Bali was once an exotic destination that many only knew about from film and music. ‘’The Road to Bali’’ with Bob Hope and Bing Crosby and the song ‘’Bali Ha’i’’ from ‘’South Pacific’’ originate in the 1950s. That song talked of a mystical island, visible by not reachable. The growth of long haul travel began to give travellers the chance to see such places. Bali’s wonderful climate, sands and warm seas were certainly an attraction. If you are looking for a good base, try Uluwatu Bali.
Bali Facts
The relative proximity of Bali to Australia also means it has become popular with Aussies. That especially applies to the backpack generation. Few know or care that Bali is part of Indonesia. There is one large island and several more smaller ones in the archipelago. Just 4 million of Indonesia’s huge population of 270 million live in Bali and many rely on tourism for their living. While Indonesia is primarily Muslim, over 80% of Bali is Hindu.
Pura Tirta Empul
Hindus have been coming to this water temple for over 1,000 years. They believe that its waters are a gift from the God Indra. Those waters are healthy and can cure ills they believe. Tourists are now coming in significant numbers as well. Recent visitors include Barack Obama and his family during their Bali holidays. The Temple is close to Tampaksiring in the Gianyar Regency. The Presidential Palace is another significant landmark nearby.
Pura Beji Sangsit
It is the local farmers that reverse Dewi Sri. Pura Beji is typical of the architecture of Northern Bali. Locals use more decoration than those in southern districts. Estimates say that it dates from the 15th Century when Brahmins arrived from Java. Farmers attribute the fertility of their rice paddy fields to Dewi Sri. Whatever restoration work has been needed, it is done with care to maintain the original style.
There is plenty of intricate work in this temple and you should certainly see it on your Bali visit.
Ganesha Statue
Ganesh is a Hindu god, a human body with an elephant’s head. Statues of Ganesh are common throughout the Island. Ganesh is the God of Knowledge and Intellect. You will see such statues in markets, banks, government institutions and schools to name just some locations. Bali pictures of Ganesh are commonplace. Ganesh is the son of Shiva and Shaivism is the sect within Hinduism that locals follow.
Tanah Lot
When it comes to things to do in Bali, its natural beauty rightly takes a place. When you have a Bali holiday travel around because the archipelago has much to offer. Tanah Lot is an offshore rock formation with a temple. Bali images that tourists want should include this attraction 13 kilometres south of Tabanan. As you approach this scenic spot, souvenir shopkeepers are after your money. It is worth the walk past them to reach Tanah Lot. Who knows, you might want to spend some money as well?
A good base if you are staying in the south is the village of Canggu. Bali has several lovely beachside resorts.
Lake Batur
This volcanic crater lake 30 kilometres from Ubud is 2.5 kilometres long, almost 7.5 kilometres wide and 88 metres deep. Mount Batur is still an active volcano within the Pacific Ring of Fire. The nearby village of Toya Bungkah benefits from tourism because of the hot springs resulting from this volcanic activity.
Pura Ulun
This is the most important Shiva temple in Bali. Mountains near Bedugul feed Lake Bratan and its waters are essential for irrigating the surrounding land. That helps to guarantee its fertility. The layout is square with courtyards that are separated by low walls, each with ornate gates. While the inner courtyard is the most important for ceremonies, the middle one is where devotees leave offerings. It is regarded as the place where the human reaches the divine. The outer courtyard is purely secular.
Waterfalls
There is something magical about rushing water, especially when it cascades. These falls are at Lake Bakur and your Bali photos should include one of these falls.
Bali Swing
Bali is extremely popular with the backpack generation. One of the reasons is the chance to enjoy a number of activities. Some are the watersports around the coastline but others are in the interior. Hiking in the forests is certainly fun and lots of things can provide an adrenaline rush.
Diamond Beach
Seminyak Bali is a lovely beach but there are many great beaches. Head to the small island of Nusa Penida about 40 minutes from the main island and you will find this beautiful beach. It is never very busy because it is an hour’s drive after landing on Nusa Penida for a day trip from that main island. It is almost 4 miles long and strolling along the beach. You may see dolphins in the waves. Diamond Beach is a good spot for fishing and surfing.
Incidentally, there is another small offshore island worth a visit, Nusa Lembongan.
Cultural Nights
One of the real pleasures of travelling is to experience different cultures. In popular destinations, some traditional culture evenings show visitors things they may otherwise miss. Festivals are the time when local traditions come to the fore.
Bali Cuisine
Indonesian cuisine varies by region and Bali has its own favourites. Chinese and Indian cuisine both have an influence. Spices are commonly used and plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Main courses have meat or fresh fish. Local food stalls play a huge part in Bali lie, as do the local markets. Anyone interested in learning more can attend cookery classes during their Bali holiday.
Conclusion
Older generations can visit Bali because of regular flights into the Island. It was not something they were able to do when they were young. While some of Bali’s activities may be beyond them now, Bali’s general wonders are there for everyone to appreciate.