The next city after Kuta and Legian, is considered an elite beach resort with a more relaxed atmosphere and fewer vacationers. More details in the article Seminyak
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Geography and landscape Bali is located 3 kilometers east of Java, and about 8 degrees south of the equator. The width of the island from east to west is about 153 km, the length from north to south is about 112 km. The total area is 5780 km², the population density is about 750 people / km². Most of the coast is bordered by a gentle seashore, with the exception of mangrove forest areas in the southeast and high cliffs part of the Bukit Peninsula. Beaches in the south are usually white and gray sand, in the north and west black sand prevails (but there are exceptions). The most popular southern beaches are not always clean, especially during the rainy season, when rivers flow into the sea, and the current throws a lot of plastic garbage on the coast. Bali is located in an area of high seismic activity with several active volcanoes. Most active volcanoes- Agung and Batur. The volcanic chain runs along the center of the island from west to east. This mountain range is surrounded by northern and southern plains. The southern plains produce most of the rice in Bali, with beautiful terraced rice fields dominating the region's landscape. The most high peak- Mount Agung (3031 m), it occupies importance in the Balinese religion and is considered the holiest place on the island. The products of volcanic activity have covered most of the island and contributed to the formation of fertile land, and the high mountain ranges on the western side receive a large amount of rainfall. In addition to rice, coffee, vegetables and fruits are also grown on the island, pigs and cattle are bred. The longest river is Ayung with a length of about 75 km. Bali has no major waterways, the Ho River is navigable by small sampan boats. Three small islands are in close proximity to the southeast: Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Cheningan. These islands are separated from Bali by the Badung Strait. Population The population of the island is 4,220,000 inhabitants, 85% of them profess the Balinese version of Hinduism. The system of social organization is similar to the Indian caste system and has four estates: Sudras are peasants, making up approximately 93% of the island's population; There is no fifth caste (untouchables), as in India, in Bali. The color of the castes correlates with the outerwear of the Balinese: black is worn by Shudras, yellow by Vaishyas, red by Kshatriyas and white by Brahmins. Inter-caste marriages are allowed, which allows the transition from one caste to another. To date, the traditions of the caste system are more preserved in religious rites. Differences in the economic functions of members of different castes are gradually being erased, the Balinese can achieve a higher status through education, economic success and authority in society. That is, the caste system on the island is not as strict as in India. The majority of the Balinese are peasants, but the structure is changing as tourism and associated souvenir production, trade and service industries develop. Peasants grow rice, spices, fruits, and raise livestock. Rice is the main agricultural crop of Bali. How to get there By plane Flights with one change These flights fly from Moscow to Bali with one transit landing. Most popular options: How to buy tickets The best option is to look for tickets on aggregator sites. These sites show ticket prices different airlines. That is, it will be possible to compare and choose the cheapest or most convenient ticket. Of these aggregate sites, AviaSales.ru (www.aviasales.ru) has the best reputation. You can view and purchase tickets on their website. The highest prices for air tickets in the peak tourist season - summer, New Year, Catholic Christmas. To save money, book tickets 3-4 months in advance. Bali airport Most tourists to Bali arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport (website www.baliairport.com), which is often referred to as Denpasar International Airport. Despite the misleading name, the airport is actually located in Tuban between Kuta and Jimbaran, about 13 km from Denpasar. Being the main point of access to Bali, it is the second busiest international airport in Indonesia after International Airport Sukarno-Hatta in Jakarta. The airport has 17 aircraft landing gates (gates): 14 in the international and 3 in the domestic terminal. The terminal for domestic flights is located in an old building, international terminal located in a modern L-shaped terminal. Buses from the airport run infrequently, we do not recommend using them. Combined train-bus option from Jakarta While in Jakarta, you can get to Bali by a combined train-bus option. For this you need: Step 1: By train from Jakarta to Subaray (Surabaya), then transfer to the train from Surabaya to Banyuwangi. Step 2: Railroad station Banyuwangi is 100 meters from Ketapang Ferry Terminal. Ferries depart from Ketapang every 20 minutes around the clock to Gilimanuk (Gilimanuk, a port town in the western part of Bali). The ferry crossing takes 30-45 minutes. Things to do Surfing. The best beaches for surfing are in the south and east of Bali. It offers vacationers training courses, equipment rental, trips to other places on the island, a package of services "accommodation and surfing." All surf operators are described in Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Medewi and Canggu articles. Diving mostly concentrated in the east of the island and Bali Barat National Park in the west. The sunken transport ship in Tulamben (20-30 meters from the coast), the reefs around Menjangan Island in the Bali Barat National Park are very popular. Almost half of the island's diving centers are located in Sanur. best season for diving from April to October. If interested, see Sanur, Padang Bai, Pemeturan, Chandidasa and Bali Barat National Park for more details. Rafting. Rafting in Bali is organized on two rivers: Ayung (Ayung) near Ubud and Telaga Waja (Telaga Waja) in the foothills of Mount Agung (a few kilometers north of Bangli). Tours are organized by several rafting companies, the most popular of which is Sobek (www.balisobek.com). Each rafting takes about 2 hours, covers a route of about 13 km. The best rafting is in the rainy season, during the dry season from June to September, the water level in the rivers drops significantly Bicycle trips. Many travel companies offer bike tours around Ubud and trips to the Kintamani mountain region to the volcano and Lake Batur. From the slopes of Mount Batur, the participants of the tour begin the descent on bicycles in the direction of Ubud. More details in the Ubud article. In addition to Ubud, interesting bike tours are offered by Bali Rides in Sanur, GP Bali Tour in Kuta, Infinity Mountainbiking in Canggu. Elephant rides. Elephant rides are offered at Bali Elephant Camp near Ubud. They also organize elephant rides combined with Ayung river rafting, visits to Tanah Lot Temple, Ubud Royal Palace and other excursions. Details in the Ubud article. Overcoming obstacles between trees at a height of 2 to 20 meters. Seven Obstacle Options from Bali Treetop Adventure Park (www.balitreetop.com) at Bedugul Botanical Garden. The 72 obstacles include suspension bridges, spider nets, bungee ropes, flying swings and so on. More