Bali

• Bali is strongly influenced by Hinduism, making it the only island in Indonesia where Hinduism is the predominant religion.
• Bali is also known as “The Island of the Gods” because of its many temples, colorful religious ceremonies and cultural festivals.
• Bali offers an impressive variety of landscapes, from lush rice terraces to picturesque beaches and active volcanoes.
• The most famous sights include Gunung Batur, one of Bali’s volcanoes, and the rice terraces of Tegallalang.
• Bali is also famous for its beautiful beaches with fine sand and crystal-clear water. Places like Kuta , Seminyak , Canggu and Uluwatu are popular destinations for beach lovers and surfers from all over the world.
• In addition to conventional transportation options, Bali also has Gojek and Grab .
• Bali’s south (Uluwatu) and north (from Ubud) are best explored by scooter.
• Balinese cuisine is rich in flavor and variety, from spicy curries to grilled satay and fresh seafood. Bali also has a vibrant restaurant and café scene, ranging from international cuisine to healthy smoothie bars.
• The “Bali Belly” is a colloquial term for an indisposition or illness associated with food and caused by contamination, poor hygiene or bacteria.
• Bali is known for its thriving art scene with traditional wood carvings, paintings, batiks and silver jewelry. There are numerous art galleries and craft markets on the island.
• Bali is also a popular destination for spiritual seekers and wellness enthusiasts who want to experience yoga, meditation, Ayurveda and other holistic practices. There are a variety of yoga studios, wellness retreats and spa facilities in idyllic surroundings.
• There are 9 important “directional temples” in Bali. They are arranged in different directions and are intended to protect the inhabitants from evil spirits and demons:
• Pura Lempuyang Luhur (East)
• Pura Goa Lawah (Southeast)
• Pura Luhur Uluwatu (South)
• Pura Tanah Lot (Southwest)
• Pura Batukaru (West)
• Pura Luhur Pakendungan (Northwest)
• Pura Rambut Siwi (West)
• Pura Pulaki (Northwest)
• Pura Besakih (Northeast)

• Kopi Luwak: Kopi Luwak is one of the most exclusive and unusual types of coffee in the world and is also known as “civet coffee” or “cat coffee”. The coffee beans are eaten by a nocturnal creeping cat species called luwak (or civet) and collected from their feces after digestion. During the digestion process, the bean undergoes enzymatic changes in the stomach of the luwak, which are intended to improve the taste of the coffee and produce a milder, less bitter coffee.

Dry season

Rainy season

The rainy season lasts from November to March and is characterized by more frequent rainfall and higher humidity. Although it can rain, the showers are often short-lived and there are still many sunny days. Temperatures remain warm, but the humidity can rise.

Some festivals are based on the 210-day moon phase calendar (Saka):

Every 210 days: Galungan – Hindu festival for the return of the ancestral spirits (28.02.2024, 25.09.2024, 23.04.2025, 19.11.2025, 17.06.2026)
10 days after Galungan: Kuningan – Sacrificial re-ascension of the spirits to heaven (09.03.2024, 05.10.2024, 03.05.2025, 29.11.2025, 27.06.2026)

Every 210 days: Saraswati – Blessing for knowledge and creativity (13.07.2024)
4 days after Saraswati: Pagerwesi – Spiritual strengthening and protection from evil spirits (17.07.2024)

Individual: Odalan – Festivals that take place regularly in the numerous Balinese temples

Nyang Nyang Beach (Pantai Nyang Nyang) is a hidden beach on the southwest coast of Bali, near the Uluwatu Temple.

• Nyang Nyang Beach is known for its pristine and secluded atmosphere.
• The beach is secluded and requires a short hike to get there. As the path from the cliff is very steep in places, it is difficult to cover by scooter.
• Nyang Nyang offers a long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear blue water. The coast is surrounded by cliffs and green hills that provide a breathtaking backdrop for sunsets and beach activities.
• Nyang Nyang beach is also popular with surfers as it occasionally offers good waves. However, it should be noted that the currents can be strong and surfing here is more suitable for experienced surfers.

