Must visit places in Bali

Bali is a versatile island; it has everything and for everyone. Is rich in culture, nature and history. There is so much to do and see on this island. But where do you start? Here you can find 12 must visit places in Bali in the field of nature, culture and history. 

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Must visit places in Bali

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Bali is a versatile island because of the beautiful beaches in the south with its vibrant surf culture, the beautiful rice fields in the center, the unspoiled black sand beaches of the north and of course Bali’s characteristic culture with unique temples and the hospitable population. This guide will help you find the must visit places in Bali.

Tanah Lot temple

The first sight on the list of must visit places in Bali is the Tanah Lot Temple. The Tanah Lot Temple is a must-see for anyone vacationing in Bali. Tanah Lot, which means “Land in the Sea” in Balinese, is the most visited tourist attraction in Bali.

This popular religious monument is built on a giant rock in the ocean about 300 meters from the coast and is the most famous and, without a doubt, the most photographed Hindu temple in Bali. Hinduism is the religion in Bali that most people believe in. That is why there are so many Hindu temples in Bali.

When the tide is low, you are able to walk to the temple. It is very crowded during sunset, because of the beautiful view. So, the Tanah Lot temple is definitely something that you should not miss during your trip in Bali. For more information about the temple read the blog ‘Bali’s best temples‘.

💡 BOOK THIS TOUR WITH US 👉🏼 TRADITIONAL BALINESA LIFE AND TANAH LOT TEMPLE

Tukad Cepung Waterfall

I think the Tukad Cepung waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali. Its most attractive feature is the sun rays that seep into the canyon, creating a beautiful environment. That is why the Tukad Cepung waterfall is one of the most photogenetic waterfalls in Bali. When the sunlight falls on the waterfall you can see a rainbow.

The waterfall is located in the eastern part of Bali in Jalan Tembuku, a 45-50 minutes’ drive from Ubud. The best time to visit the waterfall is early in the morning at sunrise. As it is still very quiet, ideal for taking all of your pictures. At 10 am the waterfall is at its best. That is the time that the sun rays seep into the canyon. Don’t go in the rainy season as the water in the cliff will build up making it very deep. For more information about this beautiful waterfall, read ‘The Best Waterfalls In Bali‘.

Tegallalang and Jatiluwih rice terrace

When travelling in Bali, the beautiful rice fields are a must see. Tegallalang rice fields and Jatiluwih rice terrace are the most beautiful and well-known on the island that I have seen. That is why the Tegallalang and Jatiluwih rice terrace are on the list of must visit places in Bali. The Tegallalang rice fields are known for the beautiful scenes and innovative irrigation system. The Tegallalang rice fields are located in Tegallalang, nearby Ubud.

The Jatiluwih rice terrace is the largest in Bali and covers 600 hectares of rice fields. The Jatiluwih terrace is located in the village of Jatiluwih. They have both been listed in UNESCO World Heritage site and are perfect for the most beautiful pictures. The best time to visit the rice fields is in the months March, April, September and October. The fields are then at their greenest because the rice is then ready to be harvested. In the other dry months, the rice fields are a bit more yellow but still beautiful. And in the rainy months, the fields are beautiful but you can expect a lot of rain. You can visit the rice fields best in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.

Uluwatu Temple

The Uluwatu temple is one of the most beautiful temples in Bali. It is located at the edge of a cliff facing the ocean. There is a forest around the temple where monkeys live. It is believed that the monkeys are the guardians of the temple. Store all your stuff in your bag when visiting the temple since the monkeys take everything away. Especially at night you can see the monkeys walking everywhere.

The 1000-year-old temple is in Pecatu, south Kuta. The temple is known for their beautiful sunset and the ‘Kecak’ fire dance. For the Kecak fire dance, you need to buy a ticket. It is definitely worth to watch the dance. It is a traditional dance and impressive to watch. The Uluwatu temple is one of the six Sad Kahyangan Temples. These temples are the spiritual pillars of the island. So, plan a trip to the Uluwatu temple when visiting Bali and enjoy the sunset, Kecak dance and the monkeys! Read Bali’s best temples, for more information about the Uluwatu Temple.

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Tegenungan waterfall

When thinking of Ubud, the beautiful rice fields and waterfalls come to mind. Of all the surrounding waterfalls, Tegenungan Waterfall is a great choice as it is a beautiful spot not far from the city center. The Tegenungan Waterfall is locally known as the Air Terjun Tegenungan.

The waterfall is located on a family friendly location and is easy to reach. It is a short walk to the waterfall over a staircase. Along the way there are several places where you can take pictures. You can swim by the waterfall and eat in one of the restaurants. You can also spend the day at the Omma beach club that overlooks the waterfall. It is a very popular waterfall that is definitely worth visiting during a stay on the island and is therefore on the list of must visit places in Bali. For more information about the Tegenungan Waterfall, read ‘The Best Waterfalls In Bali’.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

The Ulun Danu Bratan is located on the western shore of Lake Bratan in the mountains near Bedugul and is one of the most photographed temples in Bali. 

