a lot that you can do in bali

A LOT YOU CAN DO IN BALI ISLAND

1. Wacth The Traditional Dance

  

2. Surfing 

 

3. Watch Sunset

  

4. Going to Beach

  

5. Stay Calm

    

6. Going to Homestay

 

7. Golf

  

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UBUD,GIANYAR BALI

        PARADISE IN UBUD BALI

1. Watch your own jewellery being made: John Hardy Workshop and Showroom

Have you always wanted to watch your own jewellery being crafted in front of your very eyes?

You can do so at the John Hardy workshop, where local artisans conceive and create the pieces of traditional luxury jewelry for you.

Take the opportunity to explore the organic farm and visit Kapal Bambu – a majestic bamboo structure in the middle of race paddy fields – where you’ll be able to see and purchase from beautiful displays of handcrafted jewelry.

Photo via: John Hardy

You’re even welcome to join the John Hardy team for a delicious, traditional Balinese lunch served under the shade of a Banyan tree and prepared by their five-star chef.

2. Witness a bird invasion: Petulu

When the sun sets every day, thousands of herons from all over Bali fly to the village of Petulu, creating a beautiful vision of white for those who are there to witness it.

The birds are believed to be the guardians that watch over the villagers and protect them from harm.

Photo via: Terrace at Kuta, Flickr by Ken

It’s certainly a sight to behold – during the peak period (around 5pm – 6pm), up to 20,000 herons can be seen roosting in the trees of Petulu, watching the people from above.

Best place to watch? To the south of the village there’s a look-out point ideal for bird watching. Next to the road, you’ll see a sign that reads “the best place to see the herons”.

And here’s where it points to – a small wooden house in the middle of a rice-field owned by an old lady selling cold drinks. So at the right time, you can see the flocks of herons arrive.

The best part – you just need to sit back and enjoy the whole phenomenon with a drink in hand.

Photos via Greener Bali

Petulu

3. Hug a honey bear: Pod Chocolate Factory and Cafe

Yes, honey bears are predators and it sounds crazy to want to hug them, but this impossible feat is actually possible at the Pod Chocolate Factory and Cafe.

Photo via: Karma Resorts Blog by Silke, Pod Chocolate Bali

The factory was set up by Australian Toby Garritt, in pursuit of the way to create the best chocolate in the world. He’s slowly but surely approaching his goal, considering the raving reviews that his chocolates have received.

If you visit the factory, located within an elephant camp, you’ll be brought on a tour detailing how cocoa beans are harvested, and later made into chocolate. If you want to, you can even try making your own chocolate!

Photo via: Jakarta Jive

And yes, you get to hug one of the three honey bears that live on the premises after being rescued from hunters. No, you won’t lose your head, and it only costs US$10.

4. Ride the river and visit a village! – Bali Adventure Rafting

The mighty Ayung River is the lifesource of Bali – and for most, getting up close and personal with this spectacular river is truly unforgettable

Keep a lookout for wildlife and spectacular waterfalls whilst drifting through the untouched Balinese rainforest. It’s like travelling through a long lost world with monkeys playing in the trees and thousands of different birdsongs.

Photo via: Di Raymond

If you love an adrenaline rush, then the 45 rapids of the Ayung will be more than enough to keep you entertained.

Photo via: Morning Bali Tour

No need to be nervous at taking on this challenge.  You will receive a full health and safety brief, helmets and life jackets; the brilliant guides will also be with you for the whole trip.

After 9.6km of exciting rafting, you will end the approximately 2 hour journey with hot showers, clean towels and changing rooms. After that, look forward to a hearty gourmet buffet at Bali Adventure Rafting’s private restaurant overlooking majestic mountains and gloriously serene paddy fields.

Excited yet? Bring along your waterproof camera case and get set to have a splashing good time!

5. Dive into the infamous waterfall – Tegenungan waterfall

Among all the dazzlingly refreshing retreats found in Bali, Tegenungan waterfall is one of our absolute favourites. The rich green surroundings and perfectly flowing fresh water will make a pretty sight for all.

Photo via: Eco Turizm

Situated on a plane landscape and measured at only 15 meters high, some adventurous hearted ones will jump into the waterfall in order to get an experience of a lifetime! (it could be very dangerous though, do not attempt!)

Photo via: The Bali Bible

And if you want more, there is even a temple nearby for curious visitors, and a bathing spot for you to relax the day away.

