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We want to be as accurate as possible, but given these challenging times, we urge you to recheck that the venues are open when you decide to visit.
With a history of over 4000 years, the Bali province of Indonesia is home to a rich cultural history in the form of temples, caves and markets scattered throughout the panoramic island. Explore the natural wonders of Bali through its shimmering beaches, ocean floors and tropical forests. Learn about the history and importance of Hinduism in Bali by visiting the various places of worship and experiencing the wondrous art forms preserved here. The unforgettable Balinese dishes, streets, markets and beach houses offer an unforgettable experience at the tropical paradise that Bali is.
Dive deep into the most popular island in Indonesia with our four-day Bali itinerary.
Bali 4-day itinerary at a glance
Day 1 – East Bali
Begin your journey in the east of Bali, starting at the popular and picturesque Lempuyang temple and its Gate of Heaven. Visit the water gardens of Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung, both constructed in the 20th century and reflective of the rich cultural heritage of the kingdom of Karangasem. Spend the evening relaxing at the tranquil Virgin beach.
- Lempuyang temple
- Tirta Gangga water garden
- Taman Ujung
- Virgin beach
Day 2 – Ubud
Start your day catching the sunrise while exploring Balinese agricultural traditions at the Tegalalang rice terraces. Head over to the sacred Tirta Empul temple, from where you can proceed to attend a fabulous Kopi Luwak tasting session. Spend your evening browsing the streets of the Ubud art market for stunning finds and visiting the secluded monkey forest of Ubud. Watch the sunset behind the paddy fields that populate either side of the Campuhan ridge walk.
- Tegalalang rice terrace
- Tirta Empul temple
- Kopi Luwak tasting
- Ubud art market
- Monkey forest
- Campuhan ridge walk
Day 3 – Canggu
Begin at the venerated Tanah Lot Temple, offering scenic views of the Indian ocean and the Balinese coast. Spend the afternoon exploring the streets, markets and foods of Canggu village. Your evening is reserved exclusively for the beaches of Canggu, where you can take surfing lessons at the Batu Bolong beach. Spend the rest of your evening (and possibly more) hopping around the different beach bars and clubs in the village.
- Tanah Lot Temple
- Markets of Canggu
- Batu Bolong beach
- Beach houses of Canggu
Day 4 – Kuta
Spend your day at Waterbom Bali, a highly celebrated waterpark in Kuta that promises a day full of thrilling adventures. Proceed to the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park, with beautiful trees and the iconic statue of Wisnu and his mount, Garuda. In the evening, catch the sunset and enjoy a Kecak performance at the historic Uluwatu temple. Spend the night exploring the hipster nightlife offered by Seminyak beach.
- Waterbom Bali
- Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
- Uluwatu temple
- Seminyak beach
Detailed 4 day Bali itinerary
Day 1 – East Bali
Visit the scenic Lempuyang temple
Situated atop Mount Lempuyang, Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang is a Balinese temple with religious significance as one of the Sad Kahyangan Jagad, or “six sanctuaries of the world”, which denotes the holiest places for worship in Bali. The “Gate of Heaven” in the Lempuyang temple overlooks Mount Agung in the distance, making it one of the most indelible viewing spots in Bali.
Unravelog tip: The Gate of Heaven tends to get crowded soon, so it’s advisable to visit the temple early in the morning to avoid lines and get your best photo opportunities.
Useful information:
- Location: Bunutan, Abang, Seraya Bar.
- Timings: Daily, 7:00 am-5:00 pm.
- Cost: Free, but donations are appreciated.
- How to reach: The best way to travel around Bali is to rent a scooter through which you can explore off-beat paths along the way on your own. You can also hire a private car with a driver or visit Lempuyang Temple as part of a tour.
Admire the Tirta Gangga water garden
Named after the famed river Ganges of Hindu mythology, the Tirta Gangga is a former royal palace constructed by the late king of Karangasem in 1946, now a stunning water garden that demands your visit. Admire the ornate sculptures, fountains, stepping stones and beautiful trees that take your breath away under the soothing sunlight.
Unravelog tip: There are fishponds in the garden where you can feed the fishes! You can purchase fish food from stalls before the palace.
Useful information:
- Location: Jalan Raya Abang Desa Adat
- Timings: Daily, 7:00 am-6:00 pm.
- Cost: 50,000 IDR.
- How to reach: Rent a scooter or hire a private car with a driver. You can also visit Tirta Gangga as part of a tour.
Explore Taman Ujung
The water palace of Taman Ujung was built in the early 20th century by order of king Gusti Bagus Jelantik of Karangasem. Learn about the dark and mysterious past of the water gardens, admire the beautiful palace and the different pools in the garden and climb the stairs to the upper level, where you can view the ocean in all of its beauty.
Useful information:
- Location: Tumbu, Kec. Karangasem
- Timings: Daily, 7:00 am-7:00 pm.
- Cost: 50,000 IDR.
- How to reach: Rent a scooter or hire a private car with a driver. You can also visit Taman Ujung as part of a tour.
