7 Days in Bali: From Tanah Lot Temple to Paon Bali Cooking Class
Tanah Lot Temple · Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary · Tegallalang Rice Terraces · Kuta Beach · Fivelements Bali · Mount Batur
7-day Ubud itinerary. Day-by-day route, attractions & food.
Part one
Is this trip for you?
Bali's distinct spiritual Hindu culture, characterized by intricate temple offerings and purification ceremonies, sets it apart from other Southeast Asian islands like Phuket, which largely offers beach resorts without the same depth of ancient tradition. Ubud, the island's artistic and wellness heart, provides lush, volcanic landscapes and a vibrant food scene that a simple beach holiday cannot match. This itinerary prioritizes experiencing Bali's unique blend of spiritual heritage and natural beauty.
Your itinerary covers 5 must-have experiences
Ubud's Artistic & Cultural Heart
✓ Day 1: Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Lush Rice Terraces & Waterfalls
✓ Day 2: Tegallalang Rice Terrace
Iconic Balinese Temples
✓ Day 3: Tirta Empul Temple: Balinese Purification Ceremony
A Balinese Purification Ceremony & Holy Spring Bath
✓ Day 3: Tirta Empul Temple: Balinese Purification Ceremony
A Hands-On Balinese Cooking Class
✓ Day 4: Lobong Bali Cooking Class
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under Creative Commons licenses. Individual credits shown on each photo.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The dry season, from April to October, is generally considered the best time to visit Bali, offering sunny days, low humidity, and temperatures consistently around 26-30°C (79-86°F). This period is ideal for beaches, diving, and outdoor activities, though crowds are highest during June-August. The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) provide excellent weather with fewer tourists. The wet season (November-March) brings higher humidity, temperatures between 23-33°C (73-91°F), and frequent short, heavy showers, often in the afternoon, but still offers plenty of sunshine and lush scenery with cheaper rates.
Part two
The plan, day by day
This trip prioritizes Bali's spiritual core, wellness traditions, and the lush nature around Ubud, immersing a couple in serene cultural experiences. It entirely bypasses the southern coastal areas, meaning you miss the dramatic cliff-edge views and Kecak fire dance at Uluwatu Temple, the sunset beach clubs of Seminyak, and Jimbaran's fresh seafood grilling right on the sand. The itinerary focuses inland, so iconic ocean-perched temples like Tanah Lot are also not included.
Extend your trip by 2-3 days to include Bali's southern coast, allowing for a stay near Jimbaran Bay where you can enjoy romantic sunset seafood dinners directly on the sand and visit the majestic Uluwatu Temple, dramatically perched atop cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean and home to traditional Kecak fire dances at sunset for an additional cost if desired. The local taxis or ride-share can easily get you there from Ubud in under an hour for a day trip or an overnight stay. This itinerary follows a relaxed pace (2-3 activities per day).
Day 1 and the last day are lighter to account for arrival and departure. Want a different pace? Create a custom version with your preferences.
- Morning
08:00 AM - Arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) & Transfer to Ubud· 2 hrs
USD 25 (~IDR 393K)
Tsung TsenTsan (GFDL 1.2Upon arrival at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), proceed through immigration and customs. Take an official airport taxi directly to your hotel in Ubud. Estimated taxi duration is 1-1.5 hours.
10:00 AM - Hotel Check-in & Freshen Up· 30 min
FREECheck into your hotel in Ubud and take some time to settle in and freshen up after your international flight. Allow yourself to acclimate to the local time.
- 🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
10:30 AM - Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary· 2 hrs
USD 6 (~IDR 94K) - Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Balinese Nasi Campur in Ubud· 1 hr
USD 5 (~IDR 79K)Enjoy a traditional Balinese Nasi Campur, a flavorful plate of steamed rice served with small portions of various local dishes like sate lilit, lawar, and curried vegetables at a local warung.
