Bali – Experiencing Indonesia’s Island of the Gods
Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations, not only in #WonderfulIndonesia, but also in Southeast Asia. As it is my first time going out of my home country, the Philippines, I am so excited to experience what Bali has to offer me and how I can get to feel the local culture of “the island of the gods.”
Bali got its name from the Sanskrit “Bali Dwipa” in the year 913 which means an island of offering, sacrifice, and reincarnation. With this, the mystery behind Bali enchants me to know more about the place. With a short but sweet 3-day stay, here are some of the places I have explored:
Read also: Bali, Indonesia Travel Guide
Places to See and Things to Do in Bali
Badung
Krisna Oleh-Oleh Bali
Krisna Oleh-Oleh is one of the most popular souvenir shops in Bali island. More so, this is also one of the biggest souvenir shops I have been to. Their souvenirs range from food items, clothing, and other trinkets like souvenirs, wall decors, and keychains. This is a must-go whenever you decide to buy souvenir items!
Buleleng
Bali Handara Gate
This now-famous gate in Bali has become one of the major tourist attractions in the area. Located in Bedugul, Bali Handara Gate now serves as the entrance to an exclusive resort and golf club. That is why you expect vehicles entering and exiting the gate itself. Its background is a small mountain, often covered with clouds and surrounded by lush greens. The entrance fee to the Bali Handara Gate as of this writing is at IDR 50,000 (US$ 3.25 / Ph₱ 185.00) and there is a ticket booth for paying.
Wanagiri Hidden Hill and Swing
Wanagiri Hidden Hill and Swing uphill tourist spot in Bedugul, Buleleng is one of the attractions that overlooks the Buyan Lake and has different activities in the area such as the giant swing, the boat, and other instagrammable places in the area with different themes. The entrance fee to Wanagiri Hidden Hill as of this writing is at IDR 300,000 (US$ 19.50 / Ph₱ 1,106.00).
Denpasar
I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)
I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport is the only gateway to Bali island by air. It serves several destinations in and out of Indonesia. (It serves direct flights to and from the Philippines and Singapore). It is the second busiest airport in the whole of Indonesia. It is strategically located in the heart of Denpasar.
Gianyar
Tirta Empul Temple and Holy Spring (Tampaksiring)
One of the holiest water temples for Hindu believers is the Tirta Empul Temple and Holy Spring. The temple’s holy springs are believed to have been created by God Indra and Hindu believe that the holy water purifies those who bathe there. The temple is dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu God of water. The entrance fee to Tirta Empul and Holy Spring as of this writing is at IDR 50,000 + 10,000 for sarong rental + 15,000 for locker rental (US$ 5.00 / Ph₱ 277.00).
Karangasem
Temple of Penataran Agung Lempuyang (Pura Lempuyang)
The Penataran Agung Lempuyang or the Pura Lempuyang is one of Bali’s most visited attractions. Nicknamed as the “Gateway to Heaven,” Pura Lempuyang’s appeal is unbeatable. When standing perfectly on the gates, you will get to see Mount Agung in the center. But mind you, you must be early in queueing for the photoshoot as lines can get long and waiting times are even longer. For my experience, I have waited for at least 4 hours before taking in 4 quick poses. The entrance fee to Pura Lempuyang is 55K + 45K for the roundtrip transportation fee (US$ 6.50 / Ph₱ 369.00).
Klungkung
Angel Billabong (Banjar Sumpang)
The Angel Billabong is a natural infinity pool overlooking the coast of Bali Sea. It is located just a few meters before reaching the Broken Beach.
Broken Beach (Nusa Penida)
Translating to “Pasih Uug” in Balinese, the Broken Beach is one of the wonders to look forward to in Nusa Penida. The iconic stone arch makes the scene more picturesque and the water from the sea slowly cascades inside the enclosed shore. Too bad people cannot go to the ground and swim as waters in the area are quite strong. The entrance fee to the Broken Beach is IDR 5,000 (US$ 0.32 / Ph₱ 18.00).