Relax at catch the sunset at Virgin Beach
Although this white-sand beach is the favourite of many, Virgin beach has still remained a serene and welcoming place, relatively less crowded than most other beaches in Bali. Rent a lounger, get some food from the street stalls of the beach and watch the foamy waves of the blue-green ocean waters thrash against the shore.
Useful information:
- Location: Jl. Raya Bukit Asah No.Desa
- Timings: Always open.
- Cost: Free entry.
- How to reach: Rent a scooter or hire a private car with a driver. You can also visit Virgin Beach as part of a tour.
Day 2 – Ubud
Stroll around the Tegalalang Rice Terrace
This UNESCO World Heritage site is easily the most visited place in Bali. But don’t let that deter you – get to the rice terraces early in the morning, watch the sunrise amidst the terraces and palm trees and learn more about the millennia-old agricultural traditions of Balinese farmers.
Things to do: Stroll around the upper and lower rice terraces, snap a picture at the famous “Love Bali” swing or try zip-lining across the terrace.
Unravelog tip: If you are adamant about avoiding crowds, the Jatiluwih rice terraces might be the option for you. But make sure that you reach there early, or you might be confronted by quite a crowd there as well!
Useful information:
- Location: Jl. Raya Tegallalang
- Cost: 10,000 IDR onwards.
- How to reach: The best way to travel around Bali is to rent a scooter through which you can explore off-beat paths along the way on your own. You can also hire a private car with a driver.
Visit the Tirta Empul Temple
Founded over a thousand years ago, the temple of Tirta Empul or “holy spring” is famous for its pools of fresh water from a natural spring, considered holy by Balinese Hindus. Walk around the courtyards of the serene temple, feed the koi fishes that inhabit the ponds and undergo a “purification process” under the ancient spouts that spray the holy freshwater on you.
Useful information:
- Location: Jl. Tirta, Manukaya
- Cost: 50,000 IDR.
- How to reach: Rent a scooter or hire a private car with a driver.
Taste the exotic Kopi Luwak
Kopi luwak is one of the most famous and expensive premium coffees you’ll be able to try. It is also called civet coffee, which is coffee extracted from coffee cherries partially digested by Asian palm civets. Civets are known to be picky eaters, ensuring that the best quality of coffee cherries are ingested. The coffee is also said to undergo a fermentation process while being digested. Visit the plantations of Bali Pulina and taste different varieties of Javanese coffee, including Kopi Luwak.
Useful information:
- Timings: Daily, 9:00 am-5:00 pm.
- Cost: 250,000 IDR.
- Website: https://balipulina.com
- How to reach: Rent a scooter or hire a private car with a driver.
Explore the Ubud art market
This popular market is a treasure trove of Balinese handicrafts. Find anything from traditional sarongs and hand-woven basket bags to pretty jewellery and wooden houseware items. The market is also rich with artisanal Balinese decorations, which will be perfect as a souvenir to take back home.
Things to do:
- Roam around and explore the different finds in the market
- Visit the Art Cafe for amazing food and, oftentimes, live music
- Savour some of the mouth-watering fruits in the market, including juicy mangosteens.
Useful information:
- Location: Jl. Raya Ubud No.35
- Timings: Daily, around 6:00 am-6:00 pm.
- Cost: Free entry.
- How to reach: Rent a scooter or hire a private car with a driver.
Spot the monkeys of the Ubud monkey forest
The Ubud monkey forest, also known as Mandala Suci Wenara Wana, is a forested region of Ubud that is inhabited by more than a thousand Balinese long-tailed macaques. Admire the well-preserved forest and its monkeys while also visiting the Hindu temples that are part of the premises.
Things to do:
- Feed the monkeys with caution, since the monkeys tend to jump on visitors carrying bananas
- Visit the three Hindu temples, the Main temple, Beji temple and Prajapati temple, that are situated in the forest premises.
Unravelog tip: If you have time, visit the ancient Goa Gajah temple from the 9th century located not far from the monkey forest, with ornate stone carvings leading to a beautiful sanctuary.
Useful information:
- Location: Jl. Monkey Forest
- Timings: Daily, 8:30 am-6:00 pm.
- Cost:
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- Regular rate: 80,000 IDR.
- Reduced rate (for children): 60,000 IDR.
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- Website: https://monkeyforestubud.com/
- How to reach: Rent a scooter or hire a private car with a driver.
Catch the sunset at Campuhan Ridge Walk
The scenic Campuhan ridge walk leads visitors to the endless rice fields that dominate the hills. Hike across the 2-kilometre path as the sun sets behind the silhouettes of palm trees and lush green paddy fields.
Useful information:
- Location: Kelusa, Payangan, Jl. Raya Campuhan
- Timings: Always open.
- Cost: Free entry.
- How to reach: Rent a scooter or hire a private car with a driver.
Day 3 – Canggu
Tanah Lot Temple
The offshore rock off the coast of Canggu is called Tanah Lot, or “Land in the sea”, on which stands the highly revered Tanah Lot temple. Walk along the noisy streets lined with vendors leading to the religious site where you can admire the scenic views offered by the sea temple.
