Bali Island

Bali is a province and island of Indonesia, known globally as a premier tourist destination celebrated for its rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and unique Hindu-majority population. It is often nicknamed the “Island of the Gods” or “Island of a Thousand Temples”.

Temple in Bali island

Key Information of Bali island

Location of Bali island.

Bali is situated in Southeast Asia, as the westernmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands, positioned between Java to the west and Lombok to the east. It lies approximately 8 degrees south of the equator, giving it a tropical climate.

Administration.

Bali is an Indonesian province with its capital city, Denpasar, located on the southern coast. The province includes the main island and smaller offshore islands like Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan.

Culture & Religion

Unique among Indonesian provinces, the majority of Bali’s population (around 86%) practices Balinese Hinduism. This strong cultural identity is evident in its highly developed arts, including traditional dance, sculpture, painting, and music, as well as daily rituals and numerous temples.

The Subak irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a physical manifestation of the Balinese philosophical principle of Tri Hita Karana (harmony among people, nature, and God).

Geography

The island features a diverse landscape with forested volcanic mountains, including the active volcanoes Mount Agung (the highest peak) and Mount Batur, as well as picturesque rice paddies and coral reefs. Beaches in the south generally have white sand, while those in the north and west are known for their black volcanic sand.

Economy

Tourism is the main driver of Bali’s economy, accounting for about 80% of its activity. Popular tourist areas include Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur, Nusa Dua (beach resorts), and Ubud (cultural center).

Bali’s blend of natural beauty, ancient culture, and warm hospitality has made it one of the world’s most popular and captivating destinations.

How to get to Bali Island.

The most common and efficient way to get to Bali is by air, landing at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). Alternative options include a scenic journey by ferry from the neighboring islands of Java or Lombok.

1. By Air (Most Recommended)

Flights are the fastest and most convenient way to reach Bali, especially for international tourists.

  • Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS):

This is the island’s only international airport, located in the southern part of Bali near Kuta.

  • International Flights:

Numerous airlines offer direct or single-stop connecting flights from major global cities. Common layover points include Singapore (SIN), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Hong Kong (HKG), Istanbul (IST), and Seoul (ICN). Direct flights are widely available from various cities in Australia.

  • Domestic Flights:

If you are already in Indonesia, domestic flights are frequent and fast from cities like Jakarta (CGK/HLP) and Surabaya (SUB) to Denpasar (DPS).

2. By Sea

For those seeking a more adventurous and scenic journey, travel by sea is an option, especially if you are traveling from within Indonesia.

From Java: Regular public ferries run from Ketapang Port in East Java to Gilimanuk Port in West Bali. The crossing takes approximately 45 minutes and is very affordable. This option is popular for those bringing their own vehicles or traveling by bus/train combinations.

From Lombok: Ferries and faster speedboats connect various ports in Lombok (like Lembar or Bangsal ) to Padang Bai or Serangan ports in Bali. From other nearby islands: Speedboats and ferries also connect Bali to the Gili Islands and the Nusa Islands (Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan).

3. By Land

You cannot reach Bali solely by land from outside Indonesia or from most parts of the Indonesian archipelago, as it is an island. However, integrated bus/train and ferry services are available for a cost-effective overland journey from places like Jakarta. These trips are very long (over 24 hours) and involve multiple transfers.

Entry Requirements

Regardless of your mode of transport, ensure you meet the entry requirements:

  • Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date.
  • Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for visa-free entry, a Visa on Arrival (VoA), or you might need to apply for an e-Visa in advance.
  • All Indonesia App: Starting September 1, 2025, all travelers entering Indonesia via major ports must complete their arrival declaration using the mandatory “All Indonesia” mobile app.