Bali is a stunning natural destination known for many of the best in desired vacation musts, such as great beaches, instagramable spots, nature and food. Here are a few of Bali’s top hidden treasures that you’ll be sure to love, although they might not be top-of-mind.
Statues with frightening faces: The Balinese believe that there are a myriad of evil “bad energy” spirits everywhere, and you will find scary stone statues and carvings on walls to frighten them off.
Rice paddies: The Balinese people typically eat rice for 3 meals every day. They have miles of scenic rice paddies, many of which are open to tourists, often complete with a “Bali Swing” or framed area for Instagram posts!
Puras or Hindu Temples: Although Indonesia is a Muslim country, over 80% of Balinese people are Hindu, and beautiful Puras or Balinese Hindu temples can be found everywhere. These open air shrines are laid out in a specific style with a dominant split gate entrance, enclosed compound and pagoda like tiered roofs. It is important to wear a sarong (men and women) when entering and many Puras are open to the public.
Volcanoes: Bali is actively volcanic, with mount Batur and Agung being the most well-known active peaks. Agun killed around 1500 people when it last erupted in 1963, and Batur showed signs of volcanic life as recently as 2000, when it shot ash into the air but did not harm any citizens.
Monkeys: Bali protects its Balinese long-tailed or Macaca Monkeys in several “Monkey Forests”. Considered to be educational, spiritual, economically valuable and great centers for conservation, these groomed and cared for regions are mostly open to the public and a great place to get close to nature and monkeys.
Banyan trees: You will see Banyan trees of all shapes and sizes in Bali, with elegant, long, tangled branches and roots creating some of nature’s most striking mosaics. A vital element in Balinese-Hindu culture, Banyan trees are considered sacred and integral to the temple for the dead or Pura Dalem, as they represent the eternal cycle of death and rebirth. The locals believe they protect spirits after death and that they are inhabited by Gods and the spirits of their deceased ancestors.
From unique art to water rituals and natural wonders, Bali has so much more to see. These are just a few of the more beautiful elements you will run across, so keep an eye out!
