Bali's popularity has skyrocketed over the years. It's not only the perfect tropical getaway, but a compelling cultural escapade as well. Balinese architecture, tropical beaches, lush vegetations and rice fields, mystical volcanoes... the list goes on and on.. so really, what's not to like?
On the other hand, because of its major tourist pull revisiting wasn't really an enticing prospect for me with the apprehension of congestion. That misgiving wasn't totally unfounded as crowd is indeed evident in the streets of Bali and to some specific places. But much to my delight, I still find moments of solitude & isolation even in the most popular places (proof of that are my photos that you will see here, where nobody is edited out or erased).
Enumerated below are my favourite picturesque spots in Bali:
Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Address: Jl. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561
Coordinates: Latitude: 8° 25’ 57.684” S
Longitude: 115° 16’ 44.598” E
Bali is home to several rice terraces, but Tegallalang is by far the most popular. The scenic emerald rice paddies is perfect for that IG photo everyone desires. Aesthetically pleasing in every way, it's no wonder it's a favorite among photographers and instagrammers. Having said that, do expect influx of people. As a matter of fact, there are already early birds when we got there before sunrise. I could just imagine how crowded it gets much later on during the day. So come early, not only to avoid the crowd but the hot weather as well.
Do hike down. The further from the entrance, the less people. This is one way you can have a spot to yourself, and have your sweet time taking photos to your hearts content. Also, to put your mind at ease, this is comparatively easy to hike, just be mindful of your steps, so you don't get submerged in the mud.
Note:
There is no public transportation going here. About 20 minutes drive away from the centre of Ubud. You can either take a cab or rent a car or scooter.
Bring cash with you for the entrance fee (20000 Rp) & parking fee (5000 IDR).
Make sure you have change or small notes with you for donations & tips for farmers you might want to take photos with.
Officially open from 7:00 am - 6:00, we came before it opened and our driver showed us the way to enter.
Apart from the rice paddies there are other photo spots ('I love Bali' sign, swings, nest).
Bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat especially if your going midday.
Dtukad River Club Bali
Address: Desa Wisata Blangsinga, Saba Kec
Blahbatuh, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80581
Coordinates: Latitude: 8° 34’ 31.764” S
Longitude: 115° 17’ 27.09” E
D'tukad prides itself as the only river club in Bali which is a great alternative to the often crowded beach club. Situated in the midst of a jungle, this resort has a bit of everything that you see in that Bali IG feed. It has a pool, jungle rope swing, themed photo spots, rainforest, all incorporated in one place. Be warn though, if you are seeking serenity and solitude this might not be the place for you because of the blaring music all day long, otherwise, it's an awesome place to hang out.
Note:
There is no public transportation going here. About 15 minutes from the centre of Ubud. You can either take a cab or rent a car or scooter.
Due to Covid, closed as of 2 February 2021. Check for latest update in their website.
They offer various packages and you can customize it as to how you want to enjoy your stay here. Base entrance fee is 100,000 Rp
Blangsinga/Tegenungan Waterfall
Address: Jl. Raya Blasinga, Saba, Kec., Blahbatuh,
Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali
Coordinates: Latitude: 8° 34’ 31.284” S
Longitude: 115° 17’ 25.632” E
Within sight of Dtukad River Club is the Blangsinga Waterfall, so these two spots is basically
a package deal. Encased in lush greenery, you can gape at mother nature while you take a dip in the falls.Yes, water may be murky especially after raining but swimming is allowed most of the time (double check prior to dipping in though).
For photo lovers, you have the option to take photos from three different levels; from the base of the falls, midway or from the top. Whichever view or angle you take for sure the outcome will be incredible enough to make you and followers swoon. All easily accessible by stairs.
Note:
There is no public transportation going here. About 15 minutes from the centre of Ubud. You can either take a cab or rent a car or scooter.
There is an entrance fee (20,000 Rp) , which is cash only basis in the local currency.
Two way access point, via Tegenungan Village (base of the waterfall) or through Jalan Raya Blangsinga (from the top).
Hours: 7:00 am - 6:00 pm
Handara Gate
Address: Jl. Raya Singaraja-Denpansar, Pancasari,
Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali
Coordinates: Latitude: 8° 15’ 12.486” S
Longitude: 115° 9’ 29.592” E
Have you ever seen an entrance to a golf course as grandiose as this? I have not. In fact I thought that this is a gate to a temple. It comes as no surprise that this is a highly favoured IG spot. One caveat though, as spectacular as this place is, it's nothing more than a photo stop (unless you are there to golf or visit the resort premises). But if that doesn't bother you, and pretty spot and taking photo is your thing, then this is a must visit place for you.
