The rice terraces are one of the most photographed sights in Bali. They are also a working farm system that has run for centuries. Knowing a little about how they work makes a visit far more rewarding.
This guide explains the subak system and why it is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It also covers how to visit the terraces respectfully. The facts come from UNESCO and Indonesia’s official tourism site.
There may be many of you who plan to visit Bali with the intention of simply relaxing on the beach or around your hotel swimming pool for the duration of your stay there. If that is what constitutes your perfect vacation then absolutely go for it because in our book every person should do what they love best when on vacation, regardless of where that might be.
There may be others reading this who might want to turn their attention to a broader range of alternative activities, some of which might be more energetic in nature, and others that simply allow you to try some of the many amazing delights that Bali has to offer. If so, here are seven you should consider.
Water Sports
We will start off with something for those who have the energy to burn and who love nothing better than being in the water, which there is obviously no lack of around the island of Bali. It would take an entire page to list all the possible water sports options you can choose from, which can range from something as simple as a relaxing swim in the sea to jet skiing, for those that love speed.
Want to see some spectacular views from the water? After you’ve found your Bali Villas accommodation and unpacked, going on a cruise will be the ideal activity to introduce you to the wonderful world of Bali, especially if you have never been before. When working out where to go and what to see before you even leave Australia, consider booking a cruise or two in between more vigorous activity. This gives you time to rest up without wasting a single minute of your holiday. Here are just two of the cruises available in Bali – there are many more.
Lembongan Beach Club Day Cruise
A family ticket includes 2 adults and up to 3 children, but they must be between the ages of 4-14. A luxury catamaran will take you to Nusa Lembongan where you will transfer to Mushroom Bay and the peaceful tropical island where the private Beach Club is. You can relax on hammocks in the gardens, or if that sounds a bit boring, why not go snorkelling, kayaking, parasailing or scuba diving to mention just a few of the activities available. A fully supervised kids club will allow parents to rest, or enjoy themselves while knowing that their children are in good hands and having lots of fun.
This article expresses some of the most pleasantly and even heavenly Spas of the Island of Bali in Indonesia:
This Balinese island is no longer just a place you mark on your agenda for a day trip. It has become increasingly popular as a vacation destination and rightfully so! Just 20 kilometres off the southwest Bali coast, you’ll discover the island paradise of Nusa Lembongan. Excellent snorkelling, fantastic diving, uncrowded white sandy beaches, and world class surf make this the perfect destination. Here you can have the Bali experience without the hustle and bustle of the other tourists.
Don’t let the slow pace here fool you. There’s tons of things to see and do, depending on your interests. Relax on the beach from your villa from www.easybalivillas.com, go diving for manta rays, take a cliff top walk, explore the mangrove forests, visit the Hindu temples, or check out the seaweed farms. Be sure to enjoy the stunning sunsets that are ready to astound you.
Nusa Lembongan is no longer just a day trip attraction. Just 20 kilometers off Bali’s southwest coast it has become a popular destination, and rightfully so! Currently this location remains a well kept secret, which means things aren’t as crowded here like some other areas of Bali.
You can enjoy the white sandy beaches without having to fight for space. It is easy to go diving and/or snorkelling among the world-class surf breaks without the hassle of some of the busier travel destinations. Of cause, it will not stay like this forever, as more and more tourists discover this little gem. All of this makes Nusa Lembongan the perfect destination for sports enthusiasts, families, friends, and business travellers, because here you can enjoy your island experience and there’s no need to tolerate the hustle and bustle of busier neighbouring Bali communities.
The pace of life in Nusa Lembongan is slower, more relaxed more laid back – don’t let that fool you, because there are tons of things to do here. So if you aren’t diving for mola mola or manta rays or you aren’t relaxing on the white sandy beach, then why not check out some of the other great things. How about a cliff top walk, a visit to the mangrove forest, and a visit to the seaweed farms. Why not spend some time exploring and enjoying the magnificent views. Do not forget to take in some of the stunning sunsets. They are some of the best you will ever see.