Der Pura Luhur Uluwatu is often referred to simply as the “Uluwatu Temple”. It is an important Hindu temple on the southwest coast of Bali.

• Pura Luhur Uluwatu is located on a cliff about 70 meters above sea level. The location of the temple offers spectacular views of the Indian Ocean and is particularly popular for its breathtaking sunsets.
• It was built in the traditional Balinese style and is known for its impressive architecture and ornate carvings.
• The main temple complex is surrounded by a sacred inner courtyard and offers insights into Hindu religious practice and rituals.
• Pura Luhur Uluwatu is one of Bali’s nine directional temples. It is dedicated to the Hindu god Rudra and is considered a sacred place of worship and prayer by the faithful.
• In addition to its religious significance, Pura Luhur Uluwatu is also known for its traditional Kecak dance performances, which take place every evening at sunset. These captivating performances tell the epic story of the Ramayana and give visitors an insight into Bali’s rich cultural tradition.
• The cliffs, the azure blue sea and the surf of the Indian Ocean form a picturesque backdrop for the temple, which is located in a breathtaking natural setting.
• In any case, you should watch out for the monkeys living freely there, who have become so accustomed to the tourists that they steal glasses, smartphones or water bottles from hands or bags in an unnoticed moment and, with a lot of luck, give them back in exchange for something to eat.

Pantai Uluwatu or simply Uluwatu Beach, is a breathtaking stretch of coastline on the southwest coast of Bali.

• Uluwatu Beach is located near the famous Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu), about 45 minutes’ drive south of Kuta .
• The beach’s location on a cliff offers spectacular views of the Indian Ocean and is a popular spot for surfers and sun worshippers.
• Uluwatu Beach is known worldwide for its excellent surfing conditions and attracts surfers from all over the world. The waves are particularly good in the dry season from May to September and offer ideal conditions for beginners and advanced surfers.
• Uluwatu beach is characterized by its impressive natural beauty with golden sand, turquoise waters and majestic cliffs. The view of the sun setting over the sea is particularly spectacular and makes Uluwatu a popular place for romantic evening strolls.
• In addition to surfing, Uluwatu Beach also offers many opportunities to relax and enjoy the tropical surroundings. Visitors can relax in one of the beach cafés, take a walk along the beach or simply lie in the sun and enjoy the sea breeze.

Pantai Padang Padang, also known as Padang Padang Beach, is a picturesque beach on the southwest coast of Bali.

• The beach is close to Uluwatu Uluwatu Beach and Uluwatu Temple. It is located near the village of Pecatu , about 30 minutes by car from Kuta.
• Pantai Padang Padang offers a golden sandy beach, crystal-clear turquoise water and impressive surroundings with rock formations and tropical vegetation.
• Padang Padang Beach is also very popular with surfers, especially advanced surfers, as it offers some of the best surf spots on the island. The waves are constant all year round and attract surfers from all over the world.
• Pantai Padang Padang and Ubud were the locations for the Hollywood film “Eat Pray Love” with Julia Roberts.

The GWK Cultural Park or Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is an important cultural and tourist center in Bali.

• The GWK Cultural Park is located in Ungasan, in the south of Bali, near Uluwatu. The hilltop location offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and the Indian Ocean.
• The main feature of the park is the monumental sculpture of Garuda Wisnu Kencana, a mythical bird creature from Hindu mythology that carries the god Vishnu.
• The 75-meter-high sculpture is one of the largest free-standing sculptures in the world and is intended to embody Indonesian culture and spirituality. Together with the 46-meter-high base, this results in a total height of 121 meters.
• The GWK Cultural Park offers a variety of cultural events and performances, including traditional Balinese dances, music performances, handicrafts and art exhibitions.
• There are numerous stores and stalls in the park selling Balinese handicrafts, souvenirs, jewelry and other local products.
• The GWK Cultural Park is surrounded by a picturesque landscape of green hills and lush vegetation. The peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking natural surroundings make the park a great place to relax and unwind.