Note:
No public transportation. This is approximately an hour and a half away from Ubud.
You can either take a cab or rent a car.
Best combined with Wanagiri Hidden Hill and Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, which will be discussed next.
There is a 30,000 Rp 'selfie ticket' that specifies a maximum 5 minute photo op that you have to pay on a 'cash only' basis. Exempted from the fee are hotel guests. There seems to a discounted fee during pandemic at 20,000 Rp
We came early and it's drizzling so we had the place all to ourselves. I personally didn't encounter the long line.
There is a special ticket for drone users and pre-wedding shoots.
Hidden Hills Wanagiri
Address: Jalan Munduk - Wanagiri, Sukasada,
Pancasari, Kec., Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali
Coordinates: Latitude: 8° 14’ 25.062” S
Longitude: 115° 6’ 27.456” E
Some consider this a tourist trap, due to the impression that one gets that it is a huge theme park, but it's actually just a selfie spot. However, if you manage your expectations to minimum and knows exactly what you are getting, you will love this place.
It is in fact a paradise for instagrammers , with a multitude of thematic photo spots in close proximity with each other. This small place will give you content for days. Small spot but with sweeping view. It's like having an outdoor photo studio over a cliff with a scenic view overlooking Lake Buyan framed by lush greenery.
Note:
No public transportation. This is approximately an hour and a half away from Ubud.
You can either take a cab or rent a car or scooter.
Hours: 6:30 am - 7:00 pm
There is an entrance fee 100,000 Rp for foreigners and 50,000 Rp for locals. , which is cash only basis
On an early, drizzling morning, we found the place devoid of other tourists.
Currently closed due to Covid (double check prior to going)
Pura Ulun Danu Beratan
Address: Danau Beratan, Candikuning, Baturiti
Tabanan Regency, Bali
Coordinates:
Latitude: 8° 16’ 29.97” S
Longitude: 115° 9’ 59.502” E
Also known as the floating temple as it is nestled on the shores of Lake Bratan and enveloped by the mountain near Bedugul. The exquisitely decorated temples set against the natural landscape gives these complex a mystical romantic charm. Suffice it to say that this place is the perfect marriage of natural landscape and the distinct Balinese architecture that is truly soothing to the soul.
This spot is made even more special by its sanctity and historical value, and not purely for a photo op (although there is a lot of it too.)
Note:
There is no public transportation. This is approximately an hour and a half away from Ubud.You can either take a cab or rent a car or scooter.
Apart from going early, particularly avoid going in the afternoon as it can get foggy, and you will not see Ulun Danu in its full glory.
Avoid going on weekends, as the locals love to visit here as well.
The entrance fee 50,000 IDR is 'cash only' basis.
Hours: Sunday to Friday - 7:00 am to 7:00 pm ; Saturday - 5:00 am to 7:00 pm
Pura Taman Ayun
Address: Jl. Ayodya No.10, Mengwi, Kec. Mengwi
Kabupaten, Badung Bali
Coordinates:
Latitude: 8° 32’ 29.79” S
Longitude: 115° 10’ 21.37” E
A stunning compound of Balinese architecture in a picturesque setting. Spiritually and historically significant that dates back to 1634 (just about a year younger than Ulun Danu Beratan & but same anniversary day as the Uluwatu temple).
In prominence are multi tiered temples and intricately decorated gates, set in beautiful grounds filled lakes, gardens. Just being here is a spiritual experience in itself.
Note:
There is no public transportation. This is approximately 45 minutes away from Ubud Center. You can either take a cab or rent a car or scooter.
Entrance fee of 30,000 IDR for foreigners and 15,000 IDR for locals.
Hours: 8:00 - 6:15 pm
Pura Tanah Lot
Address: Beraban, Kediri
Tabanan Regency, Bali
Coordinates:
Latitude: 8° 37’ 13.914” S
Longitude: 115° 5’ 13.296” E
One of Bali's sea- temple that is a significant pilgrimage site for the Hindu Balinese. Particularly special as it sits atop a huge offshore rock accessible only during low tide.
A highly revered and well loved place by locals and tourists for both spiritual significance and postcard worthy setting.
The morning view of Tanah Lot is already swoon worthy, but comes sunset the views will just knock the socks off you. People do swarm here during that time to get a peak of that spectacular sunset.
