Sculptures from 9th century at Goa Gajah
Elephant cave, built in the 9th century, is an archaeological complex, consisting of a cave, relics and ancient bathing pools carved out of rocks with stunning sculptures. The bathing pool is believed to have healing properties. The entrance to the cave is carved, shaped like a demon’s mouth. As you enter the dark, narrow passage, the cave ends in an intersection. At the left passage you will see a statue of Ganesh, the Hindu deity reminiscent of an elephant, and the right passage holds a small worship area honoring the Hindu God “Shiva”. The complex is surrounded by beautiful rice fields and gardens.
Take a walk to Sari Organic
The walking path is very exciting as you will see the beautiful view of rice fields with many ducks and also some art galleries on the sidewalk, where local carvers and painters create and sell their art work. After 20 minutes walk from the main road, you will reach an organic restaurant, which is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the view of the rice fields while having a delicious organic meal. Across the restaurant you can visit a farm where you can have a peek on how the farmers grow their organic products. A must see when you are in Ubud area.
Buyan and Tamblingan, the Twin Lakes
Buyan and Tamblingan Lake are often considered as “sisters” by many visitors due to both lakes being side by side. The lakes are surrounded by rainforest and offers stunning nature and vegetation scenery. The air surrounding the area is cold and misty because it is located in the mountain area. You can simply enjoy the stunning view of both lakes from the top of the hill which is actually a viewing point for the site. At this hill you will find a countryside where locals run their agricultural activities.
Buddhist Monastery
The temple complex is located on top of a hill overviewing the beach and surrounded by stunning natural scenery of plantations. The complex consist of 5 important sites. At the west area, you will see a big building with a statue of Buddha at the center. At the east there is a room for giving lecture. At the north west corner there is a giant bell-like building made of concrete with reliefs carved on its walls, and at this corner you will also see a big tree decorated with reliefs where some visitors usually do meditation. Inside the complex there are also buildings which are home stays for monks.
Bedugul town
Bedugul is a town with few attractions. Have a picnic at the park, take a walk at the lakeside, try delicious strawberries from local farms. At the park you can also try activities such as flying fox and tree top that. It is also fun to visit the lake where you can enjoy various water recreation activities, such as canoeing with traditional boats, going on duck-shaped water cycles or motor boats around the lake.
Taman Ayun, ‘Garden Temple in the Water
Temple with a unique style of Balinese architecture, surrounded by large fish ponds and beautiful gardens. The complex is divided into four levels. The first level is the courtyard across the fish pond, behind the gate of the complex. At the second level, you will find small shrines and a second gate which is entrance to the third level with a small temple. The fourth level is considered the most sacred area, consisting of the most important shrines with many statues and other ceremonial equipments. This area is only accessible during ceremonies.
Waterfall at Gitgit
The waterfall is around 60 meters high. To reach the waterfall, you need to walk down some stairs. The distance is around 500 meters from the parking lot to the waterfall. After walking halfway, the scene changes and you will see coffee and clove trees
Kuta Beach, the popular beach in Bali
Kuta Beach is the most famous beach in Bali, great for surfing spot because of its high waves. The atmosphere at Kuta Beach is very lively and it is crowded most of the time particularly during peak season. However during the evening the beach becomes a very nice place to relax, enjoy the sea breeze and have a drink at the beach bar. During day time, there are locals who offer massaging, tattooing and sell snacks at the beach. Kuta Beach is also great for sunbathing, sunset viewing or just walking along the beach. PRACTICAL INFO: Despite the high waves, the beach is quite safe for swimming
Go for a horse ride at Canggu beach
You can go on a horse ride for around 2 hours along the beach and through rice fields at Canggu area. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner, because you will be assisted by friendly guides who will keep you safe during your ride. You will also be given safety information before starting your ride. The horses are healthy, looked after and very well trained. PRACTICAL INFO: There are a few stables at the area, but basically they offer the same services. You may ask your guide for recommendations when choosing a stable.
Pura Ulun Danu Batur
Impressive temple with surrounding view of Batur Volcano and Lake Batur. The temple was originally built by the lake but was moved up to higher grounds after the volcanic eruption that destroyed the original temple, however you can still see the beautiful surrounding scenery from the opening behind the temple. Ulun Danu Batur temple consists of 9 temples containing 285 shrines including 5 main courtyards. Inside the temple you can see statues painted in bright colors and the sculptures and carvings on the shrines.
