7 Awesome Things to Do in Bali, Indonesia

Best well-known destination of the country, the Island of the Gods or Island of a Thousand Temples, Bali experience is a combination of salty air, religious beliefs, fascinating structures and culture, and big wide smiles. Lots do to and lots to see, it’s an all in one island experience, balanced life of tranquility and hype. And to give you a picture of how incredible life in Bali is, together, let us discover some of the awesome things to do in Bali, Indonesia!

Did you know? Bali is arguably the most popular yoga destination in Southeast Asia. The island’s unique Zen atmosphere, the culture of healthy living and the tons of yoga studios available on the island, make for a perfect Bali yoga retreat.

Are you looking for places to stay? Check out our recommendations below:

• Cheap backpackers hostels in Bali, Indonesia and;
• Luxury Hotels in Bali, Indonesia

1. Visit the Uluwatu Temple

Why is it one of the best things to do in Bali, Indonesia?

Uluwatu Temple is a Hindu temple built around 17th century. Temple is divided into 3 parts, outer, middle and inner part. Taking photos around the temple is allowed, even taking photos of a worshiper preparing the offerings, since it’s their way of introducing the Hindu Balinese culture to the tourists. But take note that there are some restricted areas like the inner part of the temple which is only accessible for worshipers, considering the area as holy. Sarongs and sashes are provided in the entrance. For tourist wearing trousers, sash will be provided whilst for tourists wearing shorts and skirts, sarongs will be given and must be worn before entering the temple.

The Balinese Hindu Temple is facing the sea and we arrived before sunset. A truly mesmerizing beauty, rested temple on top of a cliff, ocean waves crashing unto the rocks. Group of a devotee, of family, lined up carrying their offerings to the Gods. A day witnessing another form of faith, of different beliefs yet admired. This is for sure one of the best things to do in Bali, Indonesia.

Aside from the fascinating views and structures to see in Uluwatu Temple, another thing to watch out are the monkeys. The quick innocent little monkeys that can take away belongings from you. Food and drinks are not allowed in the premise. We have been reminded several times by our tour guide as we approach the area to be alert and be mindful of our things.

2. Witness the Kecak Dance in Uluwatu

Why is it one of the best things to do in Bali, Indonesia?

Peaceful sight of the temple, sun dipping below the sea horizon, such a spectacular backdrop. After paying visit to the temple, we headed to the small open theater to witness Bali’s Kecak Dance performance, a dance and musical love story of Rama and Shinta. One of the holy dance in Bali, it’s a show not accompanied by Gamelang orchestra. It is performed primarily by men sitting in circle singing “Cak! Cak! Cak!” for an hour. Kecak is a holy dance performed specially during big temple celebrations.

Same story plot as the Ramayana in Prambanan but different music accompanies the story and more witty characters, welcoming guests to participate in the actual play. Hanuman is still my favorite and never fails to tickle our funny bone! Jumping across every corner, even taking selfies with the audience on live performance! And how can I forget the loud chant of “cak! cak!” An open area where loud enchanting voices of men (there’s even a kid in the group) can be heard all over the place. Truly a magnificent showcase of culture, religion and arts preserved and shared to the curious eyes of foreign visitors. This is definitely one thing you shouldn’t miss when visiting Bali. The ever captivating Ramayana experience touched by Balinese own craft of dance, a setting sun and Hindu temple on the backdrop, certified one of the best things to do in Bali!

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Bali.

3. Farm life in Rumah Desa

Why is it one of the best things to do in Bali, Indonesia?

The simplicity of life in the world of crops, cows, coffee, coconuts, more greenery and other graces of nature, we headed to Tabanan, in Rumah Desa, to see and feel the humble life in the rural. Indeed, a farm atmosphere, walking through the bright green rice fields, a sip of fresh coconut water, mooing cows as they plow the rich soil with all ones might! Herbal medicines are also available in the village. Even the simplest kind of plant has a use. Along the way, our guide picked this leaf and demonstrated how to use it as a toothbrush. Rough texture of the leaf serves as the brush, with sand paper like texture. Nature’s bounty, even the supply of fresh water is free and available. Rumah Desa offers home stay as well. It’s definitely a good way to further explore and experience the real Balinese life in the village. Fun farm activities in the village, a taste of Balinese life at its simplicity, a day or even ‘days’ spent to Rumah Desa is definitely one of the best things to do in Bali, Indonesia.

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