Bali resorts: where is better. Holidays in Bali: where, when and why Main tourist regions and beaches of Bali
“Gods! Perfume! Demons! “I am all yours,” we mentally shout, as soon as we see from the window of the airplane cabin an approaching piece of land in the shape of a heart: the plane is landing. The mystical island of “Thousand Temples”... Bali Airport is easily recognizable by the surfboards on the baggage conveyors and the familiar aroma of incense in the offering baskets on the way to Duty Free. Everything invites you to experience this mysterious energy of this far from simple ancient island.
For some, Bali is a paradise on Earth, embodying all the ideas of an easy life, full of affordable pleasures for every taste: beach parties, three hundred and sixty-five days of summer, downshifting, traveling along dazzling coastlines, volcanoes, rice terraces... For others - a place of spiritual practices, yoga, tantra, meditation. A point of cleansing and rebooting in the spirit of “Eat. Pray. Love." For others, these are the best surf spots all year round and unforgettable diving. Everyone comes to Bali with different expectations and budgets, but no one leaves the same.
Even after becoming one of the most popular resorts in the world, Bali does not lose its exoticism and strong connection with the traditions of the ancient Hindus who landed here before our era.
For me, Bali is a second home. And I would like to talk about this.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by crowds of taxi drivers eager to take you anywhere in Bali. They all expect trade that will captivate the Asian soul (a matter of honor). Get ready that the price initially set can be safely reduced by three times, and at the same time everyone will be happy with the deal. Unfortunately, well-known online taxi ordering services (Uber, GoJek, Grab taxi) do not operate at the airport and are not allowed access here. Therefore, you can book a trip directly with the driver or at the taxi service desk.
By bus
If you really want to save a lot of money, then you can from Jakarta (or from another large city in Java or Lombok) take a Sarbajita bus and spend about 24 hours on the road for only 25 USD.
You can choose the comfort of VIP-class, business, executive or economy; of course, the entire cabin is air-conditioned and modern. Tickets can be purchased at local tourist shops. If you are traveling in economy class, it is better to be light, because sometimes there is no luggage compartment At the same time, be prepared that your neighbors will freely smoke non-stop and play the guitar the whole way. This is the Asian fun of hours of driving along the narrow roads of Java, so famous for its crazy traffic.
You can find such buses at any international station and happily get to Bus terminal Ubung Denpasar, the administrative center of Bali, from where you can easily take a taxi to the hotel.
By car
Traveling by car is a great adventurous decision. You can transport it by ferry to the port of Gilimanuk in northwestern Bali for a modest fee of about 15 USD. This is how we had a great time traveling around East Java on a small carimun.
By ferry
Even if you choose to travel by bus, part of the journey will have to be done by ferry, and this is a real tourist life hack. Initiation as a traveler.
In Java there is the port of Ketapang (that's where we need to go), close to which there is a bus station and a train station with connections to Probolinggo (for Bromo), Yogyakarta, Malang, Bandung, as well as the capital of the country. Ferries from this port to Bali run every 15 minutes, and the journey takes just over half an hour.
I hasten to warn you: ferries and boats in Indonesia have not gained a reliable reputation, and if you have already entered this “slippery” path of the tourist-hiker, get ready for crowded and often dirty cabins and... novice captains.
However, the road to the port of Gilimanuk on the island of Bali has many bonuses, ranging from the price (about 7 USD) to the ability to transport mopeds and bicycles for a small surcharge. Gilimanuk Port in northern Bali is not known for its spectacular attractions, so you can catch a local taxi to go to your hotel.
Visa
A visa to Bali is a topic of discussion and heated discussion on forums for freelancers, tour operators and independent travelers. However, everything is simple.
If you have serious plans for a one-way trip, then before leaving you should take care of a tourist or social visa, which will be valid for 6 months. The difference is that for a social visa at the Indonesian consulate in Moscow you will be asked for a letter from your sponsor, an Indonesian citizen, and presumably your beloved friend, inviting you to visit your homeland. In Bali, such “friends” can easily be found for a small fee of 15 USD at special visa agencies for expats. Tourist visas, according to the innovation, can now also be extended if the same agencies are already on site to help with a sponsorship letter.
There are also easier ways to obtain a visa: a free stamp upon arrival at the airport, and the country is open to you for the next 30 days. And if your plans are a little longer, you can pay 35 USD and stay on the island for 60 days, extending your visa after 1 month of stay.
I, like many people living on the island, choose a social visa, flying out of the country every 6 months to a city where there is an Indonesian embassy, combining a pleasant trip with a useful necessity. During these three days you can enjoy the city of the future, Singapore, or take a cruise to the islands around Kota Kinabalu, you can walk along the streets of George Town in Penang or look at the city from the high-rise buildings of Kuala Lumpur.
Clue:
Bali - the time is now
Hour difference:
Moscow − 5
Kazan − 5
Samara − 4
Ekaterinburg − 3
Novosibirsk − 1
Vladivostok 2
When is the season? When is the best time to go
Bali - weather by month
Clue:
Bali - weather by month
Conditional areas. Descriptions and features
When it comes to the question of where it is better to live in Bali, there are so many people, so many opinions, and from everyone you can hear completely opposite reviews about the same place. For each stage of my stay on the island, I chose different areas to live. In Bali, you can rent an apartment or book a hotel room or an entire bungalow. After reading my recommendations and deciding on a place, you can look for an option convenient for you or on.
- You don't know anything about Bali but want to hang out, drink Bintang and catch your first wave? your choice. There is never a dull moment here: active nightlife, shops, surf schools - every meter is suitable for tourists.
- Do you love fashionable restaurants, beach clubs, atmospheric cafes, glamorous society and is this what you expect from your vacation? And this is what the island can offer. Seminyak. However, be prepared that you won’t find that same Eat spirit in either Kuta or Seminyak. Pray. Love, the locals cleverly changed it to Eat. Pay. Leave.