Photo via: Visit Bali Tour

Tegenungan Waterfall

6. Dive (and dine) into Ubud’s very own rabbit hole – Maha Restaurant

As much as we can’t get enough of cat and dog cafes, how about a rabbit cafe for a change?

Dining at Maha Restaurant will leave you feeling a little like Alice in Wonderland – bringing you up close and personal with the cutest bunnies you will ever see.

Photo via: mattmagoo1

Especially if you have kids who are tired of walking around Ubud, bringing them to Maha Restaurant will be a great refresher for them, as they get to pet the bunnies and interact with them.

Photo via: Maha Ubud

Order coffee, pancakes, crepes, juice, or even an espresso martini (we hear they have fantastic cocktails!) and get set for one of the many lovely afternoons to be had in Ubud.

Photo via: Darren Pearson

Watch the Maha rabbits hop around, do bunny binkies (google it) and nibble away as you steal a restful moment from your packed itinerary of plans – your kids will thank you for it.

Maha Restaurant

7. Dine with a luscious view of paddy fields – Sari Organik and Cafe Pomegranate

Rice is a staple part of Indonesian diets so you can’t miss the opportunity to see where it comes from.

You don’t need any Instagram filters for these photos – the lush emerald fields are the brightest green that you will ever see.

There are so many great restaurants with rice field views but our favourites are Sari Organik and Cafe Pomegranate, both are in Ubud.

Sari Organik is a fast growing warung owned by a family who are dedicated to growing, using and selling organic produce. A 15-minute walk from the road through the coconut groves and along the rice fields means that by the time you arrive at the restaurant, you are ready for a hearty meal.

Grab a table on the terrace and watch the spectacular greenery around you. If you are lucky, you will even see people at work in the fields – this is Bali at its most authentic.

Photo via: ciciliaothe

Sari Organik prides itself on catering for everyone. Meat eaters, vegetarians and vegans will each find plenty on the menu. Dairy or gluten intolerance? No problem, just let the friendly staff know.

Photo via: Flying Fourchette

Try the dairy-free pizza, it’s fresh, healthy and supremely delicious! Even cheese lovers will be converted.

Another option, Cafe Pomegranate is an equally great open sided restaurant owned by two Japanese brothers. One has taken control of the architecture and design, whilst the other arranged the menu and service. We’ve got to say, both have done amazing jobs!

The restaurant is essentially a billowing fabric pagoda on a raised terrace off the beaten track in Ubud. Panoramic 360-degree views of the paddy fields will overwhelm your senses as you relax in the breeze and take in the view.

Photo via: Michael Evans

The vibe of Cafe Pomegranate is funky and chilled – once the sun sets, the music starts and a great night of food and fun begins.

Whether you are a couple looking for a romantic meal or a group looking for a party, Cafe Pomegranate is perfect for any occasion.

Sari Organik,Cafe Pomegranate

8. Take an Eco Tour – The Green Village

Yes we know – all the villages in Bali are green with all those rice fields and tropical vegetation, but this one is super special.

The Green Village was designed in 2006 by jewellery designer Tom Hardy, and later finished by his daughter. The result? A collection of bespoke, luxury bamboo homes all seamlessly integrated into the Ayung Valley nature.

Can you imagine a spectacular mansion made from only bamboo? You have to see it to believe it.

Take a tour of the village to learn more about this amazing eco project. Visit the bamboo factory and see bamboo being harvested, treated and crafted into building materials and furniture.

Photo via: Green Village

The Green School is where you can turn your hand to model workshops, building and joinery classes, and so much more.

Got green fingers and would love to find out more gardening tips and tricks? Stop by the Kul Kul farm to learn the art of permaculture and sustainable farming.

Photo via: Green Village

If you are blown away by what the village has to offer, you can always look at staying in one of the beautiful houses. They are all available to rent for the week so you can wake up in the village every morning.

Green Village

9. Dine with a river view – Swept Away Samaya and Riverside Cafe Four Seasons

Want a view of the flowing river as you dine? These two restaurants are as close as you can possibly get to the mighty Ayung River without getting your feet wet.

The relaxed wooden terrace at Swept Away is just inches from the river – a perfect way to pass the afternoon. Be refreshed by the cool river breeze as you enjoy a light lunch and delicious cocktail.

