There are many reasons why Bali is called a piece of heaven on Earth.
As well as the stunning natural beauty of the island, the unique culture and religious practices have filled Bali with super cool and interesting places to visit.
Extravagant temples, hidden waterfalls, and magnificent resorts dot the landscape, filling your Bali itinerary with SO MUCH beauty!
These are some of the best places to visit in Bali, check them out!
23 Amazing Places to Visit in Bali
It wasn’t easy to break down just 23 spots – after all, Bali is PACKED with so many amazing things.
If you have limited time, these are some of the must-see places in Bali.
#1 Sacred Monkey Forest
- Location: Jl Monkey Forest, Ubud
- Price of Entry: adults IDR40,000 ($2.60), children IDR30,000 ($2)
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is one of the most famous tourist attractions, and the most popular thing to do when in Ubud.
It is a perfect attraction for all ages. Wander around the forest, meet Bali’s monkeys, get a selfie with the furry residents, and explore the ancient 14th-century temples.
You will want to make sure you are wearing comfortable shoes and don’t have any loose belongings – the monkeys might try to nab it.
#2 Uluwatu Temple
- Location: Pecatu, South Kuta
- Price of Entry: IDR30,000 ($2) to enter the temple, IDR100.000 ($6.50) for a Kecak Dance ticket
Uluwatu Temple is probably the most famous of the Hindu temples in Bali.
It sits at the very tip of the coast, on top of a cliffside, facing out over endless ocean views. A hotspot for sunset, it is still actively used as a place of prayer and worship for the local Balinese.
Thought to be have been built in the 11th Century, it is a piece of history and culture.
Uluwatu Temple is one of the places in Bali where you can watch a fascinating Balinese Kecak Dance.
In the outstanding setting, with the moody sunset as a backdrop, it is an unforgettable experience.
#3 Besakih Temple
- Location: Jl. Gunung Mas No.Ds, Besakih, Kec. Rendang, Karangasem
- Price of Entry: adults IDR60,000 ($4), children IDR30,000 ($2)
Want some culture and exercise?
To reach Besakih Temple you will have to do a lot of walking and stair climbing – work those glutes!
Considered the Mother Temple of Bali, the huge temple complex is situated on the side of Mount Agung.
Amazingly, the beautiful temple was untouched by the destructive volcano eruption of 1963, further enforcing the idea of its power and magic.
1000m up the volcano, it is surrounded by rice fields, mountains, hills and streams.
Be sure to dress appropriately and be respectful if there are any active worshippers during your visit.
#4 Penglipuran Village
- Location: Jl. Penglipuran, Kubu, Kec. Bangli
- Price of Entry: adults IDR50,000 ($3), children IDR30,000 ($2)
Penglipuran Village is one of the cleanest villages in the world.
The air is incredibly clean thanks to minimal transportation, there are trash cans everywhere, and the residents are incredibly strict to ensure it remains as clean as possible.
There are places within the village where you can learn about Balinese Hinduism, traditional Balinese homes and lots more about the incredibly unique culture of the island.
A great place to get off the tourist path and expand your knowledge of the island, Penglipuran Village is one of the best places to visit in Bali.
#5 Bratan Lake
- Location: Baturiti, Tabanan
- Price of Entry: adults IDR50,000 ($3), children IDR25,000 ($2)
Situated between Mount Bratan and Mount Catur, Bratan Lake is the second largest lake in Bali.
Thanks to its high location, it is much cooler than other parts of the island, adding a mystical edge.
You can venture the lake by renting a boat, or simply walking around the edge of the lake.
The floating water temple, Ulun Danu Bratan, is the the biggest draw to the lake. It is incredibly beautiful, with many different areas to explore.
An active place of worship, if you visit on the right day you can see an extravagant Hindu ceremony taking place.
#6 Tirta Empul
- Location: Jl. Tirta, Manukaya, Kec. Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar
- Price of Entry: adults IDR50,000 ($3), children IDR25,000 ($2)
Tirta Empul is one of the largest and busiest water temples in Bali. You’ll want to head there early.
It is not only used for prayer, but the natural spring running through the temple is used for bathing by the Balinese Hindus to purify themselves, or complete the melukat ritual.
Be sure you dress respectfully and stick to the rules of the temple.
#7 Lovina Beach
- Location: Kalibukbuk, Buleleng
- Price of Entry: free
The charm of Lovina beach is that it is away from the crowds and a peaceful escape.
