In recent years the eyes of the world have settled on Bali as one of the most beautiful and fascinating places for vacationing. Its virgin and exotic beaches attract thousands of tourists who year after year seek a reservation in the exclusive and ultra-luxury hotels that surround the bays of this wonderful place.
Although it is famous for the hospitality of its people, its calm waters and spectacular landscapes, Bali hides much more beauty than anything you can see with just your eyes. We will now talk about the 6 best kept jewels of Bali, which only the true explorers are able to find and that make this place seem out of this world.
Tanah Lot Temple
This place whose name means “land temple in the sea”, is more than a spiritual center, it is a wonder that combines the magic of nature with the vision and the ingenuity of the human being from its most spiritual side.
This ceremonial center that dates back to the 16th century is one of the most beautiful and symbolic temples of Hindu architecture. It consists of small pagodas located at the top of a huge rock, traversed by a small and detailed stairway that descends to the calm waters of the southwest coast of Bali.
It is said that the Tanah Lot Temple was built by a priest, to honor the guardian spirits of the sea. Nowadays it is possible to reach it by foot during the first hours of the day, because at dusk, when the tide goes up, the sea covers the temple. This makes it one of the most beautiful and magical places in the world to observe the sunrise.
The beach that connects with the temple ground is surrounded by small, picturesque markets where local shops sell antiques and handicrafts to tourists. With a schedule from 7am to 7pm, the temple receives hundreds of tourists daily and is home to several traditional shows, such as the “fire dance”, known as “kechak”.
Seminyak
This privileged region boasts some of Bali’s most delightful beaches. It is also one of the most exclusive areas, where you will find majestic hotel complexes that preserve an ecological and boutique format, as well as the latest in luxury spas.
On the Seminyak beaches is possible to enjoy legendary sunsets and even witness traditional Balinese ceremonies, with music and beautiful typical offerings, by the seashore. The landscape is complemented by luxurious restaurants that hang from cliffs, providing a unique exotic view of the region.
In addition, Seminyak is home to important local art galleries and the Petitenget temple, one of the most symbolic for Hindus.
Monkey Forest in Ubud
When talking about natural sanctuaries, this is without a doubt one of the most beautiful and impressive in the world. Located in the small picturesque village of Padangtegal, Ubud Monkey Forest is a conservation center where different species of endemic monkeys live in freedom. Beside, this reserve shelters beautiful hidden temples that complement the habitat of these animals protected throughout Indonesia.
In this place tourists can admire the beauty and respect that Hindus have to nature, the way they honor and worship it. Thereby, it is possible to have a tour while coexisting directly with the monkeys, who like to be around humans.
Uluwatu
Just looking for a moment at the intense blue waters of the coast of Uluwatu and it will be enough to understand that it is a true gift of nature. This secluded spot on the southwestern end of the exotic Bukit Peninsula is undoubtedly, the best kept gem in Indonesia for its mystical atmosphere and landscapes that blend seamlessly with the small and beautiful Hindu temples.
This peculiar province that borders with the magnificent Indian Ocean, is home to the impressive temple of Pura Uluwatu Luhur which, according to historians, dates from prehistory. On top of an imposing cliff, over 70 meters high, is situated this temple, one of 9 with a key location in Bali. Actually, this temple is composed of small sanctuaries located in an area of 1km. It includes an amphitheater, a stage, an exhibition hall and even a lake with lotus flowers.
Uluwatu is also the 4th most important destination for surfers in the world, so it is home to important championships where sportsman of all levels and from different parts of the world come to enjoy.
Mount Batur
This active volcano is one of Bali’s most fascinating natural wonders. It attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists to take a tour to the immense boilers located at its skirts. Mount Batur is visible on the water due to one of the most severe eruptions ever recorded.
One of these boilers protects 4 populations: Kedisan, Songan, Trunyan and Toya Bungkah. All 4 with their own beautiful traditions. This impressive volcano, active since 1804, made its last eruption in 2000 and in 2012 UNESCO made it part of the Global Geoparks Network.