Bali | The Adventure Travel Site

Your Guide to Exploring the Most Magical Waterfalls in Bali: The Pride of the Jungle

Bali is famous for its stunning beaches, but did you know it’s home to some of the most magical waterfalls too? Tucked away in lush jungles, these waterfalls offer everything from serene, meditative spots to thrilling adventure spots. Here’s your guide to the best waterfalls to visit while in Bali!

Hidden Gems in North Bali

The north of Bali is home to many secluded waterfalls where you can find peace and tranquillity. Gitgit and Sekumpul waterfalls, in particular, are worth the journey. Surrounded by tropical foliage and rice terraces, these falls have an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for a quiet escape from the more tourist-heavy areas.

Adventure-Ready Waterfalls for Thrill-Seekers

For those looking for a bit of an adrenaline rush, Bali has plenty of waterfalls that are ideal for exploration. Some spots even offer the best water rafting in Bali nearby. The Aling-Aling waterfall, for instance, is famous for its cliff jumps and natural waterslides—perfect for those seeking an adventurous experience!

Luxury Stays Near Waterfalls

If you’re staying at the luxurious Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, you’re in luck! You’re only a short drive from Tegenungan Waterfall, an iconic spot known for its accessibility and vibrant surroundings. This waterfall is great for photography and swimming alike.

Sacred Sites with Spiritual Significance

Some waterfalls, like the Tibumana and Kanto Lampo, are revered for their mystical and spiritual aura. Many locals consider these spots sacred, making them ideal for those seeking a quiet, reflective experience in Bali’s serene natural landscapes.

Beyond the Beaches: Exploring Bali’s Hidden Natural Wonders

Bali is a tropical paradise renowned for its breathtaking natural wonders, offering a diverse landscape that captivates visitors. From majestic volcanic peaks like Mount Agung and Mount Batur to tranquil terraced rice fields in Ubud, the island showcases nature in its most awe-inspiring forms. Bali’s pristine beaches, such as those in Nusa Penida and Seminyak, offer crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, perfect for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts.

Ubud Dance and Music

Ubud is a vibrant hub for Balinese dance and music, where traditional performances such as the Kecak, Legong, and Barong dances are regularly showcased at venues like Ubud Palace and local temples. These captivating performances are not only entertaining but also deeply embedded in Balinese Hindu traditions, often depicting stories from Hindu epics like the Ramayana.

Crafts and Arts

Located in the heart of Ubud, the Ubud Art Market is a vibrant space where local artisans and craftsmen offer a diverse range of handmade creations. From intricate silver jewellery and hand-woven textiles to carved wooden sculptures and vibrant paintings, the market showcases the exceptional artistry of the Balinese people. Shopping here during your stay at a luxury resort in Uluwatu Bali, such as the Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort not only offers the opportunity to discover unique souvenirs but also supports the local artisan community.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces

The Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Bali are one of the island’s most iconic landscapes, a testament to Bali’s age-old irrigation system known as ‘subak.’ Located north of Ubud, these terraces offer visitors a glimpse into traditional Balinese rice farming and present an awe-inspiring natural spectacle.

Mount Batur

The Mount Batur Sunrise Hike in Bali offers an exhilarating adventure that draws many visitors looking for a one-of-a-kind experience. Situated in the Kintamani District, Mount Batur is an active volcano famed for its breathtaking sunrise views from the summit. Combining physical challenge with natural beauty, the hike provides a memorable experience.

When to Visit Bali: Weather and Seasons – Right timing matters!

A Bali holiday getaway is something that many travellers dream of. But are you aware of the best time to visit this island? Travelling during the best season will offer you the best memories.

The Dry Season

The dry season falls from April to October. Cool breezes are present, but no rain. During the dry season, the temperatures are high and steady. This makes Bali even more beautiful. This season is the best for sightseeing and sunbathing.