- Looking for a balance between fun and enjoying the rice terraces and already know how to surf? Then you will love Canggu and its surroundings - Petitengen, Umalas, Kerobokan. Just like in Kuta and Seminyak, life here is in full swing, but at a completely different rhythm. Beaches with black volcanic sand, surf spots for intermediate-level lovers, houses with rice terraces outside the window, supermarkets, breakfasts in hipster cafes... But the most important thing that makes Canggu special is the people: designers, freelance artists, musicians. This is why Changu is dear to me, it’s so easy to find like-minded people here.
- Or perhaps you are an experienced surfer or just love beautiful beaches. Then only the Bukit Peninsula. Many years ago, this small island was joined by mangrove forests to Bali, and it still has its own microclimate. For real waves, people come to Padang-Padang, Uluwatu, Dreamland, Bingin, Green Bowl, Balangan... Each of the fifteen beaches of the peninsula is no more than 15 minutes by scooter. 15 minutes and every day you can enjoy rocky shores, snow-white sand, turquoise ocean, fantastic sunsets.
- The most best places for holidays with small children - and Jimbaran. Here are the calmest beaches and comfortable infrastructure. known as one big resort. Our compatriots very often choose this area for an all-inclusive holiday. By the way, you can compare offers and prices for such a vacation.
- Are you a diver? Then head east: to Karangasem and Amed. We come to these places with a group of friends to snorkel and dive to the bottom (there are Russian diving schools). These are new lands on the tourist map of Bali. Bali Agha live here - the indigenous Balinese, who have carefully observed the traditions of “Agama Hindu Dharma” from time immemorial. Villages untouched by modern civilization. There is no need to stay here for long, the road invites you to continue your journey north to Singaraja, an even more secluded area where time stands still. At dawn here in Lovina, you can see pink dolphins swimming in schools close to the shore.
- Did your spiritual path and search for enlightenment bring you to Bali? Then you are in the heart of the island, in. Retreats, yoga and meditation studios, wellness centers, restaurants that please the eyes of nutritionists... And, of course, the air is saturated with art. Probably the soul of Bali is somewhere here. It’s not for nothing that the island is said to be located in a “place of power.”
Main attractions. What to see
The incomprehensibility of the island is that even long-livers, expats and Indonesians, never cease to discover more and more new places and secret spots. Even famous landscapes appear in different colors every time.
Centuries ago, the ancient islanders created an inexplicable culture, endowed every corner of the island with magic, and we are still solving their mysteries...
Top 5
If you're in Bali, your must list should definitely include time for:
Beaches. Which ones are better
Black volcanic sand... garbage beaches... three-meter waves... If this is not what you came to Bali for, then this is for you:
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Temples. Which ones are worth visiting?
An island of thousands of temples of unique architecture, once born under the influence of Hinduism, animism and mushroom culture... Just as it is impossible to visit everything, it is also impossible to miss the most magical of them:
- Pura Tirta Empul. One of the most sacred places in Bali. According to legend, the god Indra struck the earth and opened the source of immortality. Today there are baths for ablutions. Each of the 15 fountains has its own name and a special ritual purpose: spiritual cleansing, cleansing from evil, antidote, etc. It is located in the center of the island, in the Tempaxiring district.
- Pura Luhur Lempuyang. Fairytale heavenly temple. The lovers climb 1,700 steps to cement their union high above the ground. The name of this temple is translated as “dizziness,” and, indeed, one’s head can be turned not only by the painful ascent, but also by the insane happiness of contemplating beauty.
- Pura Goa Lawah. At sunset you can watch a monstrously beautiful sight: flocks of bats fly out of the caves. According to legend, the cave is also home to the dragon Basuki. Many people also come here to cleanse themselves on the nearby beach after the cremation ceremony of the dead.
- Pura Tanah Lot. A water temple known for its spectacular sunset views. Built on a rock in the middle of the sea, Tanah Lot is cut off from land at high tide, making it so attractive to visitors. By the way, you can read a note about him on our website.
- Pura Luhur Uluwatu. Waves Indian Ocean rushing onto the coast, and you are standing on a cliff. This is Uluwatu, famous for its pre-sunset kecak dances, mischievous monkeys, gardens and observation decks with an overview of the entire Bukit Peninsula.
It is very important to come to church with your knees covered. This is not only a requirement of the banjars standing at the entrance, but also a tribute to the people receiving you. “Exposed legs are unclean,” say the Balinese.
Ticket prices usually do not exceed 30,000 IDR (less than 2 USD), and often simply invite you to make a voluntary donation to maintain the temple.
Tanakh Lot
Food. What to try
Although Indonesians are proud of their national cuisine, frankly speaking, gastronomic pleasure is not worth coming to Indonesia for. However, of course, there is something to pamper yourself here.
As in all Asian countries, almost no dish here is complete without rice. Local residents always touchingly ask me what I had for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And they are sincerely surprised not to hear about rice. For them, a dish without it is not food. Nasi campur, Nasi goreng, Nasi ayam, Nasi uduk - have you already guessed how “Nasi” is translated?
In addition, there is a huge abundance of seafood and fish markets. Restaurants for vegans, vegetarians, raw foodists, mouse eaters... and “tasty eaters”. The main thing is not to enter dubious-looking warungs - you may encounter things worse than monosodium glutamate.
The abundance of fruits here pleasantly pleases the Russian eye: bananas, papaya, mangosteens, mangoes, rose apples, sirsak, rambutans, dragon fruit, snake fruit - simply the happiness of raw foodists. You can learn more about fruits in other articles. Here I just want to note that you should be careful with your choice, chemicals have reached this country, so out of habit you can get poisoned by a sweet, delicious, aromatic watermelon.
Safety. What to watch out for
The main rule: do not swim behind the buoys. Both figuratively and literally.
- Ocean. This is an all-powerful element that takes away not only surfers and sailors, but also simply swimmers who, through carelessness, went too far and could not get out of the abyss of the sucking current. Tourists die every year. For this reason, you should only swim before sunset and in areas marked with flags, where lifeguards can see you.
