of fine dining at its very best and a private cocktail party with friends or a romantic dinner for two on the deck of the exclusive outdoor Jacuzzi is can be arranged easily. The chefs use fresh local organic produce in their recipes, much of which is grown and harvested from the resort’s own gardens.
There’s an infinity swimming pool excavated from the hillside and elevated 15 meters above the descending forested river beneath. It is an heaven where to relax after a day in excursion or just to take your time during your relaxing stay. At Sungai Spa is available a selection of healing and soothing treatments, massages and Spa treatments to enhance your well-being and bring refreshment into your body and mind. Have the luxuriate in nature and pamper yourself to refresh the body and soul from the daily routines. An early morning massage in Sungai Spa, not only relaxing you with the exotic Balinese techniques but soothing with the natural breeze of the surrounding rain forest and enjoy the sound of running water the cascades below. Indulge in nature, while you pamper yourself and remove the stress of everyday life. Nandini Bali Jungle Resort & Spa is set deep within a beautiful jungle, with stunning views across the valley and offers a truly luxurious experience in a pure and natural environment.
Shop in Seminyak
Situated at the southern end of Bali, Seminyak is the island’s most fashionable beach resort area, a treasure trove of hip restaurants, fascinating spas, and world-class hotels. This trendy enclave is also a shopping haven for designer fashion wear, custom-made furniture, and exquisite jewelry. Lined with famous designer names and funky little boutiques, Jalan Raya Seminyak and Jalan Laksmana are Bali’s best shopping streets, while Jalan Mertanadi, also known as Jail House Road, is a hotspot for furniture and homewares.