Famous for dolphin spotting at sunrise, snorkeling and the dark black sand, it is a picturesque place to unwind.
Stay in a quaint local hotel, wake up early for some dolphin spotting, and spend a lazy day lounging in the cooler climate.
#8 Mount Batur
- Location: Kintamani, Bangli
- Price: IDR800,000 ($50)
The best sunrise on the island is seen from the top of Mount Batur. One of the easiest hikes in Bali, the beauty of the sight is accessible to everyone.
Along with a knowledgable tour guide, the duration of the climb usually ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the conditions.
Pack a warm jumper and wear good shoes, it’s going to be chilly at the top! As you wait for the sunrise, tuck into a breakfast of eggs and tea, and have your cameras at the ready.
For the adventurous Bali visitors, this is one of the best places to visit in Bali.
#9 Tulamben Shipwreck
- Location: Tulamben, Kubu, Karangasem
- Price: around IDR500,000 ($32) for diving/snorkeling per person
Tulamben USAT Liberty Shipwreck is one of the most famous dive sites in Bali, jut 50 meters from the beach.
The current isn’t too heavy, making it easier for beginner divers to move around and enter the wreck.
Overgrown with colorful corals and surrounded by marine life, it is a magical, almost creepy, spot.
No need to bring your own dive equipment, you can rent everything from the beachside warungs – or hop on a tour with a guide to learn how to dive, and hit up some other dive spots in the area.
#10 Blanco Museum
- Location: Jl. Raya Campuhan, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud
- Price of Entry: IDR150,000 ($10)
The Blanco Renaissance Museum in Ubud contains the works of the Spanish and American painter, Mario Antonio Blanco.
Famous for his art depicting women, in 1953 he married a Balinese dancer, who became a model for his paintings.
An interesting spot for art-lovers, culture hunters, and those wanting to escape the sun, the museum is designed like a traditional Balinese home.
#11 Handara Gate
- Location: Jl. Raya Singaraja-Denpasar, Pancasari, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng
- Price of Entry: IDR30,000 ($2)
Handara Gate has taken over Instagram. Unlike Lempuyang Gate (coming up later), there are no illusions and tricks here.
It is actually the entrance to a golf course, with a classically Balinese style and stunning backdrop of towering mountains and luscious greenery.
You can get yourself some incredibly dramatic pictures and videos, with the magnificent views of the tropical island behind.
#12 Four Seasons at Sayan
- Location: Jl. Raya Sayan, Sayan
- Price: start from $500
There are plenty of luxury resorts in Bali, especially in this area of Ubud.
The Four Seasons is the OG! Setting the example for all the newcomers on the block.
With one of the most iconic lily ponds, riverside spa and lavish, Balinese style accommodations, even if you aren’t spending the night, stopping by for a meal is a must!
At the height of the treetops, with expansive views, you can lounge in luxury among tropical nature.
#13 Tegallalang Rice Terrace
- Location: Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang
- Price of Entry: IDR50,000 ($3)
Tegallalang is an unbelievable natural beauty in Ubud.
The best time to visit the terraces is in the morning, as there are fewer visitors and the air is still cool.
Grab a coffee in the cafe at the top of the terrace, and take a stroll around the rice paddies, spotting workers and amazing photo spots.
The Bali swing is located nearby. You can get some EPIC Insta-pics with the towering terraces in the background.
#14 Sekumpul Waterfall
- Location: Sekumpul, Sawan, Buleleng
- Price of Entry: IDR20,000 ($1) entrance fee
Sekumpul waterfall is well-known, but a little bit hard to get to, so not the most popular waterfall in Bali.
Down many slippery, uneven steps through the jungle, you will make your way down the hillside into the ravine with the waterfall.
Walk through puddles, across bridges and navigate towering rocks to reach the crashing falls.
The falls are too strong to swim underneath, but you can dip into the pool of fresh water underneath.
#15 Campuhan Ridge Walk
- Location: Jl. Raya Campuhan, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud
- Price of Entry: free
Campuhan Ridge Walk is one of the best, free places to visit in Bali.
A refreshing location for an early morning walk, run or bicycle ride, the ridge walk looks out over beautiful green scenery.
If you are budget backpacking Bali are looking for affordable activities, the Campuhan Ridge Walk is free!
Wander the path, enjoy the cooler air, and take in the beauty of Bali.
