Where is Bali?
Bali is considered one of Indonesia’s major islands. With coastlines on the Bali Sea and the Indian Ocean, Bali lies between the islands of Lombok and Java, and is approximately 1,150 kilometers east of Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia.
How to get to Bali
To visit Bali, also known as the “Island of the Gods”, you can review fares and schedules for Turkish Airlines’ flights to Denpasar-Bali. Non-stop flights departing from Istanbul Airport to Bali’s Ngurah Rai Airport take about 12 hours. Taxis and buses operate between Ngurah Rai Airport and various destinations on the island.
Check out the link for the best deals on flights to Bali.
Beaches in Bali
Bali’s Indian Ocean and Bali Sea coastlines are home to some of the world’s loveliest beaches, as well as a number of famous surf breaks and dive spots. According to visitors, some of the best beaches in Bali are in the villages of Seminyak, Seseh, Nusa Dua and Sanur. Dreamland beach, in south Bali, is exceptional for surfing, while Blue Lagoon beach, in east Bali, is a wonderful destination for diving and snorkeling amid coral reefs and colorful marine life.
Seminyak
Seminyak, a lively village along Bali’s stunning southern coastline, is undoubtedly one of the premier destinations to explore in Bali. Bustling Seminyak is home to upscale restaurants and chic spa centers, charming boutiques and relaxed surf shops. As a major center in Bali for fashion, dining, and hospitality, Seminyak is an ideal locale for experiencing the island’s vibrant daily rhythms and nightlife. The area’s long sandy beaches, lined with cafes and stylish clubs, are another attraction.
Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple, on Bali’s southern peninsula, is a must-visit destination for exploring the island’s cultural landscape. Perched on a cliff approximately 70 meters above the Indian Ocean, the temple provides stunning vistas during the early morning hours and at sunset. At Uluwatu Temple, you can observe traditional Balinese architecture in detail while appreciating the temple’s animal inhabitants: a tribe of playful, mischievous monkeys live on and around the temple grounds. Visitors can also attend traditional music and dance performances, usually held in the evenings.
Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah Lot, a Hindu temple in southwestern Bali, is believed to have been built in the 15th century by Danghyang Nirartha, a poet and priest. Dedicated to the gods of the sea, Tanah Lot is set on a large coral rock that once overlooked the Bali Sea. Due to erosion, the temple is now surrounded by the sea and accessible to visitors only during low tide. Embodying Bali’s spiritual and natural aspects, Tanah Lot is certainly a must-visit place in Bali, especially during sunset.
Ubud
A truly distinctive place in Bali, Ubud is cherished by tourists for many reasons. The village, home to numerous artists and artisans, is surrounded by rice fields and forest. Visitors seeking spiritual experiences in Bali will find that modern-day Ubud has evolved into a highly regarded wellness center, housing yoga and meditation facilities along with luxurious resorts, spas, and fine dining restaurants. Some of the best places to visit in Ubud include the Monkey Forest and Ubud Palace. In addition, Ubud’s proximity to the Ayung River makes the area a popular destination for rafting activities.
Besakih Temple
We mentioned that there are many must-visit temples in Bali. One of the most important of these is Besakih Temple. Known as the “Mother Temple,” Besakih is the largest and most holy Hindu temple in Bali. The complex, comprising 23 temples on six levels, is set on the slopes of Mount Agung and is believed to date from the 13th century. Nearly 70 festivals per year are held at Besakih Temple.
Tirta Empul Temple
The lovely Tirta Empul water temple is situated near a natural spring revered by the Balinese. The Hindu temple serves as the backdrop for a water purification ritual known as “melukat.” Visitors are invited to engage in the ritual here, contributing to its status as a favored attraction. The purifying properties of natural springs are explored here, alongside the dazzling splendor of classic Balinese architecture. We strongly suggest including Tirta Empul Temple in your Bali itinerary.
Mount Batur
In addition to visiting temples and relaxing on the beaches, Bali is a fine destination for hiking. Mount Batur is particularly notable for tourists seeking a trekking adventure. Many excursions include sunrise or sunset walks, offering gorgeous vistas of these daily natural phenomena along with spectacular views of the countryside.
Agung Rai Museum of Art
Established by Agung Rai, who devoted his life to safeguarding Balinese culture, the museum’s collection includes traditional and contemporary works by both local and international artists. In addition to its exhibitions, the Agung Rai Art Museum offers a diverse range of activities and spaces including theater and dance performances, workshops, and a library. The striking architectural details on the museum’s interior and exterior facades are also worth noting.
Lempuyang Temple
Visitors to Bali may wish to add one of the island’s oldest temples to the list of must-visit places in Bali. Lempuyang Temple, built atop Bisbis Hill in east Bali, features an impressive and somewhat daunting pathway: there are 1,700 steps to the top of the temple complex. However, this top level offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and excellent photography opportunities. Lempuyang should certainly be included in any tour of sacred temples and shrines in Bali.
Infinity pools
Infinity pools, often portrayed in sleek photographs, are abundant in Bali. The island’s magnificent landscapes provide ideal settings for these types of swimming pools. In the Ubud area, especially, many infinity pools offer views of lush green rice fields or verdant jungle. While many upscale hotels have infinity pools, some resorts contain villas or rooms with private infinity pools, a luxe feature particularly popular with honeymooners.
Handara Gate
Handara Gate, the dramatic entrance to the Bali Handara Golf Resort, has become quite famous as one of the island’s most-photographed structures. The Instagram-friendly monumental gate, a striking example of classic Balinese temple gate architecture, is considered by many tourists to be a top attraction in Bali.
Bali festival
The island’s festivals are a major attraction for visitors to Bali. Many of these festivals are related to religious holidays or observances and take place at temples or holy spots; others include public parades. Bali also hosts numerous music, dance, and food festivals throughout the year, as well as Ubud’s acclaimed annual Writers and Readers Festival.
Urban transportation in Bali
Although Bali is relatively compact, traveling around the island can present challenges. Public transportation, consisting of buses and minibuses, often operates on a flexible schedule, while traffic congestion can be an issue in Bali’s heavily populated southern and central regions. Car, motorcycle, and scooter rentals are available, as are taxis. Please do follow the traffic regulations if you’re driving a private vehicle; wear a helmet if you’re on a motorbike.
Useful tips for Indonesia and Bali
- Socket type: C and F
- Currency: Indonesian rupiah
- Emergency assistance: 112
- Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Jakarta: +62 21 525 6250