- 🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PMConfirm hours on Maps
01:30 PM - Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati (Water Palace)· 1 hr 30 min
FREE - Closes 5 PM · 2h here🕐 Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
03:00 PM - Ubud Art Market· 1 hr
USD 1 (~IDR 16K)Check availability on Klook → - Evening
07:30 PM - Dinner: Indonesian Nasi Goreng in Ubud· 1 hr
USD 6 (~IDR 94K)Savor a classic Indonesian Nasi Goreng, stir-fried rice with sweet soy sauce, egg, and vegetables, perhaps with some chicken or shrimp, at a welcoming local eatery in Ubud.
Central Ubud
Staying in Central Ubud provides excellent walkability to key attractions like the Sacred Monkey Forest, Ubud Palace, Saraswati Temple, and the Art Market. It also offers abundant options for local warungs, cafes, and easy access to wellness activities and rice paddies just outside the town center.
- Morning🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
08:30 AM - Tegallalang Rice Terrace· 2 hrs
USD 1 (~IDR 16K)Check availability on Klook → - Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Balinese Nasi Kuning in Central Ubud· 1 hr
USD 5 (~IDR 79K)Enjoy a budget-friendly and flavorful Balinese Nasi Kuning, a celebratory yellow rice dish, at a local warung in Central Ubud.
02:30 PM - Traditional Balinese Foot Massage· 1 hr
USD 15 (~IDR 236K)Check availability on Klook →Indulge in a relaxing Balinese foot massage at a local spa to rejuvenate and unwind after a morning of exploration.
- Evening🕐 Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hoursConfirm hours on Maps
05:30 PM - Campuhan Ridge Walk & Sunset Views· 1 hr
FREE 07:30 PM - Dinner: Romantic Balinese Sate Lilit Dinner in West Ubud· 1 hr
USD 22 (~IDR 345K)Enjoy a romantic dinner featuring grilled Sate Lilit, a Balinese specialty, at a restaurant in West Ubud with a pleasant ambiance.
Central Ubud
Central Ubud offers excellent walkability to many attractions, including the Monkey Forest, Ubud Palace, and Art Market. It also boasts a wide range of dining options and is a convenient base for exploring surrounding rice terraces and wellness centers.
- Morning🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
08:30 AM - Tirta Empul Temple: Balinese Purification Ceremony· 2 hrs 30 min
USD 4 (~IDR 63K)Check availability on Klook → - 🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
11:00 AM - Gunung Kawi Tampaksiring: Ancient Royal Tombs· 2 hrs
USD 4 (~IDR 63K)Check availability on Klook → - Afternoon
01:00 PM - Lunch: Authentic Balinese Noodle Soup in Tampak Siring· 1 hr
USD 18 (~IDR 283K)Savor a comforting bowl of Mie Goreng, a classic Indonesian stir-fried noodle dish with fresh vegetables, egg, and your choice of protein, at a local warung near the temples.
- Evening
07:30 PM - Dinner: Traditional Balinese Dinner in Petulu· 1 hr
USD 18 (~IDR 283K)Enjoy a romantic dinner featuring Lawar, a traditional Balinese dish made of finely chopped vegetables, coconut, and minced meat, at a local specialty restaurant in the charming village of Petulu, known for its authentic culinary scene.
Central Ubud
This area remains the best base for exploring Ubud's diverse attractions, offering excellent walkability to temples, markets, and restaurants, with convenient access to transport for day trips to surrounding areas.
- Morning🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
08:00 AM - Lobong Bali Cooking Class· 3 hrs
USD 25 (~IDR 393K)Check availability on Klook →Immerse yourself in Balinese cuisine with a hands-on cooking class. Learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh local ingredients, starting with a market visit (optional, depending on class provider and timing).
- Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Balinese Sup Bakso in Lodtunduh· 1 hr
USD 8 (~IDR 126K)Enjoy a comforting bowl of traditional Indonesian meatball soup (Sup Bakso) at a local warung in the Lodtunduh area, offering authentic flavors.