Note:
There is no public transportation. You can either take a cab or rent a car or scooter.
Don't be put off by the sellers and peddlers. Once you get passed them, you will be rewarded by the view of sweeping coastline and the temples of Tanah Lot.
Entrance fee 60,000 Rp for foreigners and 20,000 Rp for locals.
Hours: 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
Tukad Cepung Waterfall
Address: Central Parkir Waterfall Tukad Cepung,
Jl. Tembuku, Tembuku, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali
Coordinates:
Latitude: 8° 26’ 27.372” S
Longitude: 115° 23’ 18.888” E
When a waterfall is encased with huge rocks expect it to be no less than enchanting. It will take effort to get there, a hike that will take more or less half an hour, but you will be rewarded by this mesmerizing hidden water fall that unlike any others.
Go when its bright and sunny so the sun rays filters through the rock gaps making it an even more special place.
Notes:
There is no public transportation. About 40 minutes from Ubud.
Check the weather prior to going here. If you want to see the ray of light, its best to come when its sunny and bright.
Entrance fee is 15,000 Rp
Hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 pm
Bebek Joni
Address: Jl. Raya Goa Gajah, Peliatan, Kecamatan,
Ubud, Kabupaten, Gianyar, Bali
Coordinates: Latitude: 8° 31’ 27.942” S
Longitude: 115° 16’ 32.184” E
How do you like your food? Me? With a view of course! And if you do too, then this place is a sure winner! Delicious food, great ambience, and awesome view, this place is definitely worth a visit. It is certainly incomparable when the beauty of nature is in your visual range while you indulge in authentic Balinese food. Do try their signature crispy duck. When you are belly happy, digest by wandering around and capture images from their ample photo spots.
Note:
Walkable from Ubud Center.
Hours: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
Card is accepted.
Campuhan Ridge Walk
Address: Kelusa, Payangan, Jl. Raya Campuhan,
Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali
Coordinates: Latitude: 8° 29’ 54.156” S
Longitude: 115° 15’ 18.69” E
Take a stroll/hike on this easy trail and feast you eyes over endless verdant grandeur of Bali.
Great sunset spot where locals and tourist alike flock. Was really crowded and so taking a photo was painstakingly difficult. My advice is to stay just after sunset. As soon as the sun sets, people start leaving, but the sky will still give you beautiful colours, so just be patient and stay on, then you will get a chance to have a photo like I had.
Note:
Walkable from Ubud Center.
No admission fee.
Open 24 hours
Bring flashlight if you plan on staying after sunset as there is no light on the pathway.
Ujung Water Palace
Address: Jl. Taman Ujung, Tumbu, Kec.
Karangasem, Bali
Coordinates: Latitude: 8° 27’ 53.484” S
Longitude: 115° 37’ 47.46” E
Located in the Southern part of Bali Karangasem. It has recently gained popularity among tourists due to social media exposure, but its a long time favourite for locals photoshoot. A Balinese Royal garden with spectacular landscape that is well maintained to its glory.
The beautifully manicured garden, spectacular backdrop of Mount Agung more than makes up for the long drive from Ubud (or wherever you are staying for that matter). The complex is a combined architecture of east meets west. Yes, unlike other palace/temples in Bali that is distinctly made of Balinese architecture, this has a western influence. Ideal for sight seeing, hanging out and of course taking tons of photos.
Note:
There is no public transportation. Hire a cab or rent a car as this is about an hour and a half away from Ubud Center.
Combine with other tourist spot in Karangasem such as Tirta Ganga & Pura Lempuyang
Entrance fee is 50,000 Rp for foreigners and 15,000 for locals.
Hours: 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Address: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud
Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten, Gianyar, Bali
Coordinates:Latitude: 8° 31’ 7.76” S
Longitude: 115° 15’ 30.18” E
This is a forested land inhabited by several hundred of monkeys. This is a place you'd either love or dislike! If you are not scared of monkeys, go visit this place. Though I have heard horrendous stories from this place, my experience was actually pleasant.
Note:
Don't bring food, for yourself or to feed the monkey. They have a very strong sense of smell so even if you hide it, they can find it.
Don't provoke the monkeys.
Don't look them in the eye and don't show them your teeth.
Dress more modestly than me. I must admit it's an inappropriate choice of clothing, although I personally didn't have any adverse experience because of it.
