Bali is a unique destination with countless beaches, surfing, natural sites, colorful ceremonies, and talented artists. Known as the Island of the Gods Bali, it is famed for its impressive high value-for-money-ratio. The island has an authentic vibe that is complemented by the welcoming attitudes of the Balinese people. To experience the island’s true essence visit these five non-touristy spots in Bali.
Nusa Penida
For a truly organic experience, visit the largest of Bali’s three Nusa islands. Nusa Penida sees few tourists, allowing for its natural beauty to flourish. The island has many stunning temples such as Goa Giri Putri, or the Karangsari cave temple. Explore Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool with bright green and blue hues overlooking the ocean. The island is a plateau of limestone with beaches only on the north coast. Nusa Penida is a beautiful place to go scuba diving and manta ray snorkeling.
Pemuteran
The quiet village of Pemuteran is an ideal location for those seeking calm and relaxation. The region has managed to maintain its charm and traditional culture and is home to Bali’s most significant temples. Pemuteran Bay is Bali’s best place for diving and snorkeling due to the lack of currents and vast underwater reefs. Experience the beauty of the region through Barat National Park, Banjar hot springs, Bali Botanical Garden, Ijen Crater, and the sightseeing route of Munduk.
Buyan Bratan
Located in north-central Bali is the Buyan Bratan Volcanic Complex. The lush region is full of climbable volcano peaks, jungles, serene lakes, waterfalls, hot springs, temples, and local villages and markets. The popularly photographed temple Pura Ulun Danu Bratan sits on Lake Bratan.
For volcano climbing, Mount Catur is the only inactive volcano in the area. The moderate hiking conditions take about three hours to complete, and at the top of the summit is a sweeping view of Lake Bratan and the temple Pura Puncak Mangu.
Before setting off for this tropical paradise look into Travel Insurance Bali. Compare travel insurance with iSelect for coverage of potential problems while in Bali. Anything can happen on a volcanic island while riding a moped, enjoying water activities, or watching wildlife. iSelect will compare policies and find the right insurance for travel needs and give the peace of mind that the unexpected is covered.
Ubud
Ubud is the Cultural Heart and Center of Bali. Visitors have many opportunities to experience culture and art thanks to several museums and dance performances. The scenic region has a lively art scene, lifestyle attractions, yoga and spiritual practices, and an overall relaxed atmosphere.
Ubud Monkey Forest has hundreds of monkeys roaming around. Within the forest are traditional stone-carved statues, temples, and social halls. Local artists host workshops where visitors can learn how to make traditional Balinese arts and crafts. The region is filled with temples and palaces, most notably the ornate Ubud Royal Palace. Visit temples Goa Gajah, the water temple Tirta Empul, and Pura Taman Saraswati.
The Secret Gardens of Sambangan
North of Bali, just 15 minutes outside of Singaraja city, is Sambangan Secret Garden. This garden sits up in the mountains deep within the jungle and houses Bali’s most beautiful waterfalls.
The Blue Lagoon is a picturesque swimming spot filled bright blue water. It is surrounded by jungle foliage, hanging vines, and massive boulders. Along Aling Waterfall is the tallest and most famous of the Garden’s waterfalls. At 35 meters high, the locals consider the waterfall sacred and swimming is not permitted.
Kroya Waterfall is considered the prettiest of all the Garden’s falls and is a natural water park. It has a natural waterslide where water flows over a smooth crevice, allowing visitors to slide down the 12-meter fall.