• The main beach of Jimbaran (Pantai Jimbaran) stretches for several kilometers and offers good conditions for swimming, sunbathing and water sports.
• The seafood restaurants on Jimbaran beach serve freshly caught fish, crab, lobster and other delicacies.
• Visitors can dine directly on the beach and enjoy the sunset over the Indian Ocean.

• The Kedonganan fish market is one of the largest and busiest fish markets in Bali. Every morning, fishermen come here with freshly caught fish, crabs, prawns and other seafood to sell to locals, restaurants and tourists.
• Kedonganan is also known for its excellent seafood restaurants, which offer freshly caught fish, crab, lobster and other delicacies. Many of these restaurants are located along the beach and offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy their meals right by the sea.
• Most restaurants offer the preparation of fish and seafood bought at the fish market for a small surcharge.
• Kedonganan is a traditional fishing village that tries to preserve its authentic charm despite the increasing tourism in the region. Visitors can watch the traditional fishing boats on the beach and watch the locals fishing or repairing their nets.
• Kedonganan beach (Pantai Kedonganan) is known for its golden sand and calm, crystal-clear waters. It offers visitors the opportunity to swim, sunbathe and relax.
• From the beach and the outdoor areas of the restaurants lined up next to each other, you have a good view of the runway of Ngurah Rai International Airport (Bandar Udara Internasional Ngurah Rai) in Denpasar (IATA code: DPS).

• Canggu is a surfer’s paradise and attracts surfers from all over the world. Beaches such as Echo Beach (Pantai Batu Mejan) , Berawa Beach (Pantai Berawa) and Batu Bolong Beach (Pantai Batu Bolong) offer consistent waves for surfers of all levels.
• Besides surfing, the beaches of Canggu are a popular place to sunbathe, relax and enjoy the sea. The golden sandy beaches stretch along the coast and offer spectacular views of the Indian Ocean.
• Canggu is known for its trendy cafés, restaurants and beach bars. There is a wide selection of international and local cuisine as well as healthy smoothie bars, vegetarian restaurants and cozy cafés.
• Beach life in Canggu is lively and vibrant, especially at sunset. The beach bars and clubs along the coast offer live music, DJ sets and a convivial atmosphere that is appreciated by visitors and locals alike.
• In contrast to the hustle and bustle in Seminyak or Kuta , there is a relaxed surfer atmosphere in Canggu, although the traffic here is also very busy. However, the crowded Kuta on Bali should not be confused with the relaxed Kuta on the neighboring island of Lombok.

• Pura Tanah Lot is located on the southwest coast of Bali, about 20 km northwest of Kuta, near the village of Beraban in Tabanan.
• The Hindu sea temple is enthroned on a rocky outcrop off the coast, surrounded by the sea at high tide and accessible via a footpath at low tide.
• Pura Tanah Lot is an important place of pilgrimage and an important religious center in Bali. The temple complex consists of several shrines, pavilions, gardens and other buildings and is dedicated to the sea god Baruna. It is considered a sacred place of worship and prayer by the faithful.
• In addition to its religious significance, Pura Tanah Lot is also known for its breathtaking natural beauty. The temple rises imposingly on a rocky outcrop off the coast and offers a breathtaking view of the setting sun in the Indian Ocean.

• Ubud is the cultural center of Bali with numerous galleries, handicraft stores, dance and music events as well as temples and shrines. It has a long history as a retreat for artists and writers and is famous for its inspiring atmosphere and creative energy.
• Ubud is known for its traditional Balinese handicrafts such as wood carving, batik, goldsmithing and painting. Visitors have the opportunity to watch local artisans at work, buy handmade souvenirs and take part in art and craft courses.
• The surroundings of Ubud are characterized by lush rice fields, palm groves, rivers and tropical forests.
• Ubud is also a popular wellness and yoga destination with numerous spas, yoga studios and retreat centers offering traditional Balinese healing methods, wellness treatments and yoga classes.
• Culinary-wise, Ubud offers a variety of restaurants, cafés and warungs (small, often family-run Indonesian restaurants) that serve delicious Balinese cuisine as well as international dishes.
• In addition to the Pantai Padang Padang, Ubud and the surrounding area were the filming location for the movie “Eat Pray Love” with Julia Roberts.

