Bali Cultural Tours | Sightseeing | Activities

tours and activities

Bali is a land of lush green rice terraces, verdant tropical jungles, stunning volcanic backdrops, sparkling blue oceans, enchanting temples, and a rich and fascinating local culture. Visitors to the island can immerse themselves in it all with Siddhartha providing the ideal jumping-off point to explore what Bali has to offer.

Whether you wish to plunge into sacred healing waters at a centuries-old temple or weave your way through rice paddies by bike, we have a diverse selection of offerings that allow you to experience and discover the natural beauty and authentic culture of Bali, in a way that suits you best.

All of our tours and suggested activities have been chosen with care and consideration for travel times from the resort to ensure you make the most of each day. We also offer private and fully customized small group tours or day trips upon request.

Download our current Tours & Activities overview here.

Pura Besakih

One of the most iconic and sacred of the island’s temples, Pura Besakih, is one of Bali’s most frequented places of worship. Local lore suggests Bali’s “Mother Temple” is over 2,000 years old, but it is known…

for sure that the hallowed site was used as a Hindu place of worship from 1284. Situated on the slopes of Mount Agung, the island’s largest temple complex is also one of the highest. Twenty-three temples are sprawled over the mountainside. From its towering perch, the location boasts impressive views within of tiered pagoda-like towers, thatched-roof bales, and ancient stone statues; as well as without, with an impressive outlook over the mountainous terrain. The towering candi bentar (split gate) provides the backdrop for many visitors’ most memorable images.

Tirta Gangga

This calming oasis set on the south-eastern slope of Mount Agung, was once the favorite retreat of the last raja (king) of Karangasem. The royal regent commissioned the creation of these…

lush manicured gardens in 1946. However, the eruption of Bali’s tallest mountain in 1963 left the grounds in disarray. It wasn’t until the late ‘70s that the property underwent some extensive restorations to bring it back to its original grandeur. These days visitors can wander through tropical gardens, admire flowing fountains, cool pools, and imposing statues of deities, demons, and mythical creatures. Most visitors opt to test their balance on the stepping stones that traverse the Mahabharata Pond, while koi swim beneath their feet.

Pura Lempuyang

Pura Lempuyang’s fabled gates are now one of Bali’s most iconic backdrops, thanks to Instagram. Dubbed the “gates of heaven” the candi bentar (split gate), that frame Mount Agung in the distance…

is the place of many a tourist snapshot. Although there’s a lot more to these ancient temple grounds than posing for a post. Those wishing to get away from the crowds may want to venture deeper into the holy site and explore the seven different temples spread out over the slope of Mount Lempuyang. Located at 1,175 meters above sea level the main temple is reached by a steep staircase of more than 1,700 steps, earning the revered destination the nickname, “Temple of a Thousand Steps.”

Pura Ponjok Batu

Less frequented than many of Bali’s more iconic temples, Pura Ponjok Batu gives visitors a glimpse into the local culture in a way that feels more intimate than the island’s more frequented spots.

Created out of volcanic stone and perched on a small peninsula, the “Stone on the Edge” temple was built sometime between the 8th to 13th centuries. With shrines dedicated to Hindu deities, like Baruna (also known as Varuna), the ruler of the seas, the place is popular with local fishermen. A small stone boat, nestled on a rock off the shore, was added in the ‘90s to commemorate how a holy priest helped save sailors.

Pura Ulun Danu Beratan

Located on the serene Beratan lake and with a verdant mountain backdrop, this temple complex dedicated to the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, and the goddess Danu, can feel otherworldly.

This place has held spiritual significance for centuries and the first temple was built there in 1556. The temple grounds were rebuilt in 1633 with the current iteration blending Buddhist and Hindu architectural styles. The most iconic destination within the grounds is the pelinggih meru, an 11-story tiered pagoda dedicated to Shiva and Paravati. This popular tower features prominently on the 50,000 Rupiah bill.

Tirta Empul

Built in 926 AD Tirta Empul has a long history of worship and ritual and is most well-known for melukat, the Balinese water purification ceremony. This ritual for Balinese is akin to what confession…

is for the Catholics. For visitors, it’s a chance to explore the spiritual side of the Island of the Gods and literally wash away what is best left in the past. Tirta Empul, with waters that are considered the holiest in Bali, is one of the most popular (and therefore busiest) sites for this sacred ritual. In 2017 President Obama and his family even visited the revered grounds.

