Bali prides itself on beauty and culture. It’s the ideal destination for those who want to enjoy breathtaking scenery without going over budget. In this piece, we highlight five of the top tourist spots in Bali. You will get a chance to have great views of nature and culture, which are very low in cost.
In this article, we have compiled five of the top tourist spots in Bali that will let you witness the stunning spectacle without making a dent in your wallet. From rice fields to cliff temples, these places will help make your Bali trip quite special. Let us plunge into the best five tourist spots in Bali.
Table of Contents
1. Tegallalang Rice Terraces: One of The Peaceful Tourist Spots in Bali
Why Visit?
The Tegallalang Rice Terraces represent some of the most famous tourist spots in Bali. Due to its traditional farming and verdant scenery, Bali is a popular destination for tourists who come to see another side of the island.
These rice fields are set in northern Ubud and are highly recommended for all nature and scenic beauty lovers.
On the other hand, the terraced landscape exudes tranquility. It is nice to get away from the cacophony of noises in the city and then to have Bali’s natural beauty unfold before one’s eyes.
The essential thing is that the terraces are part of Bali’s cultural heritage; they symbolize the traditional agriculture practiced on the island.
Activities:
Walking around Tegallalang allows for simple walking among lush terraces, with fresh air surrounding you. Indeed, the majority of visitors from abroad come here to take advantage of the fantastic photo opportunities, so remember to pack your cameras.
If you are interested in farming methods practiced in Bali, then you have the option to learn how people grow rice and harvest it too. If light trekking fascinates you, then you can do that too around the area.
Cost:
Tegallalang Rice Terraces is extremely reasonable, with only a nominal door fee of IDR 15,000, or USD 1. Some farmers may also ask for money if you take photos of their fields, which typically range between IDR 5,000 and 10,000 ($0.30-$0.65). Perfect for budget tourists.
Tip:
If you want to avoid enormous crowds of people, get there extremely early in the morning. It would be quieter there and easier to take pictures in the cooler weather. Moreover, terraces are more pleasant if they are not crowded. Be prepared for comfortable shoes because visiting the terraces will involve much stair climbing and walking on uneven paths.
2. Uluwatu Temple — a Beautiful Attraction on the Cliffside in Bali
Why visit?
Uluwatu Temple is one of the must-see tourist spots in Bali. Standing on the edge of a cliff facing the Indian Ocean, 70 meters over the roaring waves, Uluwatu Temple certainly has some of the best ocean views on the island. The sea gods were worshiped here and played an important role in the Bali religion.
Even more special in Uluwatu are the breathtaking sunsets. You will hardly remember this experience of a view when the sun dips below the horizon while standing on the cliff. It’s a perfect blend of culture, nature, and beauty.
Activities:
Visitors to Uluwatu are allowed to walk the grounds of this temple, complete with its traditional Balinese design. The cliffside walk offers views across the ocean, and it is one of the favorite spots for photographers.
One of the most popular reasons tourists visit Uluwatu is the Kecak fire dance performance, which takes place every day at dusk. It is a traditional solo dance performed by a large number of men based on one of the most well-known tales from the Hindu epic Ramayana.
Cost:
Entrance to Uluwatu Temple costs IDR 50,000 ($3.25) per adult and IDR 30,000 ($2) per child. Tickets for the Kecak fire dance show are IDR 150,000 ($10) per head. It makes Uluwatu a great spot for a cultural and scenic experience amazingly at cheap prices.
Tips:
Watch out for the naughty monkeys running around the grounds; they love stealing sunglasses, hats, and anything else they can get their hands on. And remember to dress appropriately because this is, after all, a sacred place; lend a sarong at the entrance.
3. Nusa Penida: Bali’s Undiscovered Tourist Gem
Why visit?
Nusa Penida boasts of being among the most attractive tourist spots in Bali, featuring pristine beaches, emerald waters, and tall cliffs.
While it is a short drive off Bali’s southeast coast, it forms one of the best-kept secrets that will give you ample reason to keep away from the hectic pace on the mainland. This makes it perfect for travelers who want to explore nature at its best.