Image via **Holiday Inn Resort Baruna Bali**

The Rainy Season

The rainy season falls from November to March. The seas tend to get rougher and this is why it’s not a great time for swimming.

The busiest season in Bali

Tourists flock to Bali during July and August. Bali is also busy during the Easter holidays and Christmas. So, if you expect cheaper rates, you will have to avoid these seasons.

The best time to visit Bali

Head to Bali in May, June, or September. April and October will also be fine. Bali family resorts such as Holiday Inn Resort Baruna Bali give away special discounts on their packages. Sea conditions will be perfect during this time, and the airfares will also be reasonable.

Tourism in Bali

Bali has now become one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in the world, simply because of the fact that it has something for everyone who visits it. Here is some information that you should know about the Bali Tourism sector if you are a potential visitor to this amazing island.

Reaching Bali

The city has the third busiest airport in Indonesia- the Ngurah Rai, which is also the 07th best in the world. Regular flights are available for countries such as America, Australia, Europe, and almost all Asian countries, so its always hassle-free to get into Bali.

Its People

People in Bali belong to diverse religions, and they include Balinese Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and Buddhism. Be it you know them, or don’t know them at all, Balinese people are really are some of the most pleasant people you will ever meet.

The amazing culture

Even when you dine at a popular resort such as Katamama Suites at Desa Potato Headyou’ll be amazed to see different kinds of arts and crafts positioned here and that grabs the attention of tourists quite noticeably. Bali is rich with diverse art forms such as painting, woodcarving and also performing arts.

The tourism industry in Bali

If you take any luxury hotel in Seminyak, Bali for example, you may be surprised to see how good their service quality is in every aspect. They play an extremely important role in strengthening the tourism arm of Bali, together with other players such as travel agents.

Different Types of Surfboards and Their Use

Surfing is a popular sport throughout the world, but many would easily overlook the intricacies of the concept. This is particularly true where the variety of surfboards is concerned.

Fish

This is a peculiar kind of shortboard that is shaped to resemble the basic outline of a fish. The back-end has a V-shaped cut out that makes the board resemble the mouth of a fish. Despite the short-length, these boards can be quite wide.

Gun

These are larger versions of shortboards that are designed to tackle extreme surfing conditions. They are designed to be easy to paddle and to enable surfers to enter fast-waves quickly.

File:Jeff Rowley Big Wave Surfer Surfboard 10'2 Channel Islands Photo by Xvolution Media - Flickr - Jeff Rowley Big Wave Surfer.jpg — Jeff Rowley, Jeff Rowley Big Wave Surfer Surfboard 10’2 Channel Islands Photo by Xvolution Media – Flickr – Jeff Rowley Big Wave Surfer, CC BY 2.0

SUPs

Stand-Up Paddle-Boards are one of the latest trends and also one of the easiest to grasp since these are large stable boards where an individual can navigate easily with the use of a paddle. This concept is becoming extremely popular, and soon every Seminyak beach resort the likes of Anantara Seminyak Bali Resort should offer SUP experiences.

The Foilboard

This is definitely one of the most bizarre kinds of surfboards you will ever discover. These are designed with the same physics as hydrofoil craft, with a component that extends into the water and will lift the rider and the board above the surface of the water at high speeds.

WaterHound, Water skier rides homemade foilboard, 1995, CC BY-SA 3.0

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

Bali Safari & Marine Park

Experience the ‘wild side’ of the Island of Gods at the Bali Safari & Marine Park; here you can see animals from all around the world roaming freely in habitats similar to their natural environs. It is the perfect place to enjoy with the whole family and get up close with certain creatures too.

Where can it be found

Launched in 2007, the Bali Safari & Marine Park is located in the island’s Gianyar regency. Spread across a massive 40 hectare property, this popular attraction is open daily from 09:00am to 17:00pm. Be you staying at a budget rest house or boutique hotel Bali has to offer such as Alila Manggis planning a visit here is worth it.

