What to See in Bali

Bali is known for its beautiful scenery, sacred temples, and rich culture. From ancient temples on cliffs to green rice fields and stunning waterfalls, Bali offers unforgettable views and experiences for every visitor.

Beautiful Temples

Bali’s temples (called “Pura“) are the island’s most famous landmarks, showing off traditional Balinese architecture in amazing natural settings.

Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot is the most popular sight in Bali. This temple sits on a small rock by the ocean, creating one of Bali’s most famous views. It looks most beautiful at sunset when the temple creates a dark shape against the colorful sky. During low tide, you can walk to the base of the temple, but only local worshippers can enter the actual temple.

Uluwatu Temple

This temple stands on a high cliff (70 meters) above the ocean. Uluwatu offers amazing views of the coastline and has a special Kecak Fire Dance show every sunset. Watch out for the monkeys here – they like to take visitors’ sunglasses, phones, and other small items!

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Often called the “Floating Temple,” Ulun Danu Beratan looks like it’s floating on water when the lake level rises. Located in the cooler mountain area of Bedugul, this beautiful temple is one of Bali’s most famous images. The misty mountains and peaceful lake make it worth the trip to central Bali.

Besakih Temple

Known as “The Mother Temple,” Besakih is Bali’s biggest and most sacred temple complex. It sits on the slopes of Mount Agung (Bali’s highest volcano) and has many different shrines and temples on six levels. From here, you can enjoy great views of the countryside and Mount Agung.

Lempuyang Temple

Famous for its “Gates of Heaven,” Lempuyang is very popular on Instagram because of its perfectly framed view of Mount Agung through stone gates. For the best photos of Mount Agung, come early in the morning before clouds hide the volcano. Note: The mirror effect seen in many photos is created by photographers using a piece of glass (there’s no real water there).

Natural Wonders

Bali has many different natural landscapes, from volcanoes to waterfalls and green rice fields.

Rice Terraces

The Tegalalang Rice Terraces near Ubud show beautiful green steps cut into the hillsides. These terraces use the traditional Balinese irrigation system called subak. You can walk along paths through the terraces or enjoy the view from cafes on the hillside.

For fewer tourists but equally beautiful views, visit the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These huge terraces stretch across the landscape and offer amazing views of green rice fields.

Waterfalls

Bali has many beautiful waterfalls, especially in the central and northern parts of the island:

• Banyumala Twin Waterfall: About 26 meters high, with a natural swimming pool and very beautiful surroundings.
• Sekumpul Waterfall: Often called Bali’s most beautiful waterfall, it requires a 45-minute walk but rewards you with amazing cascades surrounded by jungle.
• Gitgit Waterfall: An impressive waterfall with two different viewing areas and a swimming spot.
• Tegenungan Waterfall: Located just 25 minutes from Ubud, this easy-to-visit waterfall is powerful and impressive.

Mount Batur & Kintamani

The Kintamani area offers amazing views of Mount Batur, an active volcano rising from a large crater. The view includes Lake Batur, creating one of Bali’s most spectacular landscapes. Morning is the best time to visit for clear views, and many restaurants along the crater edge offer breakfast with a view.

Kelingking Beach

This hidden beach on Nusa Penida island (a short boat ride from Bali) features the famous T-Rex shaped cliff that looks like a dinosaur. The view from the top of the cliff is amazing, and adventurous visitors can take a steep path down to reach the beautiful white sand beach below.

Cultural & Historical Places

Beyond temples, Bali offers many cultural attractions that show the island’s rich heritage.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

This popular nature park in Ubud is home to hundreds of monkeys that freely roam among ancient, moss-covered temples. Besides the playful (sometimes naughty) monkeys, the sanctuary has beautifully carved stone temples with mythological figures that create a magical atmosphere.

Tirta Gangga Royal Water Gardens

These former royal gardens in East Bali feature beautiful fountains, stepping stones, and statues. The decorative pools and carvings create a peaceful atmosphere that shows the artistic tradition of Balinese royalty.

Gunung Kawi Temple

This 1,000-year-old site features ten huge shrines carved into cliff walls along a river. Believed to honor ancient Balinese kings, this less-crowded site offers a glimpse into Bali’s distant past.

Handara Gates

These traditional Balinese split gates at the entrance to a golf course have become one of Bali’s most photographed spots. The large stone gates show traditional Balinese architecture with beautiful green mountains in the background.

GWK Cultural Park

Home to the massive Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue (121 meters tall) – one of the world’s largest statues – this cultural park celebrates Balinese art and mythology.

Exploring Bali by Region

South Bali Highlights

South Bali has many easy-to-reach attractions:

• Uluwatu Temple and nearby beaches
• GWK Cultural Park
• Waterbom water park in Kuta
• Tanah Lot Temple (west coast)
• Blue Point Beach with restaurants and shops on the cliff

Central Bali/Ubud Highlights

The cultural center of Bali offers:

• Sacred Monkey Forest
• Tegalalang Rice Terraces
• Ubud Palace and Ubud Market
• Tegenungan Waterfall
• Tirta Empul Temple with holy spring water

North Bali Highlights

Less visited but very beautiful:

• Ulun Danu Beratan Temple and Lake Bratan
• Banyumala Twin Waterfall
• Gitgit Waterfall
• Wanagiri Hidden Hill viewpoints
• Mount Batur and Kintamani views

East Bali Highlights

For those exploring further:

• Lempuyang Temple with Gates of Heaven
• Tirta Gangga Royal Water Gardens
• Besakih Temple
• Candidasa coastal area
• Amed and Tulamben (black sand beaches)

Photo Tips & Best Times to Visit

Best Places for Sunrise and Sunset

• Sunrise spots: Mount Batur summit, Lempuyang Temple (Gates of Heaven), Ulun Danu Beratan
• Sunset spots: Tanah Lot, Uluwatu Temple (during Kecak dance), Jimbaran Beach, Tegalalang Rice Terraces

How to Avoid Crowds

• Visit popular temples before 9 AM or after 4 PM when tour buses are gone
• Try to visit on weekdays instead of weekends
• For waterfalls like Banyumala, arrive early (around 9 AM) to enjoy them with fewer people
• At popular photo spots like the Gates of Heaven, come when they first open or just before closing to avoid waiting in long lines

Best Seasons to Visit

• The dry season (April-September) offers the clearest views of mountains and volcanoes
• Early mornings give you the best chance to see Mount Agung before clouds form
• Rice terraces look most green shortly after planting or just before harvest (times vary by location)

Bali offers amazing sights for every traveler. Whether you love ancient temples, beautiful nature, or local culture, Bali’s diverse attractions will create memories that last a lifetime.

Don’t forget to check our guides on What to Do in Bali for activity suggestions and What to Prepare for Bali to help plan your perfect trip.