- Closes 6 PM · 4h here🕐 Monday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
02:00 PM - Tibumana Waterfall· 1 hr 30 min
USD 2 (~IDR 31K)Check availability on Klook → - Evening
07:30 PM - Dinner: Balinese Nasi Goreng in Peliatan· 1 hr
USD 8 (~IDR 126K)Savor a classic Balinese Nasi Goreng (fried rice) at a local eatery in Peliatan, a neighborhood known for its traditional arts and quieter ambiance.
Central Ubud
This area remains ideal for exploring Ubud's attractions, with easy access to shops, diverse restaurants, and transportation for excursions.
- Morning🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
09:00 AM - Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)· 1 hr 30 min
USD 2 (~IDR 31K)Check availability on Klook → - Confirm hours on Maps
10:30 AM - Tegenungan Waterfall· 1 hr
USD 2 (~IDR 31K)Check availability on Klook → - Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Balinese Gado-Gado in Kemenuh· 1 hr
USD 8 (~IDR 126K)Enjoy a delicious and healthy Gado-Gado, a traditional Indonesian salad with steamed vegetables, tofu, tempeh, and peanut sauce, at a local eatery in Kemenuh.
03:00 PM - Balinese Massage Treatment· 1 hr
USD 15 (~IDR 236K)Check availability on Klook →Indulge in a relaxing traditional Balinese massage, a wellness experience designed to soothe your body and mind with essential oils and ancient techniques, perfect for couples.
- Evening🕐 Monday: 7:30 – 9:00 PM; Tuesday: 7:30 – 9:00 PM; Wednesday: 7:30 – 9:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
07:30 PM - Balinese Legong Dance Performance at Pura Dalem Ubud· 1 hr
USD 10 (~IDR 157K)Check availability on Klook → 08:30 PM - Dinner: Balinese Cuisine in Lodtunduh· 1 hr
USD 18 (~IDR 283K)Savor authentic Balinese flavors for dinner in the tranquil neighborhood of Lodtunduh, offering a variety of local specialties in a relaxed setting.
Central Ubud
Centrally located for easy access to the town's shops, markets, restaurants, and many cultural attractions. Provides a good base for exploring Ubud and nearby areas.
- Morning
09:00 AM - Morning Meditation Walk through Ubud Rice Paddies· 1 hr 30 min
FREEStart the day with a peaceful and spiritual walk through the serene rice fields, ideal for quiet reflection and enjoying nature's beauty together.
10:30 AM - Traditional Balinese Offering Making Workshop· 1 hr 30 min
USD 10 (~IDR 157K)Check availability on Klook →Participate in a hands-on workshop to learn about and create intricate 'Canang Sari' offerings, a central part of Balinese spiritual life and culture.
- Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Balinese Bakso Soup in Pengosekan· 1 hr
USD 18 (~IDR 283K)Savor a comforting bowl of local meatball soup (Bakso) in a casual setting.
- Closes 5 PM · 3.5h here🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
01:30 PM - Neka Art Museum· 1 hr 30 min
USD 5 (~IDR 79K)Check availability on Klook → - Evening
07:30 PM - Dinner: Balinese Sate Ayam with Peanut Sauce in Junjungan· 1 hr
USD 18 (~IDR 283K)Sate AyamEnjoy succulent grilled chicken skewers (Sate Ayam) with a rich peanut sauce, a local favorite, in a relaxed setting.
Central Ubud
Central to many attractions, restaurants, and shops. Offers a vibrant yet accessible base for exploring Ubud's cultural heart.
- Morning
10:00 AM - Souvenir Shopping along Jalan Raya Ubud· 1 hr 30 min
USD 5 (~IDR 79K)Check availability on Klook →Enjoy some last-minute souvenir shopping along Ubud's main street, Jalan Raya Ubud, finding unique crafts, textiles, and local goods.
- Afternoon
12:00 PM - Lunch: Balinese Babi Guling in Central Ubud· 1 hr
USD 18 (~IDR 283K)Indulge in a hearty Balinese Babi Guling meal, a succulent roasted suckling pig dish famous for its crispy skin and aromatic spices, at a local eatery.