The safari experience

This thrilling guided safari ride takes place on air-conditioned trams that drive through special open spaces. These areas have been carefully made to resemble natural habitats including those of Africa, Indonesia and India.

The Wildlife

There is much to see on a safari ride at the park; on your adventures, you can glimpse everything from majestic Indian white tigers to Himalayan bears as well as African hippos, lions, camels, black bucks, baboons, elephants and a whole lot more!

Highlights at the park

Not to be missed is ‘Ranthambore’ where you can see white tigers amidst a setting of an ancient Rajasthan fort and a special area where elephants are looked after. You also get several animal themed shows and even a chance to take photos with some of the friendly wild inhabitants.

Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+

Ubud Monkey Forest Bali -Kingdom of the Swingers!

Remember King Louie and his kingdom in Jungle Book? Though you won’t meet the ‘King of Swingers’, you will meet many of his subjects at the amazing Ubud Monkey Forest in Bali. So, quit ‘monkeyin’ around’ and read this!

Image Credit – Mutante, Bali Indonesia Ubud Monkey Forest 01, CC BY-SA 3.0

Where Monkeys Rule

Flickr user: D.Meutia //www.flickr.com/photos/dewimeutia/, Ubud Monkeys, CC BY 2.0 — Image Credit – Flickr user: D.Meutia, Ubud Monkeys, CC BY 2.0

Also known as the Sacred Monkey Forest of Padangtegal, the Ubud Monkey Forest is one of the most popular attractions in Bali. This natural forest sanctuary is home to over 700 grey long-tailed macaques that have taken over the entire area as their kingdom. The locals believe that the forest is an important economic, educational, and spiritual conservation centre for the village.

How To Get There

Image Credit – Mutante, Bali Indonesia Ubud Monkey Forest welcome sign, CC BY-SA 3.0

The forest is located about 10 minutes away from Ubud City and an hour away from Denpasar, the capital city of Bali. There are plenty of options for accommodation – rooms and villas can be found within easy reach of the forest as well as high-end resorts like COMO Uma Ubud. If you’re driving there by yourself take the Ubud main road and go south towards Jalan Hanoman. This will lead you to a right turn towards the forest.

Monkeys Galore

Image Credit – William Cho, Bali – The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary (2688748308), CC BY-SA 2.0

Since monkeys are the main attraction here, there are many conservation efforts underway that include many studies and research dedicated to observe the monkeys’ diet, health, and breeding habits. The monkeys come very near tourists and this makes it tempting to touch and feed them, but you are advised against it. Why? Because they are wild animals and no matter how cute they look you always need to exercise caution. You are also advised to not wear any loose apparel or jewellery that the creatures will snatch from you.

Much More Awaits

Image Credit - っ, Pura Dalem Agung Padantegal 200507, CC BY-SA 3.0 — Image Credit – っ, Pura Dalem Agung Padantegal 200507, CC BY-SA 3.0

There are three Hindu temples located within the Ubud Monkey Forest that are said to be built around 1350. They are the Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal or the Padangtegal Great Temple of Death, the Pura Beji Temple and the Pura Prajapati Temple. All of these temples have amazing statues and relics.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.

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Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The highlands of Bali are world famous as the heart and soul of the island’s deep cultural and artistic roots. The cool, mountainous region of Ubud in particular, has attracted many a traveller to its lush green valleys, cultural villages, markets and dense forests. Accommodation wise, like most of the accommodation in Bali, Ubud has its share of scenic retreats, like the COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali, for example.

While there are plenty of captivating things to see and do in the region, one of Ubud’s biggest attractions for visitors, is the celebrated Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Also known as the Sacred Monkey Forest, the six hectares of fertile forestland, shrouded by giant nutmeg trees, is home to Bali’s mischievous looking, long-tailed grey macaque.

