Experience great nightlife in Bali, Indonesia

Bali is pretty popular for Bali nightlife and several experiences at night. Other than partying your heart out, you can also spend a night with nocturnal animals at the night safari, or have exotic sunset dinners at posh hotels, or maybe explore the Sanur night market.

So, if you are all in for some Balinese glitz and glamour, and wish to let your hair down like the locals so, this little guide is for you. Scroll through and know what nightlife in Bali has in store for you!

Spend time with animals at night

This is one of the most exceptional things to do in Bali at night. The Bali Safari Park offers the exciting Night Safari in which you can meet and feed the nocturnal animals up close like the majestic tigers, mighty lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes and more.

You will be kept in a caged tram and the animals would roam and hunt around freely. You also have access to the aquarium. To end the night on a special note, there is a barbeque dinner provided at Nkuchiro Restaurant and a fire show for you to enjoy.

Book an evening cruise

There is no better way to experience a romantic nightlife at Bali than on Sunset Dinner Cruise, around Benoa Harbour. Live musical entertainers, delicious international buffet and a live cabaret show accompany you all along and make for a perfect getaway. This is surely the best experience of nightlife in Bali for couples.

Visit the Dream Museum Zone

An evening of fun is easy at the Dream Museum Zone. This 3D trick art museum, located in Legian, features 120 life-sized murals, hand-painted by extraordinary, world famous illusion artists from Korea. The wall paintings create the perfect settings to take amazing photos. Kids will love it too!

Listen to live music at Bali Beach Shack

Located on the main strip of Jalan Legian Bali Beach Shack is one of the best music venues in Kuta and features a semi-open air environment which some soft sofas and a stage playing live music.

Different bands play in rotation but you can expect them to play all the classic such as famous pop and rock songs, or they also take requests. There is a dance floor here in front of the stage and the bar is opened until early morning.

Enjoy a Devdan show

This one-of-a-kind show at Bali Nusa Dua theatre will surely take your breath away. It highlights the story of two kids who discover a treasure chest and narrate the discovery of each item from that chest.

The narration has all the acrobats and dancers suspended from the ceiling along with state-of-the-art light and sound systems which creates a phenomenal spectacle for the viewers.

Watch a movie at the beach

Sitting under the stars and watching a movie right at the beach with your loved one is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Bali at night. There are several venues that offer movie night events at the beach.

Karma Kandara Resort offers a quaint set up for the movie buffs on the shore with snacks like flavoured popcorns, sushis, milkshakes, sliders and more. There are two different shows, one for kids in the evening and one for adults at night. Another place called Alternate beach club has Monday Movie nights offering free screenings, comfortable bean bags, and popcorn.

See more: Ideal places to go camping in Bali, Indonesia

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Taste the best street food in Bali

Bali is an adventurous foodie’s paradise. With vibrant dishes which have no parallels in the cuisine of any other country, the street food in Bali is a major tourist magnet. Street food in Bali and its markets are known for not only their scrumptious food but for the theatrical cooking styles which provide a feast for the eyes.

Pisang Rai

Being an equatorial paradise, tropical fruits like coconut and banana are abundant in Bali. And when you combine the two, you get pisang rai. This Balinese snack is made from boiled banana wrapped with rice flour, then rolled in grated coconut. Its soft texture is almost in contrast with the tempting sweet and savory taste from the mix. Many street food vendors will offer an additional sauce made from brown sugar and pineapple pieces, making the tropical feels even stronger.

Nasi Campur

Nasi Campur stands for mixed rice in Indonesian and true to its moniker this wildly popular street food in Bali is served as rice mixed with vegetables, meat and eggs. A staple meal of many Southeast Asian countries, Nasi Campur, is prepared differently by almost every vendor. The night market in Bali is famous for the best Nasi Campur in the city.

Sate

Sate is one of the most famous street food in Bali and in the world. Literally translating to barbequed meat on bamboo sticks, Sate can be made from chicken, pork, goat, rabbit etc. Turtle meat sate is prepared only during special ceremonies. Usually served with sweet soy sauce or peanut sauce, this dish is a perfect evening snack. Most vendors in the night markets offer a side of rice along with it.