details in the article Bedugul. Hiking. Introductory walks through the rice terraces and the countryside are offered by several companies in Ubud and Tabanan. The wildlife world can be seen on the trails of Bali Barat National Park. In the Bali Barat National Park you can see the rarest Bali starling - the only bird that lives in natural conditions only on the island of Bali. Bedugul Botanical Garden(www.kebunrayabali.com) is near beautiful lake Bro and the temple of Ulun Danu. The garden contains all the plants of Bali. It has more than 1100 species of plants, there is a cactus garden, an orchid park, bamboo forest. More details in the article Bedugul. Horseback riding. Bali Horse Adventure (www.balihorseadventure.com) and Bali Equestrian Center ( www.baliequestriancentre.com) organize horseback riding lessons for adults and children and several tour options. They are all located in Canggu. Mangrove Information Center(Mangrove Information Centre) occupies 600 hectares of territory and attracts people with a special interest in nature. All walks on boardwalks, the opportunity to watch dozens of bird species. The information center is located near Sanur. Dancing. Dancing in Bali is an integral part of religious ceremonies and processions. With the development of tourism, Balinese dances began to be shown to foreign tourists. Recommends watching a performance of Balinese dance groups in Ubud. water parks. Waterbom Bali (http://waterbom-bali.com) and Circus Waterpark Bali (www.circuswaterpark.com) are located 1.5 km apart near Kuta. Standard for water parks slides, slides, artificial waves, rivers and so on. Spa centers. The best spa centers of the island are located in the southern beach resorts. They offer standard spa treatments: massages, aromatherapy, body scrubs with essential oils, foot reflexology, detoxification, etc. Many good and inexpensive spa centers are located in Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Sanur and Ubud. Yoga. Bali yoga studios are briefly described in the articles Ubud, Lovina, Sanur, Canggu. Temples Bali The word "pura" in Balinese means a Hindu temple. The Pura are predominantly concentrated on the island of Bali, where Hinduism is the dominant religion on the island. But many of these temples operate in other regions of Indonesia, where a significant number of Balinese live. Due to the large number of temples (about 20,000), Bali is often referred to as the "Island of a Thousand Puras". More details in the article Temples Bali Religion Unlike the Muslim majority in Indonesia, 83.5% of the population of Bali practice the Balinese version of Hinduism. Other religious minorities are represented by Islamic (13.3%), Christian (1.7%), and Buddhist (0.5%) communities. Hinduism came to the island in the first centuries of ours. When Islam became the dominant religion in Java (16th century), Bali became a refuge for many Hindus. Although the vast majority of the island's population is Hindu, the variety of religion practiced here is unparalleled in the world. Balinese Hinduism deviated from the mainstream more than 500 years ago, and today is quite different from India. The Balinese religion has an extensive pantheon of gods. The supreme deity of the Balinese religion is Sang Hyang Tunggal (“the first god”), also called Tintya. All other deities are only His incarnations. For example, Brahma (creator), Vishnu (keeper of balance) and Shiva (destroyer) are not 3 different gods, but three faces of the One God. Religion in the life of the Balinese plays a dominant role, everything else is secondary. Life for them revolves around the temple and, along with family values, are the most important factors that determine their lifestyle. Balinese Hinduism combines elements of Indian Hinduism and the animistic traditions of the indigenous people of the island. The Balinese believe that the gods are present in everything. A stone, wood, dagger, or cloth can be a potential habitat for spirits, and their energy can be directed for good or for evil. The Balinese have no doubt that various deities are watching them constantly and therefore try to live a righteous life. Every morning begins with a small donation to the gods, a canang sari. Leaving donations, the Balinese ask for good luck in everyday affairs and thank you in advance for the day not yet lived. Even evil spirits become kinder if they are "feeded with donations" in time. To maintain harmony in their own soul and world, they cajole good and evil spirits, making no difference between them. Offerings are found everywhere: in temples, every house, on the streets, shops, cars. The religion of Bali is famous for its rituals and ceremonies, the purpose of which is to achieve harmony between the world of people and the world of the gods. culture Bali is an island of Hindu religion and culture in the most populous Muslim country in the world. Bali is famous for painting, sculpture, gamelan music and dancing. Painting, sculpture, music were traditionally the lot of men, and women directed all their creative energy for generous donations to the gods. During the days of religious festivals, colorful pyramids of flowers, fruits and other offerings are presented with such love and reverence that they can only be sacrificed for higher beings. But Balinese art does not exclusively cater to religion. More details in the article Culture Bali Bali crafts and what to buy Balinese cuisine Festivals Being in Bali, one cannot help but pay attention to the numerous processions and religious rites to which the Balinese dedicate their entire lives. The inhabitants of the island celebrate many holidays, the most important of which are listed below. Odalan or "Birthday" of the temple. Throughout the year, each temple in Bali celebrates odalan (odalan) - a holiday on the occasion of the anniversary of the founding of the temple and "settlement of it by the gods." These festivals last from a few days to a week, the longer the odalan lasts the more impressive the festivities. The temples are beautifully decorated with flowers, palm leaves and curved bamboo poles set around. Women in colorful robes carry donations to the temple, where they are blessed by priests to the sound of silver bells. After the donation, the solemn part of the festival begins: sellers sell snacks, wayang theater actors and barong dancers enliven the picture of fun and give it a festive atmosphere. The birthday of Bali's holiest temple, Pura Besakih (eka dasa rudra), is celebrated once every hundred years. The last time it was celebrated was in 1979. Melasti(Melasti). Three days before the Balinese New Year, Melasti is celebrated - a festival of purification and expulsion of evil spirits. From early morning, white-clad Balinese rush to rivers, lakes and beaches. They carry ceremonial umbrellas, donations, sacred statues. This is how the purification ritual begins: believers pray, priests bless the water and wash the brought statues, songs and the ringing of ritual bells are heard everywhere. For three days, carnival processions and other festive events take place on the streets. On the third day of the festival at noon, parades of "hoo-hoo" demons begin. Made of papier-mâché and Styrofoam, huge monsters parade through the main streets of towns and villages, accompanied by local musicians, drawing crowds of curious tourists and locals. All these processions are accompanied by the roar of fireworks, the sounds of drums, the beating of