• The reserve is located in the center of Ubud and covers an area of approx. 12.5 hectares. It is surrounded by lush rainforest.
• The Monkey Forest is a protected area that serves as a habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, including hundreds of Balinese long-tailed macaques.
• Visitors have the opportunity to observe the monkeys up close and interact with them as they stroll through the reserve.
• The reserve is also home to several Hindu temples and shrines. They are an important part of the religious and cultural tradition of Ubud.
• In search of food, the monkeys (long-tailed macaques) in the Monkey Forest can become very intrusive.

• The hike begins near Ibah Luxury Villas & Spa and leads along a ridge surrounded by lush rainforest and green rice terraces.
• The hiking trail is well signposted and easy to find, with marked paths and signs along the route. The route is relatively easy and suitable for walkers of all levels, although it can be slippery in the rain.
• With a total length of around 2 kilometers, the trail can be covered in around 1 to 2 hours with a few breaks.
• Campuhan Ridge also has a cultural significance for the locals, as it is considered a spiritual place. Many Balinese visit the ridge for meditation, prayer and spiritual contemplation.
• The Campuhan Ridge Walk at sunset over the rice terraces and rainforest is particularly popular. The view of the sunset from Campuhan Ridge is spectacular and provides a romantic backdrop for taking photos and relaxing.

• The waterfall plunges from a steep rock face into a deep pool surrounded by lush vegetation.
• To reach Air Terjun Pengempu, visitors have to take a short hike through the rainforest. Although the trail is not very long, it can be challenging due to the uneven terrain and sometimes slippery conditions.
• Air Terjun Pengempu is less known and less visited than some other waterfalls in Bali.
• Other waterfalls in Bali are the Air Terjun Ulu Petanu, the Banyumala Twin Waterfalls (Air Terjun Banyumala) , Tibumana Waterfall (Air Terjun Tibumana) and the Tegenungan Waterfall (Air Terjun Tegenungan) .

• The Alas Harum Bali is located in the middle of the green rice terraces of Tegallalang , also known as the “Ceking Rice Terraces”.
• It offers the opportunity to learn more about the cultivation and processing of coffee and tea. Of course, various types of coffee and tea can be sampled, including Kopi Luwak.
• The entire complex is subject to a charge and also offers a tour of man-made natural landscapes with a number of decorative elements. These spots are ideal as a motif for social media posts.
• For an extra charge, you can also have fun in the infinity pool with DJ music and attractions such as the giant swing.
• Alas Harum Bali is an unreal place that reflects the spirit of the times and bridges the gap between tradition and modernity.

• Sebatu is a village near Tegallalang , which is known for its rice terraces.
• The main feature of Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu is its sacred spring water lake, which serves as a sacred spring for ritual purification. Believers and visitors can bathe in the clear water and renew themselves spiritually.
• The temple itself consists of several shrines and pavilions built in traditional Balinese architecture with ornate carvings and decorations.
• Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu is less well-known than some other famous temples in Bali.

• The Ulu Petanu is fed by a river that flows over the rocks and ends in a picturesque basin.
• The waterfalls extend over several levels and offer a spectacular sight as the water cascades over the rocks.
• There is an extension on one of the rocks that resembles a skull. It is particularly ornate, while some other rocks in the area have spiritual engravings.
• The area is not only known for its natural beauty, but also for its spiritual significance for the locals.
• The waterfall and a small cave can be reached via hiking trails through the forest.
• Other waterfalls in Bali are the Air Terjun Pengempu, the Banyumala Twin Waterfalls (Air Terjun Banyumala) , Tibumana Waterfall (Air Terjun Tibumana) and the Tegenungan Waterfall (Air Terjun Tegenungan) .