- Tales. The ambience of high-speed driving, the freedom given by the touch of the wind, the whistling of wheels on night roads... It’s not worth neglecting a helmet. Even if you are confident in your own dexterity, no one guarantees the abilities of others. Girls should not ride alone in the dark if they don’t want to be thrown off their bike because of a European wallet. Distressed workers from Java and Lombok come to the island. You shouldn’t provoke them with naked bodies and iPhones carelessly sticking out of your pockets.
- Alcohol. In dubious establishments, drugs can be mixed into cocktails, which can cause loss of reason and memory. The victims find themselves beaten the next day in their robbed villa.
- Payment cards. You should choose a cash withdrawal terminal extremely carefully. Some terminals at popular tourist destinations have built-in readers. This was also observed in minimarkets. Today you withdrew money at Eco Beach, and tomorrow somewhere in Lombok in a five-star hotel the card will instantly be reset. The police, of course, will listen to you and allow you to fill out a statement, but as soon as you close the door, they humbly state among themselves: “karma.”
Bali should not be branded as a den of criminals; it is a very peaceful island for those who are careful in their actions.
Things to do
About the many opportunities for surfing, diving and beach holiday I mentioned it in other sections.
Taxi. What features exist
In Bali we use mobile services which are very cheap but not allowed everywhere. In some areas, the banjaris (village council) bans these taxis and even blocks online apps to curb competition.
Transport rental
Renting a scooter costs about 50 USD per month, renting a passenger car costs about 150–200 USD. It is, of course, easier to get around on a scooter: the island is increasingly crowded with traffic, which causes traffic jams. Finding a local renter is not difficult, the main thing is to have an international driving license, which the police will definitely ask you one day on the road. If previously it was possible to pay off with a tiny fine (starting from 4 USD), now any bribes are excluded: police officers simply take away documents for transport until the owner buys them back. You can search for international companies providing car rental services in Bali and check the cost, for example, on booking sites! Don't overpay. This !
Rent a Car- also an aggregation of prices from all rental companies, all in one place, let's go!
Anything to add?
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Jimbaran and Sanur: respectable beach holidays
Families with small children, European retirees who “can afford it,” as well as newlyweds looking for romance choose the resorts of Jimbaran and Sanur for their holidays. The first (southwest Bali) attracts tourists with magnificent hotels, spa centers and a dizzying selection of the freshest seafood on the menu of local restaurants. The second (southeast) is richer in entertainment: Bali Perdana Wisata Tirta Park (JL. Danau Poso Gg. Tanjung, No. 30) and the Asmat Art Museum (Jl. Cemara No. 27) await vacationers.
Not far from Sanur, in the village of Blanjong, there is one of the oldest temples in Bali, dating back to the 10th century.
The resorts have shady alleys and a wide selection of water activities. They are strikingly different only during low tides: in Jimbaran they are almost invisible, while the beaches of Sanur at this time are not the most pleasant sight.
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Kuta and Seminyak: Bali's party centers
Cheeky, crowded, rumbling club music and pretentious, slightly arrogant Seminyak, in fact, are twins, simply “raised in different families.” Both resorts are located in the southwest and are equally close to the airport. They will appeal to those who cannot imagine a holiday without discos until the morning, noisy crowds and dozens of restaurants, cafes, bars and shops. There are beaches here too, but they are mostly besieged by surfing fans - the conditions for them are excellent (only the waves in Kuta are a bit high). Others would rather prefer a water park if we're talking about in Kuta, or the countless art galleries and boutiques in Seminyak.
Kuta and Seminyak offer the same lifestyle, but at different prices: in Seminyak everything is much cooler and, accordingly, more expensive.
There is practically nothing to do here with children; looking for authentic temples and villages is also a so-so activity.
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Nusa Dua: expensive and rich
The easiest way to feel “five stars” is in. Ordinary Balinese have no access here - the territories of luxury hotels located on the coast are carefully guarded. So no one will intrusively offer massages to tourists on the beach, but in fashionable spa centers it’s easy. You don’t have to limit yourself to just visiting them: you can take a couple of golf lessons, walk through the Bali Collection shopping center (office site in English) and visit the famous Devdan show (office site in English).
Those who miss antiquity and exoticism will have to go after them to neighboring Uluwatu, where the legendary temple stands and rice fields lie.
Living in is expensive, but you can live nearby - in Tanjung Benoa, where prices are slightly lower. But in this part of the island (southeast), low tides significantly spoil the landscape.
