Gunung Kawi: A Window into Ancient Bali
One of Bali’s most ancient archaeological sites has for some reason remained off the main tourist trails. Gunung Kawi, found in the Tampaksiring area 30-minutes north of Ubud, is a stunning complex of shrines of an old Hindu civilisation from the 11th Century, and is a must-visit for any lover of history and culture. History
Trails Through Tenganan
The East. A word that calls forth memories of expeditions, the search for unknown worlds, of odyssey and discovery. The world – an oyster for seafaring adventurers seeking unmapped lands. Bali’s own eastern territories hold similar repute, a land that lures in those eager to surround themselves with nature and foster a sense of exploration
Ubud Story Walks: Walking Through History from Past to Present
Ubud Story Walks is a new experience that launched at the end of April 2022, specialising in a unique, guided tour around Ubud focused on discovering different histories of the town on foot. The NOW! Bali team was fortunate enough to experience their debut tour, “Ubud: Past to Present”, a crash-course on how Ubud came
Pura Ponjok Batu and the Boat-Shaped Shrine
Julah village in Tejakula, Buleleng regency, is one of the areas in Bali where old traditions live on. Here, a sea temple attracts the pilgrims looking to be blessed with prosperity for their business, artists for skilful hands to create works of arts, and fishermen for an abundant catch on a day out at sea.
Forests in Bali: Nature Walks, Treks and Explorations Between the Trees
As if Bali did not provide enough natural environments to explore, this rich and fertile island is home to many forests, rainforests and parks, many of which are quite distinct from one another. Thanks to the varying climates you’ll find from west to east, or from coastal to central Bali, this has resulted in an
An Epic Campervan Adventure Across the Island
On a mission to inspire a closer connection to Bali’s natural environment and establish an appreciation for ‘road trip culture’, this campervan experience entices adventure-seekers to cut the cord to civilisation and explore Bali off the beaten track. “Road trip”: an emotive two words, awakening within us a slumbering wanderer craving to put the pedal
Ubud Monkey Forest: Things to Know Before You Go
Located in Padangtegal Village, Ubud Monkey Forest – also known as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary – is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Ubud. So, if you’re looking for things to do in Ubud, the monkey sanctuary is the perfect place to visit but before you go, you should get familiar with some
A Guide to Mountains in Bali: Volcanoes, Calderas and Epic Adventures
There are 11 Bali mountains, which is not necessarily the image of Bali people expect. With so much focus on the beach and coastlines of this island, people have even come and asked in surprise, “Are there any mountains in Bali?” Indeed there are, and they are majestic. Indonesia, being on the Ring of Fire,
Pura Tirta Empul: The Holy Spring of Indra
In an area of Bali rich in ancient and archaeological history, you will find a temple within which holy waters are said to gurgle from deep beneath the ground. Pura Tirta Empul, a holy spring temple found in Tampak Siring, is where many Balinese Hindu will go to perform the melukat purification ceremony. However, it
Estuarine Explorations at the Kedonganan Mangroves
If you’re looking for an easy-to-access activity, one that takes you into the heart of nature and gives you a new way to see Bali, then a boat trip through the Kedonganan mangroves may just be the ticket. Blessed with a range of environments and landscapes, Bali continues to be a haven for those who
For People and Planet: Developing Trail Tourism Across Bali
In an effort to bolster Bali’s local economy, one company is establishing a network of treks and trails throughout Bali with the objective of directly empowering local communities whilst also encouraging a sustainable, eco-tourism model for the island. Bali is no stranger to outdoor tourism, for decades visitors have been able to charge up mountainsides
Learn the Skills of a Balinese Jewellery Artisan at the John Hardy Masterclass
For over 40 years, the John Hardy brand has been creating and producing some of the most beautifully designed and unique jewellery in Bali, crafted by masterful Balinese artisans through time-honoured techniques that have been passed down through generations. At John Hardy Workshop & Kapal Bamboo Boutique in Mambal, you can join a Masterclass to
Bali Safari: Educational Adventure at This Leading Animal Conservation Park
As a champion of animal education and conservation, Bali Safari is one of the most popular destinations in Bali, especially when it comes to families seeking a fun and educational experience for their littles ones. At Bali Safari, guests can enjoy an immersive day out exploring the park and get an up-close look at over