Bali, a stunning Indonesian island, is renowned for its active volcanoes, serene temples, and lush forests. It boasts vibrant coral reefs, picturesque beaches, and iconic terraced rice paddies. Travelling to Bali from India is now easier than ever — this guide covers everything you need, from flights and stays to must-visit spots and travel tips.
Traveling to Bali from India
You can begin your Bali adventure by flying into Denpasar, the island’s main airport. We traveled from India and chose Garuda Indonesia, which offered a direct flight from Mumbai to Bali. If a direct flight isn’t available from your city, there are plenty of connecting options to choose from. As a popular tourist destination, Bali is well-connected with flights from cities all around the world.
Places To Visit In Bali
We’re excited to share our detailed Bali itinerary, along with some helpful tips to make your trip planning easier. Feel free to customize it based on your preferences and the suggestions provided throughout this blog.
Day 1: Sanur Beach Bali
We began our Bali journey with a two-night stay in Sanur, after arriving from India. Our friendly local driver, Wayan, was ready to pick us up at the airport and drive us to this charming town on the southeastern coast of Bali. Sanur is a cozy seaside destination known for its calm, shallow waters and colorful fishing boats resting along the shoreline.
After a long flight, Sanur was the perfect place to unwind — nothing better than sipping a hot cup of coffee by the sea. We checked into our hotel, relaxed for a bit, and later spent the day exploring the peaceful town and its lovely beach. The sunset at Sanur Beach was truly breathtaking.
Depending on your travel style, you can also choose Kuta — a budget-friendly option, though often crowded with tourists — or Seminyak, which is slightly more expensive but tends to be quieter and more refined. Pick your starting point based on what suits you best.
Day 2: A Day Trip to Nusa Penida Island
On our second day, we explored the breathtaking Nusa Penida Island, one of Bali’s most popular day-trip destinations. There are several types of tours available — from full-day trips to multi-day packages where you can stay overnight on Nusa Penida and even include nearby Nusa Lembongan Island in your itinerary.
You’ll find plenty of tour operators in Sanur and across Bali offering island tours. Be sure to compare options and don’t hesitate to negotiate for the best deal. One major advantage of staying in Sanur is its proximity to the ferry point — most Nusa Penida tours start from Sanur, which was one of the reasons we chose it as our base when arriving in Bali from India.
We booked a tour through a local operator that included hotel pickup, ferry transfer, a guided tour of key spots on the island, lunch, and drop-off back at our hotel — all in one convenient package.
The tour covered the following iconic locations on Nusa Penida:
- 🏖 Kelingking Beach – Famous for its T-Rex shaped cliff and dramatic coastal views
- 🌊 Broken Beach – A natural rock formation with a stunning archway and turquoise water
- 💦 Angel’s Billabong – A beautiful natural infinity pool overlooking the ocean
- 🌴 Crystal Bay – Known for its clear waters, great for swimming and snorkeling
It was a day packed with adventure, dramatic landscapes, and unforgettable views.
Day 3: Exploring Ubud – Rice Terraces, Temples & a Magical Sunset
After enjoying the peaceful charm of Sanur, our next destination was Ubud — one of Bali’s most vibrant and culturally rich towns. Known for its terraced rice paddies, ancient Hindu temples, serene landscapes, and a wide range of unique stays, Ubud is truly the heart of Bali.
Since resort check-in times are usually in the afternoon, we made the most of our travel day by exploring a few must-visit spots on the way. Wayan, our amazing local driver, not only helped us plan the most scenic route but also shared fascinating insights about Balinese culture and history throughout the journey.
Stop 1: Jatiluwih Rice Terraces (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Our first stop was the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a hidden gem that’s less commercialized, more expansive, and definitely quieter than the popular Tegallalang terraces. Located a bit farther from Ubud, Jatiluwih offers a more tranquil and authentic experience.
🌾 Tip: Have lunch at one of the hillside cafes or restaurants overlooking the terraces — the view while you dine is absolutely mesmerizing.
If you’re short on time, Tegallalang Rice Terraces (closer to Ubud) are also stunning and a popular choice. Depending on your schedule and preferences, you can choose to visit one or both.
Stop 2: Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
Next, we visited the Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, a stunning Hindu water temple located on Lake Bratan. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is a vital source of irrigation in the region.
Locals say that when the lake’s water level rises, it creates the magical illusion of the temple floating on the water. The serene ambiance and mountain backdrop make it a photographer’s paradise.
🛍 Just outside the temple, there’s a small local market where you can pick up souvenirs and handmade crafts.
Stop 3: Tanah Lot Temple at Sunset
Our final stop for the day was Tanah Lot Temple, a must-see destination especially at sunset. Built on a massive offshore rock and constantly shaped by the waves, this temple offers one of the most breathtaking sunset views in all of Bali.
The golden hues reflecting off the ocean as the sun dips behind the temple is a scene that stays with you forever.