• “Tirta Empul” means “holy spring”. The water of the temple has been worshipped for centuries.
• Believers and visitors come from all over the world to bathe in the clear spring water pools, as the water is said to have healing powers and spiritual purification.
• The springs are fed by a series of pipes that flow into numerous pools in which the faithful then perform the rituals of purification, blessing and healing.
• The temple complex of Tirta Empul is also architecturally and culturally impressive. It consists of several pavilions, shrines and sanctuaries dedicated to Hinduism and honoring various deities.
• The complex is surrounded by a lush garden and exudes a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.

• The Pemulan Bali Coffee Plantation grows different types of coffee, including Arabica and Robusta.
• During guided tours of the plantation, visitors learn about many other plant species and fruits in addition to the coffee varieties.
• The plantation offers the opportunity to experience the entire tea and coffee production process, from the selection and harvesting of the coffee cherries to the roasting and free tasting of the finished products.
• Of course, you can also try the famous Luwak coffee. However, this is subject to a charge and is prepared directly at the table.
• The Pemulan Bali Coffee Plantation not only offers a delicious tasting experience, but also the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the landscape.
• You can stock up on the plantation’s various products in the adjoining store.

• Jatiluwih translates as “beautiful”.
• The Subak system for irrigating the rice terraces is based on an ingenious network of canals and water pipes that is managed collectively by the villagers.
• These terraces are not only scenic, but also a living example of sustainable agriculture and a harmonious relationship between man and nature.
• In contrast to the Tegallalang (Ceking) Rice Terraces , the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces offer a quieter and more authentic environment due to their seclusion.
• Here you can hike through rice fields, explore traditional Balinese villages and get to know the local culture and way of life.

• The Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is dedicated to the Balinese water goddess Dewi Danu. Its name means something like “Temple of the Holy Spring on Lake Bratan”.
• The temple was built in the 17th century and is an outstanding example of Balinese architecture and religious tradition.
• One of the most striking features of the temple is its picturesque location on a small island in Lake Bratan, surrounded by the majestic mountains and green hills of Bali’s highlands.
• The temple complex consists of several shrines and pavilions surrounded by manicured gardens and lush vegetation.
• A special feature is the eleven-storey Meru Tower, which is dedicated to the most important sanctuary and represents a link to Hindu cosmology.
• The temple is an important place for religious rituals and ceremonies, especially in connection with the irrigation of the surrounding rice terraces.
• Important Hindu festivals are held here every year, attracting thousands of devotees from all over Bali.

• Gunung Batur is part of a complex volcanic system and rises majestically at an altitude of 1,717 meters above sea level.
• It is one of the most active volcanoes in Indonesia and has experienced several eruptions in the past. The last eruption was in 2000.
• The eruption of 1917 was one of the largest eruptions of Gunung Batur in the 20th century, claiming thousands of lives. It destroyed many surrounding villages, fields and infrastructure.
• The surrounding landscape is therefore characterized by fascinating lava flows and volcanic formations.
• Danau Batur in the middle of Gunung Batur is the largest lake in Bali and contributes to the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings.
• The lake is surrounded by lush vegetation and green hills and offers a spectacular view, especially at sunrise and sunset.
• Visitors can climb the volcano on various paths and trails and enjoy the breathtaking view from the summit.
• One of the most popular and most frequently offered activities in Bali is the sunrise climb.
• The volcano is revered by the locals as a sacred place and is part of the rich religious Balinese traditions and rituals.
• About 20 kilometers away is the Gunung Agung . The volcano is also active and, at 3,142 meters, is the highest point in Bali; its last eruption was in 2019.
• Between the Gunung Batur and the Agung lies another volcano, the 2,152 m high Gunung Abang .

• Pura Besakih is the center of Balinese Hinduism and is often referred to as the “mother temple”. It was probably built in the 8th century and is located at an altitude of almost 1,000 meters on the south-western slope of the Gunung Agung volcano.
• The temple complex consists of over 80 individual temples dedicated to different deities. Each temple has its own significance and role in the religious life of the Balinese community.
• The architecture of the temple is impressive, with ornate decorations, carved stone walls and colorful ornaments.
• Visitors to Pura Besakih can enjoy the breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape while exploring the temple complexes.