Useful information:
- Location: Beraban, Kediri
- Timings: 7:00 am-7:00 pm.
- Cost:
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- Regular rate: 60,000 IDR.
- Reduced rate (for children): 30,000 IDR.
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- How to reach: Rent a scooter or hire a private car with a driver.
Explore the Markets of Canggu
Due to the popularity of Canggu, many markets have popped up throughout the village and are amazing for shopping. You’ll find Balinese apparel, houseware and souvenirs. Stroll around the streets of Canggu, exploring the different markets and Warungs (Balinese street food places) in the area.
Things to do:
- Visit the many markets of Canggu, like the Samadi Market, Love Anchor Market and the trendy Old Mans Market
- Try the star-dishes of Warungs like Warung Bu Mi
- Shop for trendy and premium swimwear and traditional Balinese clothing at boutiques such as Berawa Luxe and Mila the Label.
Useful information:
- Cost and Timings: Varies across markets/shops.
Learn surfing in Batu Bolong beach
The shimmering waves of the Batu Bolong beach are quite restless – which is good news for surfers! Rent a surfboard and get a surfing lesson from one of the surfing stalls near the beach and have a fun time riding the waves of the Indian ocean. It is equally acceptable to resign yourself to the comforts of a lounger (available on hire) and relaxing with a cold beer in your hand.
Unravelog tip: You can easily stay and have fun in Batu Bolong until sunset, but if you’re interested in visiting more beaches in Canggu, check out Berawa beach, Canggu beach and Echo beach. Each of these beaches are bound to offer you a completely unique experience.
Useful information:
- Location: Pantai Batu Bolong St, Canggu
- Timings: Always open.
- Cost: Free entry, approximately 350,000 IDR for a 2-hour surfing lesson.
- How to reach: Rent a scooter or hire a private car with a driver.
Explore the beach houses of Canggu
Spend the night exploring the beach houses and clubs of Canggu. The Lawn is a popular beach house located beside the black sands of the Canggu beach, promising an intimate and exotic dining experience and beautiful sunset views. While you’ll find the bohemian decor of La Laguna refreshing. And before you know it, you’ll be partying all night at Finns Beach Club.
Useful information:
- Cost and Timings: Varies across venues.
Day 4 – Kuta
Waterbom Bali
With rides suitable for toddlers to adults, the Waterbom Bali is a highly popular family-friendly waterpark destination for those who just can’t get enough of the waters in Bali. Try the Climax – one of the steepest water slides in Asia – for an unforgettable experience or relax at the inviting pleasure pool, where you can go swimming or lounge with a drink.
Useful information:
- Location: Jl. Kartika Plaza, Tuban, Kuta
- Timings: Friday – Sunday, 10:00 am-5:00 pm.
- Cost: 308,000 IDR onwards.
- Website: https://www.waterbom-bali.com/
- How to reach: Rent a scooter or hire a private car with a driver.
Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
Visit the stunning Garuda Wisnu Kencana, a monumental statue of the Hindu God Wisnu on top of Garuda, his mythical eagle mount and the national emblem of Indonesia. The park also hosts social events, including concerts of popular bands like Iron Maiden and Paramore.
Useful information:
- Location: Uluwatu St, Ungasan
- Timings: Daily, 8:00 am-9:00 pm.
- Cost:
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- Regular rate: 125,000 IDR.
- Reduced rate (for children aged 5-12): 100,000 IDR.
- Free entry for children aged 0-4.
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- Website: https://www.gwkbali.com/
- How to reach: Rent a scooter or hire a private car with a driver.
Uluwatu temple
Built at the edge of a 230 feet cliff, the Uluwatu temple of South Kuta reveres the Acintya in its manifestation as the deity of Rudra. This Balinese Hindu sea temple is one among the Sad Kahyangan and promises beautiful sunset views of the Indian ocean and shrewd monkeys that inhabit the surrounding areas.
Things to do: After watching the scenic sunset, attend the Balinese Kecak and fire dance performances held in the temple premises every evening.
Useful information:
- Location: Pecatu, South Kuta
- Timings: Daily, 8:00 am-7:00 pm.
- Cost: 30,000 IDR.
- How to reach: Rent a scooter or hire a private car with a driver.
Seminyak beach
The golden shores of the Seminyak beach are known for their chic restaurants and beach houses, popular since the 70s. Although the beach’s dramatic waves demand expertise in surfing, the coast is also popular for horseback riding and shopping. With some of the best boutiques, bars and live music venues in Bali, Seminyak beach is an optimal destination for those looking for a vibrant nightlife on the island.
Things to do:
- Go horseback riding in the Seminyak beach
- Chill in popular beach clubs near the beach, like WooBar, Potato Head Beach Club and Ku De Ta.
Useful information:
- Location: Seminyak beach
- Timings: Always open.
- Cost: Free entry.
- How to reach: Rent a scooter or hire a private car with a driver.
Looking for picture-perfect spots for those gorgeous Instagram worthy shots around the island? We’ve rounded up a list of our favourite spots that capture some of Bali’s most stunning views here.
