Cultural Immersion in Bali

  • Day 1: Ubud Palace
    1 hour 10 minutes (26 km) from Ngurah Rai International Airport

    Start your Bali trip by visiting the Ubud Palace, a historical landmark and the residence of the royal family of Ubud. Explore the intricate architecture, culturally significant artifacts, and well-manicured gardens.

  • Day 2: Goa Gajah Temple
    15 minutes (5.5 km) from Ubud Palace

    Visit the famous Goa Gajah Temple, also known as the Elephant Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the intricate stone carvings, fountains, meditation cave, and bathing pools.

  • Day 3: Tegalalang Rice Terraces
    20 minutes (8.8 km) from Goa Gajah Temple

    Experience Bali's traditional agricultural practice and lush scenery at the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. Learn about the Subak irrigation system and try the world-famous Luwak Coffee.

  • Day 4: Besakih Temple
    1 hour 40 minutes (45 km) from Tegalalang Rice Terraces

    Travel to the Besakih Temple, also known as the Mother Temple of Bali. Discover the captivating architecture and intricate religious ceremonies that happen here.

  • Day 5: Sidemen Valley
    35 minutes (18 km) from Besakih Temple

    Immerse yourself in Bali's lush countryside by exploring the Sidemen Valley. Trek through the terraced rice paddy fields and hike Mount Agung for stunning views.

  • Day 6: Gunung Lebah Temple
    1 hour (26 km) from Sidemen Valley

    Visit the peaceful Gunung Lebah Temple, hidden in the lush jungle near the Campuhan Ridge Walk. Meditate in the tranquil atmosphere and enjoy the serene surroundings.

  • Day 7: Bali Museum
    1 hour 10 minutes (19 km) from Gunung Lebah Temple

    Head to the Bali Museum, where you can delve deeper into Bali's rich history and culture. Admire the intricate Balinese architecture and visually-arresting exhibits.

  • Day 8: Water Palace Tirta Gangga
    45 minutes (26 km) from Bali Museum

    The Water Palace Tirta Gangga offers a scenic escape in eastern Bali. Stroll through lush gardens, ornate statues, and tranquil fountains before diving into the refreshing pool.

  • Day 9: Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple
    30 minutes (15 km) from Water Palace Tirta Gangga

    The serene atmosphere of the Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple is perfect for meditation and reflection. Discover the intricate Balinese architecture while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.

  • Day 10: Sekumpul Waterfall
    2 hours 50 minutes (84 km) from Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple

    Take a refreshing dip at the Sekumpul Waterfall, considered one of the most stunning waterfalls in Bali. Hike through lush scenery, rice paddies, and hidden pools before reaching the soothing waters.

  • Day 11: Jatiluwih Rice Terrace
    2 hours 40 minutes (66 km) from Sekumpul Waterfall

    Head to the jaw-droppingly stunning Jatiluwih Rice Terrace. Explore the countryside where lush emerald rice paddies stretch as far as the eye can see.

  • Day 12: Pura Luhur Batukau Temple
    1 hour 40 minutes (55 km) from Jatiluwih Rice Terrace

    Visit the Pura Luhur Batukau Temple, situated among the lush vegetation of Mount Batukaru. Marvel at the magnificent architecture and learn about its spiritual significance.

  • Day 13: Uluwatu Temple
    1 hour (43 km) from Pura Luhur Batukau Temple

    Discover Bali's ocean scenery at the Uluwatu Temple, famous for its picturesque location atop a cliff with stunning sunset views. Watch the traditional Kecak dance performance and explore the nearby beaches.

  • Day 14: Tegal Wangi Beach
    20 minutes (8 km) from Uluwatu Temple

    Take a day to relax at the picturesque Tegal Wangi Beach, with its unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters. Get a massage or have a romantic dinner on the beaches.

  • Day 15: Museum Pasifika Bali
    30 minutes (12.1 km) from Tegal Wangi Beach

    Visit Museum Pasifika Bali, home to a vast collection of traditional and contemporary art from Bali, Indonesia and the South Pacific Islands. Admire the masterpieces of famous artists like Matisse, Gauguin and Dali, among others.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Ubud Palace (1-2 hours, free)
  • Goa Gajah Temple (1-2 hours, 15,000 IDR)
  • Tegalalang Rice Terraces (2-3 hours, 15,000 IDR)
  • Besakih Temple (2-3 hours, 60,000 IDR)
  • Sidemen Valley (1 day, free)
  • Gunung Lebah Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Bali Museum (2-3 hours, 50,000 IDR)
  • Water Palace Tirta Gangga (1-2 hours, 40,000 IDR)
  • Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple (1-2 hours, 15,000 IDR)
  • Sekumpul Waterfall (5-6 hours, 20,000 IDR)
  • Jatiluwih Rice Terrace (2-3 hours, 40,000 IDR)
  • Pura Luhur Batukau Temple (2-3 hours, 30,000 IDR)
  • Uluwatu Temple (2-3 hours, 50,000 IDR)
  • Tegal Wangi Beach (1-2 hours, free)
  • Museum Pasifika Bali (2-3 hours, 100,000 IDR)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 375,000 IDR (approx. $26 USD)

Transportation

Travelers can get around Bali by hiring private drivers, renting scooters or cars. Metered taxis, and ride-sharing services provide affordable options for short trips, but they can be more expensive for longer trips. Local buses, called bemos, connect most major destinations and can be an excellent option for budget travelers.

Estimated Transportation Costs:

  • Private driver: 500,000 IDR per day (approx. $35 USD)
  • Scooter: 50,000 IDR per day (approx. $3.5 USD)
  • Rent car: 400,000 IDR per day (approx. $28 USD)
  • Taxi: 50,000 IDR minimum fare (approx. $3.5 USD)
  • Bemo: 5,000-20,000 IDR depending on the distance (approx. $0.25-$1.40 USD)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, add a day trip to the nearby scenic island of Nusa Penida, famous for its beaches and underwater beauty. You can also allocate one more day to explore Bali's spiritual center, the town of Ubud, where you can find plenty of art galleries, yoga and meditation retreats, and traditional markets. Travelers with less time can cut back on some destinations without missing the main highlights of Bali, such as Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Goa Gajah Temple, and Uluwatu Temple.

Airports

The Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is the main airport in Bali, located in the city of Denpasar, approximately 13 km south of Kuta. The airport has two terminals (domestic and international) and serves both domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can get to your accommodation by hiring a taxi or private driver for an estimated cost of 150,000-200,000 IDR (approx. $10.40-$14 USD).

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