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Ubud: the heart of Bali
“Whoever has not heard of Ubud has not heard of Bali,” say advanced travelers. It’s clear: Ubud is geographical, touristic and Cultural Center islands, while being distinguished by affordable prices and the widest selection of entertainment on the island. In its vicinity there are
The next city after Kuta and Legian is considered an elite beach resort with a calmer atmosphere and fewer tourists. More details in the article Seminyak
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Geography and landscape Bali is located 3 km east of Java, and approximately 8 degrees south of the equator. The width of the island from east to west is approximately 153 km, the length from north to south is about 112 km. The total area is 5780 km², the population density is about 750 people/km². Most of the coastline is fringed by sloping seashore, with the exception of areas of mangrove forest in the southeast and high cliffs in part of the Bukit Peninsula. Beaches in the south, as a rule, have white and gray sand; in the north and west, black sand predominates (but there are exceptions). The most popular southern beaches are not always clean, especially during the rainy season, when rivers flow into the sea and currents throw a lot of plastic garbage onto the coast. Bali is located in an area of high seismic activity with several active volcanoes. The most active volcanoes are Agung and Batur. The volcanic chain extends across the center of the island from west to east. This mountain range is surrounded by northern and southern plains. The southern plains are where most of Bali's rice is grown, and beautiful terraced rice fields dominate the region's landscape. The highest peak is Mount Agung (3031 m), it is important in the Balinese religion and is considered the holiest place on the island. Products of volcanic activity covered most The islands contributed to the formation of fertile lands, and the high mountain ranges on the western side receive large amounts of precipitation. In addition to rice, the island also grows coffee, vegetables and fruits, and raises pigs and cattle. The longest river is Ayung, about 75 km long. Bali has no major waterways; the Ho River is navigable by small sampan boats. Three small islands lie in close proximity to the southeast: Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. These islands are separated from Bali by the Badung Strait. Population The island's population is 4,220,000, 85% of whom practice the Balinese version of Hinduism. The system of social organization is similar to the Indian caste system and has four classes: Shudras are peasants who make up approximately 93% of the island's population; There is no fifth caste (untouchables), as in India, in Bali. The color of the castes corresponds to the outer clothing of the Balinese: black is worn by the Shudras, yellow by the Vaishyas, red by the Kshatriyas and white by the Brahmins. Inter-caste marriages are allowed, making it possible to move from one caste to another. Today, the traditions of the caste system are preserved more in religious rituals. Differences in the economic functions of members of different castes are gradually being erased; Balinese can achieve a higher status through education, economic success and authority in society. That is, the caste system on the island is not as strict as in India. Most Balinese are peasants, but the structure is changing as tourism and the associated souvenir production, trade and service industries develop. Peasants grow rice, spices, fruits, and raise livestock. Rice is the main agricultural crop of the island of Bali. How to get there By plane Flights with one stop These flights fly from Moscow to Bali with one transit stop. The most popular options: How to buy tickets The best option is to look for tickets on aggregator sites. Such sites show ticket prices for different airlines. That is, it will be possible to compare and choose the cheapest or most convenient ticket. Of these aggregate sites, AviaSales.ru (www.aviasales.ru) has the best reputation. You can view and purchase tickets immediately on their website. Highest prices for air tickets during peak season tourist season- summer, New Year, Catholic Christmas. To save money, book tickets 3-4 months in advance. Bali Airport Most Bali tourists arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport (www.baliairport.com), often called Denpasar International Airport. Despite the misleading name, the airport is actually located in Tuban between Kuta and Jimbaran, approximately 13 km from Denpasar. As the main access point to Bali, it is Indonesia's second busiest international airport after Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta. The airport has 17 aircraft landing gates: 14 in the international terminal and 3 in the domestic terminal. The domestic terminal is located in an old building, the international terminal is located in a modern L-shaped terminal. Buses from the airport rarely go, we do not recommend using them. Combination train-bus option from Jakarta While in Jakarta, you can get to Bali using a combined train-bus option. To do this you need: Step 1: By train from Jakarta to Subaraya, then transfer to train from Surabaya to Banyuwangi. Step 2: Banyuwangi Railway Station is 100 meters from Ketapang Ferry Terminal. From Ketapang, ferries depart every 20 minutes around the clock to Gilimanuk (a port town in the western part of Bali). The ferry crossing takes 30-45 minutes. Things to do Surfing. Best beaches surfing spots are located in the south and east of Bali. Vacationers can take advantage of training courses, equipment rental, trips to other places on the island, and a package of “accommodation and surfing” services. All surf operators are covered in the articles Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Medewi and Changgu. Diving mainly concentrated in the east of the island and Bali Barat National Park in the west. The sunken transport ship in Tulamben (20-30 meters from the shore) and the reefs around Menjangan Island in Bali Barat National Park are very popular. Almost half of the island's diving centers are located in Sanur. The best season for diving is from April to October. If interested, more details in the articles Sanur, Padang Bai, Pemeturan, Candidasa and Bali Barat National Park. Rafting. Rafting in Bali is organized on two rivers: Ayung near Ubud and Telaga Waja in the foothills of Mount Agung (a few kilometers north of the city of Bangli). Tours are organized by several rafting companies, the most popular of which is Sobek (www.balisobek.com). Each rafting takes about 2 hours and covers a route of approximately 13 km. The best rafting is during the rainy season, during the dry season from June to September the water level in the rivers drops significantly Cycling. Many tour companies offer cycling excursions around Ubud and trips to the mountainous Kintamani region to the volcano and Lake Batur. From the slopes of Mount Batur, tour participants begin their descent on bicycles towards Ubud. More details in the article Ubud. In addition to Ubud, interesting cycling tours are offered by Bali Rides in Sanur, GP Bali Tour in Kuta, Infinity Mountainbiking in Canggu. Elephant rides. Elephant rides are offered at Bali Elephant Camp near Ubud. They also organize elephant rides in combination with rafting on the Ayung River, visits to Tanah Lot Temple, Ubud Royal Palace and other excursions. Details in the article Ubud. Overcoming obstacles between trees at a height of 2 to 20 meters. Seven obstacle courses from Bali Treetop Adventure Park (www.balitreetop.com) at Bedugul Botanical Garden. The 72 obstacles include hanging bridges, spider