On our way back to the hotel, we made a quick stop for a cup of Luwak coffee, the perfect way to end a magical day.
Day 4: Relaxing in Ubud – A Day to Unwind
After a few days of sightseeing and travel, we dedicated Day 4 to relaxation and soaking in the tranquil vibe of Ubud. This town is known for its beautiful resorts, serene landscapes, and peaceful atmosphere — the perfect setting to slow down and rejuvenate.
We spent the day unwinding at our resort, enjoying the views, lounging by the pool, and simply taking in the calm surroundings. Later, we explored Ubud town center, which is full of cozy cafés, vibrant local shops, and great places to eat.
🍽️ Tip: Ubud has a fantastic food scene — from traditional Balinese dishes to international cuisine. Try to plan a nice dinner at one of the scenic restaurants with a rice field or jungle view.
Day 5: Adventure & Culture in Ubud
For those who love a bit of adventure, Day 5 in Ubud offers the perfect mix of trekking, scenic views, and cultural experiences.
🌄 Sunrise Trek to Mount Batur
If you’re up for an early start, consider doing the Mount Batur Sunrise Trek — a must-do for hiking enthusiasts. Local tour operators offer packages that include hotel pickup (usually around 2:00–3:00 AM), a guided trek, and breakfast at the summit. It takes about 2 hours to hike up, and the breathtaking sunrise view from the top makes every step worth it.
🥾 Tip: Wear proper trekking shoes and carry a light jacket — it can get chilly before sunrise.
☕ Scenic Mount Batur Viewpoint
If trekking isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the magnificent view of Mount Batur from one of the nearby viewpoint cafés. Many spots offer panoramic vistas where you can relax with a cup of coffee or enjoy lunch while soaking in the volcanic landscape.
🌿 Sunset: Campuhan Ridge Walk
In the evening, take a peaceful stroll along the Campuhan Ridge Walk, a 1.5 km trail surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. It’s a perfect spot for a quiet sunset walk, away from the crowds.
💃 Night: Kecak Dance & Dinner
To end the day, consider watching a traditional Kecak dance performance — a unique Balinese storytelling dance accompanied by rhythmic chanting and fire. Afterward, enjoy a nice dinner at one of Ubud’s many atmospheric restaurants.
🎭 Cultural Tip: The Kecak dance is often performed at venues like Ubud Palace or nearby temples — check timings in advance and book early for good seats.
Day 6: Besakih Temple Visit & Journey to Amed
After a relaxed breakfast, we began our journey towards our next destination — Amed, a peaceful coastal town on the eastern side of Bali, known for its black sand beaches, coral reefs, and laid-back vibe.
On the way, we made a stop at one of Bali’s most important and spiritual landmarks:
🛕 Besakih Temple – Bali’s ‘Mother Temple’
Located on the majestic slopes of Mount Agung, Besakih Temple is the largest and holiest Hindu temple in Bali. With a history spanning over 1,000 years, it’s often referred to as Bali’s ‘Mother Temple’ and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Balinese culture and spirituality.
The temple complex consists of more than 80 individual temples, surrounded by lush views of the mountains and countryside, making it one of the most scenic and significant religious sites on the island.
After exploring the spiritual grandeur of Besakih Temple, we stopped for lunch at a truly special spot — Mahagiri Resort. Nestled amidst rice fields with a stunning view of Mount Agung, it offered not only a delicious meal but also one of the most picturesque lunch settings we had in Bali.
🍽️ Highly Recommended: Stop by Mahagiri Resort for a peaceful lunch with unbeatable views of Mount Agung. It’s a hidden gem!
Destination: Amed – A Peaceful Coastal Escape
Post lunch, we resumed our journey to Amed, where we checked into the charming Solaluna Beach Homestay — a cozy, beachfront guest house we had been eagerly looking forward to.
Located in the Karangasem Regency on Bali’s east coast, Amed is a small fishing village with an authentic vibe. The region is known for its black volcanic sand, thanks to its proximity to Mount Agung, Bali’s tallest volcano.
Why Amed is Special
Amed is not your typical tourist hotspot, and that’s exactly what makes it magical. It’s the kind of place where you can:
- 🌊 Go snorkeling or scuba diving in clear waters full of coral life
- 🧘♀️ Join a sunrise yoga session by the sea
- 🍹 Relax at a beachside café with a cold drink in hand
- 🌅 Enjoy quiet sunsets and slow mornings without the crowds
Tourism here is growing, but Amed still holds tight to its local traditions and laid-back charm. It’s ideal for travelers looking for authenticity, simplicity, and natural beauty.
Our Stay at Solaluna Beach Homestay
Our homestay experience at Solaluna was one of the highlights of the trip. The place is cozy, budget-friendly, right on the beach, and managed with so much warmth.
The owner even mentioned we were the first Indian couple to stay there — a lovely and memorable note to our journey.
🏡 Solaluna Beach Homestay – Highly Recommended for anyone who wants a peaceful stay by the sea, with great hospitality and unbeatable value.