Balinese worshipers have been coming to Pura Tirta Empul for thousands of years. It is said that Indra created this sacred spring along with its curative properties. The tradition carries on today. The only exception is that today tourists and locals alike visit Pura Tirta Empul.
On the temple you will find the inscription date of 926 AD as the founding date. Since then the Balinese people have come here to bathe in these sacred water and to enjoy the spiritual and healing benefits. While on vacation you should make sure that you come experience Pura Tirta Empul for yourself.
The Tirta Empul Temple has the traditional Balinese split gate as well as shrines to Braham, Indra, Mt. Batur, and Vishnu. The large open pavilion is found in the main courtyard and is a great place to relax in the shade.
Bali has plenty to see and do – so much that in just one visit you are not likely to be able to enjoy all of it. But one of the things Bali has been promoting is the water sports it has to offer tourists, and they are numerous. Let’s look at some of the recommendations.
Fishing
Fishing activity is huge on the island of Bali. There are numerous charters such as Xplore Charters Sportfishing Adventures, and Yos Marine Adventures. Your charter may fish for Wahoo, Spanish mackerel, Mahi Mahi, and tuna.
River Kayaking
Bali Adventure Tours offers river kayaking. Challenge yourself, experience a solo kayak on the Ayung River in a two person inflatable kayak – experience the thrill.
The world’s best resorts are located in Bali. Additionally, it is also one of the best islands, which families, newlyweds and even groups love to visit. The island is quite magical in captivating first time tourists. If you have never been to Bali, the first time you visit will probably not be your last; you will most certainly feel the urge to make return visits. It is such a captivating place to visit throughout the year considering the all season friendly tropical climate, and especially during holidays.
Tourist attractions
Bali has several historical sites that you can visit with your family and learn more about its origins and early days. The island plays host to several religious and sacred sites that an entire family can comfortably visit. Its beaches are among its biggest attractions and they pull in millions of tourists every year, numbering more than 2.5 million each year, with prospects of increasing numbers in the future. It is home to several excellent entertainment centres, and shopping arcades thus making it a modern yet traditional island.
The iconic Tanah Lot Temple is a must see for anyone spending their vacation in Bali, and according to the tourist stats for 2012 more and more people are discovering this. A whopping 2.5 million people made it to the Tanah Lot Temple last year.
Tanah Lot Temple can be found on the coast of Beraban in the Kediri sub-district. It is 30 km west side of Denpasar town and about 11 km in south side Tabanan town. The temple is built on a three-acre rock and can be reached by walking for just a few minutes. Enjoy the strategically placed Balinese shops along the walk to the temple.
Golfers lover to explore golf course and that applies to those who are in vacation in Bali. Those same golfers decided to share what golf courses were their favorites. Let’s have a look:
#1 Bali Handara Kosaido Country Club – 18 holes
Golfers like the challenge of this course and there is no difference in rates for members and non-members making it a popular choice for many vacationing golfers.
#2 Balibeach Golf Course – 18 holes
Not only will you love the golf course, you will love the clubhouse here. Located on the grounds of the Inna Grand Bali Beach Hotel, which is a popular resort with tourists.
#3 Balibeach Golf Course – 9 holes
This 9 hole course is very popular with tourists offering a course that few have any complaints about. The Balibeach Golf Course Clubhouse is on the grounds of the Inna Grand Bali Beach Hotel, another popular tourist resort.
The Gunung Batur is the active volcano which is located in the north-west of Gunung Agung area. This volcano is consisted of two craters. The first one is up to 10 km long and 13,5 km wide. In this crater the lake Danau Batur can be found. When it comes to the second crater its dimensions are 6,4 km by 9,4 km. It is estimated that this volcano is over 25,000 years old. The highest point of this volcano is approximately at 2,200 meters.
