Bali Adventure: Temples, Jungles & Beaches - 13 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Bali, Transfer to Ubud & Explore Ubud

Selamat Datang, welcome to Bali! Your private driver will be waiting to transfer you from the airport to your hotel in Ubud. Upon arrival, you'll check in to your hotel and, from there, relax or explore your surroundings for the rest of the day. If you choose to explore on your own, this small town is easy to explore on foot and filled with things to do, places to visit, and great restaurants. You could take a short walk from your hotel to Ubud Monkey Forest. This natural forest sanctuary spans over 30 acres (12 ha) and is home to a horde of nearly 1,000 gray long-tailed macaques.

Strolling through the forest, you will see lush tropical foliage and tall trees where the monkeys peer down on tourists. As macaques aren't afraid to get close to humans, it's a unique opportunity to interact with them up close, but they are also quite bold and have been known to steal sunglasses, climb onto visitors' heads, and more! If you're not up for sightseeing, spa therapists are ready to pamper your body during your stay in Bali. Specializing in Balinese body and foot massages, an hour or two with them will leave you completely relaxed and invigorated. 

Day 2: Visit Tegalalang Rice Fields, Tirta Empul Temple & Gunung Kawi

Your driver will be waiting in the lobby to take you to the stunning Tegalalang rice fields near the village of Ceking. These terraced paddies are one of the most photographed places in Bali, and when you arrive, you'll understand why. The rice fields appear like waves, wrapping themselves around the valley. You can enjoy the views from high above or trek down for a closer look at the distinctive water irrigation system used by the Balinese farmers.

Next, you'll visit Tirta Empul, a Hindu water temple. The compound's central courtyard features a natural bathing area for ritual purification. Thus, the temple's name is "Holy Spring" in Balinese. Spend time walking around this peaceful compound, learning the rich traditions of the Balinese Hindu culture. Then you'll enter the water to pray and bathe at the water spouts. After lunch, visit Gunung Kawi temple, a site of Buddhist and Hindu religious rituals and one of Bali's most unique archaeological sites with a collection of ancient shrine reliefs carved in the rock overlooking the valley of Pakerisan.

Day 3: Sunrise Trek to Mount Batur Summit, Optional Cycling Tour

You'll wake up early this morning for a private transfer to Kintamani, a village at the base of Mount Batur (5,633 feet/1,717 m), an active volcano in northeast Bali. Your pre-dawn trek to the summit follows a well-trodden stone-and-dirt path in time to catch the first light of day as it casts a magical spell over the caldera lake and Bali below. Eat breakfast atop the crater ridge before descending to Kintamani on foot down to sea level, and then you'll return to Ubud. You'll have the rest of the day free to enjoy a soothing and well-earned massage or to explore the town's many art galleries and crafts workshops.

If you're thirsty for more adventure, join a group cycle tour along quiet back roads through local villages, rice paddy fields, and fantastic countryside for approximately four hours in the afternoon. You will stop and take photographs and interact with the friendly local people during the tour. Stop at one of the many village temples and try traditional local snacks and different fruits along the way. The ride ends in Ubud, you'll transfer back to your hotel.

Day 4: Rafting on Telaga Waja River, Tibumana Waterfall & Optional Cooking Class

Your adventure on the Telaga Waja River begins at the foot of Mount Agung, as you hop into your raft and cast off into the crystal-clear water and strong currents. An unforgettable and intense 9-mile (14 km) journey through this spectacular waterway offers stunning landscapes in the middle of the tropical jungle. Enjoy a mix of rapids that will get your adrenaline pumping as you navigate with the help of your rafting guide. Break for a local lunch along the river's edge before driving to a secluded spot to discover Tibumana Waterfall, which is about 15 minutes through the lush Balinese jungle to reach. 

If you'd prefer a less rigorous day, meet up with your chef early this morning to visit the local market. Discover the diverse range of fresh items, including tropical fruits, organic vegetables, and exotic spices. You'll also get a taste of local life as many Balinese go to the market to do their daily shopping. Your chef will help you look for ingredients for the cooking class, then head to a traditional kitchen to start your lesson. Prepare a selection of local recipes, learning about the traditional culinary techniques and Balinese flavors. At the end of the class, sit down to enjoy a lunch of your freshly prepared dishes.

