The Ultimate Travel Guide For Bali : Everything You Need to Know

Bali, often called the “Island of the Gods,” is Indonesia’s tourism jewel, blending lush nature, rich culture, adventure, and spirituality. With beaches, volcanic peaks, vibrant temples, and fascinating traditions, Bali welcomes all kinds of travelers—backpackers, honeymooners, digital nomads, and families alike.

The ultimate travel guide for Bali by Amrit Travels

When is the Best Time to Visit Bali?

Bali can be visited all year-round.

Dry Season (April–October): Best for beaches and outdoor exploring—sunshine, low humidity, and good surf.
Wet Season (November–March): Expect short, intense downpours and greener landscapes; travel is still pleasant, as rain rarely lasts the whole day.

Travel tip: Be aware of Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence, when the entire island—including tourists—must observe a 24-hour quiet shutdown (date varies each year).

Airport In Bali

The only airport to arriving in Bali is Ngurah Rai International Airport which is located in Denpasar. Denpasar is in the South of Bali, having majority of tourist areas – Kuta, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, etc.

Commuting Around The City

TAXI – Starting fare for Taxis is 7000 IDR (Approx 0.40 USD).
It is essential to ensure that the drivers switch on the meter, to avoid later hassles of negotiations.
Uber and Grab are also available in most areas.
Blue Bird cab is also a popular cab service.

RENTALS – One of the most loved ways of exploring Bali is Renting a vehicle.

Bali has many small roads, not many road signs, and can be a chaotic driving culture. Not easy to drive here without getting stressed real quickly.
An international driving license is a must.
The extra cost for a driver can be anywhere between 10-25 USD per day.
IMPORTANT – Experts recommend that it is safer to rent a car if the driver is not accustomed to the chaotic driving.

Bali Visa and Immigration

For Indian travelers visiting Bali in 2025, here are the visa and immigration norms:

Indian passport holders do not have visa-free entry. A Visa on Arrival (VoA) is available and valid for 30 days, extendable once for another 30 days locally in Bali.
VoA requires a passport with at least six months validity from the date of entry, proof of onward or return flight tickets, and sufficient funds to cover the stay.
The VoA fee is around IDR 500,000 (approximately ₹2,500), payable upon arrival or online before travel.
For longer stays or multiple entries, an e-Visa such as the B211A Tourist Visa must be applied for in advance through the Indonesian Embassy or consulate in India.
New travelers must download and register on an Indonesia immigration app called “All Indonesia” before arrival as per regulations effective from September 2025.
At immigration in Bali, carry confirmed accommodation details like hotel bookings or invitation letters, and proof of funds as these may be required for entry checks.

In short, Indian tourists typically use Visa on Arrival for short visits up to 30 days with a simple process, while longer visits need pre-arranged visas. Passport validity and travel documents proof are essential for smooth entry.

Regions Of Bali

Canggu & Berawa: Bali’s most up-and-coming destination. It offers something for everyone—from backpackers to partygoers and spiritual seekers. It’s like Ubud but with a beach and a touch of Seminyak. Popular with digital nomads and surfers, with many coffee shops, bars, beach clubs, gyms, spas, and yoga studios. Not ideal for luxury travelers or families with young kids due to traffic and limited sidewalks.
Kuta & Tuban: The origin of Bali’s tourism boom and a lively, budget-friendly party destination. It attracts young travelers, backpackers, and surfers. Offers many affordable hotels, chain restaurants, and souvenir shops but lacks authentic Balinese culture.
Seminyak & Petitenget: An upscale extension of Kuta with luxury villas, many boutiques, amazing restaurants, and nightlife. It’s a great place for vibrant nightlife and high-end shopping but can be busy and touristy.
Ubud: Bali’s cultural and artistic center famous for wellness, yoga, art, spirituality, and nature. Surrounded by temples, waterfalls, rice terraces, and many small shops and cafes. Cooler climate and relaxed atmosphere, popular with spiritual seekers and digital nomads.
Nusa Dua & Tanjung Benoa: A luxury resort area with immaculate white sandy beaches, international 5-star beachfront resorts, and ideal for weddings, honeymoons, and families. Tanjung Benoa is popular for family-friendly 3- and 4-star resorts.
Legian: A quieter alternative to Kuta located just north with a mix of bars, clubs, affordable hotels, shops, and family-friendly spots. Beautiful beach for swimming and surfing.
Sanur: One of Bali’s most serene destinations, traditional and quiet, great for families due to calm swimming beaches and a charming beachfront promenade with shops and restaurants. Popular with retirees and romantic travelers.
Jimbaran & Kedonganan: A relaxed bay area just south of the airport known for iconic beach resorts and famous seafood BBQ restaurants. Suitable for families and romantic getaways.
Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan, Penida: Called Bali’s Golden Triangle, these islands offer tropical paradise vibes with some of Bali’s best diving spots. Small bungalows and simple restaurants, reachable by 45-minute boat from Sanur. Scooters are necessary for getting around.
Uluwatu & Pecatu: Located on Bali’s southwest coast with white sandy beaches like Balangan and Padang Padang. Popular with backpackers, surfers, and digital nomads. Pecatu features luxury villas and upcoming resorts.
Amed & Tulamben: Two quiet fishing villages on Bali’s northwest coast known for excellent diving, snorkeling, and scenic views of Mount Agung. Nearby beaches and villages like Jemeluk, Lipah, and Selang are also worth visiting.
Candidasa: East Bali’s main tourism area, still quiet and remote with decent accommodations. It’s an excellent base for day trips, snorkeling, and diving.
Ungasan & Kutuh: Nestled on Bali’s southern tip, these areas have stunning cliffs, luxury resorts, beach clubs, and villas. Ungasan is popular for weddings and honeymoons. Lacks a walkable center so transport is necessary.
Sidemen: An authentic rural Balinese experience with rice terraces, waterfalls, and rivers. It offers a rustic, homely atmosphere surrounded by natural beauty.
Batukaru, North Tabanan: Known for eco-retreats, coffee and cacao plantations, trekking, and waterfalls. This highland area is quiet and rich in nature.
Bedugul, Puncak & Baturiti: Highland regions with forests, lakes (including Lake Beratan), hot springs, botanical gardens, and temples. Cool climate and great for trekking and natural exploration.
Kintamani Highlands & Mount Batur: Famous for its volcanic landscape with active Mount Batur and Lake Batur. Offers cool mountain air, lush landscapes, and cultural attractions, ideal for nature lovers and hikers.
The 3 Gilis: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air are tropical islands off Lombok with no motorized vehicles. Gili Trawangan is lively, Gili Meno is peaceful, and Gili Air balances relaxation and activity.
Lombok: An island with pristine beaches and jungles, famous for Mount Rinjani trekking and surf breaks. Known for its untouched natural beauty and adventure opportunities.
Labuan Bajo & Komodo Dragon: A gateway to Komodo National Park, beloved for diving, island hopping, natural beauty, and the iconic Komodo dragons.