#16 GWK Cultural Park
- Location: Uluwatu St, Ungasan, South Kuta
- Price of Entry: IDR80,000 ($5), IDR50,000 ($3) viewing tower entrance fee
Did you spot the towering statue, looming over the landscape as you flew into Bali?
Located at the GWK Cultural Park, it one of the largest statues in the world.
Every day starting from 11am there are all kinds of dance performances and activities – such as Barong and Kecak Dance.
You can climb to the top of the statue, and almost see the whole Bali from a height!
It is a great place to visit in Bali for first timers, and those wanting to immerse in Balinese culture.
#17 Ayung River
- Location: Gianyar is the most common entry point
- Price of Activity: IDR500,000 ($30) /person
If you are an adventure seeker and like a challenge, rafting down Ayung River is a must-do activity in Bali!
It is the longest river in Bali, with a varying current to make the rafting experience more enjoyable.
Due to the relatively low level of difficulty of the river, kids from 7 years old are able to join in the fun.
It is one of the most fun and crazy things to do in Bali.
The beauty of the Ayung river is also often a feature of the luxe hotels, villas and resorts around Ubud.
#18 Blue Lagoon
- Location: Padang bai, Manggis, Karangasem
- Price of Entry: free
There are many beaches in Bali where you can wander into the water from the shore, and find beautiful marine life.
At the Blue Lagoon in Padang bai, the water is clear and warm, with coral and fish close to the coast. It is the perfect conditions for snorkeling, diving or scuba diving.
Lounge on the sand, enjoy the wonders of the underwater world, and spend a lazy day in the sun. Blue Lagoon is relatively unvisited!
#19 Tegenungan Waterfall
- Location: Jl. Ir. Sutami, Kemenuh, Kec. Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar
- Price of Entry: IDR20,000 ($1) entrance fee, IDR5,000 ($0.30) parking
Tegenungan waterfall is only 15 meters high, with a heavy fall of clear and clean water.
Around the waterfall, there is a fresh water pool where you can soak and swim.
To get to the waterfall, you have to walk down hundreds of stairs from the parking lot.
#20 Amed
- Location: Karangasem
If you are looking for incredible snorkeling in Bali, Amed is the spot.
Although a world-famous dive and snorkel place, it is not too crowded!
As well as days in the water, you can stop by local warungs, wander the quaint streets, and check out Bukit Cinta for a stunning sunset.
There are so many beautiful places to stay in Amed, you can make it a weekend trip to really enjoy everything the area has to offer.
#21 Munduk Waterfalls
- Location: Jl Raya No.Desa, Munduk
- Price of Entry: IDR20,000 ($1) for entrance fee
Munduk is a stunning, rural setting away from the crowds of the south. It is a perfect, peaceful escape for a calm retreat.
More of a hidden gem, to get to the Munduk waterfall you will take a walk through the jungle.
Towering 20 meters high with a cool pool of water at the bottom, you can refresh from the trek in the water and take in the beauty of the natural setting.
Munduk is one of the best places to visit in Bali for a touch of real Bali.
#22 Lempuyang Temple
- Location: Jl. Pura Telaga Mas Lempuyang, Tri Buana, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem
- Price of Entry: IDR100,000 ($6)
As previously mentioned, Lempuyang Temple is the iconic photo spot you see all over Instagram.
The secrets behind the photos have been revealed, it isn’t all as it appears, however there are still some amazing sights to be seen beyond the Gates of Heaven.
Climbing up 1,700 steps, you will be accompanied by animal sounds, cool air, beautiful natural scenery and wild monkeys hanging from the trees.
#23 Tanah Lot
- Location: Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan
- Price of Entry: IDR60,000 ($4) adult, IDR30,000 ($2)
When the tide is high, Tanah Lot Temple looks like it’s floating in the middle of the ocean.
Around the temple, there are creepy caves that were formed due to being eroded by sea water.
Locals believe, these caves are filled with tame sea snakes which belong to the gods who inhabit the temple, to protect the sacred space.
An iconic sunset spot in Bali, join the crowds for a stunning view of the temple as the sky changes from blue to purple or orange.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking to fill your Bali itinerary with AMAZING places, these are some of the best options.
From natural beauties, to luxe spots and cultural hotspots, Bali is jam-packed with places to visit, you won’t be disappointed!
Featured image: Uluwatu Temple