The temple is located in the middle of Lake Bratan surrounded by mountains; this gives a magical view. When mist rises from the mountain in the early morning or late afternoon, an optical effect makes the temple appear as if it is floating on water. Therefore, the temple is also called ‘the floating temple’. The temple is built in 1633 and dedicated to the goddess of Lake, Ida Batara Dewi Ulun Danu in Balinese. The best time to visit the Ulun Danu temple is during the rainy season. The water is then high enough to make it look like the temple is floating. It is also possible to admire the temples from a boat that sails on Lake Bratan. This is a fun way to see the beauty of the temple. For more information, read Bali’s best temples.

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Pure Tirta Empul Temple

The Tirta Empul Holy Water Temple is in the village of Manukaya, not far from Ubud. For over a thousand years, Balinese Hindu worshipers have been attracted to Pura Tirta Empul, whose sacred sources are said to have been created by the god Indra and possess healing properties. This tradition still continues almost unchanged, and today, tourists from all over the world come to this place to marvel at its beauty and bathe in its refreshing holy waters. It is a very special experience, that I definitely recommend. For more information about this unique experience, read Bali’s best temples.

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Pure Besakih Temple

Another sight on the list of must visit places in Bali is the Besakih Temple. The Besakih temple is known as Bali’s ‘Mother Temple’. The local population calls the temple Pura Besakih (Pura means Temple). It is the largest and holiest Hindu temple in Bali with 86 clan temples and shrines. The most important temple is the Pura Penataran Agung.

I love the beautiful view on the top of the temple because the temple is located in the middle of rice fields, hills, and streams high on the biggest mountain in Bali, mount Agung. The temple is visited a lot by tourists. To avoid the crowds, the best time to visit the temple is early in the morning or in the late afternoon. The Besakih temple is located in east Bali on the foot of Mount Agung and definitely worth a visit! For more information about the Besakih temple, read Bali’s best temples.

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Lempuyang Temple

The Temple Pura Lempuyang is considered as one of the holiest temples on the island. That is why I think this temple cannot be missing from the list of the best temples in Bali. It is not only a sacred destination for Balinese Hindus, but it is also the place where you will find amazing views above the clouds, as this temple is located more than 1500 steps high.

The gates of the temples are known as “The Gates of Heaven”, the view from Pura Lempuyang is truly spectacular. It is better to visit the temple on a clear day, as the majestic peak of Mount Agung is perfectly framed by the gates of the temples. Many people visit this temple to take the picture as the one above. Unfortunately, it is a photo trick. The water effect is created by a lens that is placed under the camera. So please don’t be disappointed that there is no water surface but a waiting line to take the picture. For more information about the temples in Bali, go to Bali’s best temples.

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Bingin and Jimbaran beach

Of course, there are a lot of beautiful beaches in Bali. But beaches that are definitely worth a visit are Bingin beach in Uluwatu and Jimbaran beach in South-Kuta. Jimbaran beach is very much loved by tourists. The waves are not too high so perfect for beginning surfers and to swim. In the evening it remains busy on the beach because many people watch the sunset and eat in one of the many restaurants after. I recommend the delicious fresh seafood in Jimbaran in the seafood restaurants.

In Bingin beach are the perfect waves for surfers. The waves are called “Bingin surf break”. That is why this beach is well-known for surfers all around the world. Even if you don’t go surfing, the beach is worth a visit. There are plenty of places to eat and there is a relaxed atmosphere.

Badung traditional market

The Badung market is the largest traditional market in Bali. With his four floors, you can stroll around for hours. It doesn’t matter if you want food, souvenirs, or clothes, it’s all there. On February 26^th, 2016, the market totally burnt out, after that, the market has been rebuilt and modernized. So, if you like to shop the Badung market is the ideal place for everything you need. Close by the Badung market you can find the Bajra Sandhi Monument. This is a historical monument in honor of the oppressions that the local population had during the colonization of the Dutch.

Sunset Seminyak

The last sight on the list of must visit places in Bali are the sunsets in Seminyak. The sunsets in Seminyak are absolutely breath-taking. When visiting the west coast of Bali, take a moment to just relax and enjoy the beautiful sunset at the beach in Seminyak. There are a lot of spots in Seminyak where you can find the most beautiful sunsets. For example, La Plancha. Here you can watch the sunset in colorful beanbags with live music and good food. Also at the beach clubs, you can find beautiful sunsets. While watching the sunset you can feel the pleasant, relaxed atmosphere.