Must-Visit Sights & Activities In Bali

Uluwatu Temple: Cliffside ocean views and traditional sunset dance shows.
Tegalalang Rice Terraces (Ubud): Terraced landscapes and iconic Instagram photo spots.
Monkey Forest: Walk within an ancient forest inhabited by over 1,000 monkeys.
Mount Batur Sunrise Trek: Hike up a volcano for breathtaking dawn views.
Campuhan Ridge Walk (Ubud): Scenic walking trail through jungle valleys and rice fields.
Waterbom Bali: Family-favorite waterpark for thrilling slides and aquatic fun.
Gili Islands/Nusa Lembongan: Snorkeling, diving, quiet beaches, and sea turtles.
Tanah Lot Temple: Sea temple perched on a rocky outcrop, best seen at sunset.

Adventure & Outdoors

Surfing: Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, and Uluwatu beaches for all levels.
Waterfalls: Seek out Tegenungan, Sekumpul, and Tukad Cepung waterfalls for refreshing swims and natural beauty.
ATV, rafting & jungle trekking: Action-packed day trips are easy to arrange from tourist centers.

Accommodations: Where to Stay

Bali is famous for its accommodation variety, from budget hostels to private pool villas and world-class luxury resorts.

Seminyak: Great for boutique hotels and pool villas walking distance to nightlife.
Ubud: Jungle retreats, riverside cottages, and wellness resorts.
Canggu: Trendy guesthouses and beachfront hostels.
Nusa Dua: 5-star beachfront resorts, ideal for luxury and honeymoon stays.

Family-Friendly Options: Bali Dynasty Kuta, Hyatt Regency Sanur, Ritz Carlton Ubud, and St. Regis Nusa Dua are standouts for those traveling with children.

Getting Around

Airport Transfers: Pre-booked cars or app-based rides (Grab, Gojek) are reliable from DPS Airport.
Private Drivers: Affordable for full-day tours (IDR 600k–700k/day per vehicle).
Scooter Rentals: Cheap and flexible, but only for confident riders—traffic and road conditions require caution.
Taxis: Blue Bird taxis are metered and trustworthy.

Money & Connectivity

Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Use authorized money changers or banks; avoid street stalls.
Cards: Widely accepted at hotels and big shops, but keep cash for local vendors.
Internet: Buy a local SIM or eSIM for affordable data; WhatsApp is the main communication tool.

Food & Drink

Don’t leave Bali without trying:

Nasi Campur: Rice with assorted vegetables, meats, and spicy sambal.
Babi Guling: Spit-roasted pork (a Balinese specialty).
Tipat Cantok: Rice cakes and vegetables in peanut sauce.
Nasi Goreng/Mie Goreng: Classic fried rice/noodle dishes.
Bakso: Indonesian meatball soup, a favorite street food.
Satay: Skewered grilled meat with peanut sauce.
Fresh Tropical Juices: Try avocado juice or local herbal “jamu” drinks.

Local Customs & Cultural Tips

Dress modestly when visiting temples (sarong and sash required—often provided at temple entrances).
Greet locals with a smile and “Om Swastiastu.”
Use your right hand for giving/receiving.
Show respect during ceremonies and avoid walking through prayer lines.
Avoid plastic bags; carry a tote bag due to the island’s single-use plastic ban.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Small tokens for drivers or spa staff are customary.

Health & Safety

Bali is generally safe, but be mindful of your belongings, especially on busy streets or beaches.
Always wear a helmet on motorbikes.
Carry mosquito repellent and sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended).
Use only legitimate money changers and lock your accommodation doors.

Bestselling Bali Packages At Amrit Travels

Bali’s magic lies in its diversity: explore rice paddies, trek volcanoes, unwind at luxury villas, enjoy world-class cuisine, and connect with Balinese hospitality and spirituality. No matter your travel style, prepare for a journey you’ll never forget.

Ready to plan your Bali adventure? Connect with our team at Amrit Travels for curated packages, local insights, and expert travel planning.

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