Kelingking Beach (Nusa Penida)
The Kelingking (T-Rex) Beach is probably one of the famous tourist spots in Bali, if not, in the whole of Indonesia. This natural wonder is so scenic that several movies have been shot in this place and the iconic shore from below is breathtaking. We have not experienced the Kelingking Beach itself as it was too crowded when we visited. You can take pictures from any point in the cliff! The entrance fee to Kelingking Beach as of this writing is IDR 10,000 (US$ 0.65 / Ph₱ 37.00).
Tabanan
Tegal Sari Luwak Coffee Plantation
One of the several coffee plantations in Tabanan Regency is the Tegal Sari Luwak Coffee Plantation. It houses several coffee varieties such as Arabica and Robusta. One special coffee variety is also commonly sold here, the Civet Cat Coffee, which is one of the priciest varieties present. During our visit to Tegal Sari Luwak, we have also seen a Civet Cat where it eats coffee beans as part of its diet. The entrance fee to Tegal Sari Luwak Coffee Plantation as of this writing is IDR 50,000 (US$ 3.00 / Ph₱ 184.00) which includes a tester of 12 different drinks. You can also order coffee (charged separately) from their shop.
Pura Ulun Danu Beratan Temple (Bedugul)
The Pura Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, or simply called “Pura Bratan” is also a popular Hindu site in Bedugul. Its notable stupa in the middle of Lake Bratan is what makes the whole temple complex popular. The entrance fee to Pura Ulun Danu Beratan Temple as of this writing is IDR 75,000 (US$ 5.00 / Ph₱ 277.00).
You can also visit these places when visiting Bali:
Badung
- Motel Mexicola
- Sangeh Monkey Forest
- Uluwatu Cliff
Gianyar
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces (Tegallalang)
Klungkung
- Crystal Bay (Sakti)
- Diamond Beach (Pejukutan)
- Paluang / Banah Cliff (Nusa Penida)
Tabanan
- Pura Tanah Lot
Where to Eat in Bali
Kuta (Badung Regency)
Warung Norman
This unsuspecting restaurant in the middle of busy Kuta District is Warung Norman. Tracing his roots back to Australia, its local Indonesian taste has never been lost. From their satay to their delicious Nasi Goreng, all food choices here can never go wrong. All food and drinks come at an affordable price, too. I just spent IDR 78,000 (US$ 5.00 / Ph₱ 290.00) for dinner with fruit shake and fruit platter.
Address | Jalan Buni Sari No. 23, Kuta, Kabupaten, Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia |
Operating days and hours | Monday – Saturday, 0900 – 2100 H |
Best-seller | Nasi Goreng |
Bedugul (Tabanan Regency)
Mentari Restoran
This lake-side restaurant of Mentari Restoran is one of the go-to places in Bedugul, just a few meters away from the Ulun Danu Temple. It offers a la carte and buffet menus for everyone and they serve a variety of dishes for international tourists. For the lunch buffet, we only spent IDR 132,000 (US$ 8.58 / Ph₱ 487.00), inclusive of taxes.
Address | Jalan Raya Bedugul, Km. 50, Candikuning-Baturiti, Tabanan Bali 82191, Indonesia |
Operating days and hours | Daily, 1100 – 1600 H |
Best-seller | Nasi Goreng and Fried Chicken, Banana Fritters |
Seminyak
Pak Malen
Address | Jalan Sunset Road No.554, Seminyak, Kuta, Seminyak, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia |
Operating days and hours | Daily, 0830 – 1900 H |
Best-seller | Roast Suckling Pig |
Naughty Nuri’s
Address | Jalan Mertanadi No. 62 Kerobokan Seminyak, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia |
Operating days and hours | Daily, 1100 – 2200 H |
Best-seller | Pork Spare Ribs / Signature Martini |
Chandi
Address | Jl. Kayu Aya No.72, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia |
Operating days and hours | Daily, 1200 – 0000 H |
Best-seller | Bebek Betutu |
Warung Eropa
Address | Jl. Petitenget No.9D, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia |
Operating days and hours | Daily, 1000 – 2230 H |
Best-seller | Bebek Goreng |
Boss Man
Address | Jalan Kayu Cendana No. 8B, Seminyak, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia |
Operating days and hours | Daily, 1100 – 0400 H |