frying pans and pots, the screams of participants and passers-by. Thus, with the help of noise and shouting, evil spirits are driven out. Find out in advance on which square or street the solemn procession will take place in order to fully feel the flavor of this holiday. Once again, this procession begins at noon one day before the celebration of Nyepi - the Balinese New Year. Nyepi(Nyepi). Every spring, at the beginning of the New Lunar Year (at the end of March or beginning of April), Nyepi is celebrated - New Year according to the Hindu Saka calendar, when the whole island is immersed in silence. On the day of the celebration of Nyepi, absolutely everything on the island is closed from 6 am to 6 am the next day. Pious Balinese believe that on this day evil spirits appear on the island. In order for them not to stop here, the Balinese adhere to absolute silence. Evil spirits believe that the island is uninhabited and leave it. Therefore, the day of silence on the island is not allowed to light a fire and turn on the light, work, leave the houses, travel and have fun. Although Nyepi is primarily a Hindu holiday, non-Hindu residents of the island are also required to observe the Day of Silence out of respect for their fellow citizens. Even tourists observe it; yes, they can do whatever they want in their hotels, but no one is allowed to stay on the beaches or the streets, everyone seaports and Bali's only airport remains closed for 24 hours. The only exceptions to the rule would be fire services, ambulances, and volunteer law enforcement officers who patrol the streets and enforce the above rules. Since the exact date of the Nyepi celebration is clarified at the end of each year, flights can be booked as usual. When a holiday date is set and you have booked a ticket on that day, the airline will change the departure date accordingly. Galungan(Galungan) - a holiday in honor of the creator of the universe. The festival symbolizes the victory of the forces of good (dharma) over the destructive forces of evil (adharma). An important festival for Balinese Hindus, the festival lasts 10 days and ends with another holiday called Kuningan. Galungan is considered an important family holiday, all relatives try to get together and spend holidays together, visit their friends and neighbors. According to tradition, the gods visit Bali during Galungan celebrations. By their arrival, penjors (penjor) are placed near each house - high bamboo poles with a curved top, decorated with ribbons of palm leaves and rice stalks. Galungan celebration always starts on a Wednesday. On this day, they do not work all over the island, they hold ceremonies, make donations in every family temple. Galungan is celebrated twice a year approximately every six months. The Galungan celebration dates are listed below: December 17 - December 27, 2014 Non-religious holidays and festivals Bull racing. Bull races are held in Bali from July to October. Competitors drive a team of two bulls harnessed to wooden carts. Whose team reaches the finish line first, he becomes the winner. More details in Medevi's article. Rice Harvest End Festival celebrated throughout Bali from May 1 to June 30. Festival visitors are invited to participate in the festivities and taste the dishes local cuisine prepared in honor of Devi Sri, the goddess of rice, fertility, prosperity and good luck. On this holiday, the peasants give thanks to Devi Shri for the bountiful harvest of rice. Small sculptures made of rice straw are installed in all fields and villages. Indonesia Independence Day August 17 is celebrated as the day when the country achieved independence from the Dutch. Weather and best time to visit Bali is located very close to the equator, the pleasant tropical climate attracts millions of tourists to the island. average temperature all year round is about +30 °С, humidity is about 85%. But the central mountainous region of the island tends to be cooler and rainier than the southern coastal regions. At night, the temperature in the highlands can drop to +15 °C. The rainy season usually lasts from October to March, the dry season is from April to September. But rain is likely in the dry season, or vice versa, sunny weather in the rainy season. The two seasons are not distinct and not entirely predictable. Even during the rainy season, the Bukit peninsula receives significantly less rainfall compared to any other place on the island. Even during the dry season in the western mountainous regions of Agung and Kintamani, frequent rain and thunderstorms are possible. During the dry season (April-September) Bali takes the largest number tourists. The peak tourist season falls on Catholic Christmas, New Year, July and August. Lots of Australians visit for a while school holidays in early April, late June and late September, many Indonesian tourists visit the island during national holidays. Helpful information When visiting temples and meeting with locals, always adhere to the established local traditions and norms of behavior. To do this, use the following tips Be humble. The Balinese are much more conservative than most European tourists. They condemn when young girls and boys hug and kiss, especially near Balinese temples. Cloth. When visiting a Balinese temple, the shoulders and upper arms must be covered with clothing. Before entering a Balinese temple, men and women should: Wear a sarong to cover your legs; Usually, the sarong and sash are loaned out for a small fee at the entrance to most temples. It is advisable to buy them on the market from the first days of your stay on the island and not overpay "businessmen". Don't stretch out your left hand to touch something or convey something. This precaution is mainly related to hygiene. The Balinese do not traditionally use toilet paper. Instead of paper, they are washed with water, while wielding with their left hand. That is, the left hand is considered unclean and therefore it is impossible to touch other people or, moreover, to transmit something. The exception is when using both hands to pass something is considered respectful. Don't use your index finger to call someone. If you need to get attention, wave the palm of your hand. Don't touch the Balinese's head with your hands. The soul is supposed to be in the head, so people should not disturb it with their hands. Even the heads of Balinese children cannot be touched with hands. Don't step on donations(canang sari) on the street. Every morning, the Balinese leave small baskets with donations on the streets of the island's towns and villages. Stepping on a kanang sari is considered offensive to any Balinese. Do not interfere with religious processions. Religious processions in Bali take place quite often. If you are driving behind a religious procession on a narrow road, do not honk or call attention to yourself. In no case should you go ahead of the praying Balinese. Video about Bali |
Bali is a tropical island located in the Malay Archipelago. This piece of paradise is known for its unique beaches, beautiful nature and amazing climate. This region Indonesia is visited annually by a huge number of tourists from all over the world. Here you can sunbathe in plenty under the sun, go surfing, and watch the sea inhabitants with the help of scuba gear. The text of the article contains all relevant information about geographical location, the best beaches, natural conditions, attractions and other features of the island.
