Traveloka PH
26 Jun 2018 - 7 min read
Dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu God of Water, the temple's name translates to "holy water spring" in Balinese. The temple is divided into four main parts: the central courtyard, the Jabah Tengah (has two purification pools), the Jeroan (inner courtyard) and the Koi pool. The widely popular bathing ritual at Jabah Tengah is reserved for the local Balinese and Hindu worshippers. Locals believe that the water in the pools have magical powers and that after dipping themselves under the 30 spouts, they'd be purified.
Climbing up Mount Batur reveals gorgeous views of neighboring Mount Agung and Mount Agang once you've climbed to its summit. Considered a fairly quick climb (two to three hours total), most treks start early in the morning so that climbers are treated to beautiful sunrise. To ascend the volcano, it'd be best that you have a guide - most of which usually confirm your trip with a simple WhatsApp message (so, don't be surprised!). If climbing with a guide, you can opt to go on a private tour or with a group - though plenty opt for the former as it allows you to move at your own pace. Most trek fees already cover pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, the guide, water, flashlights, a simple breakfast at the summit and lunch at a nearby restaurant after the hike.
World-renowned Tumbalen is a popular dive site known for its breathtaking view of the cargo ship USAT Liberty wreck which was torpedoed by the Japanese during World War II. The wreck was formerly ashore Tulamben beach before lava from Gunung Agung's volcanic eruption in 1963 pushed the Liberty off of the beach and to its current location, breaking it into several pieces in the process.
Once a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site candidate, the Jatiluwih rice terraces make for a gorgeous view leading up to Mount Batukaru. The terraces' well-maintained irrigation system, known as "subak", sustains the greenery and dates back to the 9th century. Tourists can opt to go trekking through the fields, or to simply take a photo with the breathtaking view.
This should definitely be in your top five of things to do in Bali! In the remote village of Trunyan, the locals have a unique burial ritual that many travel to observe or to at least see where the deceased are laid to rest. When a villager passes away, they aren't cremated like the rest of the Balinese Hindus, but are instead wrapped and laid out by a large old tree. While you'd think the air would be reeking of decomposition, locals say that with the mountain's cool air and fragrance that the tree gives off, the smell is masked. There is also an area where you can see a stack of skulls and bones.
They say one of the best ways to truly immerse yourself in a destination's culture is by eating it's food - even better if you learn how to cook it and learn about its significance. Learn more about the Balinese culture by starting off your day with a trip to the market. Familiarize ourself with new ingredients, fresh produce yand more. Then back to the center where you will be taught how to cook Balinese dishes using authentic methods and instruments - all of which end with a delicious meal.
Considered Bali's biggest and holiest temple, Besakih Temple is over a 1,000 years old and sits on the slopes of Mount Agung. It's compound is home to at least 86 temples and shrines, with locals celebrating around 70 religious ceremonies a year (each shrine or temple is celebrated on its own anniversary).
Perched atop a limestone cliff, Rock Bar Bali has become the go-to for cocktails, great music and a gorgeous view of the sunset. The establishment's minimalist designs blends seamlessly into the rock formation and is highlighted by ambient lighting from the bar, sunset and lanterns. There are two lines to get here - the fast and regular line. The former is reserved for guests of the Ayana Resort and Spa, which is where Rock Bar Bali is.
No trip to Bali would be complete without shots taken at some of their most IG-worthy locations. After all, these gorgeous photos may be one of the reasons why you've decided to fly over in the first place. Some places worth shooting at are Nusa Penida (Maldives of Bali), Tengenunan Waterfalls, LaLaguna Bali, Motel Mexicola and more.
Known as the Sacred Monkey Forest of Padangtegal, the popular tourist spot is home to several grey long-tailed macaques. Visitors can expect to see the monkeys swinging from tree to tree, boldly coming up to guests, feeding on bananas and more. While it's great to see the monkeys in their natural habitat, its best that you don't touch, try to feed them or wear loose clothes or jewelry. They are, after all, still wild animals and may be tempted to snatch your items.
These are just some the of the hundreds of things to do in Bali that you should find yourself doing. After all, there's always something new to explore, love and to discover on this gorgeous Indonesian island that you may never want to leave. Ready to eat, pray and love in Bali? Make sure you book your flight and hotel withTraveloka!]]>