Are you ready to explore two gems of Indonesia that will take your breath away? In this article, I will take you to discover the most fascinating places in Bali and Lombok. From the mystical culture of Ubud to the white sand beaches of the Gili Islands, I’ll show you everything you need to know about what to do and see on these two amazing islands. Get ready for an adventure filled with natural beauty, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences.
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What to see and do in Bali
Bali is a destination full of treasures to discover! From the spirituality of Ubud to the paradisiacal beaches of the Gili Islands, through the history of Tanah Lot and the natural beauty of Sekumpul and Sidemen, each place has its unique charm. Embark on an unforgettable journey and immerse yourself in the magic of Bali, an island that will captivate all your senses.
Immerse yourself in the spiritual essence of Ubud
Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali, a place that breathes spirituality and creativity. Here you will find sacred temples, rice terraces and a vibrant arts scene. Explore the majestic Goa Gajah Temple, known as the ‘Elephant Cave’, and admire the ancient statues and carvings that adorn it. Then, venture into the monkey forests of the Ubud Monkey Reserve and be captivated by the interaction with these playful primates.
Immerse yourself in the serenity of Amed
Amed, located on the east coast of Bali, is a hidden treasure known for its volcanic sand beaches and rich marine life. Explore the colorful underwater world as you snorkel or scuba dive the Jemeluk Coral Reef. Enjoy the calm of the waters of the Salinas Lagoon and relax on the beach while contemplating the horizon. Don’t miss the sunrise from Amed beach, a magical experience that will connect you with nature.
Embark on an adventure in the Gili Islands
The Gili Islands, located near Lombok, are a tropical paradise that you cannot miss. Explore the three islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air. Dive into its crystal clear waters to snorkel and discover marine life, or simply relax on its white sand beaches and turquoise waters. Experience the quiet life of Gili Meno, known to be the most serene of the three islands, or enjoy the lively nightlife of Gili Trawangan.
Delve into the natural beauty of Kuta, Lombok
Kuta, located on Lombok, offers stunning beaches, a vibrant local culture, and captivating natural landscapes. Explore Kuta Beach, known for its white sand and perfect waves for surfing. Venture inland and visit Mount Rinjani, an active volcano that offers hiking opportunities and panoramic views. Discover the island’s craft tradition by visiting an ikat weaving village or taking part in a traditional Sasak cooking class.
Explore the lush region of Flores
Flores is an island full of natural wonders, from its spectacular volcanoes to its waterfalls and lakes. Explore the Komodo National Park and discover the famous Komodo dragons, the largest creatures in the world. Dive into the crystal clear waters of Komodo and Rinca Islands to snorkel and scuba dive, where you can admire vibrant corals and diverse marine life. Do not miss the opportunity to enjoy trekking on Mount Kelimutu and marvel at its three uniquely colored lakes.
Experience the fascinating Nusa Islands
The Nusa Islands, on the other hand, are a tropical paradise known for their beautiful white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Explore Nusa Penida and visit impressive places like Kelingking Beach, famous for its dinosaur-shaped rock formation, or Crystal Bay, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Enjoy panoramic views from the cliffs of Nusa Lembongan and relax on the fine sandy beach of Nusa Ceningan.
Discover traditional culture in Sasak, Lombok
Lombok offers a rich traditional culture that you can explore in the Sasak region. Visit traditional Sasak villages and immerse yourself in the daily life of the local people. Discover traditional crafts, such as ikat weaving, where you can witness the process of creating these beautiful handmade pieces. Take part in a Sasak cooking class and learn how to prepare authentic dishes using fresh, local ingredients. You can also witness an exciting cockfight, a tradition rooted in the local culture.
Explore the underwater beauty of the Gili Islands
Another must-see place in Lombok is the Gili Islands. Immerse yourself in its crystal clear waters and discover the impressive marine life that lurks below the surface. Snorkel or dive the nearby coral reefs and admire the colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and lush corals. Enjoy the tranquility of Gili Meno, known as the “island of honeymooners”, or enjoy the lively nightlife on Gili Trawangan. Explore the charming streets of Gili Air and be surprised by its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Marvel at the natural beauty of Sekumpul
Sekumpul is a small town in the north of Bali known for its impressive waterfalls. Embark on an adventure through lush jungles and terraced rice paddies to reach the Sekumpul waterfalls. Be prepared to hike and explore, as getting to the waterfalls takes a bit of effort, but the rewards are well worth it. Once there, you will be greeted by a spectacular view of multiple waterfalls that plunge from the top of the mountain. Relax in the natural pools, enjoy a refreshing bath and be surprised by the majesty of this natural landscape.
Live the authenticity of Sidemen
If you are looking to experience the authentic rural life of Bali, you cannot miss visiting Sidemen. This picturesque village is located in the east of Bali and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding rice terraces and mountains. Explore the rice fields and learn how the locals grow this important crop. Wander the trails and enjoy the serenity of nature as you immerse yourself in traditional Balinese culture. If you are looking for a unique experience, you can stay in one of the local villas and enjoy the hospitality and warmth of the Sidemen people.