What is the first thing that popped in your mind when you hear the word “Bali”? Most people will say beach. Indeed Bali has beautiful beaches that stretch along the island. There are not only the white sandy beaches, but also the black ones. But do you know that Bali is more then only beach?
The island of Bali has many hidden gems spread throughout the island. Rice terraces, forest, volcano, lakes, rivers, caves, canyons. You name it and Bali has got it. The good thing is most of those places are still less exposed by many tourists. You still can enjoy the stream of the river between lush green canyons while you do rafting. And if you are lucky, you can see one or two apes hanging on the trees.
Wandering through the non-touristy places in Bali is one of my favorite activities during the weekend. I usually go with a scooter for faster and easier way to travel around this island. Walk the scenic path on the hill in Ubud, enjoy the view from atop of the hill overlooking to the sea in Karangasem, find a hidden waterfall with its blue lagoon, hike Mount Batur at sunrise time, trekking in an uphill village overlooking to the lake. There is some much to do and see. The list is endless.
Rice terraces
Bali is famous for its authentic rice terraces called Subak. Subak is the water management (irrigation) system for paddy fields on Bali Island, which was developed in the 9th century. For the Balinese, irrigation is not only providing water for the plant roots, but the water is also used to construct a complex, pulsed artificial ecosystem. The famous rice terrace in Bali can be found in Tegalalang, Keliki, and Jatiluwih as a UNESCO World Heritage. Make sure you stop by those places to see how Balinese combine art and irrigation systems.
Climb a mountain
Are you an adventure seeker like me? Try to climb the volcano in Bali. Mount Batur is an option for those who want to witness a stunning sunrise above the clouds, but don’t want to hike too long. It only requires about 2 hours to reach the top of Mount Batur on 1.717 meters height above sea level. And prepare yourself for the golden sun rising slowly behind the clouds. You also can spot Mount Rinjani in Lombok at the far east. Want to try the higher level of hiking? Then you should hike Mount Agung, the highest one in Bali with a height of 3.031 meters. These volcanoes aren’t only for hikers with strong legs. For people who just want to enjoy the volcano from a far, there’re restaurants that offer lunch with the view of this majesty volcano.
Waterfalls and lakes
Where there’s a volcano, there must be a waterfall. And it’s true. Bali has a lot of waterfalls to offer. From the highest one in the midst of forest, to the one situated in the centre of rural villages. Both are worth to visit. And let the cool breeze indulge you while you enjoy the sound of water hitting the lagoon underneath.
Talking about lakes, Bali has some lakes surrounded with a beautiful view. The most famous ones are Lake Batur and Lake Bedugul. Each has their own beauty to capture. While the more secluded one, Lake Tamblingan, lies side by side with Lake Buyan in the midst of Munduk green hills.
I’m sure by now you can’t wait to come to Bali and explore its secret gems, hidden in the middle of untouched nature. Then you need to pack your bag and come to Bali!
Helemaal zin gekregen in een reis naar Bali en wil je meer off the beaten track Indonesië tips krijgen van Evy? Bekijk onze Java & Bali rondreizen en Sumatra & Sulawesi rondreizen of mail Evy direct je vragen.
