Bali has long been equated with an exotic paradise, a picturesque vision of green rice fields and plantations, soaring volcanoes, cool lakes and rushing rivers, lush forests and palm fringed beaches. It is Indonesia's number one tourist destination and as a result suffers from commercialisation and overcrowding, but this is confined to a few main areas. The original charm of the 'Island of the Gods' and its smiling people is still very much in evidence, especially in the many small rural villages and fascinating places of the fertile interior.
What makes it distinctive from the rest of Indonesia is the prevalence of Balinese Hinduism, which incorporates the ancient Indonesian animist conviction that natural objects are inhabited by good or bad spirits into every aspect of local life on the island. Scattered around the island are thousands of Hindu temples and places of worship. The island's religious beliefs are evident in their ceremonies, daily rituals and attitudes, in the offerings of flowers and food that adorn the roadsides, the charms hung inside taxis, and the numerous vibrant festivals that occur throughout the year.
It is perceptible in their reverence for the Holy Mountain, the soaring volcanic cone of Gunung Agung, which is the spiritual centre of the Balinese universe. Art is also an integral part of daily life and every village has its artists, from the internationally acclaimed painter to the aspirational young cow herder.
Ubud, the cultural centre, with its streets lined with art and crafts shops, also has performances of traditional Balinese dance and music. Art, together with tourism, is an important source of revenue for the island.
With its fine beach, the popular resort of Kuta is the most visited destination, but there are numerous other beach resorts around the island, and many more peaceful settings on the east coast at Candidasa, Sanur, and the fishing village of Padang Bai, and on the northern coast at Lovina. There are a number of good diving sites and reef snorkelling close by.
Despite the shock of terrorist attacks a few years ago, Bali is still a tropical paradise with a rich and intriguing culture, and beautiful land and seascapes, that attracts those in search of an idyllic vacation; however, visitors are still advised to contact their foreign office for the latest travel advice before travelling to Indonesia, and Bali in particular.
Resorts
Attractions
Bali Bird Park
Featuring the largest and most spectacular collection of birds, the Bali Bird Park boasts over 1,000 birds of 250 different species. Kids will love spotting their favourite bird and learning about the species. Birds such as Macaws, peacocks, parrots, white herons and many more can be seen. The park is divided into regions that recreate natural habitats for the birds, complete with indigenous plant life and other artefacts from the region in question; regions represented in the park include Bali, Papua, Java, Sumatra, South America and South Africa. Visitors stroll through giant aviaries on winding pathways and bridges under a jungle canopy and through various landscapes and there are several special vantage points for spotting birds. In the Guyu-Guyu Corner you can experience the creatures in close contact, with birds perching comfortably on your shoulders or in your hands. Visitors can also participate in park feeding times (these times are subject to change - check the website or contact the park for details). A Free Flight Bird Show showcases various birds in flight. The bird park also features a restaurant, café and gift shop for visitors to get refreshments and take home a souvenir. The experience should delight the whole family.
Bali Botanical Gardens
A great place for the kids to let off some steam and for adults to relax in beautiful surroundings and learn something about the local flora, the Bali Botanical Garden is large and lovely featuring a range of different terrains and micro-climates for visitors to explore and enjoy. The micro-climates of the park include ravine, forest, hillside, waterfalls, and meadow and there is something here for everyone; there are also ponds, fountains, observation posts and various little shrines and buildings - there's even a chocolate grove! The Botanic Garden considers itself a constant work in progress and is always expanding and refining its collection. The garden includes some wilderness areas, an Orchid Garden and vast collections of ferns, palms, bamboos and tropical trees, among other things. There are many delightful hidden nooks in which to relax, read, socialise or picnic. There's also a children's play area for the little tots, while older children will love the maze - but be careful not to lose them! The garden is popular with locals as well as tourists and the Garden Amphitheatre is rented out as a venue for weddings and other events. A visit to the gardens should be a fun and rewarding experience for people of all ages.
Batubulan
The small village of Batubulan is marked by stone figures of gods and demons on the side of the road. Known mostly for its stone carvings, Batubulan is a popular centre for cultural tourism and attracts travellers looking for a unique souvenir to take home with them. Visitors to the village can even enjoy visiting the workshops and watching the artists at work. Batubulan actually means 'moonstone' and stone carving has been the main industry of the village for a long time. Everybody seems to be an expert in the art and children learn young how to coax statues out of rock. The village does also showcase other crafts, like woodwork and textiles, and is known for its antiques but the stone work dominates. The temples in the area reflect the traditional talent of the local inhabitants and some remarkable stone carvings are on display at temples like Pura Puseh. Another of the village's specialities, which delights tourists, is the performance of the blessing dance of Barong which is performed on a daily basis at five different locations or stages: the Puseh Temple, Tegal Tamu, Denjalan, Sahadewa and Sila Budaya. As the village has become such an artistic hub other villages nearby have perfected their own crafts and the whole region is becoming like a vast open-air market.