webs, bungee jumps, flying swings and so on. More details in the article Bedugul. Hiking. Introductory walks along the rice terraces and rural areas offered by several companies in Ubud and Tabanan. Wildlife can be seen on the trails of Bali Barat National Park. In Bali Barat National Park you can see the rare Bali starling - the only bird that lives in natural conditions only on the island of Bali. Bedugul Botanical Garden(www.kebunrayabali.com) is located near the beautiful Bratan Lake and Ulun Danu Temple. The garden features all the plants of Bali. There are more than 1,100 species of plants, there is a cactus garden, an orchid park, and a bamboo forest. More details in the article Bedugul. Horseback riding. Bali Horse Adventure (www.balihorseadventure.com) and Bali Equestrian Center ( www.baliequestriancentre.com) organize horse riding lessons for adults and children and several tour options. All of them are located in Canggu. Mangrove Information Center(Mangrove Information Centre) occupies 600 hectares of territory and attracts people with a special interest in nature. All walks on boardwalks, the opportunity to observe dozens of bird species. The information center is located near Sanur. Dancing. Dancing in Bali is an integral part of religious ceremonies and processions. With the development of tourism, Balinese dances began to be demonstrated to foreign tourists. Recommends watching the performance of Balinese dance groups in Ubud. Water parks. Waterbom Bali (http://waterbom-bali.com) and Circus Waterpark Bali (www.circuswaterpark.com) are located 1.5 km apart near Kuta. Standard for water parks are slides, slides, artificial waves, rivers, and so on. Spa centers. The best spa centers on the island are located in the southern beach resorts. They offer standard spa treatments: massage, aromatherapy, body scrubs with essential oils, foot reflexology, detoxification, etc. Many good and inexpensive spa centers are located in Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Sanur and Ubud. Yoga. Balinese yoga studios are briefly described in the articles Ubud, Lovina, Sanur, Canggu. Temples of Bali The word pura in Balinese means Hindu temple. Pura are predominantly concentrated on the island of Bali, where Hinduism is the dominant religion on the island. But many of these temples operate in other regions of Indonesia, where a significant number of Balinese live. Due to the large number of temples (about 20,000), Bali is often called the “Island of a Thousand Pura”. More details in the article Temples of Bali Religion In contrast to Indonesia's Muslim majority, 83.5% of Bali's population practices the Balinese version of Hinduism. Other religious minorities are represented by Islamic (13.3%), Christian (1.7%), and Buddhist (0.5%) communities. Hinduism came to the island in the first centuries of our century. When Islam became the dominant religion on the island of Java (16th century), Bali became a refuge for many Hindus. Although the vast majority of the island's population is Hindu, the variety of religion practiced here is unique in the world. Balinese Hinduism diverged from the mainstream more than 500 years ago, and is now quite different from India. Balinese religion has a vast pantheon of gods. The highest deity of the Balinese religion is Sang Hyang Tunggal (“prime god”), also called Tintya. All other deities are only His incarnations. For example, Brahma (creator), Vishnu (keeper of balance) and Shiva (destroyer) are not 3 different gods, but three faces of the One God. Religion plays a dominant role in the life of the Balinese; everything else is secondary. For them, life revolves around the temple and, along with family values, are the most important factors determining their lifestyle. Balinese Hinduism combines elements of Indian Hinduism and the animist traditions of the island's indigenous population. The Balinese believe that the gods are present in everything. A stone, wood, dagger or cloth can be a potential habitat for spirits, and their energy can be directed for good or evil. The Balinese have no doubt that various deities are constantly watching over them and therefore try to live a righteous life. Every morning begins with a small donation to the gods with a canang sari. By leaving donations, Balinese ask for good luck in everyday affairs and give thanks in advance for the day that has not yet been lived. Even evil spirits will become kinder if they are “fed with donations” in time. To maintain harmony in their own soul and world, they appease good and evil spirits, without making any distinction between them. Offerings are found everywhere: in temples, every home, on the streets, shops, cars. The religion of Bali is famous for its rituals and ceremonies, the goal of which is to achieve harmony between the world of people and the world of gods. Culture Bali is an island of Hindu religion and culture in the most populous Muslim country in the world. Bali is famous for painting, sculpture, gamelan music and dance. Painting, sculpture, and music were traditionally the domain of men, and women directed all their creative energy to generous donations to the gods. During religious festivals, colorful pyramids of flowers, fruits and other offerings are presented with such love and reverence that they can only be offered to higher beings. But Balinese art does not exclusively serve religion. More details in the article Bali culture Bali Crafts and What to Buy Balinese cuisine Festivals While in Bali, one cannot help but pay attention to the numerous processions and religious rituals to which the Balinese devote their entire lives. Residents of the island celebrate many holidays, the most important of which are listed below. Odalan or "Birthday" of the temple. Throughout the year, every temple in Bali celebrates odalan, a festival marking the anniversary of the founding of the temple and the “inhabitation of it by the gods.” These festivals last from several days to a week, the longer the odalan lasts, the more impressive the celebrations. The temples are beautifully decorated with flowers, palm leaves and have curved bamboo poles installed around them. Women in colorful robes carry offerings to the temple, where they are blessed by priests to the sound of silver bells. After the donation, the festive part of the festival begins: vendors sell snacks, wayang theater actors and barong dancers enliven the picture of fun and give it a festive atmosphere. The birthday of Bali's holiest temple, Pura Besakih (eka dasa rudra), is celebrated once every hundred years. The last time it was celebrated was in 1979. Melasti(Melasti). Three days before the Balinese New Year, Melasti is celebrated - a festival of purification and expulsion of evil spirits. From early morning, Balinese dressed in white flock to rivers, lakes and beaches. They carry ceremonial umbrellas, offerings, and sacred statues. Thus begins the cleansing ritual: believers pray, priests bless the water and wash the brought statues, songs and the ringing of ritual bells are heard everywhere. For three days, carnival processions and other special events take place on the streets. On the third day of the holiday, at noon, the parades of demons “oh-oh” begin. Made from papier-mâché and polystyrene foam, the huge monsters parade down the main streets of towns and villages, accompanied by local musicians, drawing crowds of curious tourists and locals. All these processions are accompanied by the roar of fireworks, the sounds of drums, the beating of pans and pots, and the shouts of participants and passers-by. This is how they drive out evil spirits with the help of noise and shouting. Find out in advance which square or street the solemn procession will take place in order to fully