Geographic reference
Bali is part of Indonesia, the world's largest archipelago. Its shores are washed by the Indian Ocean and the sea of the same name. In the immediate vicinity is the island of Java, on which the city of Jakarta (the administrative center of the state) is located. The total area is approximately 5800 square kilometers. It also hosts the unique Wallace Line, which separates the two natural areas. Thus, in Bali it is really possible to see representatives of the flora and fauna of the tropics and Australia.
The mountain range is considered a zone of increased volcanic activity. The most high point- This is an active volcano Agung, its height is more than three thousand meters. The highlands divide the island into two different parts. In the north, the climate is drier, locals grow coffee in this region. The south, in turn, is characterized by a large number of rivers.
Beaches
Bali has the best beaches, which are popular among many tourists. The most popular of them are:
Kuta
This place attracts young people from different countries peace. After all, it is here that during the day it is best to surf enough, there is a special offer for beginners, you can use the services of a professional surfer instructor and visit one of the many noisy clubs at night. In the evenings, young boys and girls gather near the shore, the party continues around the clock. If you want to visit Kutu Beach, then feel free to go to the city of the same name on the southwest coast.
In the south of the island are very beautiful beaches. It is located on the Bukit Peninsula, it is really possible to get to your destination with the help of a car. Taxi at the airport in Kuta will take you to the ocean in just 10 minutes! This place is made for peace and quiet. family vacation, here you will find a large number of five-star hotels. The beach area is fenced off from the rest of the island. Only hotel guests can bask in the sun and lie on a sunbed.
Jimbaran
This beach is ideal for travelers with children. There are rarely high waves. The size of the beach is very large, the five-kilometer zone begins in close proximity to the airport. Numerous fish restaurants are popular among tourists. Jimbran is located in the southwestern part of the island, a 15-minute drive from the city of Kuta.
Lovina
The northern part of Bali is not attractive for tourists. The sand on the coast here is black, as it is of volcanic origin. Small resorts are suitable for those people who want to get away from the bustle of the city. It is in the village of Lovina that it is really possible not only to swim and soak up the beach, but also to plunge into the local culture. In this region you will not find noisy nightclubs or overcrowded shopping centers. Nevertheless, anyone can go to the open sea on a boat to watch the dolphins. The road from the nearest airport by car will take more than 2 hours.
Weather
This place is very popular among tourists, as it is good to relax at any time of the year. Comfortable weather conditions are due to the equatorial monsoon climate. There is a lot of rainfall in Bali between November and March. The good news is that it rains mostly at night.
Note! During the rainy season there are problems with transport. Reschedule your travel date if you decide to travel around the island on your own.
The air temperature is pleasant, the weather is warm even at night. Mercury columns most often freeze at around +27 ° C. The water in the ocean rarely cools down to +25 °C. If you plan to make a hike with tents uphill, take a sweater with you. The nights are quite cold in the highlands.
Attractions
This religious complex is the largest on the entire island. 22 separate temples have been erected in honor of the Hindu Gods, tourists are happy to photograph the exquisite sculptures of Brahma, Shiva, and Vishnu. The three-kilometer ensemble was erected in the eleventh century AD. At the moment, not only ordinary excursions for tourists are held here daily, but also colorful authentic ceremonies.
This Hindu temple is famous for its location on the water. It is possible to get to the sanctuary by land only at low tide. Distance to nearest big city(Denpasar) - about 20 kilometers. Important! Only believers can climb a small staircase and enter the temple, ordinary tourists entry is prohibited.
The largest is popular place for many tourists. The height of the peak is 3142 meters. Hiking up the mountain is very popular, although you can get beautiful photos near the foot of the volcano. In August 2017, the last eruption of Agun occurred, which caused the evacuation of travelers and indigenous people of the region. Some international flights were also canceled due to volcanic dust. Gunung Batur is another volcano in Bali, which is no less popular among tourists. It is slightly lower, the exact height is 1717 meters above sea level.
