7 Days in Bali: A Cultural Itinerary of Temples, Traditions, and Rice Terraces

Now, let’s dive into your week-long adventure to discover Bali beyond the beaches.

Day 1: Arrival in Ubud - The Cultural Heart of Bali

Immerse Yourself in Art, Culture, and Tradition

Start your journey in Ubud, the cultural capital of Bali. Known for its art galleries, traditional dance performances, and temples, Ubud serves as the perfect base for cultural immersion. Take your time to explore, and let the town’s slow-paced vibe wash over you.

• Must-Visit Spots:
  • Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung): A stunning royal palace where you can witness nightly Balinese dance performances like the famous Legong and Barong dances. You’ll also see some impressive traditional Balinese architecture here.
  • Saraswati Temple: A beautiful water temple adorned with blooming lotus ponds, Saraswati Temple is dedicated to Dewi Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and art. It’s a great spot for a peaceful visit, especially in the early morning when fewer tourists are around.
• Additional Options:
  • Campuhan Ridge Walk: If you're craving a bit of nature after exploring Ubud’s town center, this scenic ridge walk offers sweeping views of rice fields and jungles.
  • Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA): For art lovers, ARMA offers an impressive collection of Balinese paintings and sculptures. It’s more than just a museum—ARMA also hosts cultural performances, workshops, and exhibitions.
• Where to Stay:
  • Adiwana Bisma: This luxurious resort is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Ubud but is still within walking distance of key attractions. It’s perfect for those seeking relaxation amidst the jungle.
• How to Travel:
  • From Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar, Ubud is about 1.5 hours by taxi or private car. You can pre-arrange a transfer with your hotel or use a ride-hailing app like Grab for convenience.

Pro Tip:

Check the schedule for the Ubud Traditional Art Market to see if your trip overlaps with the best shopping days. It’s an ideal place to pick up locally made handicrafts like batik fabric, woven baskets, or wooden carvings.

Day 2: Explore the Sacred Monkey Forest and Surrounding Temples

A Day of Sacred Spaces and Spiritual Connection

Today is about connecting with Bali’s spiritual side. Start your day by visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a sprawling reserve that houses hundreds of macaques and several ancient temples nestled within a dense, magical jungle.

• Things to Do:
  • Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: Beyond being a haven for monkeys, this forest is deeply spiritual for locals. Explore three key temples inside the forest: the Pura Dalem Agung (Main Temple), the Holy Bathing Temple, and the Prajapati Temple. Take your time and enjoy the tranquility of the sacred banyan trees and flowing streams.
• Hidden Gem:
  • Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal: This temple, located within the Monkey Forest, is less frequented by tourists and provides a calm spot for meditation or reflection. Its ornate stone carvings and moss-covered statues give it an otherworldly feel.
• Afternoon Adventure:
  • Head to Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave. This 9th-century site was once used as a sanctuary and meditation cave by Buddhist monks. The entrance is carved into a demon’s mouth, and inside you’ll find remnants of Hindu and Buddhist relics. Walk around the lush gardens and sacred pools for a deeper spiritual experience.
• Alternative Option:
  • If you’re up for a unique cultural experience, visit Tegenungan Waterfall in the late afternoon. You can swim in the cool waters beneath the falls, and enjoy the less crowded atmosphere later in the day.
• Where to Stay:
  • Alila Ubud: Perched above the Ayung River Valley, Alila Ubud is a tranquil retreat surrounded by nature. Enjoy luxury accommodations with incredible views of the lush greenery.

Pro Tip:

Arrive early to the Sacred Monkey Forest to avoid crowds, and be mindful of your belongings, as the monkeys are quite mischievous!

Day 3: Tegallalang Rice Terraces & Tirta Empul Water Temple

Iconic Rice Fields and Sacred Water Rituals

Today, you’ll dive into two of Bali’s most iconic sights: the famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces and Tirta Empul, a water temple known for its holy springs.