Bakso

Bakso is an Indonesian meatball served with hot broth, often with noodles and fried dumplings. Many food street vendor sell bakso on portable carts pushed around a neighborhood or on modified motorcycles that allow the cart to be attached alongside. The warm food is not only perfect for cold days in Bali, which do not appear very often, but also makes a perfect snack between meals.

Terang Bulan

Translating to 'bright moon', Terang Bulan is a type of pancake unique to Balinese cuisine. Believed to have been invented by General Tso, a military leader of the late Qing dynasty, this delicacy has a rich past. It is made like a traditional pancake, with coconut milk and palm margarine giving it the characteristic Balinese punch. Usually sprinkled with crushed peanuts, sugar and sweetcorn kernels, this dish is as much a delight to the eyes as to the taste buds.

Sweet Corn

Sweet corn makes a wonderful companion when hanging out on Bali’s stunning beaches while watching the sunset. Tourists can compensate the chilling breeze with warm, freshly-grilled whole sweet corn from vendors on many popular beaches like Kuta or Jimbaran. Before the grilling process, the sweet corns are coated with butter and other additional sauces, like chili or barbecue sauce, making them enjoyable for all.

Read more: The most sacred destinations in Bali, Indonesia

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The best hiking trails around Ubud, Indonesia

From a relaxing stroll to more adrenaline-filled treks, these walks are both close to Ubud (Indonesia), and further out of town. Check out our guide to the best walks and hikes around Ubud and put on your favorite walking shoes.

Campuhan Ridge walk

Probably the most Instagrammable walk in Ubud, the Campuhan Ridge walk is a gift for the eyes and soul. Tjampuhan – the ancient spelling of Campuhan – means “place where two rivers meet.” And it’s here that the magic happens: a mesmerizing sunrise and sunset walk, overlooking sacred river gorges and lush tropical forest. Brace yourself with patience to get the ideal photo: it might get busy during golden hour.

To get there, head to the north-west end of Jalan Ubud Raya. Reach the Warwick Ibah Hotel and park your scooter there in case. There’s a narrow downhill stone path leading to the stairs going up the ridge.

Jalan Kajeng walk

Parallel to the Sari Organik path, this walk is another little hidden gem, very close to Ubud center. Less busy than the previous routes, it’s a bit trickier to reach, but will be worth the effort. Go on, explore, stop at one of the local shops on the path and get yourself a refreshing coconut to sip while admiring the kaleidoscopic sunset sky. Jalan Kajeng is a road perpendicular to Jalan Ubud Raya, a right turn before Starbucks. Take the road and keep going until you cross a bridge where the path is narrow and steep. Keep going as while it might appear to lead nowhere, you’ll end up beautifully surprised.

Ubud rice terraces walk

Claimed as a Unesco World Heritage site, the Tegalalang rice terraces are simply dreamy and worth a visit. They are one of the main tourist attractions on the island and have a well-deserved reputation. Several tour companies organize walks around the area and you can also reach the site by yourself and choose your own path. Entrance fee is around IDR10.000.

The magnificent terraces are located 20 minutes drive from Ubud center. From Jalan Ubud Raya, head east and reach the crossroad where the Andong statue rises. Turn left into Jalan Andong and keep heading north on the same road until you arrive at the site.

Penglipuran Village walk

For a walk back in time, head to Penglipuran Village, a traditional Balinese banjar located in the Bangli Regency, roughly a 30-minute drive from Ubud. Imagine wandering into a timeless culture, painted with the golden and vivid colors of ancient temples and the handmade offerings to the Gods. Penglipuran has been named one of the cleanest villages in the world, together with Giethoorn in the Netherlands and Mawlynnong in India. The best time for a walk in the village is during a local ceremony, for example, Galungan, when the streets are adorned with the penjor – ornamental bamboo poles designed to carry religious offerings.

Mount Batur hike

Mount Batur is one of the volcanic peaks on the island of Bali, located north of Ubud. Most of the tour companies who provide guidance to the trek, start the journey from Ubud. The volcano and its caldera, another Unesco World Heritage site on the island, is one of the most popular sunrise spotting places in Bali. Check out our complete guide to a Mount Batur trek to make the most of the volcano hike.