Around 600 macaques are said to live in the sanctuary, with 5 main groups located in different areas. While they generally live in peace, conflicts are known to arise between the monkey groups due to territory crossings. Once notorious for stealing from visitors, over the years, their behaviour toward humans has improved, thanks to a management program run by the surrounding community. However, while they look cute and seem friendly, all visitors are advised to remain on guard and treat them as wild animals. Aside from the macaques, the forest is also home to 22 varieties of birds, 5 species of mammals, various reptiles and several other creatures.

Besides watching the monkeys lazing around trails or swinging through the canopies; located further in the thick forest, ancient temples, surrounded by stone statues covered in moss, can be found in several places. The most famous of which is the 17th century Bukit Sari Temple. A full day is needed to really explore the forest trails and take in the beauty of the tall trees, mystical stone temples and of course, watch the monkey families.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travelers.

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Hike up Mount Agung in Bali

The Indonesian island of Bali has become immensely popular amongst holidaymakers in the recent past. Its alluring beaches, lush forests and iconic landmarks have attracted many from across the world. Those who seek adventure and excitement combined with immense natural beauty will find hiking and trekking in Bali a wonderful experience.

There are several hiking trails that are considered to be some of the best trails in Bali. These include Mount Batur, an active volcano, from which panoramic views of the ocean as well as Lake Batur can be experienced. For those residing in a Candidasa hotel, the most convenient is undoubtedly Mount Agung, which can be accessed from nearby resorts such as Alila Manggis within an hour. However, for those who seek an adrenaline packed hike, Mount Rinjani is possibly the best option for this trek requires a three-day hike.

Mount Agung, located in East Bali, is an active volcano in Indonesia. Therefore, prior to planning a trek, it makes sense to make enquiries as to its stability. With the distinction of being one of the highest volcanoes in the country, it is last known to have erupted over 50 years ago. This volcanic mountain is also of immense spiritual significance and therefore, trekking or hiking is prohibited when certain ceremonies take place.

Given the challenging and unpredictable terrain, it is best to hire the services of a guide when planning a trek. Such a service is usually offered at a flat rate inclusive of any fees and permit costs. Along the trek also be prepared to see the Mother Temple of Bali, the Besakih Temple. There are a number of climbing routes to choose from: one can opt for a 7-hour ascent from Besakih, from Pura Pasar Agung Temple or from Duku Bujangga Sakti. Each trail has its own benefits, but it also depends on what one wishes to experience. For instance, the route from Besakih will take you to the summit of Mount Agung, and if you choose to climb through the night, you can reach the summit in time for sunrise.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud; Tales of Reincarnation

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud covers about 27 greenery filled acres of land which provides a serene home to over 600 long-tailed macaques. These monkeys are classified into 4 groups in accordance with the areas of the park that they occupy. The sanctuary is an eminent cultural and spiritual landmark that hosts about 10,000 visitors each month. The sanctuary is owned and operated under the leadership of the Padangtegal. The forest itself is sacred to the villagers and there are a few sacred sites located within the reserve that draws from the Balinese Hindu beliefs revolving around death and reincarnation. The Temple of Death, Temple of Cremation and Holy Springs Bathing Temple are among the few sacred sites inside. The area is also home to many Ubud Villas such as Alila Ubud Bali and many other lodging service providers that cater to the large crowds that visit the sanctuary on a monthly basis.
If you are wondering how monkeys fit into the life and death beliefs of Indonesia, the Ramayana epic gives you all the answers. The epic goes on to say that Sita the wife of Rama is abducted by the evil king Ravana. Rama is said to have enlisted the help of Sugriva and Hanuman who both resemble monkeys, to bring her back safely. Hanuman and Sugriva battle many antagonistic monkeys ruled by Ravana before they finally bring Sita safely home. The villagers, who believe in the religious lore, both love and hate the monkeys which they feed daily and revere. At the same time, their mischief which escalates to stealing household items of the villagers also turns the villagers’ reverence into malice when the monkeys attack and bite them, becoming a menace to the village.

Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world.

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