Day 5: Transfer to Pemuteran via Rumah Desa & Ulun Danu Bratan Temple

It's time for a change of locations as you head to Pemuteran by private car for a two-hour journey passing through the center of Bali, filled with lush green landscapes and small villages. Once you've arrived, a local family will welcome you to Rumah Desa, a traditional house in the countryside. The family will introduce you to various aspects of Balinese daily life through fun, engaging, and enriching activities. You will also spend time in the village's rice fields and plantations, learning about Balinese farmers' unique agricultural techniques. After this immersive morning, sit down to a traditional lunch.

Next, visit the famous Ulun Danu Bratan temple. This picturesque Hindu temple is located on Bratan Lake and is a highlight of any trip to Bali. The temple was built in the 17th century to honor the three primary Hindu Gods, Vishnu, Shiva, and Brahma. Spend time exploring the compound, with its ornately carved shrines and beautiful tropical gardens. After your visit, you'll head to Pemuteran, and upon checking in and getting settled, head to the beach.

If you're looking for heart-pumping activity, visit Jatiluwih, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is discoverable by mountain bike, electric bike, or a short walk. Cycle through the luscious greenery of Bali's most beautiful rice terraces and get an authentic perspective on Balinese rural life. Take this opportunity to sip a drink in a local café with a view overlooking the ultimate rice paddy terrace view.

Day 6: Snorkeling near Menjangan Island

Take a half-day boat trip around Bali Barat National Park, enjoying the scenery and snorkeling at some of Bali's most beautiful marine sites. Bali Barat National Park (also known as West Bali National Park) and the unspoiled Menjangan Island are a paradise for nature lovers. It is the best area in Bali for snorkeling, offering an array of marine life and pristine beaches. Your boat trip includes a local-style picnic lunch served on board or on the beach if the tide is right.

Your afternoon is free to enjoy Pemuteran, a remote, calm fishing village. You could go on a fishing trip and join local fishermen as they go out for their daily catch at sunset. Catch a beach volleyball game late in the afternoon when locals gather to play, and visitors are welcome to join. When in doubt, you could always laze on the beach, followed by a short sunset walk to a viewpoint with amazing views of Java volcanoes.

Day 7: Bali Barat National Park Trek, Visit Pulaki Temple

Set out early this morning to begin today's trek in Bali Barat National Park. Along the three-hour journey, you'll admire flora and fauna while your local guide tells you about native plants and their uses. If you're lucky, you'll also spot lizards, monkeys, wild chickens, and tropical birds.

Later in the afternoon, explore Pulaki temple, one of Bali's most sacred Hindu monuments. The temple was built in the 16th century, but archeological work indicates that the site may have been inhabited since prehistoric times. Pulaki Temple sits on the edge of the beach, with views of the sea to the front and spectacular mountains at the back. You will likely be greeted by the rambunctious monkeys who live nearby. Although they may be a nuisance to visitors, the locals believe the monkeys keep evil away. Take your time to walk around this spiritual site, and soak up the vibes and views that make Pulaki so special.

Day 8: Transfer to Amed via Brahma Vihara Giri Monastery & Tirta Gangga

Enjoy a scenic journey along the north coast of Bali, traveling from Pemuteran to Amed. The three-hour drive takes you from the island's northeast corner to the southeast. Pass small villages, rice paddy fields, quiet beaches, and make stops for pictures. Stop to visit Brahma Vihara Giri, a peaceful monastery that blends elements of Buddhism with traditional Balinese design. Notice the beautiful reclining Buddha image, intricate decorative carvings, and unusual mini replicas of Borobudur. The monastery is situated at a high elevation, with impressive views overlooking Bali's western region.

Continue to Tirta Gangga, meaning "water from the Ganges," a beautiful water palace in eastern Bali. It's the holiest river according to Hindu tradition and is a place of reverence for Hindus and a former royal palace for the Raja of Karangasem. Enjoy wandering around its maze of pools and fountains with spectacular views of rice paddies and Mount Agung. Finally, you'll arrive at Amed, where you'll check into your hotel and can relax for the evening or take a stroll along the beach.