• Morning in the Rice Fields:
  • Start your morning at the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, a UNESCO-recognized site known for its breathtaking, terraced hills. Here, you can wander through the fields, talk to local farmers, or simply enjoy the stunning views from one of the many cafés perched along the valley. For those looking for an active start to the day, consider doing the Trek through Tegallalang, a guided walk through the terraces where you’ll learn about traditional irrigation systems known as subak.
• Optional Experience:
  • Try the Bali Swing, an adrenaline-pumping ride that swings you out over the rice terraces, offering incredible views and a rush of excitement.
• Afternoon at Tirta Empul:
  • After exploring the terraces, visit Tirta Empul Temple, a Hindu Balinese water temple that’s famous for its holy spring water, where locals come for purification rituals. If you’d like, you can participate in the cleansing ritual (melukat), where you bathe in the temple’s sacred pools to wash away negative energy.
• Alternative Options:
  • Gunung Kawi Temple: Just a short drive from Tirta Empul, this ancient temple complex features 10 rock-cut shrines carved into the cliffs. It’s a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path site that offers insight into Bali’s ancient kings.
• Where to Stay:
  • Uma Citta Ubud: This boutique villa in Ubud combines modern luxury with traditional Balinese design, making it a perfect choice for a restful night after a day of exploring.

Pro Tip:

Bring a sarong and sash to cover up when entering temples. Most major temples like Tirta Empul offer these for free or for rent, but it's nice to have your own.

Day 4: Journey to Sidemen Valley – A Slice of Rural Bali

Embrace Bali’s Countryside and Tranquility

Say goodbye to Ubud and journey to Sidemen Valley, an untouched region in East Bali known for its lush rice fields, towering mountains, and authentic village life. This area is perfect for slowing down and experiencing the traditional Balinese way of life.

• Things to Do in Sidemen:
  • Village Trekking: Sidemen offers numerous trekking routes through rice paddies, cacao plantations, and bamboo groves. You can hire a local guide to take you through the scenic countryside while learning about the area’s unique agricultural traditions.
  • Traditional Weaving Villages: Sidemen is famous for its songket and ikat weaving. Visit one of the local weaving villages to see artisans at work creating intricate textiles by hand.
• Afternoon at Besakih Temple:
  • After exploring Sidemen’s rural charm, head to Pura Besakih (Mother Temple), the largest and holiest temple complex in Bali. Set on the slopes of Mount Agung, Besakih consists of 23 temples that date back over 1,000 years. Plan at least a couple of hours to wander through this vast complex and take in its spiritual significance.
• Where to Stay:
  • Samanvaya Luxury Resort: This eco-luxury property is set within the rice terraces of Sidemen and provides beautiful valley views. Opt for a traditional Balinese lumbung-style villa to fully embrace the local experience.

Pro Tip:

Hire a local guide at Pura Besakih to better understand the temple’s history and significance, as it can be quite vast and overwhelming without context.

Day 5: Lempuyang Temple and Tirta Gangga Water Palace

The Gateway to Heaven and a Royal Water Garden

Today you’ll explore some of East Bali’s most photogenic and spiritually significant sites, starting with Lempuyang Temple, known for its iconic “Gateway to Heaven.”