Once the sun sets, Swept Away transforms into a dreamlike, twinkling stage with 100 flickering candles illuminating the river. Be hypnotised by the inky water snaking along the valley and listen to the wildlife settling in for the night in the surrounding forest.

Swept Away evening dining is perfect for a romantic meal or even to pop the big question!

The Riverside Cafe is in equally close proximity to the river’s edge and boasts a beautiful open air poolside terrace. The tantalising smells from the wood-burning pizza oven drifts along the valley, and will have you eager and ready for a good meal.

Photo via: Four Seasons Ubud

Get refreshed with food from the light, healthy lunch menu as the river flows alongside you. And if you fancy lunch with a heartier view, then head upstairs to the Ayung Terrace which overlooks the valley.

Photo via: Samaya Ubud

In the evening, Riverside Cafe boasts an impressive Mediterranean Bistro style menu with a great selection of Australian beef and lamb from the grill, and beautifully crafted salads.

Photo via: Four Seasons Ubud

A separate Indonesian menu available also allows you to sample some local delicacies. Make sure to try a variety of homemade sambal, and the sambal Hijau (green chilli)!

Swept Away at The Samaya

Riverside Cafe at The Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan

10. Stay in a rustic Joglo and shower under the stars – Bambu Indah

A stunning variety of themed antique teak homes set in the tropical gardens of the resort, are available for your picking at Bambu Indah.

Photo via: bambuindah

One of our favourites, is the Udang House (shrimp house). It has a glass floor that allows you to see straight into the shrimp pond below, and a semi-outdoor bathroom that allows you to shower under the stars. (Just pretend you are under a waterfall!)

Photo via: Sarahcatelli, Shecooksshegardens

Bambu Indah is sympathetic to the environment and avoids anything harmful to the local wildlife. For example, the water from the natural swimming pool is filtered through a vegetation regeneration zone and layers of lava rock. The result? A sparkling, clean, refreshing pool with no nasty chemicals.

Photo via: bambuindah

Be the King of the jungle with the Tarzan rope swing before plunging into a refreshing natural pool. This rope swing ensures hours of fun – and some awesome action shots!

Photo via: sarahcatelli

You can even climb up to a tree house in the compound that overlooks the valley!

Finish off a fantastic day watching the sun set from the Africa deck – life doesn’t get much better than this!

Photo via: bambuindah

An eco retreat no longer means insect-infested huts with no water or basic furnishings. Thanks to Bambu Indah, being green now means guilt-free luxury.

Bambu Indah

11. Visit the rice terraces and watch the rice grow – Tegallalang Rice Terraces

The one vital thing that Ubud is most well-known for is its stunning and famed rice terraces! Make sure to follow the locals off-road into the paddy fields and be blown away by the fabulous view.

Remember not to rush and just weave your way through the fields in the afternoon sun. Instead, watch the happy locals busy harvesting their crops and get the trueblue local experience of Ubud.

Photo via: Adria Ruiz

These serene and relaxing rice fields are surely going to have a super calming effect on your mood, and make you forget all your worries in an instant.

If you’re wondering which particular rice terrace you should visit – the best we’ve found are the Tegallalang rice terraces north of Ubud’s city center. This exquisite terrace is located precisely on the hill bank, with a breathtaking valley panorama and coconut trees ornamenting the surroundings.

Getting there:

Tegallalang Rice Terraces

12. Leave with a jewelry souvenir and learn to make it too! – Studio Perak

Owned by Pak Ketut, this locally run jewelry business boasts the making of stunning, contemporary art pieces inspired by nature.

Photo via: An Epic Education

Constituting of silver as well as semi precious stones, you can be sure that these Balinese treasures are as fine as they get!

Photo via: Asia Web Direct

In addition to selecting a piece for you to take home from Ubud, this unique technique of Balinese Silversmithing is also generously passed on to all willing customers/students.

So relax and learn a new skill in an inspiring environment with the friendly professionals of Studio Perak.

Studio Perak

13. Go on the Romantic Campuhan Ridge Walk

The Campuhan Ridge Walk is an unusually romantic short trek that will take you through rice fields, past quaint Indonesian huts and beautifully designed villas.

Photo via: Comohotels

It is best to get a head start early in the morning (preferably before the sun rises) to prevent the scorching sun from ruining this experience.