Bedugul’s Lakes

Buyan Lake and its smaller neighbor, Tamblingan are also in the neighborhood. The ancient caldera lakes are surrounded by rainforests and offer guests a serene outlook. Lake Bratan (also known as…

Lake Beratan) rounds out Bedugul’s trio of basins. Bratan is famous for the temple complex, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan.

Pura Goa Lawah

Pura Goa Lawah, which translates as Bat Cave temple, draws its name from its location by the opening of a cave where thousands of bats dwell. The locals believe that the temple’s location is…

at a pivotal point on the island that brings spiritual balance to Bali and it is often included as one of the six holiest places of worship. The exact six spiritual sites vary by region but Pura Besakih is always included in the collection. Legend has it that a dragon, who is in charge of keeping the universe in balance, lives in the cave and only leaves to visit Pura Besakih, through a tunnel inside, or to bathe in the ocean it overlooks.

Pura Goa Gajah

A gaping mouth marks the entrance to Goa Gajah, the Elephant Cave, on the outskirts of Ubud. The sacred site is said to have gotten its name from the nearby river, once known as the Elephant River,

however, the elephant-headed deity, Ganesh, is also honored here. It’s believed that it was once used as a hermitage for Hindu priests and that the cave was dug out entirely by hand all the way back in the 11th century. Although the cave itself is small with narrow pathways there are also sites to see outside, including the former bathing ponds with stone statues releasing blessed water into the pools.

Gitgit Waterfall

Surrounded by lush tropical jungle and easily accessible via a 15-minute hike, Gitgit Waterfall is a popular pitstop for people wanting to explore the island’s picturesque natural sites.

Visitors can swim beneath the powerful flow or opt to take a dip in the rocky pools, slightly away from the strong spray.

Les Waterfall

Les Waterfall also goes by the name Yeh Mempeh which aptly translates to “flying water.” The island’s tallest waterfall reaches 40-meters high and offers visitors stunning views over the tropical…

rainforest from the top and cool pools to refresh in at its base. The relatively un-trodden landscape and small caves also make this an interesting place to explore. This waterfall is only a 30-minute drive from Siddhartha.

BANJAR HOT SPRINGS

These centuries-old hot springs set in the jungle have retained their historic charm. The grounds consist of three bathing pools that are fed with healing waters spurting from the mouths of…

mythical dragon sculptures. The natural springs tout a high sulfur content which helps relieve aches and pains and their toasty temperature, which hovers around 38 degrees celsius, also aids in relaxation.

Bali Bird Park

Lovers of all things avian will adore this sanctuary of exotic animals that has over 250 species and 1,300 birds. Introducing more than just what you’d find in Indonesia, the park has species from…

around the world including South America and South Africa. They also have a 4D air-conditioned cinema that showcases films about birds and provides some respite from the midday sun. The owners are advocates against extinction and run programs to protect animals, including breeding, awareness campaigns, and supporting local conservation initiatives.

Campuhan Ridge Walk

This paved walking path, that runs through the heart of Ubud, follows a mountain crest. It’s an easy point-to-point trail that takes in a range of the island’s diverse landscapes. From thick jungle…

to terraced rice paddies, as well as temples and fields, there is much to see along this two-kilometer path. The official end of the ridge walk is Karsa Cafe, where most turn around and head back. Most visitors opt to avoid the midday sun, given the walk isn’t shaded, and head for the path in the early morning or late afternoon.

River Rafting

From a gentle drift to challenging rapids, Bali has river rafting options that cater to all levels of adventure. Ayung River, near Ubud, offers class two and three rapids, which are ideal for beginners.

On this stunning water course you’ll wind through a deeply carved valley with towering waterfalls and enormous cliffs that date back to prehistoric times. Telega Waja River, in Karangasem, is more adrenaline-inducing with class three to four rapids. During your river outing with an expert guide, you may catch the occasional glimpse of brilliant blue Javan Kingfishers or lazy lizards sunning themselves on the rocks.

Cycling in Ubud

The uplands of Bali are one of the island’s most frequented destinations with their picturesque terraced rice paddies drawing in the crowds. One of the best ways to explore the countryside is by…

bicycle where you can pedal along quiet roads and even venture between paddies, along narrow paths, and immerse yourself completely in the scenery. Tours of the area also take in temples and local villages with expert guides explaining village life and local customs. Most tours begin in the morning and end with a well-deserved lunch.

