Highlights
Temples and Monuments
A predominantly Hindu nation, Bali houses an utterly staggering estimated 10,000 temples, each with their own unique design and intricate detail, alongside a number of significant religious monuments. Visit the important Pura Luhur Ulu Watu temple, perched atop sheer cliffs, and marvel at the statues of Ganesha and the detailed carvings of Bali’s mythological menagerie. The serene Pura Taman Ayun is an extensive royal water temple, the main one of the Mengwi kingdom, whilst Gungung Kawi is one of Bali’s oldest and largest ancient monuments, comprising ten striking memorials cut out of the rockface.
Ubud
Geographically and figuratively the heart of the island, Ubud is an enchanting upland town that showcases the very best of true and authentic Bali, surrounded by beautiful rice fields and ancient monuments. Boasting countless informative museums and galleries – including Neka Art Museum, tracking the development of painting in Bali, and Museum Puri Lukisan, displaying fine examples of all schools of Balinese art – a trip to Ubud is synonymous with discovery. Beyond the cultural experience and many temples, Ubud houses a fine selection of lovely restaurants, cafes and streets of shops, many of which sell authentic quality products from the region's artisans.
Beaches
A tropical island paradise in the shimmering Indian Ocean, Bali’s beaches are utterly stunning – characterised by powder-soft white sand and crystal-clear, turquoise-coloured waters – offering something for everyone. Surfers travel from all over the globe to embrace the rougher waters of the south coast, whilst there are plenty of coves that are perfect for swimming, snorkelling and watersports. If you love to explore, there is an abundance of beautiful hidden beaches to be discovered, whilst romantics will simply adore the island’s mesmerising sunsets over the soft sands.
Wildlife Encounters
Whilst the Balinese people are a highlight of any visit, the island’s animals are also bound to charm you. Wander through the dense jungle that houses the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, inhibited by over 600 crab-eating Macaques – known locally as the Balinese Long-tailed Monkey. Observe the daily activities of these fascinating creatures, listening closely to park staff’s safety instructions, as well as encountering the forest’s native Timor Rusa Deer. For marine wildlife, Bali offers some of the best diving in the Indian Ocean, allowing you to spot multi-coloured clouds of various tropical fish, alongside Manta Rays, octopus, Reef Sharks and much more!
Cultural Highlights
Immerse yourself in the friendly, fascinating and famed culture of laid-back Bali. Encounter the glorious people of the region at one of the sprawling, vibrant markets, or marvel at the traditional Balinese dance performances that are held almost nightly at Ubud Palace, against a beautiful backdrop. Visit the 14th century historic site, Yeh Pulu, an intricately carved cliff face set amid beautiful rice terrace vistas, reached by a lush, tropical walk. Alternatively, take a trip to Mas, a traditional village whose principle craft is woodcarving, the traditional art of the priestly Brahmana caste, and believed to be a gift from the gods.