Popular establishments
In Bali, you will not have time to be bored. There is a great restaurant in Pecatu Single Fin . Any visitor will be able to watch the sunset overlooking the sea. If you are relaxing in Kuta, then be sure to go to skygarden . Entrance to the club costs less than 10 dollars, inside the institution you will find a free buffet and an amazing show program. Also in this city is the largest water park in Indonesia - "Waterbom Bali". Shopping is best done at the Beachwalk Shopping Center. Buyer is available wide choose clothing from the best global and local brands.
Recreation features
It is possible to relax here quite cheaply. You can book a room in a budget hotel and only take free tours. If we talk about specific numbers, then it’s really possible to dine for only 300 rubles. In Kutu City, a budget hotel room costs $15 per night. In relation to other resorts, Bali is not very expensive place. Prices here are the same as in other regions of Indonesia.
The largest airport Ngurah Rai is located two kilometers from the nearest city of Kuta. Among the locals, a popular form of transport called bemo. Small minibuses operate regular flights to different parts of the island. It is also possible to rent a car here.
The services of guides and tour guides are popular on the island. You can easily visit the following sightseeing tours:
- Tour of three temples.
- Bottom walks.
- Motocross for beginners.
- Elephant safari.
- Travel on a yacht.
- Road through the mystical north of Bali.
The island compares favorably with other resorts in Indonesia, as here every traveler is guaranteed comfortable living conditions. Amazing temples, beautiful nature and excellent beaches are concentrated in one region. Both couples with a child and active youth will be able to have a good rest.
If you have any problems, please contact the Russian Embassy located on the neighboring island of Java, the building is located in the city of Jakarta at the address: Rasuna Said, quarter X-7.(in English. 12940, Jakarta, H.R. Rasuna Said, Kav. X-7, 1-2)
Exact number: +62-21-52-229-12.
The police phone is 110,
Ambulance - 118,
fire department - 113.
There is also a special tourist police. To contact representatives of law enforcement agencies, just call +6375 3.
Note! The honorary consul of the Russian Federation works on the island of Bali. The office can be found at Perumahan Bali Kencana Resort II, Block Merpati No. 10, Ungasan. Phone: (+62) 851 0079 1560.
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It is difficult to find a person who has not heard that in this place you can relax like a king. Everyone has heard about Bali, where it is - only a few know. Today we will try to fill in the gaps in knowledge and tell you more about this fabulous island.
magic island
So Bali is an island. What country is it? We hasten to answer that it is part of Indonesia and is located on the conditional border of Asia and Australia. paradise The planet is washed by two oceans - Indian and Pacific, and its closest neighbors are Java and Lombok.
Bali (the emphasis is on the first syllable, not the second) is an amazingly beautiful place. The island itself stretches for a hundred kilometers, and the coastal zone is covered with picturesque lagoons with clear water, beaches with golden sand. And all this luxury is surrounded by emerald tropical placers.
"Isle of the Gods" and its attractions
Absolutely unique place- Bali. What country is this, we have already figured it out. Now let's talk about what awaits travelers who have ascended this blessed land. There are a lot of attractions here: this and natural beauty, and man-made. At every step you can see traditional temples, sacred buildings, statues. Residential buildings are located on the narrow streets, and wide rice terraces stretch beyond the boundaries of the cities. But there are places that are worth seeing. Here is a short list of them:
- Tanah Lot Temple is the most popular attraction in Bali, which tourists do not miss. The only pity is that onlookers are not allowed inside, after all, this is a sacred place.
- Pura Besakih is the largest temple complex on the island. You freeze in amazement, looking at a number of buildings erected in the same style. You can't do without a guide: each building has its own purpose and features, its own entertaining history.
- Denpasar is the island capital, the main pride of which is the markets. On the richest counters you can buy everything that you can think of. And at the same time, observe the life of local residents.
- Lovina is a small group of villages located in the northern part of the island. It is worth coming here for the sake of relaxing on the beaches of volcanic origin, calm seas and fun walks with dolphins. From Lovina it is convenient to get to the waterfalls and temples of Singaraja. Also, the prices here are pretty reasonable.
Of course, the temple of the kingdom of Mengwi, the temple of Ulun Danu on a picturesque lake, the volcano Batur with a botanical garden in the crater are worthy of the attention of tourists.
Entertainment for different tastes
Bali is Asia, with its inherent mystery, luxury and penchant for mysticism. And here you can feel the passion for a healthy lifestyle, for self-improvement. But here they know how to have fun. Once on the Indonesian island, be sure to look at Balinese dances. These are real theatrical performances dedicated to the eternal truths of life, the struggle between good and evil, epic scenes. Colorful costumes, dynamic movements and rhythmic music captivate both adults and children.
What else is interesting in Bali? This is what country, we figured out, so we can assume that the underwater world here is very diverse and attractive. And indeed, diving fans will be rewarded for the decision to recover in the depths of the sea. Surfers will not be bored either. And on the coast there are nightclubs and discos where music is constantly playing.
Kitchen
Bali is what country? That's right, Indonesia! This means that the cuisine here is special, having absorbed the features of India and Malaysia, and other parts of Asia. Seafood is popular on the island, but they are quite expensive here. But fruit abundance is available to absolutely everyone. From the usual pineapple, banana, mango, passion fruit, guava, papaya to completely exotic rambutan, longan, pitahaya, mangosteen, durian, sauce. A popular dish on the island is rice seasoned with a complex composition of spices.
Choosing a resort
So, we decided: we will spend our next vacation in Bali. Where it is, we have already told. Now let's make a small review of local resorts.
