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1. Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Rice terraces are a distinctive form of agriculture in many areas of Bali, and have become an iconic image of the region. The Tegallalang rice terraces, with their serene beauty of endless green rice paddies combined with the subtle aroma of cloves and cinnamon, attract a huge number of tourists every year. Visitors can enjoy the pristine natural scenery and take countless stunning photos from every angle.
For Vinh, getting beautiful photos was important, but the scenery here inspired him to explore more. He let his mind wander freely through the vast, seemingly endless space, listening to the chirping of birds, feeling an unusual sense of peace and tranquility.
Note:
- Bali Swing is located near the rice terraces, so you can schedule both on the same day.
- To get around from the city center, you can experience a super cool Volkswagen convertible classic car tour.
- Remember to bring an umbrella, hat, or other accessories that match your outfit to protect yourself from the sun and look great in photos.
2. The Gate of Heaven at Lempuyang Luhur Temple
Ubud is home to some of Bali's most unique and impressive temples, including Pura Tirta Empul, Pura Lempuyang, and Lempuyang Luhur. In particular, the "Gateway to Heaven" at Lempuyang Luhur is one of the most popular photo spots. Located about 2 hours' drive (nearly 90 km) east of Ubud city center, the sacred Lempuyang mountain temple sits approximately 1,170 meters above sea level. From here, you can admire the majestic mountain scenery overlooking the eastern coast of Bali.
The temple gate is affectionately called the "Gate of Heaven" or "Gate of Paradise" by visitors, because it opens up to a celestial landscape right before your eyes, with towering mountain peaks and ethereal white clouds. To reach it, you must climb over a thousand steps, taking nearly two hours. But rest assured, all your hard work will be rewarded with a breathtaking view where heaven and earth meet, a scene as beautiful as a painting.
3. Monkey Forest
Ubud Monkey Forest is a nature reserve located near the southern end of Jalan Monkey Forest and is considered a sacred place for monkeys by the locals. The monkey population consists of over 600 individuals, divided into four troops living in the wild here. According to Balinese Hinduism, monkeys are considered very sacred animals. The monkeys in Ubud are small in size, gentle, friendly, and have affectionate eyes. Just seeing tourists raise their cameras, both baby and adult monkeys will stand still and "pose." Visitors to the monkey forest not only take home interesting souvenir photos but also have the opportunity to play and interact with these adorable little friends. This creates a strong and close bond between humans and nature.
Note:
- Before entering, please read the instructions carefully to avoid upsetting the monkeys, especially by avoiding eye contact.
- You should only bring a few belongings and personal items if you don't want to be pestered and snatched away by mischievous monkeys.
- Venturing deep into the forest, you'll be able to admire a stunning waterfall. You can also freely pose on the bridge and capture a collection of breathtaking photos.
4. Ubud Traditional Art Market
Although it's just a local market, this is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Bali. Tourists say the goods here are of good quality, come in a wide variety of designs, and are significantly cheaper than elsewhere on the island. True to its name, this art market offers many souvenirs, traditional sarongs, wood carvings, and meticulously handcrafted dream catchers. All are valuable "works of art."
Note:
- Don't forget to bargain when shopping here. If you're skillful, you can buy your favorite item for about a third of the original price. Balinese people are quite friendly, so rest assured that if you browse for a long time without buying anything, they won't be annoyed.
- Furthermore, Vinh highly appreciates the items sold here, because they are all meticulously handcrafted, ensuring that no one else will have anything like them.
5. Campuhan Ridge Walk
Dubbed the most beautiful trail on Bali, the Campuhan Ridge Walk is the birthplace of countless stunning photos taken by travel bloggers worldwide. The highlight of this picturesque path is the lush greenery on both sides and the fresh, cool air. Walking along it, you'll feel unexpectedly relaxed and at ease. It's especially perfect and romantic if you can hold hands with your loved one and watch the sunset right before your eyes.
6. Waterfall in Tukad Cepung Cave
Dubbed the most mysterious waterfall in Bali, Tukad Cepung Falls is nestled deep within a cave amidst a vast jungle. To reach it and fully appreciate its beauty, you must hike along a forest trail, crossing makeshift wooden bridges, and then follow a deep river to finally see the breathtaking Tukad Cepung Falls at the end of the trail. With its pristine natural scenery, your journey to find the waterfall will be incredibly exciting and captivating, like an adventurous treasure hunt in the deep jungle. Upon arriving at the waterfall, Vinh guarantees you will be constantly amazed by the dazzling beauty of the surrounding landscape. Sunlight shining on the top of the falls, filtering through the crevices in the rocks, will create a masterpiece of art, exquisitely crafted by Mother Nature.
Note:
- The best time to explore the waterfall is in the late afternoon (before 4 pm), when the sun is at its highest point and provides the best light for the cave.
- You can wear flip-flops or comfortable sneakers to avoid stepping on stones along the way.
