Bali: Journey into the mythical realm

This terraced rice field draws tourists eager to soak in the scenic landscape.

DESPITE proximity to the Muslim-majority Java Island, Bali has largely preserved its Hindu-Buddha traditions.

It is impossible to travel on this tourism hotspot without seeing pura (temple) dotting the roadsides.

History and geography have shaped much of the island's identity.

Unlike Java which fell under colonial rule much earlier, Bali had evaded Dutch control for a longer period.

Its northern part, which overlooks a major trade route, is lined with mountains, making it unsuitable for building ports and therefore less attractive to traders.

As a result, Bali had less exposure to external influences, allowing local culture to thrive.

I recently went on a three-night holiday in Ubud, a town roughly 37km from the Ngurah Rai International Airport.

Rich tradition

Melukat is a Hindu Balinese ritual to purify oneself.

Bali is nicknamed the “Island of a Thousand Temples” and few have become a tourist hotspot.

Among the most popular is Tirta Empul, located near Ubud, which features several public baths.

Dedicated to Vishnu, Hindu god of water, locals believe its water has purifying properties.

Tirta Empul is a temple dedicated to Vishnu, Hindu god of water.

Many visitors take part in melukat by bathing in the water, a symbol of purification in Balinese Hindu religion.

The temple opens daily, from 8am to 6pm. Entrance fee is IDR50,000. 

Visitors are required to wear a sarong and they can rent one here for IDR15,000.

Ancient volcanic activities gave rise to the Beratan lake.

Another must-visit is Ulun Danu Beratan, which is a famous water temple in Bedugul, about 45km from Ubud.

Located amid a scenic landscape, it features a lake formed from ancient volcanic activity.

The roads leading to the temple are dotted with stalls selling local fruits and strawberry is a common produce.

This cafe at Ulun Danu Beratan is perfect to enjoy a quick bite.

A small population of Muslims make their home in the locality, and a mosque can be found opposite the temple area.

Inside the temple area, visitors can find a garden and several cafes. There is also a boating service.

The temple area is open daily, 8am to 6pm.

Entrance fees are IDR75,000 (adults) and IDR50,000 (children).

A statue depicting a local woman in traditional wear at the lakeside temple.

One of many structures found at the hilltop temple.

Visitors may take photos with this owl named Bobo.

Many tourists enjoy a casual stroll at this garden inside the temple area.

Perhaps Bali’s most famous landmark, Tanah Lot is sited on a rock formation off the island’s southwest coast.

Numerous stalls line the entrance to the temple area, offering souvenirs and local crafts at discounted prices.

Spoilt for choice: Tanah Lot has many stalls selling souvenirs at discounted prices.

Seaside eateries at Tanah Lot are perfect for unwinding.

There are also a number of restaurants overlooking the ocean.

Many tourists come during during to enjoy a meal while soaking in the view.

Tanah Lot opens daily, 7am to 7pm.

Entrance fees are IDR75,000 (adults) and IDR40,000 (children).

Stunning seaside view is a major draw at Tanah Lot.

Going nuts over coconut!

Lush nature 

Before emerging as a tourist destination, agriculture was Bali’s economic backbone, rice farming being among the most common activities.

Historically, subak — local word for irrigation association — played crucial role in Bali’s social and economic structure.

Developed in the 9th century, it is a system to distribute water to paddy fields and typically operated by prominent members of a community.

The system, which is still in use today, was recognised as a World Heritage Site by Unesco in 2012.

Tourists can get on the zip line and swings for a better view of the paddy field.

To get a closer look, visit Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Ubud, which opens daily, from 6am to 7pm. 

Entrance fee is IDR25,000. 

For a small price, visitors may also get on the zip lines and have their photos taken at the swings.

This face on the cave is said to depict a demon. 

Nestled amid lush greenery is Goa Gajah, an ancient archaeological site near Ubud from the 9th century.

Greeting visitors is a cave carved with a menacing face, said to represent a demon or protective spirit.

The cave contains small shrines and a statue of Ganesha, the Hindu deity with an elephant head.

It opens daily from 8am to 5pm. Entrance fee is IDR50,000.

Goa Gajah is an ancient site from the 9th century.

Wearing sarong is a must when entering Goa Gajah.

Food haven

Me taking a closer look at the production process of kopi luwak.

Halal food can be hard to find but there are still plenty of places to eat and drink in Bali.

One of them is Satria Agrowisata, a privately-owned coffee plantation that offers visitors a chance to learn about kopi luwak (civet coffee) production.

A tour guide serving me sample coffees.

Visitors are given a free tour and may even take part in a demonstration on the coffee production.

They are also welcomed to sample various coffees for free.

There is also a shop where they can buy the coffee products.

Civet coffee makers have come under scrutiny by animal welfare groups in recent years over claims of animal exploitation.

Due to this, the plantation puts up a signboard informing tourists that its civets are regularly released.

It opens daily from 8am to 7pm. Entrance is free.

Ubud also hosts many restaurants and bars, some featuring live performances, perfect for unwinding.

Sample coffees served for me.

That's not a cat, that's a luwak!

Vibrant town

Ubud is a lively town with plenty of activities.

Ubud is a winding maze of shops, eateries and spas, which means there is no shortage of activities to do.

There are also many galleries featuring artworks and paintings.

Shops generally operate between 9am and 11pm, daily.

A performer keeping diners entertained at an Ubud bar.

Ubud is a great place to shop for artworks and paintings.

Avocado on toast. Healthy breakfast, eh?

Most tourists get around via Gojek and taxi.

However, Bali is notorious for traffic congestion so proper time management is advised.

A taxi ride to and from the airport is usually between IDR350,000 and IDR400,000 and takes about 90 minutes one way.

Before visiting Bali, check if the dates coincide with the Nyepi festival, during which Balinese observe the Day of Silence.

On this day, the island shuts down — flights halt, businesses close and visitors are required to stay indoors.

I am reachable at +6017-628 9812 (WhatsApp) and faridfreddy92@gmail.com

Check out my experience during the Resorts Worlds Cruises trip here!