feel the flavor of this holiday. Once again, this procession begins at noon one day before the celebration of Nyepi - the Balinese New Year. Nyepi(Nyepi). Every spring, at the beginning of the New Lunar Year (late March or early April), Nyepi is celebrated - the Saka New Year according to the Hindu calendar, when the entire island is plunged into silence. On the day of Nyepi celebration, absolutely everything on the island is closed from 6 am to 6 am the next day. Devout Balinese believe that on this day evil spirits appear on the island. To prevent them from stopping here, the Balinese maintain absolute silence. Evil spirits believe that the island is uninhabited and leave it. Therefore, on a day of silence on the island, you cannot light a fire or turn on the lights, work, leave your house, travel or have fun. Although Nyepi is primarily a Hindu holiday, non-Hindu residents of the island must also observe Silence Day out of respect for their fellow citizens. Even tourists observe it; yes, they can do whatever they want in their hotels, but no one is allowed to stay on the beaches or streets, all seaports and Bali's only airport remain closed for 24 hours. The only exceptions to the rule are fire departments, ambulance services, and volunteer peace officers who patrol the streets and enforce the above rules. Since the exact date of Nyepi celebrations is confirmed at the end of each year, flights can be booked as usual. Once a holiday date has been set and you have a ticket booked for that day, the airline will change the departure date accordingly. Galungan(Galungan) - a holiday in honor of the creator of the Universe. The festival symbolizes the victory of the forces of good (dharma) over the destructive forces of evil (adharma). An important festival for Balinese Hindus, it lasts 10 days and ends with another festival called Kuningan. Galungan is considered an important family holiday; all relatives try to get together and spend the holidays together, visiting their friends and neighbors. According to traditions, during the Galungan celebration the gods visit the island of Bali. At their arrival, penjors are placed near each house - tall bamboo poles with a curved top, decorated with ribbons of palm leaves and rice stalks. The start of Galungan celebrations always falls on Wednesday. On this day people do not work all over the island; they hold ceremonies and make donations in every family temple. Galungan is celebrated twice a year approximately every six months. The Galungan celebration dates are listed below: December 17 - December 27, 2014 Non-religious holidays and festivals Bull racing. In Bali, bull racing takes place from July to October. Competitors drive a team of two bulls harnessed to wooden carts. Whose team reaches the finish line first becomes the winner. More details in Medevi's article. Celebration of the end of the rice harvest Celebrated throughout Bali from May 1st to June 30th. Festival visitors are invited to take part in the festivities and taste the dishes local cuisine, prepared in honor of Devi Sri, the goddess of rice, fertility, prosperity and good luck. On this festival, farmers give thanks to Dewi Sri for the bountiful rice harvest. Small statues made of rice straw are installed throughout the fields and villages. Indonesian Independence Day They celebrate August 17th, the day the country achieved independence from the Dutch. Weather and best time visits Bali is located very close to the equator; its pleasant tropical climate attracts millions of tourists to the island. The average temperature all year round is about +30 °C, humidity is about 85%. But the central mountainous region of the island tends to be cooler and rainier than the southern coastal areas. At night, temperatures in high mountain areas can drop to +15 °C. The rainy season usually lasts from October to March, the dry season from April to September. But rain is likely in the dry season, or vice versa, sunny weather in the rainy season. The two seasons are neither distinct nor entirely predictable. Even during the rainy season, the Bukit Peninsula receives significantly less rainfall than any other place on the island. Even during the dry season, frequent rain and thunderstorms are possible in the western mountainous regions of Agung and Kintamani. During the dry season (April-September), Bali receives the largest number of tourists. The peak tourist season falls on Catholic Christmas, New Year, July and August. Many Australians visit during the school holidays in early April, late June and late September, and many Indonesian tourists visit the island during national holidays. Helpful information When visiting temples and meeting local residents, always adhere to established local traditions and norms of behavior. To do this, use the following tips Behave modestly. The Balinese are much more conservative than most European tourists. They condemn it when young girls and boys hug and kiss, especially near Balinese temples. Cloth. When visiting a Balinese temple, your shoulders and upper arms should be covered with clothing. Before entering a Balinese temple, men and women must: Wear a sarong to cover your legs; Typically, a sarong and belt are available for use for a small fee at the entrance to most temples. It is advisable to buy them on the market from the first days of your stay on the island and not overpay “businessmen”. Don't extend your left hand to touch something or convey something. This precaution is mainly related to hygiene. Balinese people traditionally do not use toilet paper. Instead of paper, they wash themselves with water, using their left hand. That is, the left hand is considered unclean and therefore you cannot touch other people or, especially, transfer something. The exception is when you use both hands to convey something, it is considered a sign of respect. Don't use your index finger to call someone. If you need to attract attention, wave your palm. Don't touch a Balinese's head with your hands. The soul is supposed to be in the head, so people with their hands should not disturb it. You can’t even touch the heads of Balinese children with your hands. Don't step on donations(canang sari) on the street. Every morning, the Balinese leave small baskets of donations on the streets of the island's towns and villages. Stepping on a kanang sari is considered offensive to any Balinese. Do not interfere with religious processions. Religious processions in Bali occur quite often. If you are driving behind a religious procession on a narrow road, do not honk or draw attention to yourself. Under no circumstances should you walk ahead of the praying Balinese. Video about Bali |
Want to know more about holidays in Bali? We have prepared a complete overview of the island for domestic tourists: attractions, tips and useful materials.
Brief introduction
Bali is the westernmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands. On one side it is washed by waters Pacific Ocean, on the other - Indian.
- Country: Indonesia
- Population: 4 million
- Climate: equatorial-monsoon.
- Rainy season: from to .
- Number of tourists per year: 4 million
- Airport: Ngurah Rai (DPS)
Denpasar
Fall asleep to the sound of the waves, and early in the morning go to the ocean... Anyone who is tired of bad weather is advised to take an urgent flight to a distant island! Holidays in Bali will relieve fatigue and give you a lot of new impressions.
The author and heroine of the acclaimed book “Eat, Pray, Love” Liz Gilbert found her love on the sunny Indonesian island of Bali. At the same time, she became acquainted with local customs and became friends with the local healer, old man Ketut. We won’t promise personal happiness in Bali, but everything else is welcome!