Best-seller | Burger |
Sisterfields Cafe
Address | Jalan Kayu Cendana No. 7, Seminyak, Kuta, Kerobokan Kelod, Kuta Utara, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia |
Operating days and hours | Daily, 0700 – 2200 H |
Motel Mexicola
Address | Jalan Kayu Jati No. 9X, Petitenget, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia |
Operating days and hours | Daily, 1100 – 0100 H |
Best-seller | Tacos |
Revolver Espresso
“Best coffee in Seminyak”
Address | Jl. Kayu Aya Gang 51, Seminyak, Kuta, Seminyak, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia |
Operating days and hours | Sunday – Thursday (0700 – 2300 H)
Friday – Saturday (0700 – 2330 H) |
Best-seller | Coffee |
Ubud
Clear Cafe
Address | Jl. Hanoman No.8, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia |
Operating days and hours | Daily, 0800 – 2300 H |
Ibu Oka
Address | Jalan Tegal Sari No. 2, Ubud Tengah, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia |
Operating days and hours | Daily, 1100 – 1800 H |
Best-seller | Roast Pig |
Murni’s Warung
Address | Jl. Raya Campuan, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia |
Operating days and hours | Daily, 0800 – 2300 H |
Warung Biah Biah
Address | Jl. Goutama Sel. No.13, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia |
Operating days and hours | Daily, 1100 – 2300 H |
Best-seller | Nasi Goreng / Campur |
Locavore
Address | Jl. Dewisita No.10, Banjar Padang, Tegal, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia |
Operating days and hours | Monday – Saturday, 1100 – 2300 H (closed on Sundays) |
Other Cafes and Restaurants to try when in Bali:
- Copper Kitchen and Bar
- AKAR by K Club (Ubud)
- Village Square – Wok Wok (Denpasar)
- Tablespoon Ubud (Ubud)
- Waroeng Bernadette (Seminyak)
- Blou Cafe (Canggu)
- Herb Library (Ubud)
- The Chill Penida (Nusa Penida)
- Pistachio Restaurant (Ubud)
Where to Stay in Bali
Zia Hotel (Kuta, Badung Regency)
Zia Hotel in Kuta District is one of the most affordable places to stay in Bali, especially when you travel in a big group. Their rooms are spacious and can fit up to three people in a room. The whole hotel is also equipped with free Wi-Fi and has a rooftop pool when you want to relax after a long day tour. It is also a few blocks away from Kuta Beach for best views of sunset.
Other recommended accommodations within Bali:
Canggu
***Canggu is the spot for laid-back feels and gives a more relaxed vibe in Bali.
- Bali Fullmoon Guesthouse
- Betesda Guesthouse
- Papaya Guesthouse
- Umpadhi Canggu
- Wingsu Guest House
Jimbaran
- Bali Paragon Resort Hotel
- Lowcost Bed & Breakfast
- Trumbu Nusa
- Villa Puri Royan
- Vivaldi at Jimbaran
Kuta (Badung Regency)
***This place is a haven for backpackers and hostel lovers who want to gain new friends! This is the place where surfers also prefer to stay!
- Cara Cara Inn
- D Beds Hostel
- H-Ostel Bali
- Kuta Beach Stay
- Praba Guesthouse
Legian
- Adys Inn
- Borough Capsule Hostel Bali
- Grand La Walon Hotel
- Swiss-Belinn Legian
- Zest Hotel Legian
Nusa Ceningan
- Double A Beach House
- Ocean Brothers Ceningan
- The Bridge Huts
- Tatak Bunut Villa Ceningan
- The Pandawa Hills Ceningan
Nusa Dua
***This place is best for families or groups. Nusa Dua is also a haven for different water sports for visitors to enjoy.
- Avisara Villa and Guest House
- Frangipani Homestay
- Kubu Garden Guest House
- Puri Clinton Bali Homestay
- Terrace Bali Inn
Nusa Lembongan
- Dinatah Lembongan Villas
- Jenggala Hill
- Naturale Villas
- Seaweed Guesthouse Lembongan
- Songlambung Beach Huts
Nusa Penida
- Acala Hostel
- Ayu Hill Bungalows
- Bintang Penida Resort
- Kubu Artha Bungalow Nusa Penida
- Mount Sea View Bungalow
Sanur
***If you want a quieter and more serene landscape while visiting Bali, Sanur is the recommended place for you.
- Abyan Guest House
- Kembali Lagi Guest House
- Kubu Daton Homestay
- Semarandana Hotel
- Umah Bagus
Seminyak
***If you are looking for sunset accommodations, bars, restaurants, and shopping malls. Seminyak is the best place to visit and stay.