Entrance fee of 80,000 Rp (Special Promo during pandemic 60,000 Rp)
Hours 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
There is free shuttle that runs every 15 minutes with the route below:
Pura Taman Saraswati / Ubud Water Palace
Address: Jl. Kajeng Ubud, Kecamatan
Kabupaten, Gianyar Bali
Coordinates: Latitude: 8° 30’ 21” S
Longitude: 115° 15’ 41” E
Right in the heart of Ubud, this is an iconic landmark that showcase the natural and cultural beauty of Bali. If you are staying in Ubud, then going here is easy peasy. It's located behind Starbucks, which is think is one of the most beautiful branch because of the touch of Balinese decor, so be sure to check it out as well.
Be enthralled by the rustic charm of this place, with the intricately carved stones and ornately designed shrines and gates. The lotus pond and water garden gives this temple a distinct character.
Performances of Kecak dances are held nightly. Don't leave immediately after the show, take the opportunity to have a photo with the cast.
Note:
There is no admission fee to the temple. But there is a ticket that you have to purchase if you want to watch the performance.
Pura Uluwatu
Address: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali
Coordinates: Latitude: 8° 49’ 44” S
Longitude: 115° 5’ 7” E
Hours: 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
Perched atop a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean its easy to find yourself immersed in a breathtaking seascape of Uluwatu.
If you are a sunset lover then this is the place to be, as it is guaranteed to take your breath away. As one of the most beautiful Balinese temple spot it is certainly teeming with people, but still something you should definitely experience. Close by is an open air stage where the traditional Cekac dance is performed, while the sun sets behind the performance.
Note:
There is no public transportation. This is approximately 45 minutes away from Ubud Center.You can either take a cab or rent a car or scooter.
Entrance fee of 50,000 Rp for foreigners and 30,000 Rp for locals and cash basis only. Kecak Performance price is 100,000 Rp
Go early if you want to avoid the crowd. But go later in the afternoon to enjoy a beautiful sunset and watch the Kecak performance.
There are plenty of monkeys in this area, so hold on to your valuables.
Random Spots
Not into oversaturated spots everybody else go, and would rather just find unexpected places while wandering aimlessly?! Consider yourself lucky because Bali has tons of picturesque spots, all you have to do is open your eyes and not be too focused on social media famous spots.
Here are some unexpected gems we found along the way.
Marigold Field
Address: Bali
Coordinates: Latitude: 8° 31’ 58.356” S
Longitude: 115° 21’ 59.448” E
A random field of heavenly marigolds we found on the way to Tukad Cepung. People who knows me, knows my endless love affair with flower fields. So imagine, my delight when I saw this on the highway, on our way to Tukad Cepung from Ubud. I guess my advice to everyone, is to take your phone down and just enjoy the scenery when you are on a road trip because you never know what you will find along the way.
As this is not a tourist spot, there is no entrance fee. Just ask for permission from the owners. Balinese are among the kindest people I've met and the most accommodating and almost always cater to your request.
Local Crafts Market
Address: Ubud, Bali
Coordinates: Latitude: 8° 30’ 45.066” S
Longitude: 115° 16’ 15.108” E
Marvel at the craftsmanship of local artisans in one of Bali's local shop
.There the insta famous Art market in Ubud, that all instagrammers seems go to. I've actually been there several times, as its is near where we are staying. but apart from buying souvenirs, I really could not be bothered to take a photo, because of the crowd. I will not dissuade you from visiting Art Market, but you should also not limit yourself to this particular market. Local artisans shops are a dime a dozen in Bali, and if you venture out you will find even more charming stalls and helping other businesses as well.
Bali Gates
Location: All around Bali
Bali gates is a constant sighting in Bali, from the traditional ancient ones you find in temples, to contemporary ones that adorns hotels, establishments and even residences. So in reality you don't have to go far to find an instagrammable spot, it's all around Bali. During the wedding season, residential Bali gates where the ceremony is to take place just gets even more elaborate than it already is. The ornamentation just get into a another level of extra.
Rice Fields
Location: All around Bali
Into rice fields, but not really into crowd!? Well, your in for a treat, because Bali is surrounded by rice fields that you don't even have to go to specific places that's teeming with people. Some accommodations are even set in the midst of rice fields.
Sculptures & Statues
The artistry and craftsmanship of Balinese artisans is world class. The moment you arrive in the airport you will be greeted with rich ornamentations and intricately sculpted. And this theme will continue on the streets of Bali.
That was quite a long list right?! But that is just a tiny fraction of all the beautiful IG spots and tourist attractions in Bali, that another visit is required.
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