Bali is a place where fantasies come to life. The island’s stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and endless rice fields make it a magnet for travelers worldwide. While I found that Bali can be quite touristy, there are still plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. During our whirlwind four-day adventure, Josh and I managed to experience the best of what Bali has to offer – from breathtaking waterfalls to ancient temples and picturesque landscapes. Despite the brief duration of our trip, we packed in an incredible amount of memories, making it a truly unforgettable journey.
Nusa Penida
Located just 25 minutes away from Bali by ferry, Nusa Lembongan is a tropical haven that will leave you awestruck. The island’s turquoise waters are teeming with marine life, including fish and manta rays, making for an unforgettable snorkeling or swimming experience. Josh and I were blown away by the sheer beauty of it all – the crystal-clear waters, the lush greenery, and the vibrant sea creatures. Of course, we captured the classic staircase shot, but as we explored further, we realized that we needed something more unique to make our memories truly special. That’s when I decided to take a chance and climb a tree to get this breathtaking shot – and it was definitely worth the effort!
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Lake and Temple
The highlight of my canoeing adventure was renting a little vessel that only costed $2 to rent. What made it even more appealing was that we could use it for as long as we wanted, without any time constraints. Josh and I decided to take advantage of this offer and headed out to the lake early in the morning, just after sunrise. To our surprise, we had the place all to ourselves, which added to its serene ambiance. The tranquility of the surroundings and the stunning scenery made for some breathtaking photographs.
Handara Golf
Handara Golf, a renowned resort, boasts an impressive ranking among the world’s top 50 greatest golf courses by The World magazine. Strategically situated near Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Lake and Temple, this picturesque destination is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast. As you navigate through Bali’s scenic landscapes, you’ll undoubtedly stumble upon other ‘gates’ like this one – the island has several to offer. For a comprehensive guide on exploring Bali’s hidden gems, be sure to check out my in-depth travel guide.
Hidden Hills
Step into the whimsical world where you can indulge in carefree moments on a swing or cozy up in a bird’s nest with breathtaking views unfolding before your eyes. This picturesque destination is a hotspot for tourists, yet it remains an essential experience. If you don’t capture that iconic swing moment, you may as well be missing out on the quintessential Bali adventure.
Sekumpul Waterfall
I had an incredible experience at this waterfall, visiting early in the morning allowed us to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. The location is easily accessible, with a short walk from the parking lot making it convenient for visitors. In fact, I documented my trip on vlog, which you can watch below or on YouTube for higher quality visuals.
Aling Aling Waterfall
The initial waterfall is a visually stunning attraction, ideal for capturing breathtaking photographs. Its picturesque surroundings make it an excellent spot for snapping memorable moments. In contrast, the second waterfall at this location is perfect for thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts, offering the opportunity to climb up and take the leap of faith from the top. However, this experience comes with a price tag of $12.50, leading me to question whether it’s truly worth the cost.
Sacred Monkey Forest – Ubud Monkey Forest
As I ventured through the lush forest in Padangtegal Ubud, Bali, I was struck by the serene beauty of the sanctuary that is home to the iconic Balinese long-tailed monkey. The experience was nothing short of breathtaking, with the agile primates frolicking amidst the verdant foliage…until one unexpected moment when a curious monkey decided to make contact with me in an unwelcome manner. Despite the initial shock and fear that followed, I’m grateful to report that I emerged unscathed, albeit with a newfound appreciation for the importance of vaccinations. In retrospect, getting a rabies shot before my trip was an excellent decision, as it provided me with peace of mind and ensured that any potential risks were mitigated. As such, I highly recommend taking similar precautions before embarking on your own adventure to this enchanting destination.
Taman Saraswati
Located in the heart of Ubud, Taman Saraswati is a haven for those seeking spiritual enlightenment and architectural marvels alike. Amidst lush greenery, this serene temple stands out with its intricate carvings and stunning design elements. Interestingly, amidst the temple’s tranquility, one can also find a popular global coffee chain, Starbucks, nearby – a unique juxtaposition of old and new.
Telegalalng Rice Terrace
As I wandered through this picturesque destination, I found myself struck by the sheer beauty of the terraced rice fields. A popular spot for tourists and photographers alike, the vibrant greenery and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal location for capturing Instagram-worthy moments. Moreover, the intricate process of rice cultivation left me in awe. The level of dedication and hard work required to bring forth this bounty is truly admirable. The natural amphitheater-like setting provides a stunning backdrop for any photo shoot.
The Gili Islands
As we set foot on the Gili Islands, off the coast of Lombok in Bali, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of adventure. Our group of three had a shared goal – to capture breathtaking underwater photographs. The islands’ reputation as a party haven among tourists was not our primary concern; instead, we were drawn to their rich marine biodiversity and world-class diving opportunities.