Traveling can become a real adventure, in which there will be a place for healers, exotic rituals, and, of course, heavenly beaches and the freshest seafood. It all starts with a flight: no less than 12 hours, there are direct flights and with transfers. The destination is the capital of the island, the city of Denpasar, where the only airport on this piece of land is located.
Those who decide to spend a day or two in Denpasar itself can count on good shopping. The city has two colorful markets: the largest Pasar Badung and the Kumbasari night bazaar. Well, among the religious buildings in Denpasar, a must-see is the Pura Maospahit Temple - the oldest on the entire island. It was built in the 14th century by the Majapahit dynasty. Over the past centuries, it has been rebuilt more than once, and today curious tourists can stroll through the courtyards and see an empty tree trunk, into which the alarm is sounded.
Planning a trip? That way!We have prepared some useful gifts for you. They will help you save money while preparing for your trip.
Black sand beaches are a reminder of the land's volcanic origins, and offerings to the gods should be generous. The famous rice fields in Bali are included in the List World Heritage UNESCO.
Not far from Denpasar there are several resorts: Kuta, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua. Noisy Kuta appeals to amateurs nightlife who in the morning, no matter what, go to catch a wave. A haven for keen surfers and avid party-goers, it is famous for its long sandy beach - although not spotlessly clean, it does have small waves offshore. It has its own surfing school, and local spa salons have affordable prices. One of the best is Bali Green Spa (www.spabaligreen.com). The cost of procedures is from $10, and for advance online booking you can get an even significant discount.
Jimbaran has a reputation as a quiet place, ideal for families with children. It is located in a bay, so the sea here is calm and clean, and there are several times fewer merchants on the beach than in Kuta. Wherever you stay, two of the resort's main attractions will be available: stunning sunsets and delicious seafood. Moreover, these two pleasures can be combined by going to the beach for dinner.
Every evening, restaurants set tables right on the sand so that guests can enjoy not only lobster, but also a romantic view. In any restaurant, you choose the fish and seafood yourself (feel free to turn them in your hands!), and then the chef cooks the chosen sea reptile on the grill. The cost of dinner for two is approximately 1,500 rubles.
One of the most popular restaurants in Jimbaran is Menega, but it is better to book a table in advance or arrive no later than 17.00. The local mussels and squid are especially good. And one more piece of good advice: don’t miss the fish market so that you can bargain to your heart’s content and buy something from the morning’s catch. They will cook the fish right at the market!
The Nusa Dua resort, like Jimbaran, is more focused on a relaxing holiday. True, the ocean in these places is inconsistent: from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. it is impossible to swim due to the strong low tide. At this time, it is better to sit out the heat in a hotel, since there are many comfortable hotels in Nusa Dua with large territory, with parks and swimming pools. Other entertainment options include surfing, diving, golf and, of course, shopping at the Galleria shopping center.
Secret beach
In addition to the resorts, there are places in Bali where a real tourist simply must set foot. Firstly, there is the legendary Pandawa Beach with coral sand and calm azure ocean. They say that local residents for a long time did not want foreigners to know about this place, but they still failed to hide such a pearl. The picturesque road to the beach is literally cut through the mountains, and you will have to pay to enter the Pandawa territory.
Temples
Bali's main temple complex is located on Mount Gunung Agung and includes more than 30 temples. This place is very revered and colorful. Just when coming here, you should be patient. The fact is that the complex is officially open for free visits by tourists, but local residents often pretend to be guides, persistently offer their services and even intimidate that, they say, you cannot walk here without an accompaniment. I advise you to study the experiences of other travelers in advance and confidently fight back the clingy ones. Tirtagangga Water Palace (the water here is sacred, by the way), Elephant Cave, tropical forest, Banjar Air Panas mineral springs, rice terraces near Ubud - this is just a small part of Balinese attractions. To get to know them comfortably, we recommend renting a car with a Russian-speaking guide-driver - it will cost about $50 per day. For those who are ready to communicate in English, prices are lower - $35–40.
Appointment with a healer
If you are interested in the life of the Balinese themselves, we recommend driving through the villages in the interior of the island. Far away from beach resorts local residents treat tourists with particular respect, so if you show interest in the customs, they will not fail to explain to you what’s what. Every morning, for example, the Balinese make offerings to the gods: they place flowers or food on palm leaves. In addition to daily household rituals, there are also special rituals that are performed in temples or sanctuaries. If you're lucky, you might witness one of them!
Local healers are a separate attraction. True, experts advise not to visit healers out of curiosity, but to go to them only if you feel the need for it. If you wish, you can find the house of that same Ketut Liyer from the book - he lives in Ubud, local residents will tell you the way. There, not far from Ubud, other healers, for example Ketut Lanchar, are receiving treatment. Or you can sign up in advance for a comprehensive rehabilitation course with the hereditary healer Pak Circus. The program includes not only communication with a healer, massage, yoga, meditation, but also an introduction to the island, its culture and customs (healingbalicenter.com). Cost from $875 per person for two weeks with accommodation.
There are several dozen beaches in Bali. Some of them are popular, others are considered “secret”, that is, little known among tourists. There are almost no “paradise” beaches. Those who like to lie on a sun lounger with a cocktail in their hands, occasionally venturing into the calm surface of the ocean, will have a hard time.
One of the most popular is the beach - a youth party resort in Bali. This is a real mecca for surfers. Constant waves, the absence of corals at the bottom and developed infrastructure have turned Kuta Beach into the most densely populated vacation spot on the island. After Kuta, Seminyak beach begins. Everything here is almost the same as at the neighboring beach, but more “respectable”. The waves are constant, but not so strong. You can rent a sun lounger, an umbrella and have a snack in local cafes. Those who do not consider themselves surfers and come to Bali for relaxation should pay attention to the beach in. The ocean is much calmer here. The ebb and flow of the tides are not noticeable. The beach is covered with the purest white sand. This area is home to novice surfers and just swimming enthusiasts. Another calm beach on the island is Sanur. White sand, crystal blue water, no waves all year round... What else do you need for a lazy holiday and good diving?