It is famed for Kelinching Beach, which has a spectacular cliff structure like a T-Rex. Other popular destinations are Broken Beach, Angel’s Beach, and Crystal Bay, which all provide unique and magnificent views.
Activities:
Nusa Penida is a paradise for snorkeling and diving lovers; you can swim with mantas, colored fish, and coral reefs here. If you are the on-land type, then trekking cliffs at Kelingking Beach offers one of the most amazing views on the island of Bali. You will be able to visit the natural pools of the island, such as Angel’s Beach, and relax in water so transparent while looking around at the cliffs.
Cost:
It takes about IDR 150,000-250,000 ($10-$17) one way, depending on the operator, to go to Nusa Penida from Bali with a speedboat. An entrance fee is charged at some beaches and attractions, such as Kelingking Beach, amounting to about IDR 10,000 ($0.65), but most places are free.
Tip:
Nusa Penida is big and the roads are not good, so the best way to get around would be by renting a motorbike or on a guided tour. If you plan to stay overnight, reserve your accommodations in advance, especially during busy travel seasons.
4. Tirta Empul Temple: One of The Sacramental Tourist Spots in Bali
Why Visit?
Tirta Empul Temple is an important spiritual place and one of the popular tourist spots in Bali. The temple is well-known for its holy spring, where Balinese Hindus gather to purify themselves. This is a great example of traditional Balinese architecture, built back in 926 AD.
Tourist visitors to Tirta Empul will be permitted to participate in the purification ritual—a rare culturally unusual experience to immerse in the spiritual traditions of Bali amidst tranquility and peace.
Activities:
The visitors flocking to Tirta Empul all join the purification ceremony: bathing in the holy waters. There are a few fountains where people pray and clean themselves. Besides purification, one can stroll around the temple grounds and admire the intricate carvings that depict much of Bali’s religious history.
Cost:
The entrance to Tirta Empul is 50,000 IDR ($3.25) per adult. If you want to participate in the ritual, the rental of a sarong and sash will add about 10,000 IDR ($0.65). Thus, the location is reasonably priced and meaningful to visitors.
Tips:
Dress respectfully when visiting the temple; sarongs and sashes are offered at the entry. It gets crowded, especially on a holy day, so the best time to go there for more comfort is early morning.
5. Mount Batur: One of The Adventurous Tourist Spots in Bali
Why Visit?
One of the most exciting tourist spots in Bali is Mount Batur, which is a hot favorite among thrill-seekers. This volcano, which can be found near Kintamani, is well-known for its early climbs.
Right from the summit of Mt Batur, one views the delightful sights of Bali’s landscapes, especially Lake Batur and the surrounding mountains.
Sunrise from the top of Mount Batur is magical. Colors change in the sky as the sun rises, and under one’s feet, slowly the island awakens. This is a must-be-attached-to list when visiting Bali.
Activities:
The main activity on Mount Batur is an early sunrise trek. The summit usually takes two hours, starting at three in the morning. It is moderately difficult but suitable for most fitness levels. Once you are atop, panoramic views and a beautiful sunrise greet you.
Afterward, many visitors head out to relax at the nearby Batur Natural Hot Springs or explore the very scenic area around Lake Batur.
Cost:
Guided sunrise treks cost around IDR 400,000–600,000 ($26–40) per person. This generally includes transportation, a guide, and breakfast at the summit. Admission into the Batur Natural Hot Springs costs about IDR 100,000 ($7), which is just what you need after your hike.
Tips:
Wear warm clothing and suitable shoes because the peak can be very cold, especially before daybreak. It is also recommended that you carry a flashlight or headlamp owing to the early start time of the trip.
Conclusion
Sometimes referred to as the Land of the Gods, Bali provides endless possibilities for beautiful views, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures that one can experience. The best part is that you do not have to spend much money enjoying the best tourist spots in Bali.
From the serenest of Tegallalang Rice Terraces to the adventurous Mount Batur, every destination listed here has something different to offer but is very well suited for your economical round trip.
Whether it is nature, culture, or adventure that one is interested in seeing and experiencing, the aforementioned five locations should be included on any holiday list concerning Bali. Happy travels!
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