Bali Island
The Island of the Gods, where terraced rice fields, water temples and a unique Hindu culture form an unmatched tropical paradise.
Overview
Bali is Indonesia's most famous destination, known worldwide for its temples, rice terraces, beaches and distinctive Hindu culture.
History
Bali is the only island in Indonesia where Hinduism is the predominant faith. After the collapse of the powerful Majapahit empire in Java in the 15th and 16th centuries, Javanese Hindu aristocrats fled here and brought their traditions. More than 1,000 Hindu temples survive on the island today, and hundreds of ceremonies are held each year. When Dutch colonial troops invaded in the late 19th century, Balinese nobles chose mass suicide rather than surrender, an event remembered as puputan.
Highlights
- •The silhouette of Tanah Lot temple at dusk
- •Sacred sunset ceremonies amid the rainforest
- •The layered green terraces of Tegallalang
- •Gamelan music and traditional dance at Ubud Palace
- •Surf culture and beach life at Kuta and Seminyak
Practical tips
- •A rented scooter is the most convenient way to get around
- •Avoid the Galungan festival period to save on hotels
Practical information
- Best time
- April to October
- Tickets
- Sights such as Tanah Lot about IDR 50,000 to 100,000; many are free
- Opening hours
- Temples generally 7:00 to 18:00
- Local food
- Bebek betutu, grilled pork ribs and nasi goreng
- Getting around
- The airport to Ubud takes about 1.5 hours; hiring a car or ride-hailing is best, and traffic can be heavy
- Visa
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival arrangements apply to Chinese citizens; check the latest announcements. Entering Bali requires an electronic customs declaration.
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