Bali’s Untouched Wonders and Best-kept Secrets
Step off the beaten path and go beyond what’s expected in Bali. If this is your second, third, or fourth holiday to Bali, we don’t blame you. We left our hearts in Bali too! But you’ve probably ticked off the tourist list, and you’re ready for a total Balinese immersion of lesser-known gems. Come with us as we explore Bali’s untouched wonders and best-kept secrets; a beautiful side of Bali, Indonesia, that most people will never see.
Chase Sekempul Waterfall
While Bali may be best known for its golden sand beaches, if you head inland, you’ll find cool swimming spots of a different kind: waterfalls. Waterfall chasers are spoilt for choice in Bali, with over 200 to choose from, each offering lush scenery that provides a tranquil escape from the bustle of Bali’s towns. Those seeking something a little more off the beaten track should head north to Sekumpul Waterfall, the tallest on the island. Crashing down for over 80 metres, you’ll quickly see why this is considered Bali’s best waterfall.
Explore the verdant Tegallalang Rice Terraces
As one of the world’s biggest rice producers, Bali is dotted with verdant, terraced rice fields. The landscapes of these rice terraces are simply postcard-perfect, and well worth adding to your Bali bucket list. The Tegallalang Rice Terraces, located 20 minutes north of Ubud, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Positioned in a valley, you’ll experience scenic vistas over the tiered rice fields and surrounding green landscapes. Wear comfortable shoes so you can explore the lush trails and witness the local farmers in action. A visit to the Tegallalang Rice Terraces also offers a chance to learn more about Bali’s unique irrigation system that’s been passed down through generations since the 8th century!
Bali Pulina Coffee Plantation
We’ve visited many coffee plantations in Bali, and this one is the absolute star of the show. The best-kept secret on this plantation is the hidden rainwater pool, so bring your swimmers. You will have to walk 300 stairs down to the rainwater pool, but it’s well worth it when you discover paradise. After your freshwater swim, take a seat in the traditional café and taste test lemon tea, ginger tea, ginseng coffee, vanilla coffee, chocolate coffee, and other treats like coconut ice cream and Kopi Luwak. You will also have the chance to see the little Luwak animal that produces this world-famous coffee. Wander through the grounds on a short tour as you discover plants, herbs, and flora. This plantation is set on a truly stunning hilltop overlooking rice terraces. The perfect place to recentre, tourists are yet to discover this beautiful place.
Swim at Leke Leke Waterfall
Get ready for a light trek to this undiscovered gem. The breathtaking scenery at the end of the walk is well worth it. Bring your swimsuit for a refreshing dip in rainwater, and if you’re on a romantic holiday, ask someone to take a photo of you together in front of this magical destination, as you experience nature like never before. Bring a picnic down here to create beautiful memories beneath the gushing falls.
Watch the sunrise at Mount Batur
For those with a keen interest in hiking, ascending Mount Batur is one of the best experiences in Bali. Located in Bali’s Kintamani Highlands, Mount Batur is an active volcano standing 1717 metres above sea level. Hiking to the summit at sunrise offers astounding vistas of Mount Agung (Bali’s tallest mountain), Mount Rinjani (on neighbouring Lombok) and the clear waters of Lake Batur. Most suitable for those with a moderate level of fitness, Mount Batur is best hiked with a local guide who can help you navigate the trek. Keep in mind that it takes approximately two to three hours to reach the top of Mount Batur, so you will need to set out at around 3 am to catch the rising sun – but trust us when we say the views are well worth it!
Shop Ubud Art Market
Bali is a must-visit destination for shopaholics and bargain hunters alike. Known for its low-priced goods, the island is home to dozens of bustling markets selling everything you could imagine. One of the best shopping spots in Bali is the Ubud Art Market. The market stalls offer countless artisan wares like clothing, jewellery, artwork, ceramics, carvings, paintings, home décor, woven bags, baskets, and so much more. Plus, most of the goods found in the market are made in neighbouring villages, so you can trust that whatever you pick up will have been made with love. Unless you’re inside a fixed-rate shop, you can barter and bargain at the markets for a lower price.
Surf world-class waves
Go beyond the predictable and discover waves that deserve to be surfed. Visit Kedungu for smaller days and fun waves. Mellow out when you’re out in the blue, but don’t visit on big swell days unless you’re up for a complete wipeout. Yah Gangga offers fun tubes and small swell, without all the crowds. Be sure to pay for a private driver or tour guide to ensure your safety in these lesser-known spots.
Discover Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple
North of Ubud, you’ll find a temple that flies under the radar but is breathtaking. With water features, bathing pools, and stunning architecture, this will not blur into all your temple memories; this one will be a standout memory for life. Surrounded by lush gardens, it’s a peaceful place to meander and explore. Only 30 minutes from Ubud, it’s nice to visit in the morning, as it’s very peaceful. Bring swimmers for a purification swim. Give yourself time to enjoy a quiet meditation as you watch giant fish swim in the ponds.
Stroll Pasut Beach
Excellent for sunbaking and walking, you’ll love this raw and rugged beach for its black volcanic sand that sets it apart. A secret spot, hardly visited by tourists, you can enjoy the peace as you walk by hundreds of tall coconut trees that offer a Pacific Island vibe, look, and feel. Pack a picnic or enjoy a meditation. Visit at sunset for epic photos.
Chill at Café del Mar beach club, Canggu
Regardless of whether you party hard, spending a day at a beach club is one of the best Bali experiences. Many of Bali’s most popular beaches are lined with these trendy venues, where you can enjoy sprawling ocean views, a delicious menu of food and cocktails, and the hottest tunes while you swim, socialise and soak in the sunshine. Café del Mar is amongst the best beach clubs in Bali. Located in Canggu, this stunning venue boasts multiple swim-up bars serving creative cocktails and a delicious food menu that fuses Mediterranean and Asian cuisines.
Ride the rapids of the Ayung River
If you love a good thrill, a white-water rafting trip down the Ayung River is one of the best experiences in Bali. Accessible from Ubud, the Ayung River is the longest and widest river in Bali, stretching 75 kilometres from the northern mountains to the Badung Strait in the south. Boasting class II and II rapids, a white-water rafting tour combines a dose of adrenaline with stunning views of the surrounding rainforest, rice fields, and waterfalls. Most white-water rafting operators in Bali offer two-hour rides, led by well-trained guides and inclusive of a traditional lunch at a riverside café. Be sure to pack a change of clothing for the drive home – you’re going to get wet on this activity.
Swim with manta rays on Nusa Penida
Although Bali is most known as a beach holiday destination, you can find even better stretches of sand on the surrounding islands. Consider taking a day trip to nearby Nusa Penida, an undeveloped island just 20 kilometres off the south coast of Bali. Here, you’ll find intriguing rock formations, crystal clear waters and Instagram-famous sights like Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong. However, Nusa Penida is perhaps best known for its snorkel and dive sites, which are considered amongst the best in all of Indonesia. The pristine coral reefs surrounding the island are home to a variety of incredible marine life and offer the rare opportunity to swim with manta rays. Add this to your bucket list for a Bali experience you’ll never forget.
Discover more of Bali
Whether you’re visiting Bali for its sun-drenched beaches, lush jungle landscapes, or fascinating local culture, the Island of the Gods has an experience for every traveller. Discover your perfect Bali escape with My Bali’s exclusive holiday packages, complete with bonus inclusions like flights, resort credits, private driver services, and so much more. Explore our beautiful Bali holidays here.
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