Day 7: Amed – A Soulful Day by the Sea
Our final full day in Bali was spent in the quiet and beautiful coastal town of Amed, and honestly — it turned out to be the most soul-touching part of our journey.
🌅 Sunrise & Stillness
We woke up early to witness the sunrise over the calm waters of Amed — a moment of complete peace. The sky slowly turned shades of pink and gold while the fishing boats floated gently in the distance. It was the kind of morning that makes you forget about time altogether.
🌊 Dive, Snorkel, or Simply Float
Amed is best known for its freediving, scuba diving, and snorkeling. The coastline is dotted with dive centers offering guided experiences and rental gear for all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned diver, there’s something here for you.
🐠 Tip: Don’t miss the Japanese Shipwreck site — it’s one of the most popular snorkeling and diving spots in Amed.
Many homestays, like ours, even offer free kayaking, so you can paddle along the coast and enjoy the serenity of the open sea.
💙 A Heartfelt Evening
What made our day even more special was an unexpected gesture from our homestay owner at Solaluna. As a local fisherman, he invited us to join his family for a home-cooked dinner featuring freshly caught fish — a simple but deeply meaningful moment of connection.
We were touched by their kindness and hospitality. Sitting on the porch, sharing stories and food, we felt like more than just guests — we felt like family.
Amed – A Place That Stays With You
We’ve traveled to many places, but Amed left a lasting impression. It’s not just the beauty of the sea or the thrill of water activities — it’s the genuine warmth of the people, the slow rhythm of life, and the untouched charm that made it unforgettable.
🧳 If you’re visiting Bali and want something off the beaten path, Amed is a place that will stay in your heart long after you’ve left.
Day 8: Seminyak – A Stylish Send-off
For our last day in Bali, we chose to wind down in Seminyak, a coastal town known for its chic vibes, great food, beach clubs, and shopping. It’s a popular spot for tourists looking to enjoy a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, and it’s conveniently located near the airport — perfect for ending your trip.
🌊 Seminyak Vibes
Seminyak is often considered a more upscale and less crowded alternative to Kuta. You’ll find trendy cafés, boutique stores, beach clubs, and laid-back bars where you can toast your last night in Bali with a drink and a sea breeze.
🛕 Uluwatu Temple Visit & Kecak Dance
In the afternoon, we headed to the iconic Uluwatu Temple, perched dramatically on the edge (ulu) of a towering sea cliff (watu). The view from the temple is nothing short of spectacular — especially at sunset.
The temple is inhabited by mischievous monkeys, so be cautious with your belongings (especially sunglasses, hats, and phones).
At 6:00 PM, the Kecak dance performance begins — a captivating Balinese dance drama performed against the backdrop of the setting sun and the crashing ocean waves. If you missed the Kecak performance in Ubud, this is another fantastic opportunity to catch it in an unforgettable setting.
🛍️ Shopping at Krisna Oleh-Oleh
On our way back, we stopped at Krisna Shopping Centre (also known as Krisna Oleh-Oleh) — a one-stop shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, clothes, and local snacks. What we loved most? Fixed pricing! No need to haggle, and prices are reasonable and fair — ideal for last-minute shopping without stress.
🍸 Bars & Beach Clubs to End the Day
To celebrate our final night in Bali, we explored some of Seminyak’s famous beach bars. Whether you’re in the mood to party, sip a cocktail with ocean views, or just watch the sun dip into the sea, Seminyak has something for everyone.
Some popular options include:
- Rock Bar – Built on a cliff at Ayana Resort, known for sunset views
- Potato Head Beach Club – Stylish, social, and scenic
- Woo Bar (W Bali) – Trendy vibe with great music and cocktails
Day 9: Departure – Flight Back to India
After a peaceful final night in Seminyak, we enjoyed a relaxed breakfast at our hotel, soaking in the last few moments of Bali’s calm and charm.
We then headed to Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar) for our return flight to India, carrying back not just souvenirs, but a suitcase full of unforgettable memories — from misty rice terraces and cliffside temples to heartfelt conversations and peaceful sunrises by the sea.
✈️ Tip: Always keep buffer time for Bali airport departures, especially during peak seasons. Traffic around Seminyak and Kuta can sometimes be unpredictable.
🌺 Bali – More Than Just a Destination
This journey was more than just a vacation. Bali gave us a beautiful blend of culture, nature, adventure, and heartfelt human connections. Whether it was the stillness of Amed, the spiritual vibe of Ubud, or the vibrant energy of Seminyak — every place left its own mark.
We hope this itinerary helps you plan your own Bali adventure. Customize it as per your preferences — slow it down, add new places, or dive deeper into what you love most.
If you’re planning on travelling to Bali from India, this 9-day itinerary will help you explore the island’s best experiences with ease and confidence.
💬 Have questions or want help customizing your Bali trip? Let us know!