Mount Agung hike

With its 3,031 meters of altitude, Gunung Agung is the highest peak on the Island of Gods, and venerated as the most sacred entity. Mount Agung is a currently active volcano and in normal circumstances it can be hiked. It’s a tough one, usually lasting six hours for the journey to the summit. The view will make you feel as though you’re sitting on the roof of the world, overlooking the whole of Bali, the neighboring island of Lombok and the surrounding ocean. Make sure to research and book with an expert guide: the path is tricky, slippery and ever changing, due to rock-fall.

See more: Must-visit attractions in Ubud, Bali

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Top free things to do in Bali, Indonesia

If you are not one to believe that the best things in life are free, this list of incredible free things in Bali may surprise you. From cliff-jumping to festivals, discover the best things to do for free in Bali.

Go Camping

In an island with a landscape so beautiful, camping can offer things luxe resorts may not be able to provide. From an unparalleled view of nature to falling asleep to the sound of crickets, camping in Bali is an unmissable experience for nature-lovers. Plus, it costs much less than any other accommodation options. The tropical paradise has numerous excellent camping sites, from the highest peak of Mount Agung, the scenic Bukit Asah, to the secluded Nyang Nyang Beach.

Observe the Festivals

Indonesians joke that Balinese have more holidays than everyone else in the country. And while that is covetable, the holidays provide tourists a lot of windows to observe lively traditional festivals. Balinese dedicate a lot of days to uphold their traditions and religious celebrations during their 210-day calendar system. That amounts to numerous festivals yearly, from the walking procession during Galungan to the ogoh-ogoh festival before the day of silence (Nyepi) and many other events after. Each locality has different ways to celebrate one special occasion, so the choices are virtually endless.

Go Hike the Hills

Hiking is one fun and free way to appreciate Bali’s stunning nature. Just by utilizing your own feet, you can enjoy the lush tropical jungles, fresh breeze, warm sunshine and vibrant wildlife. Head over to Campuhan Ridge for a short walk, with a picturesque view of Ubud, or to Mount Batur for a 3-hour hike culminating in the glorious sunrise.

Watch Sunset

Bali’s sunsets are notorious for being both easy to catch and easy to miss. Simply go to the western-facing beaches like Uluwatu, Tegal Wangi, Kuta and others, sit by the sand with a beer in hand (optional) and wait for the several minutes of wonder. If you have more money to spend, you can also opt for one of Bali’s hip sunset beach bar for well below $10 around Legian and Seminyak.

Walk Through a Rice Field

You’ll be surprised at how soothing this simple activity is. The sun is warm but the air is crisp, and you’re in the middle of a vast, picturesque rice terrace. In an instance, you’ll feel like the green calming sight has washed away your weary eyes from hours of staring at the screen daily. And, yes, taking pictures is still free.

Wander the Streets of Ubud

Many adventures, sights and experiences await in the streets of Ubud, the art and culture capital of Bali. The neighborhood is alive with a quirky and artistic atmosphere reverberating in every corner; in every small craft shop, temple, café and gallery, you’ll encounter it. If, during your relaxing stroll through the area, your ear catches a sound of live music playing, follow the music, and you might find a gamelan music group rehearsing. Most of the time they don’t mind an audience as long as you keep quiet. Also, don’t miss the art market, where you can find souvenirs for any budget or just look around.

See more: Top amazing Bali resorts for a perfect getaway

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What to wear in Bali, Indonesia

When venturing into Bali, you’ll find tropical heat, sun-kissed beaches, shady jungles and high volcanic peaks. Depending on the flavors you choose for your stay in Bali, be ready to pack accordingly and dress like an “onion.” In other words, wear layers.

Dry and wet season

Located a few degrees south of the equator, Bali has tropical weather; the island is humid all year, but drier on the southern coast. There are only two seasons: dry and rainy. The rainy season usually starts in October and ends in mid-March. During the rainy season, the temperature is still warm, although inland areas, including Ubud and the mountains around Kintamani, Munduk and Bedugul can get pretty chilly. The winds are rough on the coast and there are downpours every day, but usually only for a couple of hours in the afternoon. If you plan to visit Bali during the rainy season, make sure to pack layers and always—always—have a rain poncho with you.

