Many people say that Bali is overrated, too touristy and not worth to
visit. I guess it really all depends how you would enjoy Bali. Not only
that it has been popular in it’s own right, with post eat, pray, love,
is there still the Bali that started it all?
Regardless, as time has passed, and places may have grown, yes Bali
is still what it is somewhat but not quite. If you can look past the
many tourists especially during peak season and instead of scorning,
enjoy instead the many little business dotted around specifically to
cater to tourists, you might just fall in love with Bali.
Bali deserves still the attention it is getting, just to list the Top
10 must visit places is enough to see why you should still travel to
Bali.
Uluwatu Temple, Pura Luhur @ Bali
Uluwatu Temple – Pura Luhur
Imagine a large rugged limestone cliff with a temple perched on it,
almost like a scene from cliffhanger, to add to it’s dramatic grandeur.
It is situated in the island commonly known as Bukit Peninsula, where it
also include Bali’s few best beaches like Balangan and also has many
good surfing spots. The temple is itself a majestic structure,
constructed and expanded by many famous safes since in the 11th Century,
it perched at the steep cliff of 70 meters above the Indian ocean. If
you go even higher grounds nearby, you will be rewarded with
breathtaking view of either side and sunsets over Uluwatu temple itself.
Pura Tanah Lot @ Bali
Pura Tanah Lot
Another majestic rock formation that lays as a foundation of a
popular pilgrimage temple. It is most popular for its serenity and
cultural significance as it is associated with the Balinese mythology as
one of the seven temples that form a ring in the southwest of Bali. Try
to go there during low tide so that you can experience walking across
the water to the temple for the full experience.
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan (Bali’s temple by the lake)
This is the famous temple by the lake in Bali, where instead of like
the rest perching on the cliff rock, this one is serenely resting at the
edge of Lake Bratan. Imagine beautifully structured temple with double
the beauty due to reflections of the clear lake.
Paddy rice fields @ Ubud, Bali
Dolphin sightings at Lovina
One of the best place in the world to do dolphin sighting boat trip.
You will leave the beach at dawn to seek for the dolphins, though yes it
may be quite crowded with other tourists trying to do the same
especially during peak season, it is still well worth it when you find a
school of dolphins happily jumping by. Lovina itself have a number of
other attractions and activities itself, and boasts itself some
backpacker scene where you can chill out in cafes and with live musics.
Lady selling flowers at the Market @ Ubud, Bali
Ubud
Yes despite that one might be trying to escape the eat, pray, love
trail, Ubud is one place you cannot miss. It is still the heart of Bali,
where all the action is and all the people and energy are focused on.
Ubud is packed and condensed with the best of Bali, ranging from nature,
culture and people, temples, museums, rolling rice/paddy fields and
man-made gardens and parks. You may take a interesting bike tour around
here or take up cooking, adventure activities like whitewater rafting
and other outdoor activities, relax yourself with yoga and meditation or
have some pampering of spas and massages and also enjoy arts and
theatres and not to forget shopping. Just so you see Ubud have a little
bit of everything for almost everyone.
Party @ Kuta Beach, Bali
Party at Kuta Beach
The most popular beach in Bali, which means you can be sure to find
the life and party scene here in Kuta Beach. Head here if you are
looking out to socialize, party and have a good time. You be sure to
find a range of places for different atmosphere and budget, ranging from
Hard Rock cafe to your neighborhood cafe and pub.
Private Beach @ Nusa Dua, Bali
Private beach at Nusa Dua Beach
If you have a bit more of a budget to spare, splurge at Nusa Dua
beach, where it is dotted with higher end hotels. You will be rewarded
with private pristine beaches for you to slowly soak in the sun and the
sea. Also ideal for honeymooners or people looking out for a private and
relaxing getaway.
Hike Mount Batur @ Kintamani, Bali
Hike/Climb Mount Batur at Kintamani
Up in a highland in East of Bali, there lies Mount Batur caldera in
Kintamani. A climb to the summit (1700 meters) of this active volcano is
a great experience for any active travelers. Many would do the sunrise
hike for an ultimate experience, starting from as early as 4am to reach
in time for 6am sunrise. This hike is relatively easy and the treks are
quite well marked. From the peak of the mountain, there are views in all
direction to sweep you off your feet, not literally of course.
