Best 15 Things to See in Bali, Indonesia

Ever wondered why everyone and their yoga instructor won’t shut up about Bali? Well, after spending three weeks getting lost in rice paddies and almost falling off a cliff trying to get that perfect Instagram shot (worth it, BTW), I finally get the hype. This Indonesian island isn’t just another tropical destination—it’s basically a real-life screensaver that somehow manages to be even more stunning in person.

Whether you’re a temple nerd, a beach bum, or someone who just wants to eat their body weight in nasi goreng, Bali’s got something that’ll make your jaw drop. And trust me, narrowing down the things to see in Bali to just 15 was harder than choosing a Netflix show with your partner. But hey, someone’s gotta do it, right?

1. Tanah Lot Temple: The Rock Star of Balinese Temples

Let’s kick things off with the celebrity of Balinese temples—Tanah Lot. This bad boy sits on a massive rock formation surrounded by crashing waves, and yes, it looks exactly like that desktop wallpaper you had in 2010. The best part? During low tide, you can actually walk across to the temple (though non-Hindus can’t enter the inner sanctum, FYI).

Pro tip from someone who learned the hard way: skip the sunset crowds and go for sunrise instead. You’ll have the place practically to yourself, and the light hitting those volcanic rocks? Chef’s kiss. Plus, the local vendors aren’t fully awake yet, so you won’t get hassled to buy seventeen wooden penis bottle openers. Yes, that’s a real thing in Bali.

The temple dates back to the 16th century and was built by a wandering Hindu priest who apparently had excellent taste in real estate. Can’t blame him—if I could build my house on a rock in the ocean, I totally would.

2. Tegallalang Rice Terraces: Where Green Dreams Come True

Alright, confession time: I used to think rice terraces were boring. Like, how exciting can agricultural steps be? Then I saw Tegallalang, and holy moly, I ate my words (along with some amazing fried rice from a nearby warung). These emerald-green terraces cascade down the valley like nature’s own amphitheater, and they’re absolutely one of the top things to see in Bali.

The terraces use an ancient irrigation system called “subak” that’s been around since the 9th century. UNESCO loved it so much they made it a World Heritage site. And honestly? Standing there watching farmers in conical hats working the fields while palm trees sway in the background—it’s like stepping into a National Geographic documentary.

Fair warning though: those Instagrammable swings overlooking the terraces? They’ll charge you about $10-35 USD depending on how fancy you want your swing experience. Worth it for the ‘gram? Your call, but my fear of heights made that decision real easy.

3. Mount Batur: The Sunrise Hike That’ll Hurt So Good

Look, I’m not a morning person. At all. But somehow I found myself stumbling up Mount Batur at 3 AM with a flashlight and a prayer. Two hours of huffing, puffing, and questioning my life choices later, I watched the sun rise over an active volcano while sipping hot chocolate. Not gonna lie—it was magical enough to make me forget my burning calves.

This volcano is still active (last erupted in 2000), which adds a nice element of danger to your vacation photos. The hike itself isn’t technical—if my chain-smoking guide could do it in flip-flops while texting, you’ll be fine in proper shoes. Just bring a jacket because it gets surprisingly cold at the top, and maybe some snacks for the friendly but persistent monkeys who’ll try to steal your breakfast.

4. Uluwatu Temple: Cliffside Drama at Its Finest

Perched 70 meters above the Indian Ocean on a sheer cliff, Uluwatu Temple is basically the dramatic friend of Balinese temples. Built in the 11th century, this place serves looks 24/7, especially during sunset when the sky turns into a watercolor painting.

The real stars here though? The monkeys. These little thieves have mastered the art of snatching sunglasses, phones, and anything shiny. They literally have a ransom system going where local vendors will trade your stolen goods back for bananas. It’s simultaneously hilarious and infuriating. Hide your stuff or become part of their economy—your choice.

Stick around for the Kecak fire dance performance at sunset. Watching 50+ men chanting in unison while the sun dips into the ocean? That’s core memory material right there.

5. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: Primate Paradise in Ubud

Speaking of monkeys (because apparently they run Bali), the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud houses over 700 long-tailed macaques who’ve definitely figured out they’re the main attraction. This isn’t just a monkey playground though—it’s a spiritual sanctuary with three holy temples dating back to the 14th century.

Walking through the forest feels like entering Jumanji, with massive banyan trees creating natural cathedral ceilings. The monkeys here are slightly more chill than their Uluwatu cousins, but they’ll still jack your water bottle faster than you can say “banana.”

My advice? Buy some bananas at the entrance (they’re sold specifically for feeding), but hold them high and prepare for monkey parkour on your shoulders. It’s equal parts terrifying and hilarious.

6. Sekumpul Waterfall: The Hidden Gem That’s Actually Hidden

After seeing approximately 47,000 waterfall photos from Bali on Instagram, I thought I was prepared. I was not. Sekumpul Waterfall—actually a collection of seven waterfalls—absolutely destroyed my expectations. Getting there involves a legitimate trek through jungle paths, crossing rivers, and climbing what feels like a million steps, but sweet mother of nature, it’s worth every drop of sweat.

The falls plunge 80 meters through lush jungle, creating this misty paradise that makes you understand why people become hippies and never leave Bali. The water’s freezing, but after that hike, jumping in feels like heaven. Plus, there are way fewer tourists here because most people stick to the easier waterfalls. Their loss, your gain.

7. Besakih Temple: The Mother of All Temples

Known as the “Mother Temple,” Besakih is the largest and holiest temple complex in Bali. Sitting on the slopes of Mount Agung (Bali’s highest volcano), this place is massive—we’re talking 23 separate temples spread over six terraced levels. It’s like the Disneyland of Hindu temples, minus the mouse ears.

Built over 1,000 years ago, Besakih somehow survived a catastrophic volcanic eruption in 1963 that destroyed everything around it. The lava flow literally stopped just meters from the temple. Coincidence? The locals don’t think so.

Be prepared for aggressive sarong sellers and “guides” at the entrance. You don’t actually need a guide, but wearing a sarong is mandatory. Bring your own or rent one at the official counter to avoid the hassle.

8. Tirta Empul Temple: Holy Water and Good Vibes

Want to take a spiritual bath with dozens of strangers? Sounds weird, but at Tirta Empul, it’s actually profound. This water temple, built around natural springs in 962 AD, is where Balinese Hindus go for ritual purification. And yes, tourists can participate too.

The purification ritual involves moving through 30 water spouts, each with different purposes—healing, prosperity, getting rid of bad juju, you name it. Even if you’re not religious, standing under those ancient spouts while surrounded by praying locals and ornate stone carvings hits different. Just remember to wear appropriate swimwear (no bikinis, guys) and follow the local customs. This isn’t your hotel pool :/

9. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: Tegallalang’s Chill Cousin

If Tegallalang is the popular kid, Jatiluwih is the cool, laid-back cousin who doesn’t need the attention. These UNESCO World Heritage rice terraces cover 600 hectares of gorgeousness, and here’s the kicker—hardly any tourists. You can actually walk through the terraces without playing human Tetris with other visitors.

The name literally means “really beautiful,” which feels like ancient Balinese people just gave up trying to describe it. Can’t blame them. The terraces stretch as far as you can see, with Mount Batukaru providing the ultimate backdrop. Rent a bike and cruise through the small paths between rice paddies—it’s one of those simple pleasures that makes you reconsider your entire city-dwelling existence.

10. Nusa Penida Island: Jurassic Park Meets Paradise

Okay, technically not mainland Bali, but Nusa Penida is just a 45-minute fast boat ride away and absolutely worth the seasickness (bring meds, trust me). This island looks like dinosaurs should still be roaming around—dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and that famous T-Rex-shaped cliff at Kelingking Beach.

Diamond Beach alone makes the trip worth it—imagine pristine white sand accessible only by sketchy stairs carved into a cliff. It’s terrifying and beautiful, which pretty much sums up Nusa Penida. Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach are also must-sees, creating natural infinity pools and arches that look too perfect to be real.

11. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: The Floating Temple

This temple sitting on Lake Beratan looks like it’s floating on water, especially when the morning mist rolls in. Built in 1633, it’s dedicated to the lake goddess Dewi Danu, and honestly, if I were a water goddess, I’d want to live here too.

The temple appears on the 50,000 rupiah note, making it literally money. The best time to visit? Early morning when the mist creates this ethereal atmosphere and you can get that perfect reflection shot without 400 other photographers in your frame.

12. Sidemen Valley: Bali Before Instagram

Want to see what Bali looked like before wellness retreats and smoothie bowls took over? Head to Sidemen Valley. This place is what Ubud was 20 years ago—authentic villages, endless rice paddies, and locals who still wave at tourists like you’re special.

The valley offers killer views of Mount Agung, traditional weaving villages, and some of the best hiking in Bali without the crowds. It’s basically a time machine to old-school Bali, complete with roosters that’ll wake you up at ungodly hours. But hey, that’s authentic, right?

13. Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave): Ancient Mystery Vibes

Despite the name, there are no elephants here (sorry). Goa Gajah is a mysterious cave carved in the 9th century with a demon’s face for an entrance that looks like it’s about to swallow you whole. Inside, you’ll find Hindu and Buddhist relics that somehow coexisted peacefully—take notes, world.

The cave is small and can get claustrophobic with tourist groups, so go early or late. The surrounding grounds with ancient bathing pools and jungle paths are actually more impressive than the cave itself. Plus, there’s something cool about standing in a place where people have been praying for over 1,000 years.

14. Lempuyang Temple: The Gateway to Heaven (and to Long Lines)

You’ve seen this photo—the “Gates of Heaven” perfectly framing Mount Agung with a mirror-like reflection. Here’s what Instagram doesn’t tell you: that “water” is actually a mirror held under the camera, and you might wait 2+ hours for your turn during peak times.

But here’s the thing—even without the fake reflection, Lempuyang Temple is stunning. It’s one of Bali’s oldest and most important temples, and the views from up there are insane. Pro tip: skip the famous gate photo spot and explore the rest of the temple complex. There are actually seven temples here, and the upper ones have zero crowds and equally amazing views.

15. Tukad Cepung Waterfall: The Light Show You Didn’t Know You Needed

Saving one of my favorites for last. Tukad Cepung isn’t your typical waterfall—it’s hidden inside a cave where sunlight streams through the opening, creating these insane light rays that make everything look like a movie scene. Between 10 AM and noon, when the sun is directly overhead, the light show peaks, and suddenly you understand why people become photographers.

The trek down involves stairs, river crossings, and squeezing through rock formations. Wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet and bring a waterproof phone case. The gram potential here is off the charts, but honestly? You’ll probably just stand there slack-jawed for a few minutes, forgetting to take photos.

Your Bali Adventure Awaits

So there you have it—15 absolutely unmissable things to see in Bali that’ll make your friends back home sick with FOMO. From ancient temples perched on cliffs to rice terraces that’ll ruin all other greenery for you, Bali really does live up to the hype. And I haven’t even touched on the food, the massages that cost less than your morning latte, or the fact that you can rent a private villa with a pool for the price of a sketchy motel room back home.

My advice? Don’t try to cram everything into one trip (I tried, and I needed a vacation from my vacation). Pick a region, slow down, and actually experience the island instead of just collecting passport stamps for the ‘gram. And please, for the love of all that’s holy, respect the local customs and don’t be that tourist taking bikini pics at sacred temples.

Ready to book that ticket yet? Trust me, your soul (and your Instagram feed) will thank you. Just remember to pack mosquito repellent, download Grab for transport, and prepare yourself for the inevitable Bali belly. It’s all part of the adventure, right? 😉

What’s your dream Bali experience, temple hopping, beach bumming, or getting lost in the rice fields? Drop a comment and let me know where you’re heading first!