When the rainy season ends in mid-March, the sky turns blue and the air is fresh and clean because of the rain from the previous months. The much-welcomed sun is hot, but in the evening, especially on the highlands, the temperature is pleasing—almost a bit chilly when driving a scooter. Pack light cotton and loose clothing; your skin will thank you.

Southern coast

The southern coast, including Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu and the Bukit Peninsula with Uluwatu, is the most popular destination on the island with beaches, surfing and clubs. If you are planning to visit these areas, your packing will be easy: boardshorts and tank tops or tees for the boys and a wavy dress or jean shorts with a top for the girls. Don’t forget to wear a swimsuit as well! If you plan to surf, wear a top to avoid a sunburn; it will save your holiday from unwanted “redness.” Also, bring a hat.

Northern highlands

The northern highlands, including Ubud, Kintamani and Munduk, are paradise for mountain and jungle lovers. The weather up here is still tropical and the sun will make you sweat all day. However, it might get a little bit colder, especially during the night or while driving a scooter. An additional scarf and a jumper will help. If you are planning to hike some volcanic peaks, bring sneakers or hiking boots, a wet-weather jacket and warm clothes. You’ll thank us later.

Temples and ceremonies

When visiting temples and other religious sites, use common sense and follow local etiquette. Wear a shirt that covers your arms and shoulders; men and women should also wear a kain, or sarong—a scarf that is wrapped around your waist, like a skirt.

If you are planning to attend a local ceremony, women usually wear the traditional kebaya, a beautiful, embroidered sheer cotton blouse that is worn over an ankle-length kain and tied with the help of a sash around your waist. Pull your hair back and you are ready to go.

Men should also wear a kain—usually one that is black or brown—tied with a sash. A plain shirt will do as a top. They should also wear the traditional headdress called a udeng.

Driving a scooter

When driving around, you’ll see that locals drive scooters with long pants and a jacket. Then you’ll ask yourself, “Why?” because it’s so hot. The clothing helps protect drivers from scratches and a sunburn. Follow their lead and always wear a helmet too. If you’re planning to have a long ride on a busy road, wear sneakers, a long sleeve T-shirt and a scarf or cloth over your mouth. It will protect you from dust. Drive safely!

See more: Top Michelin starred restaurants in Bali, Indonesia

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5 great destinations near Thailand for a quick getaway

If you have a few extra days to spare while you're in Thailand, or are living here and looking for an interesting place to go for 2–3 days, consider one of these great side trips from Thailand. Each of these places is three or fewer hours by plane from Bangkok, and all are wonderful places to visit.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Hands down, this is the most amazing cultural sight in the region, and even if you aren’t interested in archeology or ancient cultures, you’ll probably find it impressive.

The Angkor Wat temple complex is just one of many you’ll get a chance to visit in the city of Siem Reap in Cambodia. In fact, there are many must-see temples. You can travel overland (bus from Thailand) or take a short flight from Bangkok.

Siem Reap itself was once a very sleepy town, but in the past decade, has been developing at breakneck speed. The first Starbucks in Siem Reap opened in August 2017. There are scores and scores of guest houses and high-end hotels — and enough restaurants and bars to keep you fed and watered while you visit.

Singapore

If you’re craving a calm, convenient, organized city after the chaos of Bangkok, head to this tiny city-state.

From the moment you land at Singapore’s Changi Airport, you’ll know why many Bangkok residents choose this destination for quick weekend getaways. It’s super clean, for one. And since English is one of the country’s official languages, you won’t have any problems communicating. While taxis are plentiful and safe, you can also use the city’s expansive, efficient public transportation system.

Singapore is a relatively new country; prior to 1819, it had few inhabitants other than the lions that roamed the island. Because of the city's Chinese, Malay, and Indian roots, it’s got a really interesting vibe you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Singapore also has plenty of fun stuff to do, great restaurants — again, thanks to its Chinese, Malay, and Indian roots — lots of big shopping malls, and a decent nightlife scene. The only drawback is that Singapore hotels can be very expensive compared to the rest of the region. In fact, everything in the city is expensive when compared to Bangkok — especially beer.

