Top 10 Things to Do in Bali Besides Beaches

Bali is indeed famous for its beautiful beaches, but it has much more to offer than just beaches. There are old temples, verdant rice terraces, thrilling marketplaces, and quiet volcano hiking. Bali has all kinds of different experiences to offer. And, of course, there are many ways to experience the culture or lovely natural sites aside from the beaches. So, if you want to discover all the best activities in Bali, visit FaresMatch and book everything for your trip.

1. The Sacred Uluwatu Temple

It is one of the worthiest spectacles to behold around Bali: high on a cliff, looking out over the panorama of the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple.

This processional sea temple was built during the 11th century, worshipping the Hindu God of the Sea.
Its splendid location and scenery make this a perfect place for sightseeing.
The temple per se is gorgeous, with carvings that tell the intricate tale of rich history within the spiritual heritage of Bali.

2. Kecak Dance Performance

In addition to the temple, people can experience the wonderful Kecak dance performance.

The traditional dance of Bali is so beautiful at sunset, with the background of a glowing sky and crashing waves below.
Clothed in traditional costume, the performers are chanting in one harmonious voice through their sways in a setting derived from the epic Ramayana.
This surely makes Uluwatu part of a great cultural experience for direct visitors, where it was history, spirituality, and artistry.

3. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

For the wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts among you, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary at Ubud is a perfect place to visit.

It is a hidden world in a thick, jungle-like environment where many hundreds of long-tailed macaques wander freely from ancient temple ruins and towering trees to charismatic, narrow, winding paths across sacred shrines that offer perfect spots for photography.
Overall, the tranquillity of the place makes it easy to feel in communion with Mother Nature herself.
Yet the remarkable feature of this fabulous sanctuary is that, after putting in all efforts to create once-in-a-lifetime exciting experiences, one should keep an eye on belongings, as fun-loving monkeys do snatch them away. So it is best to safeguard your valuables when exploring the place.

4. Trek up Mount Batur for the Sunrise View

Hiking Mount Batur, an active volcano in Bali's Central Highlands, is one of the most incredible experiences in Bali.

Trekking up the peak at dawn is quite popular with many people; it captures the magic of the first rays shining over Bali's breathtaking scenery.
It is a fairly easy 2-3 hour hike to the summit. Sip a hot coffee while enjoying panoramic views of lakes, mountains, and volcanic terrain at the top.
Of all the sunrise views on the island, this is among the most recommended.

5. Explore the Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Ubud

These lovely terraced rice fields near Ubud are the most photographed and possibly the most revered areas of Bali. They've been painstakingly carved into the hillside to get the most theatrical views of Bali's agricultural scenery. The entire arrangement is a manifestation of the island's traditional subak irrigation system, which deservedly found its place in the UNESCO cultural heritage list.

Visitors can walk along the terraces, admire the beautiful backdrop, and try their hands at rice planting with local farmers.
This area has nice cafes and shops scattered around where one can enjoy a meal or buy souvenirs made by hand.
For those seeking an adventure, ziplining through the rice terraces gives a thrilling adventure and offers a spectacular landscape view.

6. Experience the Culture at The Bali Museum

Bali Museum is a good place for people who want to learn more about Bali's rich heritage. The museum holds much information: hundreds of artefacts from ancient sculptures, religious relics, and symbolic traditional Balinese costumes.

Visitors will learn about the island's history, from the beginning of Hindu-Buddhist influences to the most recent contestations in Balinese culture.
The museum is divided into several spaces, each displaying a different aspect of Bali's history, including archaeology, ethnography, and art. Its peace makes it a fine place to reflect on the island's rich heritage.
After wandering through the halls, an individual may meander through the lush, concise gardens of the museum and enjoy an instant of solitude.

7. Take a Culinary Tour of Bali's Local Markets

Bali is a paradise for foodie enthusiasts, and one of the best ways to savour the island's mouthwatering food culture is through its local markets.

Ubud's conventional market is famous for its long lists of fresh local produce, exotic spices, and street food stalls. Visitors can sample various local Balinese dishes, such as "babiguling" (suckling pig) and "nasi campur" (mixed rice).
Badung Market in Denpasar is also a great option for travellers wanting a truly local experience since stalls sell anything from the freshest seafood to handmade wares. It gives visitors the chance to interact closely with local vendors while learning more about Balinese ingredients and cooking techniques.
Many culinary tours will even include cooking classes where you learn to prepare traditional foods in a more hands-on atmosphere.

8. Relax at Bali Hidden Waterfalls

Bali has so many irresistible wonders in the shape of several waterfalls, each having its own natural phenomenon.

Tegenungan Waterfall is one of the busiest falls on the island, located near Ubud; it has a pretty big pool for a swimming dip beneath the falling water.
If you want to go swimming in an out-of-the-way place with very few people around, then you should visit Sekumpul Waterfall, located in northern Bali.
The other fabulous place to visit for nature lovers is Gitgit Waterfall, hidden within the interiors of Bali's mountains. The trek to Gitgit is quite lucrative in terms of scenery, while the refreshingly cool pool of the waterfall forms a very nice setting for a peaceful getaway.

9. Relaxation and Renewal with a Balinese Spa Treatment

Indonesia's Bali offers a splendour for wellness and relaxation, and its treatments are popular all over the world.

Enjoy a soothing combined rejuvenation in body and mind through Balinese massage. The best luxury resorts and spa centres offer these relaxing atmospheres within lush gardens or along the coast.
For an extraordinary experience, it is offered a flower bath, where you bathe yourself in a tub filled with petals.
With a high-end spa or a rustic retreat, you do have treatments in Bali that leave you renewed in feeling.

10. Visit Nusa Islands

This is for a more rugged, untouched experience than what the beaches of Bali have to offer.

The incomparable Nusa Penida boasts dramatic landscapes, including Keling King Beach, Angel's Billabong, and Broken Beach, which are ideal for taking awe-inspiring views and even spotting wildlife.
Nusa Lembongan is another great option if you're looking for activities involving water, such as snorkelling and diving, as it possesses very active coral reefs and abundant fish.
These islands should be a great escape from Bali's more crowded tourist spots, adding a sense of adventure and discovery.

Bali has much more to offer beyond its sandy shores, such as cultural and natural attractions. Unlock the exclusive travel deals on FaresMatch and make your Bali adventure even more memorable with these exceptional experiences.