• Morning at Lempuyang Temple:
  • The early bird gets the best view! Head to Pura Luhur Lempuyang as early as possible to beat the crowds and snap the famous shot of the temple’s gates framing Mount Agung. The temple is one of Bali’s six holiest sites and offers an incredible panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Be prepared for a bit of a hike up the steps—there are seven temples in total at this site, and the highest offers the best view.
• Afternoon at Tirta Gangga:
  • After your morning spiritual journey, cool off at Tirta Gangga, a royal water palace built by the Karangasem Kings. Wander through its lush gardens, swim in its spring-fed pools, or hop across the stepping stones that wind through the central pond filled with koi fish.
• Alternative Option:
  • If you prefer a more remote temple experience, visit Pura Lempuyang Madya, one of the upper temples in the Lempuyang complex. It’s far less crowded and offers equally beautiful views without the tourist rush.
• Where to Stay:
  • Sidemen Villa: For an authentic experience, this villa offers charming, rustic accommodations surrounded by nature. You can easily explore the temples and valleys while enjoying the quiet evenings. Bali, often seen as a sun-soaked beach destination, has so much more to offer beyond its coastline. Its vibrant culture, spiritual heart, and tranquil landscapes provide a wealth of opportunities for those seeking a deeper connection to the island. This 7-day itinerary is designed to take you off the beaten path, guiding you through hidden temples, lush rice terraces, and cultural hotspots that will leave you with lasting memories. From the ancient temples of East Bali to the serene countryside of Sidemen, this journey will reveal Bali’s true soul.
    ‍Best Way to Travel:
    To follow this itinerary, hiring a private driver is the most efficient and comfortable option. While Bali has some public transport, it’s limited, and private transport gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Most accommodations can help arrange private drivers, or you can use ride-hailing apps like Grab for shorter trips. For the ultimate cultural experience, consider renting a scooter if you're confident riding in Bali’s busy traffic, especially in Ubud and rural areas.

Pro Tip:

While Lempuyang Temple is popular for photos, take the time to explore the higher temples, as they offer a more serene and authentic experience.

Day 6: North Bali - Discover Lovina’s Hidden Temples

Venture to North Bali’s Quiet Temples and Black Sand Beaches

On Day 6, venture to Lovina in North Bali, a peaceful region that offers a slower pace and some truly hidden gems in terms of temples and spiritual spots.

• Morning Exploration:
  • Start your day with a visit to Pura Beji, an intricately carved temple in Sangsit dedicated to Dewi Sri, the goddess of rice. It’s an important temple for the local agricultural community and features some of the best stone carvings in Bali.
• Afternoon Serenity:
  • Head to Brahma Vihara Arama, the largest Buddhist monastery in Bali, tucked away in the hills of Banjar. It’s a serene and spiritual site with stunning golden Buddha statues and beautiful gardens. For a completely different experience, you can also visit the nearby Banjar Hot Springs to relax in the warm volcanic waters surrounded by lush greenery.
• Alternative Option:
  • For a more adventurous afternoon, consider a dolphin-watching tour from Lovina Beach. You can take a traditional outrigger boat at sunrise to spot wild dolphins swimming in the calm waters.
• Where to Stay:
  • The Damai Lovina Villas: This eco-friendly resort offers private villas with ocean views. It’s perfect for unwinding after a day of temple exploration, with a focus on sustainability and relaxation.

Pro Tip:

For a unique experience, consider taking a Balinese cooking class in Lovina, where you can learn how to prepare local dishes using fresh ingredients from the market.

Day 7: Return to Ubud via Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

A Serene Goodbye to Bali’s Heartland

On your final day, take the scenic route back to Ubud, stopping at the breathtaking Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• What to Do:
  • Spend the morning walking through the Jatiluwih Rice Fields, where you’ll encounter fewer tourists but just as stunning views as Tegallalang. These sprawling terraces are a great place to see traditional Balinese irrigation techniques (subak) in action.
• Last Stop:
  • End your journey at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, a temple set on the shores of Lake Bratan. This water temple is one of Bali’s most iconic images, thanks to its seemingly floating structure when the lake is full. The surrounding botanical gardens are also worth a stroll.
• Where to Stay:
  • Finish your trip with a relaxing night at the Kayon Jungle Resort, an upscale property near Ubud. It’s the perfect spot to reflect on your week-long journey, surrounded by the beauty of Bali’s jungles and rivers.

Pro Tip:

For photography lovers, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is best visited in the early morning or late afternoon for the most stunning light and peaceful atmosphere.

‍
This 7-day itinerary offers a deeper exploration of Bali's cultural richness and hidden spiritual sites, moving beyond the typical tourist attractions. By visiting serene temples, trekking through picturesque rice terraces, and engaging with local traditions, you’ll experience Bali in a more meaningful and immersive way. This journey will reveal Bali’s true essence.