According to some of the researchers this volcano has been much higher. However, as a consequence of one explosion the current height had been reached. A small lake is created by the rain in the crater. It is worth mentioning that this volcano is still active. The lake with its dimensions 3 km by 9 km according to some beliefs is treated as the holly lake. In addition, it honors the goddess of the lakes Ida Batara Ulun Dewi Danu. This lake is definitely one of the most photographed places on the volcano.
It is interesting to mention that up to 20,000 people live in the villages next to the craters including Kedisan, Toya Bungkah and Kintamani. On the shores of this like the tourists can witness some of the oldest traditions and ceremonies on Bali. The top of the volcano can be reached from the western side of the lake. Here the village of Toya Bungkah is located. It serves as the starting point for the tourists who want to visit the top of the volcano. It takes approximately three hours to reach to the top of the volcano for the tourists who walk to it. It is recommended to start with the journey as early in the morning as possible. The reason for this advice is actually very simple. In order to enjoy the sunset on the top of the volcano you have to arrive before the sun shines this area. One more thing is to be taken into serious consideration by the tourists who come here in search for the genuine adventure. A local guide is more than an appropriate choice for climbing in the dark to the volcano top. In addition, the climbers have to dress properly, because of the significant temperature oscillations in this area. It is worth mentioning that the natural sources of water are very rare on the way to the volcano top.
Bali is very often called the island of the thousand waterfalls. They are one of the most popular tourist attractions. Here are some of the most well-known waterfalls in Bali.
Git-Git Waterfall is definitely the most popular and beautiful waterfall on Bali. It is situated in the southern part only a few miles away from the city of Singraj. For the tourists this temple looks like it has been trapped in the middle of the great rainforest wall. With its remarkable height of over 40 meters it produces the sound which can be best described as the fascinating thunder. At the bottom of this waterfall one small lake is created. According to the popular belief among locals all the couples who swim in this water bring love and happiness to their relationship.
Yeh Mempeh Waterfall is situated on the north-east part of the island between the cities of Singraj and Tulamben. This waterfall is very popular among tourists who come here with children. Next to the waterfall one the most intriguing restaurants in the island can be found. One obvious fact illustrates the quality of the water produced by this waterfall. From this waterfall the local village gets the drinking water.
Blahmantung Waterfall is one of the waterfalls in Bali with the most remarkable height of over 100 meters. It is located near the Pupuan village and it can be reached by following the direction of the road which leads to Mayonga. The power of falling water is so strong that the sound like thunder can be heard miles away. This waterfall creates the small lake which is the popular destination for the tourists who enjoy swimming in the cold and refreshing water.
Bali Museum located in Denpasar Bali, on Major Wisnu Street, which is located in the heart of town. Bali Museum has done a great job of preserving Bali history and sharing that history with those that decide to visit the museum. It’s certainly a visit that every tourist should make, as it will add additional value and appreciation to your stay in Bali.
The Balinese culture is interesting and colorful. With the growth in tourism and the continued development of Bali, there is some worry that culture erosion is occurring and that the cultural heritage of Bali could disappear. This is all the more reason why the Bali Museum is so important.
The objects at the Bali Museum include items dating back to prehistoric times. Objects like the Grave Petrify or sarkopag can be seen here. That’s just a simple example of what you might see at the Bali Museum, where exhibits are constantly changing.
“The island of a thousand temples” – that’s what Bali is known as. So where do you start and which temples should you make sure you visit when you are in Bali? Recently, the following were released as the top 5 Bali Temples, so these would be a great place to start your exploring, and of course if you have more time, keep exploring.
#1 Tanah Lot Temple
This is the most famous Bali temple. It means “Land in the Middle of the Sea,” and is the work of the15th century priest Nirartha Tanah. Lot sits on a rock just off the coast. It’s spectacular. Come near sunset and get some magnificent photos. There are villa accommodations nearby should you wish to stay in this area and explore.