Hotels
There are a lot of hotels in Bali. These include well-known global chains and affordable guesthouses with amenities on the same floor. And given that many people come to Bali to live, renting villas and bungalows is common on the island. It is by settling for a month or more in a real Balinese house that you can feel the life of the island and plunge into the colorful and unique way of life of the local population. The cost of bungalows and villas on the island is low, such housing is especially beneficial for companies of 4 or more people.
Most of the hotels in Bali have 4 and 5 stars. As a rule, these are low-rise (building buildings taller than palm trees is prohibited by law), neat residential buildings with a garden and a swimming pool. The service here is good, the staff is polite and helpful. Tipping is not accepted. At the same time, Bali has one of the highest hotel fees in the world - 21%. It is either already included in the room price, or is paid by tourists separately. It is better to clarify this question immediately when booking a hotel.
Attractions
Tanah Lot Temple is often depicted on postcards from Bali. Its name translates as “Land and Sea”, and it is located right on a steep cliff. It is believed that the temple was built by one priest in the 15th century, who lived here alone, and, feeling that the place was sacred, ordered the construction of a temple here. The place is very exotic and atmospheric.
Besakih Temple is another favorite tourist spot. For the Balinese, this is the holy of holies. The temple is located on the most revered Mount Agung, the abode of all gods. They pray on the mountain and even go to bed with their heads facing it. Besakih Temple is called the mother of all temples on the island. It is also Bali's largest religious complex. Here you can see how sacred rituals and ceremonies of offering to the gods take place. When you come here, you understand how devout the Balinese are and how much their faith means to them.
The Bedugul area is home to the magnificent Bali Botanical Garden. A place that captivates with its beauty. There are often fogs here, and the garden is surrounded by huge strawberry plantations. On 57 and a half hectares of the slope of Mount Pohon, there are about 650 species of trees, 400 species of orchids, 104 species of cacti, as well as bamboo, roses and much more. There are about two thousand different plants in total. When planning a tour to Bali with children, add the botanical garden to your list of must-see places. Little ones can run around barefoot here while parents relax on the grass and watch the wedding ceremonies of Balinese couples.
The water palaces of Ujung and Tirta Ganga are some of the most beautiful structures on the island. They were built by the last Raja of Bali - Karangasem, using Dutch architects. It turned out not only beautiful, but also useful. The palace complexes serve as an irrigation basin for the surrounding fields. Arriving here, you will see magnificent ensembles of water labyrinths, fountains and palace buildings of extraordinary architecture.
It’s worth a trip to the village of Butulan to see how those very stone statues, which are found everywhere in Bali. Images of gods and ordinary people guard houses and temples, and greet you at the entrance to shops and beaches. They all come from Butulan, the center of stone carving. Craftsmen here work tirelessly, creating more and more mythological characters. Any statue can be bought.
To see how rice grows in Bali, you need to go to the Ubud area. The famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces are located here. Rice grows very quickly, in 3 months, so the appearance of the local landscapes is constantly changing. First, the undulating terraces on the hillsides are filled with water, then green shoots emerge from the water. Soon the plantations turn entirely emerald, and when harvest time comes, the fields take on a golden hue. Interestingly, even after harvesting the rice, there is still something to see on the terraces. The Balinese bring domestic ducks here to eat the remaining grains. The spectacle is very interesting.
Kitchen
Bali has a unique cuisine, but almost all tourists like it. The dishes are not spicy, like in Thailand, and the Balinese also use a lot of seasonings. The famous combination of 8 spices is used: coriander, cumin, cloves, white and black pepper, nutmeg, candle nut and sesame. All dishes are based on rice and, unlike other provinces of Indonesia where Islam is practiced, in Bali they eat pork.
To get acquainted with Balinese national cuisine, we recommend trying the famous Babi Guling dish. This is suckling pig, which is marinated in herbs for a long time, and then roasted on a spit for several hours. Meat is served with vegetables and sauce. Advice: if you decide to try Babi Guling, go to the cafe before lunch. The piglets are cooked in the morning, and after they are finished, the cafes (warungs) close.
One more National dish Bali - betutu. It takes at least 24 hours to prepare. Chicken or duck is marinated, then fried and stewed with spices. The most tender betuta is served with rice and a special sauce made from coconut oil, onions and chili peppers.
For dessert you can try martabak. Simply put, it is a thick pancake filled with chocolate, bananas and nuts. The most pleasant way to enjoy the dish is to wash it down with traditional hot tea or coffee.
Souvenirs
There are a lot of craftsmen in Bali. They pass on their crafts from generation to generation, whole villages and even cities doing a certain thing. Going to the villages of Mas and Kemenuh, you will find a huge number of wood carving workshops. The Balinese make both figurines and furniture from wood. Moreover, it is so skillful that if you buy a wooden souvenir as a souvenir, you will admire the talent of the master for a long time.
The small village of Cheluk in Bali is famous for its jewelry production. It is called the silver heart of the island. Silver products are created here in a unique national style. Those interested are also shown the process of making rings and earrings. Jewelry in Bali is of very good quality and is inexpensive.
An excellent souvenir would be batik, which is skillfully created in the city of Gianyar. There are as many as 40 fabric factories here. Craftswomen apply designs on cotton fabric with special paint. Balinese batik patterns are recognizable: usually they are colored national ornaments, as well as mythological characters and gods.
It is also common to bring from Bali healthy food. Spirulina algae, goji berries, chia seeds and black rice - there is plenty of this on the island. Superfood is inexpensive, so you can buy it for yourself or as a gift. You can complete your shopping in Bali with organic cosmetics, buying natural oils, soaps, Ayurvedic creams and shampoos, as well as toothpastes and much more. It is based on natural ingredients that have been used in Bali for hundreds of years: honey, cinnamon, ginger, sandalwood, jasmine and aloe. Cunning merchants claim that all miracle jars are charged with longevity and prosperity.