Elephant Cave
Built in the 9th century, Goa Gajah, or Elephant Cave, is located near Ubud and originally served as a sanctuary; it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a wonderfully carved entrance featuring menacing creatures and demons, children will find a visit to this historic cave an unforgettable experience, but children aren't required to enjoy this interesting place. The main figure was once thought to be an elephant, hence the name, and in the 1950s, a bathing place was excavated, thought to have been built to ward off evil spirits. You can wash your hands and feet in the fountains and there are usually locals on hand selling prayer offerings and the like - sometimes monks will offer blessings for travellers. If you would like a tour guide to teach you about the cave and the area there are always locals offering this service and the tours can be very informative. The entrance is the most impressive feature of the cave and the interior will not take long to explore. There are some lovely gardens and trees surrounding the cave though, and a few stone carvings, so it is worth having a stroll around. You will require a sarong or cover-up to enter the temple and there are many shops selling them on the way but they will lend you one for free (or a very small price) at the entrance. In the early morning the temple grounds are almost deserted and this is a magical time to explore if you prefer to avoid crowds.
Gunung Batur Volcano
The still-active Gunung Batur volcano is known as Bali's second holiest mountain and symbolises the female element of the island, while the male element is symbolized in Gunung Agung, a neighbouring smaller volcano. A great place for hikers to stretch their legs, the walk up Mount Batur is not easy, but the views are spectacular and if you're lucky you might even spot a few monkeys along the way. Ganung Batur rises from a volcanic crater which also contains a lake and the view of this otherworldly landscape from the crater rim is spectacular - look out for the black lava flows on the western side of the mountain from this vantage. There is a great lookout point for those who'd rather hire a car and drive to the old crater rim overlooking Lake Batur. The sunrise walks are recommended; sunrise is a magical time on the mount and a special opportunity for photographers. The best time to hike up is before dawn, at about 5.30am, because by 7am it is already getting very hot. Unfortunately, those visiting during the rainy season may be unlucky with the views as visibility is often poor. There is a guide hut at the bottom of the path and when you pass they usually insist on your taking a guide for safety. If you want a guide then this arrangement is convenient but the hut can be avoided by taking alternative paths and it is safe to ascend on your own.
Pura Besakih
Locally known as the mother Temple of Bali, Pura Besakih is located on the slopes of Mount Agung and is the biggest and holiest of all Balinese temples. Dating back to the 14th century, the three main temples are dedicated to Shiva, Brahma and Wisnu, and another 18 separate sanctuaries belonging to different regencies and caste groups surround these. The complex has been built over centuries and is very impressive but it has a problem with locals hassling tourists. Apart from paying the official entrance fee visitors are coerced into paying 'donations' to the temple and are forced into hiring tour guides. Many tourists have reported feeling harassed which detracts from the impact of this otherwise remarkable and worthwhile site. For this reason you may be advised to skip Pura Besakih in favour of some of the less famous and less crowded temples. Being aware of some of the common tourist scams makes the visit easier - it is possible to explore without a guide but you will be endlessly bothered so it is preferable to be with a local. If you do visit Pura Besakih, or any other temple for that matter, it is customary to wear a sarong out of respect for local traditions. Despite the hassle of dealing with touts this is a beautiful and interesting attraction and many will find it rewarding regardless.
Pura Kehen
One of the most valued temples in Bali, Pura Kehen is a garden temple located in the town of Bangli in East Bali and can be traced back to the 11th century. Founded by Sri Brahma Kemuti Ketu, Pura Kehen is the second largest temple on Bali and the most sacred in the region. Many visitors are mesmerized by the temple's grandeur and the steep steps leading dramatically up to the gateway. Like the mother temple of Pura Besakih, Pura Kehen was built on the slope of a hill and has eight terraces. The temple complex is surrounded by palm tree plantations which adds to the visitor's impression of being a jungle explorer discovering something ancient and profound. The fire god, Brahmen, protects the temple and it is named for him - kehenmeans hearth or fireplace. The 38 steps lead to an ornately carved entrance and through this doorway there are three courtyards. There is a lot to see but be sure not to miss the remarkable stone lotus throne dedicated to Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu in the third, main courtyard. You will need to dress appropriately to visit the temple which means that your legs must be covered and you must have a temple-scarf (sarong) around your waist. You can rent sarongs at the temple.
Sacred Monkey Forest of Padangtegal
Featuring over 115 species of trees, many of which are considered holy and used in various Balinese spiritual practices, the Monkey Forest in Ubud is a fantastic place for kids and adults to spend the day exploring. The forest is seen as a marriage of nature with human endeavour and is considered a sacred place - in Balinese culture it is not just the temples which are considered holy but the surrounding gardens and forests as well. Traditionally monkeys are often seen as guardians of temples and are thought to ward off evil spirits. Children can see the Balinese long-tailed Macaques up close as they scramble through the forest and banyan trees and lush tropical vegetation. There are about 600 macaques in the forest which move in four distinct troops. Evidence suggests that although these monkeys can live in developed areas like villages their survival ultimately depends on the conservation of their natural forest habitat because people tend to eradicate them when they interfere with farmlands, crops and food. There are also a few temples to explore while visiting the forest. The Bathing Temple seems like part of its natural environment and feels magical; the Cremation Temple is interesting and a good place to learn about Balinese Hindu burial traditions. The website has some great information on the cultural and religious beliefs of the region.
