A 7-Day Cultural & Coastal Journey Through Bali

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Day 1: Arrival & Ubud's Spiritual Heart

Thursday, January 15, 2026
Activities
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Arrival at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)

Ngurah Rai International Airport, Denpasar, Bali
Pre-book your airport transfer for a hassle-free experience. Official airport taxis are also available, but ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab are often cheaper (use the official pickup zone).

Check-in to Ubud Accommodation

Ubud, Gianyar, Bali
Mid-range suggestions: Adiwana Monkey Forest, Pertiwi Bisma 2. Budget-friendly: Green Spirit Villa. Consider a location within walking distance to the main streets for easy exploration.

Welcome Dinner at Bebek Tepi Sawah

Bebek Tepi Sawah, Ubud
A great introduction to authentic Balinese flavors in a stunning setting. Try their mixed satay as well.

Traditional Legong Dance at Ubud Palace

Puri Saren Agung (Ubud Palace), Ubud
Arrive about 20-30 minutes early to get a good seat as it's open seating. Tickets can be bought at the entrance.
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Day 2: Rice Terraces, Holy Waters & Art

Friday, January 16, 2026
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Activities
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Sunrise at Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Gianyar, Bali
Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the terraces. Many cafes overlook the view for a post-walk coffee. This is also where you can find the famous Bali swings (additional cost).

Spiritual Cleansing at Tirta Empul Temple

Tirta Empul Temple, Tampaksiring, Bali
Dress respectfully (cover shoulders and knees). You will need a special sarong for entering the water, which can be rented. It's best to go with a guide to understand the ritual's significance.

Lunch at a Local Warung

Tampaksiring area, Bali
This is a great way to taste real Balinese home-style cooking and support local businesses.

Explore Ubud Art Market & Palace

Ubud Art Market, Ubud, Bali
Bargaining is expected at the market, so be prepared to negotiate politely. Weather Backup: If it rains heavily, this is a good time for a Balinese cooking class or a silver-making workshop in the Celuk village.

Dinner at The Sayan House

The Sayan House, Ubud
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for a table with the best view. It's a perfect spot for a special evening.
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Day 3: Waterfalls, Monkeys & Relaxation

Saturday, January 17, 2026
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Activities
5

Chasing Waterfalls: Tibumana & Kanto Lampo

Tibumana Waterfall, Bangli, Bali
Wear water shoes as the rocks can be slippery. Go early to avoid crowds. These are generally less crowded than Tegenungan waterfall.

Lunch with a Jungle View

Ubud Area
Suggestions: Tis Cafe near Tegalalang or other local spots near the waterfalls.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Ubud
Do not bring any food or loose items (sunglasses, hats). Do not make direct eye contact or show your teeth to the monkeys, as this can be seen as a sign of aggression.

Traditional Balinese Massage

Any reputable spa in Ubud
Ubud is famous for its world-class spas. Karsa Spa and Jaens Spa are popular choices. Book in advance, especially during peak season. This is a great rainy afternoon activity.

Dinner at Locavore (or Locavore To Go)

Locavore, Ubud
Reservations for Locavore must be made months in advance. If unavailable, try their sister restaurant Nusantara for authentic Indonesian cuisine.
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Day 4: Journey to the Coast & Seminyak Sunsets

Sunday, January 18, 2026
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Activities
5

Travel from Ubud to Seminyak

Ubud to Seminyak
The journey can take 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic. Arrange for a private driver or use a ride-hailing app.

Check-in to Seminyak Accommodation

Seminyak, Badung, Bali
Mid-range suggestions: Ize Seminyak, Tijili Seminyak. For a villa experience, explore options on Airbnb or Booking.com.

Lunch at a Seminyak Cafe

Seminyak, Bali
Popular spots include Sisterfields Cafe, Revolver Espresso, or Sea Circus.

Relax on Seminyak Beach

Seminyak Beach, Bali
The waves can be strong, so be cautious when swimming. You can rent surfboards or boogie boards from local vendors.

Sunset Drinks at Potato Head Beach Club

Potato Head Beach Club, Seminyak
Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially a daybed (minimum spend applies). Other great options include Ku De Ta or La Favela for a different vibe.
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Day 5: Surf, Cliffs & Fire Dance

Monday, January 19, 2026
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Activities
5

Beginner's Surf Lesson

Batu Bolong Beach, Canggu
Book with a reputable surf school. A 2-hour lesson typically includes board rental and an instructor. This is a great morning activity before the sun gets too strong.

Lunch in Canggu

Canggu, Bali
Try Crate Cafe, The Shady Shack, or Betelnut Cafe for delicious and healthy options.

Travel to Uluwatu

Seminyak to Uluwatu
The journey takes about 1 hour. It's best to hire a driver for the rest of the day as getting transport back from Uluwatu can be tricky.

Uluwatu Temple & Kecak Fire Dance

Uluwatu Temple, Pecatu, Bali
Cost includes temple entrance (~50k) and Kecak dance ticket (~150k). Buy dance tickets as soon as you arrive as they sell out. Secure your belongings from the mischievous monkeys!

Seafood Dinner at Jimbaran Bay

Jimbaran Bay, Bali
Your driver can take you here after the Kecak dance. It's a classic Bali experience to dine with your feet in the sand under the stars.
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Day 6: Island Adventure or Coastal Charm

Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Activities
3

Option A: Day Trip to Nusa Penida (West)

Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency
This is a long and physically demanding day with rough roads. Book a tour package that includes hotel pickup, fast boat tickets, and a private driver on the island. This is highly weather-dependent; rough seas can lead to cancellations.

Option B: Tanah Lot Sunset & Canggu Exploration

Tanah Lot Temple, Beraban, Bali
This is the primary backup plan if the Nusa Penida trip is cancelled due to weather. Tanah Lot gets very crowded for sunset, so arrive with plenty of time. Check the tide schedule if you want to walk closer to the temple base.

Farewell Dinner in Seminyak

Seminyak, Bali
Suggestions: Merah Putih for upscale Indonesian, Sarong for Pan-Asian cuisine, or La Lucciola for Italian by the beach. Book in advance.
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Day 7: Last Souvenirs & Departure

Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Activities
3

Final Balinese Breakfast

Seminyak, Bali

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Krisna Oleh Oleh Bali, Kuta
Krisna is a good one-stop-shop if you're short on time and don't want to bargain.

Depart from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)

Ngurah Rai International Airport, Denpasar, Bali
Allow at least 3 hours before your flight departure time. Traffic to the airport can be unpredictable, so it's better to leave early.
Travel FAQs

Q.What is the best time to visit Bali?

The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, from April to October. Your trip is in January, which is the peak ...

Q.How do I get around Bali?

The most common ways are renting a scooter (for experienced riders with an international license), using ride-hailing ap...

Q.What are some must-try Balinese foods?

Don't leave without trying Babi Guling (suckling pig), Bebek Betutu (slow-cooked duck), Sate Lilit (minced meat satay), ...

Q.What are some important local customs or tips?

Always dress modestly when visiting temples (cover shoulders and knees; sarongs are usually available for rent). Use you...

Q.What is the currency and what are the typical costs?

The currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Costs are generally low. A meal at a local warung can be $2-4 USD, a mid-ra...

Q.Do I need a visa for Indonesia?

Many nationalities are eligible for a 30-day Visa on Arrival (VoA) or are visa-exempt. Please check the latest regulatio...

Q.What should I pack for a trip in January?

Pack lightweight and breathable clothing (cotton, linen), swimwear, a light rain jacket or poncho, comfortable walking s...