01:00 PM - Relaxation at a Local Cafe in Central Ubud· 1 hr 30 min
USD 5 (~IDR 79K)Enjoy a final Balinese coffee or refreshing drink at a charming local cafe, soaking in the serene atmosphere of Ubud one last time.
02:30 PM - Hotel Checkout & Luggage Collection· 30 min
FREEComplete hotel checkout formalities and collect your luggage, preparing for your departure from Bali.
- Confirm hours on Maps
03:00 PM - Depart from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)· 6 hrs
USD 35 (~IDR 550K)
Central Ubud
Continues to be a convenient base for exploring Ubud's central attractions and provides easy access to dining and shopping before departure.
Part three
Food, shopping & festivals
Bali's culinary identity is built on local 'warungs' and Hindu-influenced specialties. Beachside warungs in Legian and street stalls near Denpasar's markets offer the best value, while Ubud provides a deeper dive into traditional Balinese flavors like Babi Guling. The ubiquitous canang sari offerings are a constant visual reminder of food's spiritual connection here.
Top 8 dishes to try
USD 1-3Nasi Kuning
A celebratory yellow rice dish, cooked with coconut milk and turmeric, often served with side accompaniments like fried egg, shredded chicken, or tempeh.
USD 1-4Sup Bakso
A comforting Indonesian meatball soup with springy beef meatballs, clear broth, noodles, and often served from mobile street carts.
USD 2-5Mie Goreng
Similar to nasi goreng but uses egg noodles instead of rice, stir-fried with vegetables, soy sauce, and a choice of meat or seafood.
USD 2-5Nasi Goreng
Indonesia's national dish of stir-fried rice with sweet soy sauce, egg, and often chicken or shrimp, commonly served with 'kerupuk' (crackers).
USD 3-6Gado-Gado
A popular Indonesian salad featuring blanched or steamed vegetables, boiled eggs, fried tofu, tempeh, and often 'lontong' (rice cake), all smothered in a rich peanut sauce.
USD 3-6Sate Lilit
Bali
Minced seafood (often fish) or chicken mixed with grated coconut, rich Balinese spices, and wrapped around a lemongrass stalk before grilling.
USD 3-7Nasi Campur
Bali
A diverse plate of steamed rice served with small portions of various Balinese dishes like sate lilit, lawar, crispy pork, or curried vegetables.
USD 4-8Lawar
Bali
A traditional Balinese mix of finely chopped vegetables, grated coconut, minced meat (pork, chicken, or duck), and a rich spice paste, served fresh.
Markets & neighborhoods
Department store food courts (e.g., Ramayana, Matahari) offering surprisingly good food at excellent value, plus bustling local markets.
Beachside warungs and casual stalls serving cheap and tasty local staples like nasi goreng, mie goreng, and sup bakso.
Traditional Balinese cuisine including Babi Guling, Lawar, and Nasi Campur, found in dedicated restaurants and some higher-end warungs.
Good to Know
Bali's shopping scene ranges from spiritual artistry to tropical chic. For authentic crafts, head to specific artisan villages like Celuk for silver or Mas for wood carvings; for modern fashion and homewares, Seminyak and Canggu are your go-to districts.
Top 7 souvenirs
Batik Fabric & Clothing
UbudUSD 10-80Hand-drawn or stamped wax-resist dyed fabrics with traditional Balinese motifs and vibrant colors, perfect for unique garments, sarongs, or decorative wall hangings.
📍 Brahma Tirta Sari Batik Workshop (Ubud area), Sukawati Art Market
Balinese Silver Jewelry
CelukUSD 20-150Intricate filigree and granulation techniques create unique wearable art that is distinctly Balinese, often featuring spiritual motifs or natural elements.
📍 Celuk Silver Village (visit workshops like Studio Perak or UC Silver & Gold)
Ata Grass Woven Goods
TengananUSD 15-100Hand-woven from a specific local reed and smoked over coconut husks, these items offer unique durability, a distinct smoky scent, and intricate patterns for bags, placemats, and boxes.
