Things to do in Bali

For a glimpse of authentic Balinese culture and art, don’t miss beautiful Ubud, nestled amongst the lush green rice paddies. Or is it the beauty of Bali that draws you? Relaxing beach holidays are easy here. But apart from relaxing on the golden shores and soaking up the island sun between swims, the beaches provide ample opportunity for adventure. Dive and snorkel with schools of tropical fish, hit the waves on a surf board, or take an ATV tour along the sweeping shores.
 

Set atop a majestic cliff overlooking the pounding surf below, Uluwatu Temple is at its most spectacular come sunset. An 11th century temple site, it was built as one of Bali’s ‘directional temples’ to guard the island from evil spirits. Wander the temple complex, trace the cliff edges for spectacular views, and be sure to plan your visit it in time for the Kecak Dance, a traditional fire and trance dance performed by locals as the sun goes down. Also remember to keep your valuables locked away in your bag to keep them safe from the roaming local monkeys.
 

Whether you’re young or old, a beginner or experienced marine explorer, the phenomenal Liberty wreck in Tulamben is an incredible destination for keen divers and snorkelers alike. There’s a spectacular array of tropical fish and corals, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot pygmy seahorses. Divers can explore the maze of rooms around the sunken World War II U.S. cargo ship. Thanks to its location in one of the richest bio-geographic zones in the world, many would say this is one of the best wreck dives in the world too.
 

Nestled amongst lush rice paddies, Ubud is the cultural, spiritual and artistic centre of Bali, and the place to go to browse and buy locally handmade arts and crafts. The colourful Ubud Art Market, also known as Pasar Seni Ubud, brings together an array of beautiful silk scarves, woven bags, baskets, hats, kites and many other decorative items. Most of the goods found here come from the neighbouring arts villages, such as Tegallalang, Payangan, Pelitan and Pengosekan, which are also worth a visit while you’re in the Ubud area. Neka Museum might also interest you here, which is Bali’s arts centre.
 

Looming in the central mountains area of Bali, Mt Batur attracts adventurous travellers who are happy to work a little to be rewarded with fantastic views. Also known as Kintamani, it’s actually an active volcano. Join a sunrise trek to the crater to glimpse inside the crater, and out across the impressive rolling landscapes and the beautiful Lake Batur shrouded in early morning mist. It may be an early start, but it sure is worth it.
 

While there are many surfing havens around Bali, including Uluwatu and Canggu, Kuta is a great spot for beginners and first-time learners. Not only is it central and easy to get to, but there is also plenty of beach and surf space, the soft tide creates easy-to-catch waves, there are lifeguards on lookout, and the waves break over sand instead of coral. Kuta is also home to a range of surf schools, including the renowned Odyssey and the Rip Curl School of Surf. Cheaper local surf guides are easy to find too and the beach bars nearby are great for relaxing between surf breaks.

Source Escapetravel