What are the Must-Do Activities to experience Bali’s Culture, Adventure, and Relaxation in 10 Days? 

Bali is a unique destination in Indonesia with tropical seascapes, natural beauty, ancient temples, and a rich culture and traditions centred around Hinduism. It is not unusual for discerning global visitors to seek escape at Bali’s idyllic beaches, embrace green spaces or consider cultural or adventurous escapades during their visit. Here are a few outstanding experiences that you, as a valued visitor, can enjoy on a 10-day visit.

Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Ubud is considered the greenest part of Bali. It is the region that offers attractions with oodles of green experiences. Visitors can look forward to exploring places like lush forests, ridge walks and rice terraces in which they can feel close to nature in serene surroundings. It is not surprising that most visitors opt for Ubud Bali villas for their stay in Bali.

One of the most sought-after green attractions in Ubud is Tegalalang Rice Terraces, a picturesque set of rice paddies using the subak irrigation system managed by the local farmers. The emerald terraces are a welcoming oasis offering a mesmerizing effect to visitors. The cooler breeze at their elevation is quite soothing, the area is free from large crowds, hence they offer a combination of total relaxation and blissful disconnect to visitors.

Campuhan Ridge Walk

One of the most scenic walking paths in Ubud, Bali, this 1.2-mile-long paved path starts at Jalan Campuhan close to the heart of Ubud and takes you along a ridge above the Campuhan River. It is a serene walk, although it also meanders past some villages and a lush jungle. Encounter locals out jogging and farmers tending to their fields when you walk along the trail in the early hours of the morning. Many picturesque spots you pass on the way compel you to pause and admire them, and even capture images. Visitors with moderate fitness can complete this walk in under two hours.

To be within proximity to all these experiences in Ubud, Bali, most visitors opt for the likes of Anantara Ubud Bali Villas.

Image via Anantara Ubud Bali Villas

Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking

One of the most dramatic destinations in Bali is Mount Batur. At 5,600 feet, it contains the largest crater lake in Bali. This adventurous hike passes through scenic villages, and the climb is worth it when you reach the top. Enjoy the best mountain view and the incredible mist-shrouded vista of sunrise you would ever see. It is no mean feat waking up early to hike up for 2 hours to watch the sunrise, but the experience will be a memorable one.

Ubud Monkey Forest

While monkeys do roam free in this area, the Monkey Forest is not a wildlife sanctuary, but a holy place for devotees visiting the three Hindu Temples within this forest. 

Tall nutmeg and banyan trees offer welcome shade to visitors, and the staff are alert to make sure the visitors are safe from the mischievous monkeys. As long as you don’t have food visible to them, you can explore the complex safely.

Sukawati Art Market

Sukawati is a less crowded market, ideal to pick up souvenirs and to have a glimpse into the local culture. Spend a few relaxing hours browsing through the array of local art and crafts, such as wooden sculptures of Hindu deities, carved figurines, framed paintings, woven textiles, accessories, tote bags, kitchenware, and more and if you pick up things as mementoes or as gifts this market is a great place to interact with the local vendors and try your haggling skills for a win-win outcome.

Tirta Empul

Tirta Empul, meaning Holy Spring, is an ancient sacred water temple dating back over 1000 years. It encompasses numerous shrines, courtyards, gates and purification pools used by Balinese Hindus to cleanse themselves under waterspouts.
Visitors can enter the temple by paying a fee, but must be clad in a sarong. They can also take part in the rituals of the temple by bringing an additional set of clothing and ideally with a local guide. This is a rare spiritual and cultural ritual that one does not see often.

Soar high on a Swing

Capture a memorable image of your visit to Bali, combining it with a daring swing on the famous Swing Heaven. Located in the jungle, this locally owned and operated swing is an attraction for many visitors. On this enormous swing, you can soar high, spotting the Ayung River looking so tiny.  There are two other types of swings one can try, Cretya Swing and Love Bali.