In recent years, Bali in Indonesia has exploded in popularity as a vacation destination, so much so that it seems like everyone has a Bali bucket list!
Whether you are drawn to this beautiful Indonesian island for its lush jungles, pristine beaches, or robust cultural and historic offerings, you will be sure to find dozens of items to fill your Bali bucket list!
From volcanic mountains covered in thick tropical forests to some of the most photogenic sights and scenery, Bali is a paradise that attracts thousands every year.
Bali is a remarkably affordable destination, making it a perfect place to visit regardless of your budget!
Affordable luxury and a breathtaking setting have made this area an incredibly popular location for tourists and travelers, ensuring that you will find plenty of things to do during your stay on this paradise island!
When planning your own adventure to this Indonesian paradise, be sure to research ahead of time so you’ll be able to tick off everything on your Bali bucket list!
BALI BUCKET LIST: WHAT NOT TO MISS
Bali has exploded in popularity in recent years, becoming one of the top ten Asian tropical vacation destinations. Known for its acai bowls, Bali beach clubs, and stunning landscapes – you won’t soon forget this trip!
The island is filled with adventure and culture, from sacred religious sites, ancient architecture, sweeping views, and dense tropical jungles. Whether you are traveling alone or as a group, with family or a romantic partner, the island of Bali has something for everyone.
Adventure seekers and those looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation can find everything their heart desires in this lush oasis!
It helps to plan ahead and find reputable guides and companies to work with when discovering all the sights and experiences on your own Bali bucket list.
Whether you’re traveling to remote locations, venturing through the wild jungles of this island, or Scuba diving in the Gili Islands, a knowledgeable guide will go a long way toward making the experience better for everyone in the long run!
You’ll discover that a trip to Bali is unlike most other popular vacation destinations and the authentic and culturally vibrant experience you’ll have will surely leave you wanting more. Read on for a more in-depth look at all the different destinations that deserve a spot on your Bali bucket list!
Tirta Ganga
Located in eastern Bali, this famous water palace was a former royal abode and features some of the most exotic and remarkable architecture on the island.
Stepping stones across the still reflection pools have been featured on Instagram feeds and travel blogs all over the internet and for good reason!
The attention to detail and symmetry in the designs of this ancient structure create some of the most amazing visuals and perfectly exemplify the stunning beauty of the natural surroundings.
In fact, the visuals are so well known and popular that you’ll be able to find tours tailored to getting the perfect “Instagram shot” during your vacation in Bali.
These tailored excursions will surely bring you to all the top-ranking photography spots, including the water palace of Tirta Ganga. Another bonus is that your tour guide will gladly step in for your Instagram husband when needed, so you’ll be able to get shots of you and your partner together without needing a tripod!
Spread over 1.2 hectares, Tirta Ganga Water Palace features three levels with fountains, stone carvings, swimming pools (which the locals seemed to love), boat rides, and large fish ponds with stepping stones.
Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and looking out over rice paddies and the ocean, there’s also a hotel and restaurant onsite.
Tirta Ganga Water Palace is about two hours from Ubud and Canggu, but I personally stopped on the way to Amed, which is 30 minutes away.
If you don’t have a scooter or a private driver, there is the option of an organized tour as well. It was heaving with people when we visited at around 2 pm, so I’d recommend getting there early in the morning if possible.
As mentioned, there are lots to see and do within the complex, so give yourself time to wander and take photos.
Mount Batur
This stunning and iconic volcanic mountain peak is synonymous with the landscape of Bali and one of the top things to do on most adventurers’ Bali bucket lists.
From the peak of the mountain, you’ll be treated to panoramic 360-degree views of the rolling jungle landscape, tiered paddies, and plantations in every direction.
Opt to arrive early and make the trek before the sun rises so you can experience the majesty of the sun coloring the landscape in golden and pink hues as you watch the sunrise from the peak of this volcanic mountain.
A trek around the crater of the volcano is also worth the effort; the landscape is perhaps the most breathtaking of any tropical island around! After trekking through the lush landscape, treat yourself to a nice long soak in a mineral hot spring.
Not only will you have an opportunity to further admire the landscape around you, but you’ll also be able to soothe away the muscle strains from your long and arduous hike!
For an added bonus, be sure to select a tour that includes a stop at one of the coffee plantations near the base of the mountain for a re-energizing pick-me-up!
Nusa Penida
One Bali bucket list must is a visit to Nusa Penida, a remarkable region filled with pristine beaches, towering cliffs, and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. You can easily see Nusa Penida in one day!
The breathtaking scenery of Nusa Penida is second to none and the beaches are sought after for their picturesque beauty and turquoise blue waters.
After venturing to this island by boat, you’ll have a chance to see the cliffs at Kelingking Beach before heading to Broken Beach and the remarkable natural pool at Angel’s Billabong.
From there, you’ll leave the peace and serenity of these more remote places and head to Crystal Beach.
For an added perk, look for excursions that include snorkeling with the stunning manta rays of the coral reefs around Nusa Penida.
These tours take you out into the waters to swim with these massive and peaceful creatures, admiring their graceful movements against a backdrop of lush corals.
From there, you’ll be able to stop at the nearby sister island of Nusa Lembongan for a traditional Indonesian lunch buffet and a kayaking adventure through the otherworldly mangrove forests!
Ubud
Ubud is by far one of the most popular spots on the island and you’ll find it filled with a number of items on your Bali bucket list!
Filled with stunning scenery, lush jungles, and some of the most culturally significant sites on the island, this area is filled with so many things to see and do during your time in Indonesia’s paradise island retreat!
Tegenungan Waterfall
Start with a visit to Tegenungan Waterfall, a breathtaking cascade of water deep in the lush jungle of the island. This spot is one of the most popular in Ubud, so be sure to arrive early to see it without the crowds!
Located in a deep, hidden canyon, you’ll be able to get close enough to feel the spray of the cascading waters as they fill the air with misty droplets!
Gunung Kawi Temple and Elephant Cave
Near the stunning waterfall, you will also be treated to explorations of the magical temples so well-known on the island.
These sites, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are some of the top items on any Bali bucket list!
Seeming to grow straight from the jungle floor itself, the ornate architecture and massive statues are slowly being taken over by the clinging roots and vines of the forest to become an intertwined being of an almost magical appearance.
The temples of the Ubud region are truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t want to miss!
Whether you’re looking for thrilling hikes and underwater adventures or you’d prefer peaceful serenity deep within the temples or during a riverside spa treatment, you’ll find everything and more on your Bali bucket list!
Plan ahead to be sure that you don’t miss a single magical moment on this Indonesian paradise island!