If the prospect of blowing lots of cash doesn’t scare you, check out one of Singapore’s casinos. Gambling has only been legal there for a relatively short time and is very high end. The Marina Bay Sands, right on the edge of the city’s financial district, is a casino, adult playground, shopping center, and upscale restaurant all rolled into one.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Somewhere between the frenzy of Bangkok and the organization of Singapore lies Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia.

KL, as it’s known throughout the region, has a good mix of tourist attractions and shopping. Like Singapore, its residents are a mix of ethnic Chinese, Indian, and Malay — along with many other nationalities — so the food is fantastic, as are the many cultural celebrations held almost weekly.

Kuala Lumpur is easy to navigate, with great public transportation.

Penang, Malaysia

This popular island off the northwest coast of Malaysia has a fascinating history, the most visible of which is its past as an English colony.

When you visit Penang, explore the architecture of Georgetown, which earned a UNESCO World Heritage designation in 2008. Make sure to sample some famous Penang street food, too.

And if you’re looking for a place to stay, the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, an old Chinese courtyard home that has been transformed into a gorgeous boutique hotel, is the best on the island.

Bali, Indonesia

Although Thai beaches can be spectacular, the island of Bali offers something a little different and is still definitely worth visiting if you’ve already explored Thailand’s coast and islands.

The beaches are beautiful, but one of the things that makes Bali special is that its interior is stunning. Lush, green rice terraces and mountains make the island worth visiting even if you don’t want to go for a swim. And of course, there’s Ubud, an artsy tourist town in central Bali filled with cafes, galleries, pretty villas, and museums. Ubud is about an hour away from Kuta, the island’s most popular beach, so it’s easy to visit for the day if you don’t want to spend a night.

See more: Taste the traditional sweets from Asia

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Ideal destinations to go partying in Asia

A lot of people travel so they can enjoy the incredible nightlife that’s happening around the world. Bookmark this page, as we reveal Asia’s best islands for party lovers.

Phuket, Thailand

We have to open with a classic. Phuket is well established as a party paradise and isn’t known for being classy in any way – to set your expectations correctly. If you’re simply just looking to get drunk, dance and have a good time…this is it. No questions asked, no judgements made, just straightforward, cheap, unadulterated fun (just be responsible, obviously, we don’t accept any responsibility for misjudged drunken antics).

The epicentre is Patong Beach, which is wild with colours and drinks flowing. More inland, the party continues at Rock City and more. Live long and prosper here folks.

Koh Phangan, Thailand

Famous for its Full Moon Party (there is also the Half Moon Party, and it doesn’t have to be half as crazy if you don’t want it to be), Koh Phangan is firmly on the backpacker trail for those who love a good beach party. By the end of the night, if that even exists, you’ll be covered in neon paint, have consumed bucket after bucket of alcohol and have sand in places you didn’t think possible.

This is the place where you could easily wake up somewhere other than your hostel dorm with an item of clothing missing but having somehow acquired a sombrero. It’s all fun and games here, but now for some adult advice: keep an eye on your drinks and always make sure a friend knows where you are.

Langkawi, Malaysia

Just an hour from Kuala Lumpur by plane, the point of Langkawi is simple: enjoy island life. With umbrellas dressing up your cheap drinks, great access to the beach and a nightlife that just won’t quit, Malaysia has created the perfect place for party lovers. Pentai Cenang beach is where it’s at until late, and then hop on over Sunba Retro Bar, where you’ll party into the early hours.

Boracay, The Philippines

While it might be the most touristy place in the Philippines, Boracay sure is fun. There’s a reason people swarm here, with the paradisiacal White Beach, good weather and plenty of bars. Relative to some areas of Southeast Asia, Boracay can be on the pricier side, but you don’t have to break the bank if you know where to look.

Most of the action will take place at Station 2 (Boracay is split into three areas, based on the old boat terminals) but the real party starts at 10:30 pm, but there are happy hours on the beach until it begins, for example at Wave Bar and Lounge and Coco Bar.

Gili Trawangan, Indonesia

The largest of the Gili Island archipelago and definitely ‘The Party Island’ of the three, Gili T is where you want to go for a good time. The bars here are so committed to nightlife that they coordinate one huge party a night and that lasts until 4am, multiple times a week. It’s likely that you’ll end up partying until sunrise, however. Check out Blue Marlin rave party and the Drunken Monkeyz yacht party.