Photo via: flyingfourchette

Butterflies will accompany you on the leisurely 2-3km stroll, and you’ll be able to take a pit stop on your way back at Karsa Kafe. Make sure to stay sufficiently hydrated and drink up before you make your way back out.

Campuhan Ridge Walk

14. Visit a temple in traditional Balinese attire – Ubud Water Palace, Saraswati temple

Regardless of one’s religious status, the ancient places of worship that Ubud has to offer must not be missed. Trivia: The infamous Saraswati temple was constructed in honor of the Hindu goddess of learning, literature and art!

Photo via: Jordanarranfry

In addition to a beautiful lotus pond and water garden, this holy place boasts the presence of intricate, fine carvings, devil masks and magnanimous statues to tickle your inner divinity.

Additional entertainment include regular dance performances at night and rows of painters setting easels throughout the temple in the day. You may even opt to dress up and get pictured as a traditional Balinese in order to create memories to last your lifetime.

Ubud Water Palace, Saraswati temple

Address: Jalan Raya. Kajeng, Ubud Kab, Gianyar, Bali

15. Become a yogi and take up an ecstatic dance class – Yoga Barn

Opting for a yoga retreat is the key to ease all your nerves and to refresh and rejuvenate yourself for the journey ahead. Ubud is characterised as one of the top 10 meditation retreat havens in the world.

The spiritual atmosphere, healthy cafes and surrounding rice fields gives Ubud’s yoga centers such as Yoga Barn an intensely good feel to live in.

Photo via: Kaity Widmyer, Marigorelikova, Courtenay

This artistically crafted studio captures the essence of the island. Dedicated to healing and renewal, Yoga Barn offers daily classes, workshops as well as access to your personal meditation style – one that particularly matches your personality and fitness goals.

Photo via: Moving To Bali

Yoga Barn

16. Drink up on the Best Coffee Bali has to offer – Seniman Coffee Studio

For coffee fanatics or otherwise, trying Bali’s special coffee brew is a definite experience no one should miss. You definitely have to plan a trip to one of the many coffee farms!

Watch as friendly locals show you the coffee roasting process, crushing of beans; and finally, brewing in water with additional herbs in order to provide you with a great cup of Kopi, herbal ginger tea, coffee ginseng, coconut coffee and more.

Photo via: Alicia Kartika, Andiinii, Elegwance

However, visiting a coffee studio like Seniman Coffee Studio is the next best thing in the town of Ubud – if you wish to grab a cup of amazing Balinese coffee (specifically flat white), when short on time.

Seniman Coffee Studio

Address: Jalan Sriwedari No. 5, Ubud, Bali

17. Attend an organic gardening course – Har’s Garden

Har’s Garden situated just north of Ubud is the best organic produce plot that Bali has to offer.

This farm is owned by a duo of brothers, is unique in not only offering customised courses related to raw vegetables. It also allows visitors to pick/harvest their own crop for a much more natural and familiar experience.

Photo via: Pds E Blog, Micko69

The wide assortment of glorious juicy veggies available at Har’s Garden include everything from leafy greens and tomatoes to eggplant, pepper mint as well as various other herbs.

The added bonus is the decadent recipes of raw foods that are graciously provided by the host to everyone!

Har’s Garden

Address: Jalan Sri Wedari, Tegallantang, Ubud

18. Get Happy and Enlightened – Eat, Pray, Love

Elizabeth Gilbert put Bali on the map and gave everyone that warm fuzzy feeling with her bestseller ‘Eat, pray, love’. After eating her way through Italy and seeking the divine spirit in India, it was in Bali that Elizabeth found love (although we think Bali is also perfect for eating and praying too).

We can’t promise you a whirlwind romance with a Brazilian businessman (read the book!) but you too can enjoy all the other highlights of her trip.

Feel the wind in your hair and sun on your face as you ride a bicycle through the paddy fields of Ubud – just like Julia Roberts in the film version of Eat, Pray, Love.

Photo via: terraceatkuta

Visit Ketut Lier, the same local medicine man that Elizabeth Gilbert spent many happy and enlightening hours with. Why not get a reading and see what your future holds, just for the fun of it!

Photo via: terraceatkuta

The best way to enjoy all of these things is with the Eat, Pray, Love package at the beautiful Kamandalu hotel in Ubud. The package includes a bike tour, visit to Ketut Liyer, a romantic meal for two and discount spa treatments in this luxury hotel with spectacular views.