- Arana Suite
- Balinea Villa and Spa
- Ibis Styles Bali Petitenget
- Semimpi Basecamp
- Seminyak Square Hotel
Ubud
***This is one of the most beautiful places to stay in Bali for close-to-nature accommodations and feels, and this is also one of the centers of Balinese cultural activities.
- Buana Homestay
- Jiwa’s Guesthouse
- Puri Kobot
- Soka Homestay
- Wijaya Guesthouse
Uluwatu
***If you want to have a panoramic view of the coastlines of Bali, Uluwatu is the best place. This is where you will find some upscale and mid-range accommodations with the best views of Bali’s shoreline.
- Kutuh Manak Guest House
- Pandawa Beach Homestay
- Pandawa Hill Resort
- Puri Hasu Bali
- Tom’s Inn Pecatu
Sample Itinerary when in Bali
Traveling in and around Bali can be quite exhausting but I am sure that the experience will be worth it. Here is my personal sample of a Bali Itinerary!
Day 1
Time | Place | Expenses |
0800 – 0900 H | Denpasar Airport / Immigration | – |
0900 – 1000 H | Check-in (preferred accommodation) | Depends |
1000 – 1900 H | Handara Gate | IDR 50,000 / US$ 3.25 / Ph₱ 185.00 |
Wanagiri Hidden Hill and Swing | IDR 300,000 / US$ 19.50 / Ph₱ 1106.00 | |
Pura Ulun Danu Beratan Temple | IDR 75,000 / US$ 5.00 / Ph₱ 277.00 | |
Sangeh Monkey Forest | IDR 30,000 / US$ 2.00 / Ph₱ 110.00 | |
Lunch at Mentari Restaurant | IDR 132,000 / US$ 9.00 / Ph₱ 487.00 | |
Tegal Sari Luwak Coffee Plantation | IDR 50,000 / US$ 3.00 / Ph₱ 184.00 | |
Tegallalang Rice Terraces | IDR 10,000 / US$ 0.65 / Ph₱ 37.00 | |
Tirta Empul Temple and Holy Spring (50K – entrance, 10K – sarong, 15K – locker) |
IDR 75,000 / US$ 5.00 / Ph₱ 277.00 | |
Dinner at Taman Dedari | Depends |
Day 2
Time | Place | Expenses |
0700 – 0800 H | Breakfast (along the way) | Depends |
0800 – 1900 H | Broken Beach | IDR 5,000 / US$ 0.32 / Ph₱ 18.00 |
Angel Billabong | – | |
Kelingking Beach | IDR 10,000 / US$ 0.65 / Ph₱ 37.00 | |
Lunch at Sebuluh Resto and Bar | Depends | |
Paluang / Banah Cliff | – | |
Crystal Bay | – | |
Diamond Beach
(10K – entrance, 5K – parking) |
IDR 15,000 / US$ 0.97 / Ph₱ 55.00 | |
Dinner at Warung Senggol (eat-all-you-can menu) | IDR 100,000 / US$ 6.50 / Ph₱ 369.00 |
Day 3
Time | Place | Expenses |
0700 – 0800 H | Breakfast (along the way) | Depends |
0800 – 1100 H | Temple of Penataran Agung Lempuyang (Pura Lempuyang)
“Gateway to Heaven” (55K – entrance, 45K – transportation) |
IDR 100,000 / US$ 6.50 / Ph₱ 369.00 |
1100 – 1500 H | Pura Tanah Lot | IDR 60,000 / US$ 4.00 / Ph₱ 220.00 |
1545 – 1700 H | Motel Mexicola | Depends |
1730 – 1830 H | Seminyak Beach | – |
1900 – 2000 H | Souvenir Buying! | Depends |
*Uluwatu Cliff (if time permits) | – |
*Note that the places, prices, and information written as of publication date and time are true and are given best during my visit. Changes may occur without prior notice. If you notice any changes to the information given above, you can e-mail me here so we can dish things up!*
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