Mount Batur Hike at Sunrise

Watching the sun emerge from above a lake whilst perched on the peak of Mount Batur is an unforgettable experience when visiting the Island of the Gods. From the summit, you’ll also gaze over…

volcanic pools, the tropical countryside, and the island’s most sacred mountain, Mount Agung. While the peak may reach 1,717 meters high most visitors start the climb around 700 meters, making the hike suitable for all levels of fitness (assuming you don’t mind an early start to catch the sun).

Traditional Fruit Market in Bedugul

The way to a traveler’s heart often involves a detour through their stomach, which is why so many visitors love the local fruit markets on the island. The Candikuning Fruit Market near…

Bedugul Botanical Garden is one such destination where people can indulge their eyes and their bellies. With produce that has a short commute, coming from neighboring fields, you can be sure what’s on offer is fresh. Here you can feast on tropical delights like pomelo, durian, rambutan, mangosteen, passion fruit, and the popular locally-grown Bedugul strawberries. An array of spices can also be picked up ranging from nutmeg to turmeric.

Toya Bungkah Hot Springs

Overlooking Batur Lake and the verdant landscape beyond, Toya Bungkah Hot Springs, are a popular spot for those who want to soak, while soaking up some stunning scenery. Many visit to ease…

Bedugul Botanical Garden issore muscles after hiking Mount Batur but the natural springs are worth stopping at, even without a trip up the mountain. There are four different pools, including one for kids, as well as a restaurant and rest area.

BRAHMA VIHARA ARAMA BUDDHIST MONASTERY & TEMPLE

Bali’s largest Buddhist monastery is a more recent addition on an island where pilgrimage sites date back centuries. The spiritual spot, in the uplands of Banjar,

first opened to visitors in 1970. Spread over a four-hectare plot the complex features beautiful gardens, Buddha statues, places of worship, stupas, and meditation rooms. Given the elevation, visitors to the site are also afforded views over the Balinese countryside.

Pura Ulun Danu Batur

Like Pura Ulun Danu Beratan, this sacred site is also built to honor the Goddess Danu, the ancient Hindu goddess of water. While no longer lakeside the original complex and surrounding…

village were situated beside Batur’s crater lake until a 1926 eruption destroyed the village. Despite the destruction, the main shrine survived and the temple was rebuilt at a higher location. The expansive grounds feature nine different temples with 285 shrines honoring gods and goddesses that reign over everything from agriculture and water to sewing and art.

Safari Marine Park

This theme park-meets-zoo is home to over 120 different species of animals ranging from lions and giraffes to endangered species like the Komodo dragon and Bali Starling bird.

Visitors can opt to take part in a safari in a specially designed tram (day or night), jeep, or enjoy part of the park from the vantage point of the top of an elephant. There’s also a rollercoaster and a small water park where visitors can cool off during a visit. The park is involved in conservation efforts around breeding and rescue and was the first park in Bali to naturally hatch a Komodo dragon.

Quad & Buggy Tours

This off-road adventure takes in a wide range of the local terrain including terraced rice paddies, plantations, dense rainforest, muddy trails through riverbeds, and traditional villages…

that afford the opportunity to chat with friendly locals. Guests get to choose between driving their own powerful four-wheel motorcycle or buggy, or taking in the scenery while riding on the back. Touring the island on four wheels allows visitors to explore secluded locations that are not easily accessible by car and are hard work to reach by bicycle.

Ubud Market

This center of commerce at the heart of Bali’s artistic ‘village’ has been around for more than a century. Visit in the early morning and you’ll find an array of vendors touting fresh fruit and…

vegetables. Stroll in after breakfast to the western side of the sprawl and you’ll discover the wares of local artists, craftsmen, and designers on display, alongside stalls selling everything from statues to souvenirs, and handbags to handicrafts. Come early in the day if you want to be part of the frenetic energy of the place and be prepared for some friendly bargaining.

Cycling Mount Agung foothills to White Sand Beach

A private guide leads the way from the foothills of Bali’s most sacred – and steepest – mountain, Mt Agung, all the way to the coast. Despite its height, the journey is relatively undemanding,

given its downward trajectory. During the descent riders pass by temples, traverse jungle paths, ride through local villages, and take in rice paddies, all before ending at the hidden White Sand Beach. There they can cool off with a swim or relax on the powder-white sand.

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