Bali, Indonesia

Another of the classics, the city of Kuta in Bali is party central. Surf or build up that tan during the day and let loose at night at the multitude of bars and clubs where you’ll meet backpackers and travellers all over the world. If you want a slightly more sophisticated setting for lively after-dark antics, check out Seminyak.

See more: Best Asia destinations for Yoga lovers

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Top cities should be on list of food lovers

Asia is a dream destination for foodies, as each country provides its own unique dishes, culinary traditions and fresh ingredients that are hard to resist. From sushi perfection in Japan and spicy dishes Thailand to the diverse flavors in Malaysia, you’re spoiled for choice in creating the ultimate food adventure.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo not only has some of the best food in Asia, but also in the entire world with over 200 Michelin-starred restaurants. Ramen is a staple in Japanese cuisine and sampling the different varieties is all a part of the fun, where you can sit in cozy restaurants with just eight or 10 seats. Wander down alleyways to discover noodle shops, dine on fresh sushi and sample okonomiyaki savory pancakes and yakitori grilled chicken skewers.

Bangkok, Thailand

Thailand is known for its delicious street food, where every plate is bursting with flavor and a combination of spices and sauces such as ginger, lemongrass and fish sauce. Cuisines here blend sweet and spicy with ingredients such as coconut milk and kaffir lime leaves. While pad Thai is the most popular dish, you can’t go wrong with tom yum goong (a spicy hot and sour soup) and a dessert of mango sticky rice.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Food is at the very heart of the Vietnamese culture. Markets are on every corner and almost every aspect of life in Vietnam revolves around the preparation and shared experience of eating. Indulge in a banh mi sandwich, fresh spring roll or a steaming bowl of pho at any time of day, while Hanoians typically wash it down with a strong Vietnamese-style coffee that is thick and topped with condensed milk.

Seoul, South Korea

Kimchi, bibimbap and Korean barbecue are some of most iconic cuisines to sample in Seoul and definitely a must-try when there, but the city also has more to offer. Visit one of the famous markets like Gwangjang, Namdaemun and Myeong-dong and sample teokbokki rice cake rolls in chili sauce, kimbap seaweed rice rolls and dakkochi grilled chicken skewers. Korea is known for its banchan side dishes, while gogigui is all things grilled meat.

Taipei, Taiwan

Foodie heaven with delicious dishes being served around the clock, Taipei boasts a booming night market scene. Check out the trendy Ximending in search of succulent pork sandwiches and chunks of fried chicken, while milk tea and cheesy baked potatoes are just as enticing. Sample lu rou fan (minced pork rice), niu rou mian (beef noodle soup), hujiao bing pepper buns and Taiwanese-style hot pot.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

The biggest city in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a foodie destination that is famous for its spicy Khao soi, which is a noodle dish that contains boiled then deep-fried egg noodles that are drenched in a thick chicken or beef coconut curry broth and then garnished with lime, roasted chili and shallots. It’s a favorite with both locals and visitors alike, while the city’s grilled chicken, papaya salad and sai oua grilled herb sausage are also worthy of sampling.

Bali, Indonesia

The only Hindu island in Indonesia, Bali has a unique cultural and food landscape that lures you in. Start with a classic Indonesian staple mie goreng, which is fried noodles served with chicken, shrimp or pork, then wash it down with pisang goreng, a dessert with fried bananas, honey and can include coconut flakes or ice cream. Nasi goreng is another favorite with fried rice, while sate is chicken with spices on a stick.

Osaka, Japan

A food lover’s paradise, Osaka has been dubbed “the country’s kitchen” due to its delicious street food an abundance of highly-rated restaurants. Born and bred, you can’t leave the city without trying the famous okonomiyaki cabbage pancakes and the takoyaki octopus balls, which are found both on the street and in restaurants. Other highlights include kitsune udon, a broth with thick noodles and deep-fried tofu, and kushi-katsu, which is meat or vegetables that are deep-fried and skewered.

Read more: Top dishes you must relish on a trip to Osaka


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