Why Bali Deserves a Spot On Your Travel Bucket List

What are some of the sites we’ll likely be seeing on our trip? 

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites in 2012 for its cultural significance, this is a special water system where water flows into water temples and, from there, is distributed through the rice paddies. A symbol of Bali’s scenery and culture, with its green rice fields and slopes in the jungle, no visit to Bali is complete without a visit to the Tegalalang Rice Fields.

Tegenungan Waterfall

Consistently listed among the top waterfalls of Bali, this beautiful natural waterfall is located just a half-hour outside of Ubud, our base camp while in Bali. Surrounded by beautiful lush greenery, Tegenungan boasts the added bonus of a beautiful temple, nearby, and natural springs that are perfect for bathing.

Tanah Lot Temple

This temple was built to worship Bhatara Segara, or the sea God. Considered one of Bali’s most important landmarks, famed for its stunning location on a rocky outcrop by the sea, sunsets here are especially beautiful. As one traveler put it, “the temple looks majestic sitting atop a black rock cliff with sea waves crashing the shoreline.”

Tirta Ganga Water Palace

A former royal palace, Tirga Ganga is sometimes referred to as a Balinese fantasyland, with colorful blooms, tiered fountains, mythical statues, and ponds…all with the striking Mount Agung as a backdrop.

This Hindu water garden was named after “Tirta” (meaning holy water) and “Gangga” (the name of the sacred river in India).

Tukad Cepung Waterfall

Hidden between rocks, this unique-looking curtain waterfall is considered one of the most unique spots in Bali. As one traveler said, “Walking through the canyon with its moss-covered walls and filtered sunlight will make you feel like you’re in Narnia.” 

Why are we spending so much time in Ubud?

Ubud is, without a doubt, the cultural epicenter of Bali. With an air of mysticism and home to several different yoga studios (including the world-famous Yoga Barn), Ubud is considered by many to be the spiritual hub of Bali. It also boasts some of the best restaurants, spas, handicrafts, local markets, shrines and temples, all nestled amongst lush, green, tropical jungles and terraced rice fields.

Our accommodations were carefully chosen for their location, within walking distance of the famous Monkey Forest. While providing us with a serene retreat, snuggled in a relaxed atmosphere near the forest’s edge, it’s still near all the action. A variety of shops, restaurants and spas are within walking distance.

Here are some of the other reasons why we’re spending so much time in Ubud:

• Ubud offers a more relaxed, rural atmosphere, and is cooler, greener, and less crowded compared to its southern coastal areas.

• It is Bali’s cradle of arts and culture. Home to numerous museums and galleries, it’s also famous for its nearby cultural performances of song and dance.

• Ubud is surrounded by stunning sceneries.

• A plethora of shops from bargain to boutique (bring an extra suitcase, because you’re going to be hard-pressed to return home with just a carryon)

• You can enjoy world-class dining, from small family warungs (eateries) to Wine-Spectator-awarded restaurants and more.

• Action and adventure opportunities like white water rafting, canyon tubing, and more.

• Ubud is among the world’s leading yoga destinations and has evolved into a world-class spiritual healing and well-being destination.

• Ubud is home to some of the island’s most outstanding spas, which are set among breathtaking nature and/or other unique features.

• Sunsets in Ubud can be as spectacular as can be seen down on Bali’s favorite beaches, with rolling rice paddies and mountainous silhouettes as the backdrop.

There are still a couple of spots available, so it’s not too late to join us.

Learn more here.