The 6 Best Things to do in Bali for the First Visit

In this article we will tell you what is the best time to visit Bali and what to see there. You will learn about the most interesting places on the island — what you can do there and what you can try. This information will help you plan your trip to get the most out of it.

What to do and see in Bali

The island of Bali attracts tourists and freelancers with its huge variety of amazing places and the opportunity to immerse yourself into the aura of Balinese culture. Here are some of the most popular locations to visit:

• Batur Volcano.
• Tirthaganga Water Palace.
• Lake Bratan and Pura Ulun Danu Temple.
• Monkey Forest in Ubud.
• Taman Ujung Water Palace.
• Jatiluwih Rice Terraces.

Let's take a closer look at the peculiarities of these places and what you can do there.

1. Volcano Batur

Batur is an active volcano of 1717 meters high and its basin depth is more than 14 km. A slow ascent with rest stops will take 1.5-2 hours.

The volcano erupts in some of its craters, so sometimes you can see smoke and lava. In one of the craters is the largest lake on the island, its depth does not change even during the rainy season. The lake in the crater creates a unique landscape, especially when the lava reaches its banks.

At the top there is a viewing platform with cafes and restaurants. There are also thermal springs around Batur, where you can relax after a hard climb.

2. Tirthaganga Water Palace

One of the must-see things in Bali is the eastern part of the island, which is considered the most scenic. The legendary water palace is located there, attracting tourists with its exquisite architecture and the atmosphere of tranquility.

Tirthaganga is a cultural and historical place, the residence of Raja Karangasem, founded in 1942. The water is considered sacred in this area, so the locals use it in religious rituals and ceremonies.

Here you can enjoy the view of lakes, springs, fountains, swim in pools and view dozens of different sculptures. Don't forget to buy fish food to feed golden carps that inhabit the ponds of Tirthaganga.

To stay connected during your trip, we recommend preparing for your trip to Bali in advance and find the best mobile Internet connection options.

Read also: Prepaid SIM Cards in Indonesia: Best Connectivity Options

3. Lake Bratan and Pura Ulun Danu Temple

One of the best things to see in Bali during your first visit is Lake Bratan. It is another balneological pearl of Bali, surrounded by green rice fields and rainforests. The lake is located in a caldera about 1200 meters above the sea level. It is famous for its crystal clear water, which is considered sacred and is used to irrigate crops and rice fields. This irrigation system is part of Indonesia's World Heritage Site and was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status.

Ulun Danu Temple is the main Balinese water temple with unique architecture. The complex of structures that seem to grow out of the water dates back to the 17th century. You can take stunning pictures here.

4. Monkey Forest in Ubud

If you are interested to know what to see in Bali near Ubud, you should visit the Monkey Forest. It is a tropical forest with 186 species of exotic plants and trees. More than a thousand Balinese long-tailed monkeys live here. They go about their daily routine : playing, washing, raising their baby-monkeys, communicating in their own language and sleeping right on the walls of the local temple. The animals are used to tourists, so you can see them close enough and even feed them. The main thing is to keep an eye on your belongings and don't take anything shiny things for a walk — monkeys can steal something. There is a luggage room in front of the park entrance.

There are also several temples and ancient statues covered with dense foliage. The barely penetrating sunlight gives them a mysterious ancient look.

5. Taman Ujung Water Palace

This unique architectural complex of over 10 hectares is also in our ranking of what to do in Bali. It was founded in 1909 as a place for rest for the royal family and reception of foreign guests.

The complex is divided into three levels. The first level has pools with golden carp, as well as many sculptures and a 12-tier lotus-shaped fountain. The second level has pools where you can swim. The third level has guest bungalows and a restaurant. There are many paths, bridges and pavilions. And if you can climb the high stairs, you can admire the palace from above. Also the territory of the palace is used for wedding ceremonies and photo shoots.

And if you are eager to share photos on social networks directly from Taman Ujung, install Yesim app on your smartphone and connect to high-quality high-speed internet.

6. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

The Rice Terraces are one of must-see things in Bali for everyone who appreciates the unique creations of human hands. The 303 hectares of emerald green plantations are located 850 meters above the sea level at the foot of Mount Batukaru. To get there, you can book a tour, or you can drive by car or bike. The place is unique not only for the beauty of its natural landscape, but also for its special irrigation system. The island has its own system of irrigation of rice fields, which has been in use since the 11th century. The terraces are recognized as a UNESCO Heritage.

If you decide to stay there for a few days, there are several comfortable hotels nearby. There are also many restaurants, where you can try dishes with local rice and enjoy the views of the undulating green steps.

Read also: How to plan а Trip: 8 Steps

When is the best time to visit Bali

You don't have to puzzle your brain over the question of when is the best time to go to Bali. You can visit the island at any time of the year, depending on your preferences. Bali is close to the equator, so summer and tourist season is all year round. Sunrise is around 6am and sunset is around 6pm. The temperature of water and air is +27..+30℃. But keep in mind that from November to March is the heavy rain season, although it is milder and more pleasant compared to other southeast Asian countries.

The weather is hot and humid, rainfalls are brief, and then the sun comes out and dries up everything in a moment. The advantage of the "winter" season is a smaller influx of tourists. Therefore, if you prefer peace and quiet, this is a favorable time for a vacation. It will be easier to find accommodation or rent a bike, the streets will be less crowded, and near the sights you will not need to wait in line to take a photo.

If you prefer outdoor activities and clear skies, visit the island between April and October. This is the most comfortable time for a beach vacation.

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Frequently asked questions about what to see in Bali

What to do in Bali when it rains?

During rainy days in Bali, you can enjoy local cuisine in cozy cafes, attend cooking classes, go to a museum or try traditional Balinese treatments in spas.

What should tourists not do in Bali?

There are many non-standard prohibitions on the island, for example, you can not climb trees, use disposable plastic, give and take something with your left hand, touch someone's head, point at something with your foot. It is also forbidden to enter holy places, to profane temples and touch baskets of offerings to the gods.