📍 Tenganan Pegeringsingan Traditional Village (direct from weavers)
Balinese Wood Carvings
MasUSD 30-500Exceptionnally detailed carvings, from spiritual deities and mythological figures to elaborate decorative panels, often crafted by generational artisans in specific villages.
📍 Mas Village (many workshops, e.g., Nyana Warta's workshop), or Ubud Art Market for smaller pieces
Balinese Paintings
UbudUSD 50-1,000Vibrant and narrative canvases, often from the renowned Ubud school, depicting daily life, mythology, and nature with distinct Balinese artistic styles.
📍 Neka Art Museum (shop), Arma Museum & Resort (shop), various galleries along Jalan Raya Ubud
Natural Balinese Spa Products
SeminyakUSD 5-50Crafted from locally sourced botanicals like frangipani, jasmine, and coconut, these oils, soaps, and scrubs offer authentic tropical aromas and natural ingredients.
📍 Republic of Soap (Seminyak), Utama Spice (Ubud), or local wellness boutiques
Resort Wear & Boutique Fashion
SeminyakUSD 30-200Chic, flowing designs crafted from natural fabrics, reflecting Bali's relaxed tropical aesthetic and offering unique styles from local and expat designers.
📍 Seminyak Square, Jalan Kayu Aya (Oberoi Street), Jalan Petitenget for higher-end options
Markets & districts
Wood carvings, batik clothing and fabric, sarongs, woven baskets, silver jewelry, and smaller paintings.
Bustling and vibrant with countless stalls, it is very crowded and requires patient bargaining for good prices; carefully check the quality of items.
Handcrafted silver jewelry, often featuring intricate filigree work, granulation, and local gemstones.
A village dedicated to silversmiths where you can visit workshops to observe artisans at work and purchase directly; reputable shops usually have fixed prices.
High-end resort wear, boutique fashion, designer homewares, natural spa products, and contemporary art.
Upscale, trendy, and stylish with fixed-price boutiques, chic cafes, and a pleasant shopping atmosphere without aggressive bargaining.
Good to Know
Nyepi
Hari Raya NyepiBalinese Day of Silence - island shuts down completely for self-reflection.
Note: Book in advance if staying through Nyepi
Galungan
Bali's most important Hindu festival celebrating the victory of dharma over adharma. Homes and temples adorned with tall penjor bamboo poles and offerings.
Note: No special booking needed - enhances your Bali visit
Indonesian Independence Day
Hari KemerdekaanAugust 17 national holiday. Every village holds lomba games — greasy pole climbing (panjat pinang), sack races, and eating competitions. Flags fly everywhere.
Note: Book Jakarta hotel 3-4 weeks ahead
Bali Arts Festival
Pesta Kesenian BaliMonth-long Balinese cultural festival at Taman Werdhi Budaya in Denpasar. Daily gamelan orchestra performances, kecak fire dance, and traditional Legong dance with performers from every Bali region.
Note: Free entry; book Ubud/Denpasar hotel 3-4 weeks ahead
Part four
Costs & booking
- Total for a couple — 7 days mid-range trip, excludes international flights
- Accommodation assumes 1 shared room
- Rough estimates — actual prices vary by season and availability
Local Transport
Accommodation
AI estimated based on typical hotel costs
Food
Activities
Moderate overall expect around $80-120/night for comfortable hotels, but local warungs offer full meals for $3-7. Always drink bottled water and consider busy, independent warungs for better hygiene.
To stay within your tight $34/day food budget, prioritize eating at local warungs where delicious and authentic Indonesian meals typically cost $3-7 per person, significantly cheaper than tourist-oriented restaurants.
For efficient and budget-friendly movement between natural sites, rely on ride-sharing apps like Grab or Gojek. Short trips often cost 20,000-40,000 IDR ($1.30-$2.70), helping you manage your $7/day transport allocation.
With an extremely limited activity budget of $10, focus on Bali's abundant free or low-cost natural attractions, such as exploring public beaches or visiting rice terraces where entrance might only be a small donation of 10,000 IDR ($0.70).