Kuta is the nightlife capital of the "island of the gods". The abundance of bars, clubs and discos will please the most demanding party-goers. You can simultaneously dance until you drop, visiting one institution after another, and watch the surfers on the beach. True, lovers of peace and quiet will not like it here, as it is always crowded and noisy here. Be careful: zealous merchants will try to sell you various goods, including prohibited ones. And the death penalty in the country threatens even for the possession of certain substances.
Seminyak is another popular area in Bali. True, it is chosen by wealthier travelers. Elite social events, fashion shows, star rendezvous are held here.
Nusa Dua is a quiet and peaceful area where best hotels with a worldwide reputation. Also here you can choose a beach with access to Pacific Ocean or to Indian.
It is interesting to spend a vacation in the Ubud area. Well, don't be here gorgeous beaches, but this is a place with an abundance of rice terraces and artisan workshops. It is here that you should buy souvenirs made of precious metals and stones, ivory, wood.
The calm ones include Changu and Sanur. They are ideal for families, couples with children and the elderly. And yes, the prices are very reasonable. Surfers should choose Kuta or Canggu, Dream Land, Uluwatu, Padang-Padang. And lovers of spa treatments would like to recommend Seminyak, Nusa Dua or Ubud.
housing issue
We continue the story of Bali. Where it is, the reader already knows for sure. But what about housing on the island? I would like to reassure travelers that this is all right. Where is the best place to stay in Bali? It all depends on the thickness of your wallet and personal preferences. To get started, select a part of the island and the resort area, and only then decide on the hotel. It should be noted that establishments with different levels of stardom are a dime a dozen here. Each hotel can offer a choice of rooms of different categories and first-class service. You can settle in the private sector, having discussed the price in advance.
Homestay housing is popular on the island, that is, living in the same house with the host family. But this phrase is also called renting a house on their territory, since the Balinese often build several buildings in their yard: one for themselves, the rest for guests. This type of housing is more economical than renting hotel room, but inferior to him in comfort. Hospitable islanders also offer tourists to stay in private villas (especially beneficial for large companies), colorful bungalows with a romantic setting.
Now you just have to choose a part of Bali (you already know where it is), pack your bags and board the plane. Have a nice trip!
There are dozens of beaches in Bali. Some of them are popular, others are considered "secret", that is, little known among tourists. There are almost no "Paradise" beaches. Fans of lying in a sun lounger with a cocktail in their hands, occasionally going into the calm expanse of the ocean, will have a hard time.
One of the most popular is the beach - a youth party resort in Bali. This is a real mecca for surfers. Constant waves, lack of corals at the bottom and developed infrastructure have turned Kuta Beach into the most densely populated holiday destination on the island. After Kuta, Seminyak Beach begins and. Everything here is almost the same as at the neighboring beach, but more “respectably”. The waves are constant, but not so strong. You can rent a sun lounger, an umbrella and have a bite to eat in local cafes. Those who do not consider themselves surfers and come to Bali for relaxation should pay attention to the beach at. The ocean is much calmer here. Ebb and flow are not noticeable. The beach is covered with pure white sand. Beginner surfers and just lovers of swimming live here. Another calm beach of the island is Sanur. White sand, crystal blue water, no waves throughout the year... What else do you need for a lazy holiday and good diving?
Hotels
There are a lot of hotels in Bali. These are well-known world chains, and democratic guesthouses with amenities on the floor. And given that many people come to Bali to live, renting villas and bungalows is common on the island. Having settled for a month or more in a real Balinese house, you can feel the life of the island, plunge into the colorful and unique life of the local population. The cost of bungalows and villas on the island is small, especially such housing is beneficial for companies of 4 or more people.
Most of all in Bali hotels with 4 and 5 stars. As a rule, these are low-rise (it is forbidden by law to build buildings higher than palm trees), neat residential buildings with a garden and a swimming pool. The service here is good, the staff is polite and helpful. Tipping is not accepted. At the same time, Bali has one of the highest hotel fees in the world - 21%. It is either already included in the price of the room, or paid by tourists separately. This question should be clarified immediately when booking a hotel.
Attractions
Tanah Lot temple is often depicted on postcards from Bali. Its name translates as "Earth and Sea", and it is located right on a sheer cliff. It is believed that one priest built the temple in the 15th century, who lived here alone, and sensing that the place was sacred, ordered to build a temple here. The place is very exotic and atmospheric.
Besakih Temple is another favorite place for tourists. For the Balinese, this is the holy of holies. The temple is located on the most revered Mount Agung, the abode of all the gods. They pray on the mountain and even lie down to sleep only with their heads to it. Besakih Temple is called the mother of all temples on the island. It is also the largest religious complex in Bali. Here you can see how the sacred rituals and rituals of offering to the gods take place. When you get here, you understand how devout the Balinese are and how much their faith means to them.
In the Bedugul area is the magnificent Bali Botanical Garden. A place that captivates with its beauty. There are often fogs here, and huge strawberry plantations surround the garden. On the 57 and a half hectares of the slope of Mount Pokhon, there are about 650 species of trees, 400 species of orchids, 104 species of cacti, as well as bamboo, roses and much more. There are about two thousand different plants in total. If you are going on a tour to Bali with children, add the botanical garden to your list of must-see places. Toddlers can run barefoot here while parents relax on the grass watching the wedding ceremonies of Balinese couples.
The water palaces of Ujung and Tirta Ganga are some of the most beautiful structures on the island. They were built by the last Raja of Bali - Karangasem, using Dutch architects. It turned out not only beautiful, but also useful. The palace complexes serve as an irrigation basin for the surrounding fields. Arriving here, you will see magnificent ensembles of water labyrinths, fountains and palace structures of extraordinary architecture.
