Things to do in Bali

You can do as little or as much as you like in Bali, and therein lies its charm. Apart from the countless beaches and famous nightlife, Bali woos travellers with its abundance of water sports, hiking trails, waterfalls and ancient temples. This is also a destination known for its culture, arts and shopping, with plenty of opportunity to pick up some local handicrafts. Of all the things to do in Bali, make sure you also make time for a little pampering — the spas here are something else.

Snorkelling at Blue Lagoon

Snorkelling in Bali is essential for your to-do list. There are countless underwater wonderlands to experience and explore. The region is at the heart of the world-renowned coral triangle, with coral gardens, colourful reefs, and exotic marine life just some of the delights to enjoy. Best of all, these reefs are often easily accessible from the shore.

A snorkeller enjoys the underwater wonders at the Blue Lagoon, Bali, Indonesia.

Hiking Bali

Whether you seek to explore volcanic mountains, verdant rice fields or the lush green rainforests and waterfalls, Bali hiking offers the opportunity to experience nature at its finest in your own time, at your own pace. Prime destinations include Mt Agung, Mt Batur, West Bali National Park, Danau Bratan with its nearby lakes, and Monduk.

Mount Batur, Bali, is a drawcard for anyone who loves hiking.

Bali Spas

Bali spas are famous the world over for their therapeutic, spiritual and relaxation credentials. There's no shortage of venues to truly soothe the soul. From upmarket resort spas to day spas and pampering retreats, spas are accessible no matter your locale. They cater equally to a quick rub down or an indulgent day spent languishing in calm surrounds.

Bali does the infinity pool incredibly well, and you'll find one at most luxury resorts and spas.

Bali Bike Tours

From the adrenaline of mountain biking to a relaxed cycle taking in the sights, a Bali bike tour is the opportunity to experience the island in a unique and personal way. Cycling and mountain biking are an industry in themselves with a host of guided tours available to give you insider access to the best trails the island has to offer.

Guided bike tours in Bali are a great way to see the island.

Yoga in Bali

With its deep spirituality, connection to nature, and Hindu culture, Bali is widely regarded as the world's premier destination for yoga and meditation retreats. If you're looking to experience the health and relaxation benefits of yoga then there are options for beginners and experienced yoga practitioners alike, ranging from day classes to week-long retreats.

Regardless of your ability, Bali is an ideal destination for immersing yourself in the practice of yoga.

Uluwatu Temple

Perched high over the Indian Ocean on a clifftop some 70m above the sea, Uluwatu is perhaps the most recognisable of all Bali temples. One of six key temples believed to be the pillars of Balinese spirituality, Uluwatu Temple features ornate architecture and a clifftop walk. This is the ideal location for a spectacular sunset in stunning surrounds. You can approach the site through a forest where monkeys mischievously interact with guests.

Uluwatu temple, on a Bali clifftop, is one of the island's landmarks.

Tanah Lot Temple

Set on a rocky outcrop amid crashing waves, the Tanah Lot temple is an ancient Hindu shrine located 20km to the northwest of Kuta. This striking location is believed to date back to the 16th century and is one of seven sea temples punctuating the Balinese coast. It offers a prime position for enjoying a sunset, with shops and restaurants in the vicinity.

Sunset is the perfect time to visit Tanah Lot temple, Bali.

Ubud Art Market

Ubud is renowned for its art and craft offerings, making Ubud Art Market the ideal venue to pick up unique Bali handicrafts. A bargain hunter's paradise, you can discover traditional souvenirs and intricate pieces handcrafted by the local Balinese. The art market is located at the centre of Ubud near the royal palace.

Balinese masks are a popular souvenir.

Sacred Monkey Forest of Padangtegal

Stroll beneath towering nutmeg trees, amid ancient temples and garden statues as you watch the macaque monkeys at play in this shady protected habitat. The Sacred Monkey Forest of Padangtegal, also known as Ubud monkey forest, is located within an easy stroll of Ubud town centre. This is one of the region's most famous attractions.

Balinese Long-Tailed Monkey at Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal.

Bedugul-Munduk

Featuring a spectacular landscape, Bedugul-Munduk is renowned for its customs, culture, and glorious gardens. This is a place to leisurely indulge in the natural beauty of Bali. The region boasts some of the island's most picturesque scenery including mist-covered mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and ancient temples. Attractions include the Bali Botanical Gardens, Candi Kuning Market, and the Ulun Danu Bratan temple.

Ulun Danu BeratanTemple is a major Hindu Shaivite water temple located on Lake Beratan, Bali, Indonesia.

Besakih Temple

This most holy, important and vast spiritual destination comprises 23 separate but interconnected temples perched 1,000m high on the side of Bali's largest volcano, Mt Agung. Not only is the temple itself a spectacular landmark, but the scenery that surrounds it is equally enchanting. Catch your breath while taking in a vista of rice paddies, mountains, and streams from the sanctuary of a temple that holds supreme significance to the people of Bali.

Besakih Temple is known as the Mother Temple of Bali.