Share this...

Facebook

Pinterest

Twitter

Linkedin

10 Essential Tips for Planning Bali Trip from India

Are you planning to explore a sun-soaked paradise? 

If so, then consider a Bali itinerary for your next holiday. From lush jungles and pristine beaches to vibrant culture, this Indonesian island attracts every type of traveller, whether you are a budget-conscious backpacker or a luxury jet setter.

Read on to learn about the must-know things, such as the best places of interest, food to try, safe accommodation, public transport, visa requirements and international travel insurance, that will help you better plan your trip to Bali.

10 Things to Know Before Planning a Bali Trip from India

1. Best Time to Visit Bali

Bali has a tropical climate, which makes it a year-round destination. However, the dry season (April to September) is considered ideal for exploring the island. Known as the kite season, this period of the year is also perfect for outdoor activities, such as hiking, surfing, and exploring temples. 

Further, if you want a serene ambience and quieter streets, visit Bali during Ramadan. The rainy season (October to April) is also considered a great time to visit the island, with short, sharp showers that make the place wonderfully lush.

2. Indonesia Visa for Indians

Indians visiting Bali do not require a visa upon arrival if they plan to stay for less than 30 days. However, a Bali visa for Indians is needed if the stay spans between 30 days and 60 days. 

While Indians can obtain an Indonesian visa on arrival at the Bali airport, the Consulate General of India suggests taking an e-visa, filling out a customs declaration form, and paying a tourist levy fee online in advance.

Also, it is vital to ensure that your passport is valid for more than six months from the date of arrival in the country; otherwise, immigration authorities at the Bali airport will deny you entry. 

3. Must-visit Places for Unique Experiences

Visit Seminyak for its vibrant nightlife, world-class dining options and boutique shopping. You can also explore the lush Tegalaland Rice Terrace (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and sacred temples in Ubud. You can also visit the area around Mount Batur, which is the island’s second-largest volcano.

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, home to over 1,200 monkeys, lets you interact with long-tailed macaques amidst Bali’s lush forests. To soak in the panoramic ocean and vibrant sunset views, visit the cliffside Uluwatu Temple. Here, you can also enjoy cultural dance performances in an open-air amphitheatre. 

Notably, other places of tourist interest in the island are Waterbom Bali, Bali Zoo, Tanah Lot Temple, Kelingking Beach, Campuhan Ridge Walk, Nusa Dua Beach, Tegenungan Waterfall, and Bali Safari & Marine Park. 

4. Must-try Adventure Sports 

Surfing, scuba diving and hiking are popular adventure activities in Bali. Adventure seekers can also dive into crystal-clear waters, enjoy white-water rafting or trek through lush jungles. Additionally, beach lovers and surfers must visit Kuta and Legian. Besides, if you want to snorkel with manta rays, then Nusa Penida cannot be missed.

Other thrilling experiences that Bali offers include riding an underwater scooter, swimming with sharks, having breakfast with orangutans, going on a night safari, enjoying the Bali swing, and taking a rolling doughnut, glass boat, or banana boat ride. You can also go dolphin watching, parasailing, dirt biking, canyon tubing, jet skiing, kayaking, and sea walking.  

5. Travel Insurance for Peace of Mind

Offering protection against emergencies, overseas travel insurance covers medical problems, passport issues, accidents, and/or baggage and document loss in a foreign country. These insurance plans also cover any cancellation and interruption during the trip.

Some international travel insurance policies cover all pre-booked, non-refundable expenses in case of a strike, riot, or war-like situation. Also, there are a few plans that take care of your expenses when a natural calamity damages your home or hits your travel destination.

Besides, there are insurers who not only process claims for flight delays but also cover expenses if you miss your connecting flight owing to this delay.

6. Accommodation for Every Budget and Style

Bali has various affordable hostels, luxurious beachfront villas and charming boutique properties. The island also features couple-friendly properties, ensuring a romantic escape. 

Most of the hotels in Bali feature outdoor swimming pools, gardens, terraces, bars, restaurants, and fitness centres. Some hotels also maintain fantastic spa centres and organise meditation and yoga classes for tourists.

Popular areas to stay in Bali are Ubud, Seminyak, and Canggu. If you want to surf and party, you must book your accommodation in Kuta. 

7. Accessible and Affordable Transportation 

Mopeds, also available on rideshare apps like Grab and Gojek, are considered one of the cheapest ways to get around Bali. Further, you can rent a scooter to explore the island. But, consider joining a group tour or hiring a driver for longer distances.

You can also board a bus to explore the island. Kura-Kura is a tourist-class bus service that operates on many routes around southern Bali and up to Ubud. You can easily book your ticket via its app or on its website. 

Besides, hiring a taxi is relatively inexpensive in Bali. Bluebird, which maintains Indonesia’s biggest taxi fleet, lets tourists book and track a taxi easily through its app. 

8. Food Scene in Bali

From high-end restaurants with well-known chefs to community kitchens serving creative vegan and vegetarian options, Bali is a paradise for foodies. Balinese food features a unique taste and character, and it is loaded with spices that exist in harmony with fish, meat, and fresh vegetables. 

Visit local markets and street food stalls to taste the authentic flavours of Balinese cuisine. You must try babi guling (the famous roasted pig), nasi goreng (fried rice) and mie goreng (fried noodles) when in Bali.

9. Must-follow Health Requirements 

Before visiting Bali, keep your vaccinations for chickenpox (varicella), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, flu (influenza), measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), polio and shingles up to date. When in Bali, take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever. Carry a mosquito repellent or a bug spray wherever you go. 

It is to be noted that every traveller, including children, is required to fill in the SATUSEHAT Health Pass before entry into Indonesia. You should complete the online general health declaration form before boarding your flight to Bali.  

10. Safety Tips

Do not smoke in public and/or consume or purchase locally available drugs. Also, avoid engaging in unsafe beach behaviour and straying into the danger zone. Further, volcanic and earthquake updates should be regularly checked. 

Trust only a reputable service provider when making bookings for activities like hiking and diving. Besides, avoid hailing scooter taxis on the street, as you won’t be able to check their credentials.

In a nutshell, although you ask is Bali a country, it’s not. But it is a tropical paradise that provides a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. This enchanting island captivates every type of traveller with its beauty, charm, and rich cultural heritage. Following the above-mentioned guide will ensure a memorable and hassle-free vacation.