Day 9: Pura Lempuyang, Optional Activities in Amed & Tulamben

Start the day with a visit to Pura Luhur Lempuyang. Lying at 5,626 feet (1,715 M) above sea level, this is one of Bali's oldest and most highly regarded temples. It is also believed to predate the majority of Hindu temples on the island. Stroll the entire loop, as there are seven temples to see. You're free to explore Amed in the afternoon, where you'll find exceptional diving spots. You can easily rent equipment from hotels or restaurants. The coast offers stunning black volcanic sand beaches covered with a myriad of jukung (traditional canoes).

The fishermen go out twice daily and can go as far as Lombok when the sea allows it. You can also discover the labors of the salt workers in the dry season between May and October, as the salt harvesting method has remained ancestral. Visit Tulamben, which is another popular diving spot overgrown with coral and teeming with marine life. This is an excellent spot for underwater photography. You'll surely capture worthwhile shots and even catch a glimpse of a seldom-seen species or two on your trip here.

Day 10: Taman Ujung Water Palace, Pasir Putih Beach

Head about an hour south this morning to visit Taman Ujung Water Palace, a sprawling 25-acre (10 ha) compound with ponds, gardens, and shrines, all connected by pleasant walking paths and bridges. According to local legend, Taman Ujung is believed to have fertility powers. As a result, it is a popular place for young couples to make offerings or have wedding photos taken. As you wander, you'll discover the allure of stunning gardens, ponds filled with koi fish, and beautiful natural surroundings, with fabulous views of the Lombok Strait in the distance. 

Not far from there, along the coast, is Pasir Putih, one of Bali's "hidden' beaches." Despite being just 2 miles (4.5 km) east of Candidasa, the beach is far less crowded than most of the island's coastline. Grab a seat at one of the seafood restaurants, relax in the sun, or grab your snorkeling gear for an incredible underwater experience. Pasir Putih has something for every intrepid traveler.

Day 11: Transfer to Sanur via Bias Tugel Beach

You'll be leaving Amed this morning but don't put away your bathing suit just yet. Your driver will take you south toward Sanur. Discover the southern part of the island as you hug the eastern coastline. Along the way, you'll see the temples of Goa Lawah and its secret beaches. You'll stop at Bias Tugel Beach, a small bay with a 426-foot (130 m) stretch of white sand just south of the busy Padangbai Harbor in East Bali. It offers a somewhat secluded environment, made possible by a long, narrow peninsula that obscures it from the hubbub of the nearby port.

You can easily reach the beach with a short trek past the cape from the main road. A beautiful seascape with calm blue waves, rock pools, and golden sand with streaks of volcanic black awaits. Local vendors will also sell snacks, cold beers, and parasols along this stretch of the coast. From there, make your way to Sanur, and once checked in at your hotel, you'll have the remainder of the evening free. Don't miss the sunset from the heights of Bukit Peninsula.

Day 12: Snorkeling around Nusa Penida, Uluwatu Temple & Kecak Fire Show

After breakfast at your hotel, a short transfer by road takes you to the harbor in Nusa Penida. Meet with the boat team and snorkeling crew, receiving a briefing on the day's activities, safety precautions, and more. Then head out to sea, where you can snorkel in some of the most beautiful areas around the island. If you are lucky, you may swim alongside incredible manta rays.

You could do plenty of things afterward, such as visit the shops in Seminyak or learn surfing which the area is renowned for. Late afternoon, visit the temple of Uluwatu, perched on top of a cliff above crashing waves. It is one of Bali's six key temples said to protect the island from evil spirits. Afterward, enjoy a fire dance show performed in the nearby amphitheater every evening at sunset. Of course, there is always the possibility of lounging on the beach, and if the ones nearby bore you, head to the white sandy beaches of Pecatu, where you'll enjoy incredible views.

Day 13: Depart Bali

Bid farewell to Bali this morning. Your driver will pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport for your onward flight. Have a safe journey home or to your next destination!

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