Treat yourself to a relaxing Balinese massage; many local spas offer quality hour-long sessions for around 70,000-100,000 IDR ($5-7), a small indulgence that fits within your constrained budget.
Indonesia e-VOA (Electronic Visa On Arrival)
Book 1 month ahead — Applying for the e-VOA online in advance saves time and hassle upon arrival at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS).
Guided Purification Ceremony at Tirta Empul TempleDay 3
Book 1 week ahead — To ensure a dedicated guide and organized experience for the Balinese purification ceremony.
Lobong Bali Cooking ClassDay 4
Book 2 weeks ahead — Popular cooking classes in Ubud can fill up quickly, especially for specific dates and times.
Balinese Legong Dance Performance at Pura Dalem UbudDay 5
Book 1 week ahead — For popular traditional dance performances, booking in advance ensures preferred seating and avoids queues, especially during peak season.
The practical bits — connectivity, getting around, and flights. These are partner links; we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.
Part five
Before you go
Traffic-heavy cities; scooters common in Bali, TransJakarta in Jakarta
Gojek and Grab are essential for getting around. Rent a scooter in Bali (international license needed).
- Avoid riding scooters unless you are an experienced rider with an international driving permit — accidents are extremely common, and medical facilities for serious injuries can be limited.
- Do not let anyone carry your luggage at Padang Bai dock; aggressive porters often demand excessive payments, so handle your own bags from arrival to boarding.
- Walk with extreme caution, especially at night, as footpaths in areas like South Bali (Kuta, Seminyak) are in poor condition with open drains, uneven surfaces, and missing manhole covers — carry a flashlight.
- Always keep an eye on your drink in bars and nightclubs, and do not accept drinks from strangers, to prevent drink spiking incidents which can occur.
- Confirm swimming conditions with local lifeguards at Kuta Beach; strong rip currents are common and marked by special flags, which indicate prohibited swimming areas.
- Pre-book transfers from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) via your hotel or a reputable service like Gojek/Grab to avoid aggressive taxi touts and inflated prices upon arrival.
- Carry small denominations of Indonesian Rupiah (Rp20,000 and Rp50,000 notes) for street food vendors, local markets, and smaller shops that may not accept cards.
- When visiting popular temples (e.g., Tanah Lot, Uluwatu, Besakih), arrive by 9 AM to avoid peak tour group crowds and experience a more peaceful visit.
- 1Sarong or lightweight scarf (temple visits, beach cover-up)
- 2Lightweight long pants/skirts (modesty for temple visits)
- 3Shoulder-covering tops (modesty for temple visits)
- 4Mosquito repellent (DEET 30% recommended)
- 5Reef-safe sunscreen (if swimming or snorkeling)
- 6Slip-on sandals or flip-flops (easy removal at temples/restaurants)
- 7Small quick-dry towel (beach, pool, unexpected showers)
- 8Light rain jacket/poncho (especially wet season, for sudden downpours)
- 9Small backpack or daypack (for day trips, essentials)
- 10Cash (Rp1,000,000-2,000,000 in small denominations)
- 11Flashlight or headlamp (poor street lighting, power cuts)
- 12Water shoes (rocky beaches, tide pools, waterfalls)
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Most nationalities, including US, EU, UK, Australia, and Canada, can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VoA) for a 30-day stay, extendable once for another 30 days. The VoA costs IDR 500,000 (~$35 USD) and can be paid upon arrival at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) or applied for online as an e-VOA before travel. Indian citizens also qualify for the VoA. A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended departure date is required, along with proof of an onward ticket. Other nationalities should check the official Indonesian immigration website.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Official Telkomsel stores, local sundry shops, airport kiosks (prices higher at airport)
📍 Official XL Axiata stores, local sundry shops, airport kiosks
Free Wi-Fi is widespread in cafes, restaurants, and hotels across Bali. Speeds can be inconsistent, especially in more remote areas like Amed or Nusa Penida. For reliable and consistent internet, particularly for navigation or work, a local SIM card is highly recommended over relying solely on public Wi-Fi.
