Bali

Indonesia, Asia

Bali is a STATE in Indonesia, Asia.

Bali, the Island of Gods, captivates with its emerald rice terraces cascading down volcanic slopes, ancient cliffside temples draped in mist, and beaches ranging from white-sand party shores to black-sand surf breaks. In Ubud, spiritual heartland, you’ll find yoga shalas, monkey forests, and vibrant markets tucked among lush river gorges. South coast hotspots like Seminyak and Canggu buzz with world-class dining, beach clubs, and a thriving digital nomad scene, while the Bukit Peninsula delivers legendary waves at Uluwatu and Padang Padang. Venture inland to misty Bedugul highlands, serene lakeside temples, and the UNESCO-listed Jatiluwih rice terraces. Dive or snorkel coral gardens off Menjangan, Amed, or Nusa Penida, where manta rays glide through crystal currents. Balinese Hinduism infuses daily life with ornate offerings, hypnotic gamelan, and elaborate ceremonies. Savour bebek betutu (slow-cooked duck), sate lilit, and fresh tropical fruits. From opulent cliffside villas to humble family-run guest houses, Bali layers luxury, wellness, adventure, and profound culture into one irresistible island.

Best time to visit Bali

The dry season (April–October) offers sunny days, lower humidity, and comfortable sea breezes – ideal for beaches, diving, and outdoor exploration. For the best balance of good weather and manageable crowds, aim for May, June, or September. Peak tourist months July–August and Christmas/New Year bring thick crowds, premium prices, and packed temples. The rainy season (November–March) brings downpours, steamy humidity, and choppy seas, but also lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and great deals – though some rural roads may flood. Avoid Nyepi (Balinese New Year, usually March) unless you want total island-wide silence for 24 hours.

October

Now

Right now

Condition
Overcast
Temperature
24°
Feels like
28°
Humidity
87%
Wind
6 km/h
Precipitation
0 mm

Typical for October

Weather
Warm 27-33°C, occasional showers

Travel notes

Crowds
Moderate
Prices
Shoulder

Transitional month; still great for diving.

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

DPS

Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar)

International

8 km away

Getting around

"Scooter rental (IDR 60-100k/day) is the most flexible option, but requires an International Driver’s Permit and helmet. For short trips, ride-hailing apps Gojek and Grab offer cheap car and motorbike rides; they’re banned from some resort areas, so pre-book airport transfers or use official Blue Bird metered taxis. Private drivers (full day ~IDR 500-650k) are excellent for temple-hopping. Tourist shuttle buses connect Ubud, Kuta, Canggu, and other hubs. There are no trains on Bali; walking is pleasant in villages but along busy roads pavements are scarce. Always negotiate non-metered taxis beforehand."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in cafés, hotels, and co-working spaces

Local SIM

Local SIM (Telkomsel, XL) from $2 at airport or shops

Stay safe

Overall

7/10

Traffic accidents common; watch for bag-snatchers on motorbikes and use official money changers.

Night safety

6/10

Traffic accidents common; watch for bag-snatchers on motorbikes and use official money changers.

Transport

5/10

Scam risk

5/10

"Bali is generally safe, but petty crime like bag-snatching (often from motorbikes) occurs, especially in crowded areas. Secure valuables, use hotel safes, and avoid flashing jewellery. Traffic accidents are the biggest risk – if riding a scooter, wear a helmet, carry an international driving permit, and drive defensively on chaotic roads. At night, stick to well-lit areas and pre-booked transport. ATM skimming and money-changer scams exist; use official money changers with clear signage. Ocean currents, especially on Bukit beaches, can be deadly – respect red flags and local advice. Monkey forests (Ubud, Uluwatu) are fun but monkeys snatch sunglasses and phones. Natural hazards: earthquakes and volcanic activity (Mount Agung) occur; follow official alerts."

Entry and health

Health information

"Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to sealed bottled water and avoid ice in street-side stalls. Bali Belly (traveller’s diarrhoea) is common – wash hands frequently, eat at busy establishments, and consider bringing probiotics. Mosquito-borne diseases: dengue fever occurs year-round; use DEET repellent, wear long sleeves at dusk, and sleep under nets if in open-air rooms. Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus, and consider Japanese Encephalitis for rural stays. International-standard private hospitals (e.g., BIMC, Siloam) are in Kuta and Denpasar; ensure travel insurance covers medical evacuation. Rabies is present – avoid stray dogs and monkeys. Pharmacies stock basic meds, but bring prescription supplies. Sun protection and hydration are critical in tropical heat."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly when entering temples: sarong and sash are usually available for rent or free; cover shoulders and knees. Never point with one finger – use right thumb. Use right hand for giving/receiving; left is considered impure. Don’t touch people’s heads (sacred). Canang sari (small palm-leaf offerings) are everywhere – do not step on them. Remove shoes when entering homes and some shops. Public displays of affection (beyond hand-holding) are frowned upon. Maintain calm, polite demeanour; open conflict is considered shameful. If invited to a ceremony, observe from the back politely unless welcomed to participate."
Bahasa Indonesia (official)JavaneseSundaneseMadureseMinangkabauIndonesianBalineseEnglish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$3 | a cheap local meal at a warung costs around $3

Hotels

$20-60 | budget hotels range $20-60/night

Local transport

$0.50 | short scooter ride via app ~$0.50

Cost notes

Luxury dining, private villas, and beach clubs easily push costs upward.

Timezone

Asia/Makassar
Local time 23:17

More facts

Population

4,300,000

ISO code

ID-02

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Tabanan, BA-22, بالي, বালি, Balio, بالی, באלי, बाली, バリ州, កោះបាលី, 발리주, Balî, Balis, Pari, Бали, ਬਾਲੀ, බාලි පළාත, பாலி, จังหวัดบาหลี, Балі, 巴厘省, Pulau Dewata;Pulau Seribu Pura, ᬩᬮᬶ, ID-BA, Provinsi Bali, Balio provincija, Провинция Бали, ᮘᮜᮤ, Tỉnh Bali, 峇厘省

Major HubBeachTempleRice TerracesSurfingYogaCulturalFamily-FriendlyHikingDivingNightlife