Sidemen Valley
A typical Balinese village tucked away in a lush green valley, Sidemen is a popular excursion on Bali for tourists looking for peace and quiet. Terraced rice paddies lie under the shadow of a volcano, which offers good opportunities for hiking. Other active pursuits in the valley include bicycling and white water rafting. The village of Sidemen is known for its skilful weavers, who make the intricate silver-and-gold-woven songket fabric used in traditional weddings. The Pelangi Workshop allows visitors to watch the weaving process, and there are several shops in town to buy songket fabric along with other souvenirs. One of the most pleasant activities for those who want a relaxed break is strolling through the rice paddies and exploring the enchanting scenery of the valley. Most of the hotels have basic maps to give visitors and there are some beautiful little temples hidden in the countryside. Getting lost round here is a joy. There are some hotels and restaurants to cater to tourists but there are no banking facilities and only limited internet access. Sidemen is a truly wonderful place to visit if you want to experience a quiet, traditional village, and it is worth spending at least one night to experience the surroundings. Many choose to spend more than that.
Tanah Lot
Meaning 'Land in the middle of the sea' Tanah Lot is an exquisite sea temple built atop a rock formation off the island of Bali. A very popular tourist spot and a great location for fantastic photographs, Tanah Lot is surrounded by poisonous sea snakes at the base of the rocky island, which are believed to guard the temple from evil spirits and intruders. If it sounds like a fairytale then you're not wrong as the place has a mystical quality. Despite the alleged presence of the snakes it is possible - and fun - to walk/wade to the temple cave at low tide. The temple was built by one of the last priests to arrive in Bali from Java in the 16th century and unfortunately the main temple can't be entered. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit although sunset is the most popular time and the crowds can somewhat ruin the atmosphere. There are a number of vantage points from which you can get lovely views of the temple so its best to find one of these spots and settle down to admire the views and take some photographs. The complex is very touristy and commercial, with lots of shops and stalls selling souvenirs, snacks and the like, but it is still a remarkable attraction to visit and the coastline is very beautiful in itself.
Ubud
Set in the hills north of Denpasar, Ubud is the cultural centre of Bali and the major attractions of the town and its surrounding villages are the art museums and galleries, notably the Neka Museum, containing a huge collection of traditional and modern Balinese paintings. An enormous variety of Balinese art and crafts line the streets and crowd the market place of Ubud, and frequent performances of traditional dance and music, and restaurants offering some of the best food on the island, compel visitors to stay much longer than intended. In response to the demand from visitors all sorts of interesting attractions and activities have sprung up and you can now do things like attend silver smithing classes, learn yoga in the rustic Yoga Barn, or watch locals perform the Kekac Fire and Trance Dance. Ubud is also close to several sites of interest, including the 'Mother Temple' of Besakih, majestically situated high on the slopes of the Agung Volcano, and the popular Monkey Forest where you can feed the many macaques in the temple complex. Hiking in the scenic Batur region with its volcano and lake are popular excursions. Many adventure trips can be organised from Ubud including canyoning, hiking, bird watching tours and the like.
Events
Galungan
Occuring every 210 days, Galungan is one of the most important events for Balinese Hindus. Known as the 'Balinese Thanksgiving', the festival celebrates the victory of good (Dharma) over evil (Adharma), encouraging people to show gratitude to their ancestors and the creator of the universe. Gaalungan is the time when the ancestors are believed to revisit the world of the living. In honour of these spirit visitors the island is decorated in bamboo poles called penjor, covered in fruit, flowers, and coconut leaves; and small bamboo altars offer gifts to the spirits. A common offering are the Balinese cakes known as jaja, which are colored cakes made of fried rice dough, traditionally prepared and eaten on Galungan. A dance ceremony known as Ngelawang is performed in the villages as an exorcism of evil spirits; a divine protector in the form of a mythical beast performs the ceremony in the villager's homes and restores balance to each praying family. Preparations traditionally start three days before Galungan, and end ten days after. This is an interesting and colourful time to be in Bali and a great way to experience the local culture.
Date: 27 March to 6 April 2013
Bali Arts Festival
The Bali Arts Festival celebrates Balinese culture with daily performances of traditional music, dance, theatre, and more. One of the biggest festivals in Indonesia, the performances are held in the 6,000-seat temple-like amphitheatre in Depensar and events continue for a whole month. Activities at the festival are diverse, interesting and sometimes surprising; things to do include demonstrations of cooking and flower arranging, art exhibitions, film screenings, fashion shows and colourful parades. Craft stalls spring up all over and many locals perform on the streets. Auditions are held in many villages to select the best dance troupes to perform at the festival and there are guest performers from other islands and from overseas - although the emphasis is naturally on showcasing local talent and culture. There is a party atmosphere in Bali at this time - well, even more of a party atmosphere than usual - and it is a pleasant time to visit, particularly if you're interested in the local art, music and theatre. Attending festival events is also a good way to support local artists and contribute to the survival of these precious Balinese traditions.
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