Located between Java and Nusa Tenggara, Bali is known for its volcanic lakes, spectacular rice terraces, tropical beaches, and ancient temples. At these 10 must-see spots, attendees can enjoy the amazing sights, traditional music and dance performances of the colorful Balinese culture.
1. Ubud
An artist hangout since the 1930s, this town is the center of Balinese paintings. Don’t miss the exhibits at the Purl Lukisan museum. For a more intimate look at the life of an artiste, arrange a home visit to one of the many home studios here.
2. Nusa Dua
On the Southern tip of Bali is Nusa Dua, a five-star resort area on the Bukit Peninsula. Attendees looking for some R&R will enjoy the luxurious hotels, white sandy beaches and clear waters.
3. Batubulan
Watch artists at work on sandstone sculptures of divinities and demons in one of the many local workshops. The carved stone figures can also be seen on the side of the road as you drive northeast from Denpasar to the village of Batubulan.
4. Kuta
Although the attacks in 2002 put a damper on the festivities in this beach destination, it’s still considered to the island’s best surfing spot. Traditional Balinese music and dance performances are also available most nights.
5. Tanah Lot
Watch the sun set at one of the most impressive sea temples in Bali. Built atop a huge rock by a monk in the 16th century, this temple pays homage to the guardian spirits of the sea. Poisonous sea snakes found at the base of the rocky island are believed to guard the temple from evil spirits and intruders. At high tide, the temple is surrounded by the sea—it looks like it’s floating on water.
6. Gianyar
Once the capital of one of Bali's most powerful kingdoms, the town is now known for its textiles. Guests can tour the factories and stock up on traditional Balinese weaving, called ikat.
7. Pura Besakih
Built between the 14th and the 17th centuries, this is the largest and holiest Balinese temple complex. The “Mother Temple of Bali” consists of 22 separate structures and is perched on the slopes of Mount Agung.
8. Terraced rice paddies
Rain or shine, the endless terraced rice paddies are not to be missed. Charge up your digital cameras because once you start taking photos of what looks like giant green steps straight out of a fairy tale, it will be hard to stop. The paddies between Candidasa and Amlapura are especially scenic.
9. Pura Kehen
In the Bangli area is Bali’s second-largest temple. Built on terraces and set under a big banyan tree, the temple has three courtyards connected by steps.
10. Gunung Batur
This active volcano is revered by the Balinese as the second-holiest mountain on the island after Gunung Agung. It symbolises the female element while Mount Agung represents the male. As a little team-building exercise, tell attendees a sacrifice is mandatory here and give them 30 minutes to decide as a group who it’s going to be.