Useful Apps
Public telephones are virtually nonexistent. Mobile coverage can be inconsistent outside major tourist hubs like Seminyak, Kuta, and Ubud, with some remote areas experiencing patchy signal. Purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival is the most reliable way to stay connected.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two round pins (most of Europe, South America)
Two round pins + side earth clips (Germany, Europe)
230V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
5–10% if no service charge
Round up to the nearest 5,000 IDR
10,000–20,000 IDR per bag for porters
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in tourist areas like Bali.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
110
118
113
Tourist police available in Bali
Payments
Cash needed for warungs, markets, and rural areas
Accepted at hotels, malls, and mid-range+ restaurants
QRIS QR codes growing rapidly
ATMs are plentiful in tourist areas. Carry small bills for tips and small purchases.
Most major nationalities, including US, EU, UK, Australia, and India, can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VoA) for a 30-day stay, extendable once. The VoA costs IDR 500,000 and requires a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond departure and proof of an onward ticket. You can also apply for an e-VOA online before travel to speed up immigration.
Bali is generally safe for solo female travelers, but common sense precautions apply. Stick to well-lit, populated areas at night, especially in Kuta and Seminyak where poor infrastructure can make walking tricky. Always use reputable ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab. Secure your valuables as petty theft from unlocked rooms can occur.
For short distances, ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab are convenient and affordable. For longer distances or day trips, hiring a private driver for a full day (typically Rp500,000-800,000) is a popular option. Riding scooters is prevalent but highly dangerous due to chaotic traffic and poor road conditions; only do so if you are an experienced rider with an international license.
The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). While major hotels and larger restaurants accept credit cards, many local eateries, street food stalls, markets, and smaller shops are cash-only. It's advisable to carry IDR 500,000-1,000,000 in smaller denominations for daily expenses and unexpected cash-only situations.
Tipping is not mandatory or traditionally expected in Bali, as most establishments (restaurants, hotels) often include a 5-10% service charge on bills. However, small gratuities (e.g., IDR 10,000-20,000) for good service at spas, in taxis, or for tour guides are appreciated as a bonus but not an obligation.
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing due to the tropical climate. Include a sarong and shoulder-covering tops for temple visits to ensure respect for cultural norms. Essential items include mosquito repellent, reef-safe sunscreen, slip-on sandals, a small quick-dry towel, and a light rain jacket if traveling during the wet season (November-March).
The most reliable options are pre-booked hotel transfers, or using Gojek/Grab apps to arrange a ride (head to designated pickup points outside the terminal). Expect prices for Kuta/Seminyak to be around IDR 100,000-200,000. Taxis directly outside the terminal may try to overcharge, so confirm prices upfront or use ride-hailing apps.
The dry season, from April to October, is generally considered the best time, offering sunny days and low humidity, ideal for outdoor activities. The shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) provide excellent weather with fewer crowds. The wet season (November-March) brings higher humidity and daily showers, but lush scenery and fewer tourists.
These 4 experiences didn't make it into this itinerary
🏖️Southern Beaches & Coastal Beauty
e.g., Kuta Beach, Seminyak Beach
💆♀️A Traditional Balinese Spa & Wellness Retreat
e.g., Fivelements Bali, Tjampuhan Spa
🌋A Sunrise Trek to a Volcanic Crater
e.g., Mount Batur, Mount Batur
🌅A Romantic Sunset Dinner with Panoramic Views
e.g., Rock Bar at Ayana Resort, Sundara Beach Club at Four Seasons Jimbaran
Create Your Custom Version
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Bali, Indonesia
Indonesia
7 days across Bali's diverse landscapes and culture: 4 nights in Ubud (Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Balinese cooking class), then a transfer to Seminyak for 3 nights (Seminyak Beach, Pura Luhur Uluwatu). A packed pace with daily cultural and nature activities,...
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