The village of Butulan is worth a trip to see how they create the same stone statues that are found everywhere in Bali. Images of gods and ordinary people guard houses and temples, greet you at the entrance to shops and beaches. All of them come from Butulan - the center of stone carving. Artisans work tirelessly here, creating more and more new mythological characters. Any statue can be bought.
To see how rice grows in Bali, you need to go to the Ubud area. Here are the famous Tegallalang rice terraces. Rice will grow very quickly, in 3 months, so the view of the local scenery is constantly changing. First, the undulating terraces on the slopes of the hills are filled with water, then green shoots break out of the water. Soon the plantations become all emerald, and when it's time for harvest, the fields take on a golden hue. Interestingly, even after harvesting rice, there is something to see on the terraces. The Balinese bring domestic ducks here to peck at the remains of the grains. The spectacle is very curious.
Kitchen
Bali has a peculiar cuisine, but almost all tourists like it. The dishes are not spicy, as in Thailand, while the Balinese also use a lot of seasonings. The famous combination of 8 spices is in use: coriander, cumin, cloves, white and black pepper, nutmeg, candle fruit and sesame. All dishes are based on rice and, unlike other provinces of Indonesia where Islam is practiced, pork is eaten in Bali.
To get acquainted with the Balinese national cuisine, we advise you to try the famous dish "Babi Guling". This is a suckling pig, which is marinated in herbs for a long time, and then roasted on a spit for several hours. Meat is served with vegetables and sauce. Tip: if you decide to try "baby gooling", go to a cafe before lunch. Pigs are cooked in the morning, and after they run out, cafes (varungs) are closed.
One more National dish Bali - betutu. It takes at least 24 hours to prepare. Chicken or duck is marinated, then fried and stewed with spices. The most delicate betuta is served with rice and a special sauce made from coconut oil, onion and chili pepper.
For dessert, you can try martabak. Simply put, it is a thick pancake stuffed with chocolate, bananas and nuts. It is most pleasant to enjoy a dish, washing it down with traditional hot tea or coffee.
Souvenirs
There are a lot of masters in Bali. They pass on their crafts from generation to generation, doing a certain thing in entire villages and even cities. Going to the villages of Mas and Kemenukh, you will find a huge number of wood carving workshops. The Balinese make figurines and furniture out of wood. Moreover, it is so skillfully that having bought a wooden souvenir as a keepsake, you will admire the talent of the master for a long time to come.
The small village of Cheluk in Bali is famous for the production of jewelry. It is called the silver heart of the island. Here they create silver products in a unique national style. Those who wish are also shown the process of making rings and earrings. Jewelry in Bali is of very good quality, but at the same time they are inexpensive.
An excellent souvenir will be batik, which is skillfully created in the city of Gianyar. There are as many as 40 fabric factories here. Craftswomen apply drawings on cotton fabric with special paint. Patterns of Balinese batik are recognizable: usually they are colored national ornaments, as well as mythological characters and gods.
It is also customary to bring healthy food from Bali. Spirulina algae, goji berries, chia seeds and black rice - all this abounds on the island. Superfood is inexpensive, so it is quite possible to buy for yourself and as a gift. You can complete your shopping in Bali with organic cosmetics, buying natural oils, soaps, Ayurvedic creams and shampoos, as well as toothpastes and much more. It is based on natural ingredients that have been used in Bali for hundreds of years: honey, cinnamon, ginger, sandalwood, jasmine and aloe. Cunning merchants assure that all miracle jars are charged for longevity and prosperity.
Distant Indonesia is considered the world's largest archipelago state. It consists of almost 18 thousand islands of various sizes, and only a third of them will welcome travelers, because the rest are completely uninhabited.
In Indonesia, located far from civilization, megacities peacefully coexist with tiny villages, and the green jungle and active volcanoes, unusually clear water and stunning beaches have long attracted tourists from all over the globe.
Heaven on earth
The island of Bali, the most popular and visited, seems to have embodied the dream of every person about heaven on earth. Ideal resort and a real center of all kinds of entertainment has long been considered one of the best places to relax. An amazing combination of picturesque nature, original culture, mysterious historical monuments attracts tourists to enjoy the unique landscapes.
Fantastically beautiful (Indonesia), detailed information about which will help all travelers who are going to visit a picturesque place for the first time, is a long-developed tourist area.
Located south of the equator, it is recognized as the most beautiful place in the world. The "Island of the Gods", always flooded with sunlight, welcomes tourists all year round.
Where is Bali located: a map of Indonesia
The symbol of Indonesia, located between Australia and India, is washed (from the north) and Indian Ocean(from South). An evergreen natural masterpiece, formed as a result of volcanic activity, is adjacent to two islands of a huge archipelago - Java and Lombok.
A tourist pearl with Hindu traditions and rituals, which stands out against the backdrop of Muslim Indonesia, surprises with a memorable fairy-tale atmosphere.
The capital of Bali: what is the name? Jakarta and Denpasar
In the south of the tropical island is the cultural and political center - the city of Denpasar, which has been the capital since 1958 and is an incredible mix of European, Chinese and Javanese culture. Unfortunately, it does not belong to the most popular tourist spots.
Perhaps that is why it is often confused with the capital of Indonesia - the most densely populated city South-East Asia. Located a few kilometers from the exotic Bali, the capital Jakarta, which many mistakenly consider the administrative center of the popular resort, is located on the neighboring island of Java. The largest with a population of ten million is officially a province with the status of a capital.
So, cozy and small Denpasar is the center of Bali. The capital of which country is the city of Jakarta, we figured it out, and now there will be no confusion.
