Bali Travel Guide - Attractions

Bali Barat National Park: the park located in Cekik is located on more than 75,000 hectares of land that stretches out to include some parts of the dry north coast and the forested south. One of the world’s rarest birds, the Bali Starling, has its home in the park.

The Javan buffalo, leopards, barking and mouse deer are all protected animals in the park. Tour guides can lead you to watering holes in the early hours of the morning when it is the best time to see the animals.

Visitors are welcome to the monastery but must pay an entrance fee and be properly attired. Talking is not encouraged in the monastery.

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave): overlooking the Petanu River is the Elephant Cave. There were never any elephants on Bali and it is believed that the cave got its name from the carving of a demon with ears like an elephant. The carving can be seen at the entrance of the cave but is barely visible. Inside these thousand year old caves are idols of Ganesha, phallic representations and Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva that make up the Hindu trinity.

Gunung Kawi: the mountain is located in the village of Tampaksiring and is home to a strange complex of tombs. King Anak Wungsu, his four concubines and his four wives are all believed to be buried here. Ancient caves, rock paths and Titra Empul, an old temple are interesting places to visit.

Monkey Forest: this forest is home to more than 200 monkeys and is located right in the heart of the city. The monkeys have become accustomed to the presence of people and can be quite cheeky. In fact it is necessary to watch your belongings in case a curious monkey decides to make a lunge for your hat, camera, purse or water bottle. Inside the forest is Pura Dalem (Temple of the Dead) which has statues of demons feasting on children.

Pura Blanjong: this is the site of an ancient stone pillar inscribed in Sanskrit and Old Balinese that dates back to 914 AD. Although the cylindrical stone pillar was discovered in 1932, its inscriptions have yet to be completely transcribed. Historians believe that the inscriptions refer to an army expedition.

Pura Jaganatha: this temple was built to honour the highest god, Sanghyang. Inside the temple there are several statues of gods and dragons that are said to balance the earth. The beautiful temple has a moat with goldfish and water lilies. Wayang Kulit (Indonesian puppet shows) are held in its compound during a full moon.