Bali

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Mandala Suci Wenara Wana

Ubud

A lush natural forest sanctuary in Ubud home to over 1,000 Balinese long-tailed macaques. This ecological and spiritual site features three ancient temples dating back to the 14th century, towering nutmeg trees, and deep forested ravines, offering a unique look at local wildlife conservation.

Tip: Do not wear loose accessories like hats, sunglasses, or jewellery, as the monkeys are known to snatch them.

Admission:

IDR 80,000

Time needed:

1.5-3 h

Tanah Lot Temple

Pura Tanah Lot

Tabanan

An iconic Hindu sea temple dramatically perched on a rugged rock formation just offshore. Accessible on foot only during low tide, this highly revered cultural landmark is famous worldwide for its striking silhouette against the backdrop of spectacular Indian Ocean sunsets.

Tip: Check local tide charts beforehand, and arrive by 4 PM to secure a prime spot for the sunset.

Admission:

IDR 75,000

Time needed:

1-2 h

Uluwatu Temple

Pura Luhur Uluwatu

Uluwatu

A majestic Balinese sea temple situated on the edge of a sheer 70-meter-high cliff overlooking the roaring Indian Ocean. It serves as one of Bali's key directional temples protecting the island from evil spirits, and hosts daily sunset Kecak fire dance performances in an open-air amphitheatre.

Tip: Be exceptionally mindful of your belongings as the resident macaques are notorious for snatching phones and glasses.

Admission:

IDR 50,000

Time needed:

1.5-3 h

Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Ceking Rice Terrace

Tegallalang

Stunning terraced rice paddies that showcase 'Subak', the traditional Balinese cooperative irrigation system. Visitors can hike through the vibrant green slopes, interact with local farmers, and enjoy dramatic valley views, with optional swings and zip lines scattered across the hills.

Tip: Arrive before 9 AM to beat the large tour buses and carry small IDR notes for local farmer donations.

Admission:

IDR 25,000

Time needed:

1-2 h

Tirta Empul Temple

Pura Tirta Empul

Tampaksiring

Founded around 962 A.D., this national cultural heritage site is a highly active Hindu water temple famous for its sacred mountain spring. Visitors can observe or respectfully participate in the 'Melukat' ritual, a traditional spiritual purification process inside the crystal-clear pools.

Tip: Bring a change of dry clothes and hire a locker if you plan to participate in the purification ritual.

Admission:

IDR 50,000

Time needed:

1.5-2.5 h

Mount Batur

Gunung Batur

Kintamani

An active volcano standing 1,717 meters above sea level, nestled inside a massive, scenic caldera. It is Bali's most popular spot for early morning trekking, rewarding hikers with spectacular sunrise views over Lake Batur, Mount Agung, and the surrounding mist-covered valleys.

Tip: Hire a certified local guide for safety and navigation, especially since the trek begins in pitch darkness.

Admission:

IDR 500,000

Time needed:

6-8 h

Goa Gajah

Bedulu

Known as the Elephant Cave, this 9th-century archaeological complex features a shallow cave carved with menacing, elaborate figures at its entrance. The tranquil site also contains ancient stone bathing pools, relics, and beautiful surrounding gardens with Buddhist and Hindu influences.

Tip: You must wear a sarong to enter; one is provided at the entrance if your knees are uncovered.

Admission:

IDR 50,000

Time needed:

1-1.5 h

Seminyak Beach

Pantai Seminyak

Seminyak

A fashionable three-kilometre stretch of golden-to-dark sand on the west coast. Renowned for its sophisticated atmosphere, it is lined with high-end beach clubs, luxury resorts, and excellent surf breaks, offering a cleaner and more relaxed alternative to neighbouring Kuta.

Tip: The waves and undercurrents can be strong, so swim only within the designated flagged areas.

Admission:

free

Time needed:

2-4 h

Campuhan Ridge Walk

Bukit Campuhan

Ubud

A scenic, paved nature trail that follows a lush ridge line above the sacred Wos River valley. It offers a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Ubud, showcasing panoramic views of rolling green hills, dense tropical foliage, and distant traditional villas.

Tip: Begin your walk at sunrise to enjoy cooler temperatures and the most magical lighting for photography.

Admission:

free

Time needed:

1-2 h