Modern airport
Denpasar is a lively city that is listed as of little tourist interest in many guidebooks. However, it is not. And I want to tell you more about the friendly administrative center of the "island of a thousand temples."
Where does the trip to a wonderful place begin, where the capital Ngurah Rai is located, located 13 kilometers from Denpasar, meets all the foreigners who have arrived. It is known for a very developed infrastructure, because the tourist flow to the pearl of Indonesia depends on this. Harbour Air bears the name of the national Indonesian hero who died in the struggle for the independence of the country.
The airport, through the terminals of which more than six million people pass annually, has expanded several times, increasing the length of the runways.
City underestimated by tourists
The capital of Bali is the most Big city islands underestimated by travelers. For local residents, this place evokes special memories of the events that took place in 1906, when the Dutch captured the city.
In order not to be captured, the supreme ruler, his entire family and even servants committed suicide, and now Denpasar is a real cult place for all Balinese who remember their history. A monument has been erected on the main square of Puputan, which commemorates this tragic event and personifies the rebelliousness of the ancestors to the conquerors.
It's amazing that Small town has no clear boundaries, and sometimes tourists do not understand where the capital of Bali begins and ends.
Organization of an attractive route for tourists
The city administration, concerned about the unattractiveness of Denpasar for tourists, began work on organizing a new route that could open up all the unknown sights of the capital. Main city The green island has chic hotels and inexpensive hostels that allow travelers of any income to relax.
Tourists who spend most of their holidays on snow-white beaches, unfortunately, are not interested in the historical and cultural monuments of Denpasar. Many luxurious royal palaces, which not only foreigners, but also Indonesians would like to see, are privately owned, and negotiations are still underway with their owners to this day.
Problems of an original city
In translation, the name of the capital means “near the market”, and it perfectly reflects the realities original city. Only here there is a huge number of large and not so markets, souvenir shops and shopping centers offering a wide variety of goods, from jewelry to cars and building materials.
The capital of the island of Bali, despite the beginning active development, while remaining a provincial town that lacks parking spaces, and tourist buses can't drive through its narrow streets. In addition, the lack of sidewalks jeopardizes safe movement from one attraction to another, so the administration recommends using mopeds or cars.
The bustling city with chaotic traffic is only trying to take a leading position among the tourist spots, but even now it boasts unusual sights.
Museum of Bali
At the previously mentioned Puputan Square - the historical center of the capital - there is an interesting Bali Museum, built by the Dutch so that not a single relic is stolen or forgotten. Consisting of four pavilions reflecting national architecture, it demonstrates ancient artifacts to visitors, telling about ancient history and culture of the colorful island.
Here you can admire the beauty of the funerary sarcophagi, learn a lot about religious rites and see the unique collections of antiquities that the capital of Bali is famous for. Indonesia is proud of historical rarities that tell about the life of the indigenous population and are of great interest not only for tourists, but also for local residents who honor traditions and remember the difficult history of their native island.
Temple complexes
Adjacent to the museum complex main temple capital - Jagatnata - erected in 1953. In a building made of white coral, open to the public for the visit of representatives of all religious denominations, memorable ceremonies dedicated to the main god of the island are held. In the architecture of the temple, visible from afar, the builders used mythological images from the Ramayana, and the state building itself rests on a giant sculpture of a turtle, reflecting the religious beliefs of the islanders.
The Maospahit temple, whose name comes from the name of a powerful Balinese deity, did not reach the descendants in its original form due to an earthquake that occurred at the beginning of the last century. Built of red brick, the religious building is the oldest historical monument of its kind. For the remainder ancient temple you can admire from the outside, because it is closed to visitors.
Church of Saint Joseph
Good-natured Balinese, respectful of other religions, helped build a Catholic church. The complex, built near Denpasar, belongs to the parish of St. Joseph. The external decoration of the beautiful building is covered with palm branches, and angels hovering in the air froze above the powerful door of the temple.
Cultural capital of Bali
Speaking of the heart of the picturesque island, one cannot fail to mention Ubud - a serene city famous for its concentration of art museums and art galleries. The main abode of creative people is ideal for those who seek solitude and dream of combining a relaxing holiday with the study of cultural attractions.
Located far from the ocean and called the cultural capital, it is of no interest to all adherents of a beach holiday. People come here to take a break from noisy megacities in order to feel unity with amazing nature Bali.
Treatment of body and soul
Famous for wellness treatments cultural capital Bali not only restores the body, but also heals the soul. Energy practices are held here, for the sake of visiting which thousands of those in need rush here. Yoga, meditation, tantric systems of self-improvement create a special atmosphere that calms the mind.
People come to Ubud for treatment to local healers - healers. Predicting fate along the lines on the hand and working with the human body, getting rid of diseases at the energy level, they affect the chakras and aura. Everyone who has been abandoned by traditional medicine, and those who are curious about such practices, come to them.
nature reserve
It is impossible to be in Ubud and not visit the Monkey Sanctuary. Adults and children rush to Monkey Forest to feed playful monkeys in a natural environment, without cages. More than three hundred well-feeling monkeys live in a spacious forest with centuries-old trees, which are not always friendly to visitors.
On a walk, you need to be attentive to things, because mischievous wild animals love to snatch handbags and cameras from visitors at an opportunity.
City heritage
Friendly and hospitable city Denpasar is waiting for curious tourists who will not be indifferent to local attractions. The capital of Bali is distinguished by excellent service with low prices for services, unique cuisine, equipped beaches located near the hotels.
The legacy of a city with a difficult fate deserves to be known to as many tourists as possible.
