Uluwatu Temple: Monkeys and Mayhem (November 9th)

Our Bali adventure kicked off with a visit to one of Bali’s six key temples, Uluwatu Temple, locally known as Pura Luhur Uluwatu.

The temple’s beauty was as undeniable as the mischief of its resident monkeys! These little rascals were not just naughty but downright daring – snatching spectacles, breaking them, and even boldly snatching a woman’s earring. A true testament to the unpredictable nature of wildlife!

Address: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Pura Lempuyang Temple: Patience and Crowds (November 10th)

We set out early for Pura Lempuyang (or the gate of heaven) the next day in East Bali. It’s located among the highlands of Mount Lempuyang at a height of 1,775m above sea level. It has a stunning location overlooking sacred Mount Agung and it’s one of Bali’s most visited shrines. The place was overcrowded and under the intense Bali sun, it felt like a challenge. The wait was long – almost two hours. The iconic shot we captured was worth every sweltering second but it was too cloudy that Mount Agung was missing.

Ujung Water Palace: A Serene Escape

Later that day, we found respite at Ujung Water Palace, a serene former palace turned park. The tranquility of Sukasada Park, about 5 kilometers from Amlapura, offered a much-needed break from the day’s heat and hustle.

Bobocabin Kintamani: A Night in Darkness (Evening of November 10th)

Our adventure continued as we navigated our way in near-total darkness to Bobocabin Kintamani. The lack of clear road signs made the journey an unexpected adventure, requiring us to ask locals for directions. We checked in around 7:00 PM and decided to rest early, anticipating an early start the next day.

Sukawana Sunrise Spot: Worth the Early Wake-Up (November 11th)

Waking up at 4:15 AM was a challenge, but the reward was indescribable. We reached Sukawana Sunrise Spot by 4:55 AM and witnessed a breathtaking sunrise. The sea of clouds, coupled with a soothing 15°C temperature and hot drinks was a moment of pure bliss.

Pahdi Specialty Coffee: A Taste of Serenity

Post breakfast at Bobocabin, we made our way down to Ubud. Before heading to Tegallalang, we visited Pahdi Specialty Coffee, the biggest coffee shop in Southeast Asia.

Nestled with a view of natural volcanic mountains, it offered a serene experience that enhanced our discovery of the beauty of Kintamani’s landscape over a cup of exquisite coffee.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces: A Tourist’s Dilemma

Our trip continued to the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, a stunning yet somewhat commercialized tourist spot where every photo opportunity came with a price. While stunning, the place felt like a tourist trap, with every photo-worthy spot like the famous swings requiring payment.

Ubud Raya Shala: Our Ubud Retreat

Our day ended with us checking into our tranquil stay at Ubud Raya Shala, a perfect place to unwind after a day filled with both excitement and exhaustion.

Bali, with its mix of serene landscapes, cultural richness, and unpredictable wildlife encounters, truly offers an adventure like no other. Every moment – whether spent waiting for the perfect photo, navigating in the dark, or experiencing a magnificent sunrise – added to the tapestry of memories that make this journey unforgettable. As I bid farewell to this island paradise, I carry with me not just memories but lessons in resilience, joy, and the beauty of nature. Bali is not just a destination; it’s an experience, a feeling, a memory that lingers long after you’ve left its shores.

“To awaken alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world. You are surrounded by adventure.” – Freya Stark

Until we meet again, Bali, terima kasih (thank you) for the adventures, the sights, the sounds, and the serenity. 🌅🌴🙏

Welcome back to my Bali adventure series! As promised in my last post, I’m thrilled to take you along on the next leg of my journey through this Island of Gods. Today, I’ll be sharing the captivating experiences and hidden gems I discovered during my personal exploration day, where the vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty of Bali continued to unfold in the most extraordinary ways. Join me as we delve deeper into the heart of Bali, uncovering more stories, insights, and unforgettable experiences from this magical destination.

On my free and easy day on 8^th November, I decided to embark on a personal journey with my second cousin, who kindly showed me around Bali’s iconic landmarks. We started our exploration at 8:30AM from Kuta, heading towards the northern part of Bali, Indonesia. It took almost 1.5 hours to reach my first destination – the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple located in Bedugul.

A picturesque temple, surrounded by the calm waters of Lake Beratan, offered a serene and spiritually uplifting atmosphere. The Pura Ulun Danu Beratan temple is one of the most iconic views in Bali. The entrance was 75,000 Indonesian Rupiah per person. This temple’s unusual pagoda is featured on Indonesia’s 50,000 Rupiah cash note. Sadly, it’s also another spot affected by over-tourism and overdevelopment, so it can be a bit crowded at times. With that said, it’s still a really nice spot that I think is worth a visit if you have time!

Address: Danau Beratan, Candikuning, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82191, Indonesia.

Next, I visited the Bali Handara Gate, an Instagram-famous spot known for its stunning natural backdrop and traditional Balinese architecture. As of 2021, the entrance fee is 30,000 Indonesian Rupiah per person for foreign visitors and 20,000 Indonesian Rupiah per person for domestic visitors. Despite a 30-minute queue, I decided to wait and capture a photo with this Handara gate. It was more than just a photo opportunity; it was a gateway that symbolized the entrance into a world of cultural richness and natural splendor.

Address: Jl. Raya Singaraja-Denpasar, Pancasari, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia

I journeyed further north for about 15 minutes, arriving at the breathtaking Twin Lakes Viewpoint. Situated in Munduk, this vantage point overlooks both Tamblingan Lake and Buyan Lake, presenting panoramic views that are truly spectacular. The temperature here was noticeably cooler, a refreshing change that added to the spot’s allure. The viewpoint was a moment of pure awe, showcasing the grandeur of Bali’s diverse landscapes.

Address: Jl. Raya Pancasari, Gobleg, Kec. Banjar, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali, Indonesia

From the Twin Lakes Viewpoint, I decided to descend towards Tamblingan Lake, cradled in the high mountains of Munduk. The lake’s serene beauty was spellbinding, perfectly complemented by the majestic Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan Lake Temple. This tranquil spot marked a fitting conclusion to our day’s exploration. The calm waters of the lake, encircled by lush greenery, exuded a soothing aura. The presence of the temple added a layer of spiritual depth to the experience, making it not just a visual treat but a journey for the soul as well

Adress: Jl. Danau Tamblingan, Munduk, Kec. Banjar, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81152, Indonesia

As the day’s adventures came to a close, I journeyed back to Kuta, culminating my experience with a dinner at Potato Head with my colleagues. There, we were greeted by a magnificent sunset, where the sky transformed into a canvas of fiery oranges reflecting over the tranquil waters.

The sight was mesmerizing, adding a magical backdrop to our meal. The beef we savored was as delightful as the view – perfectly cooked and rich in flavor, complementing the enchanting ambiance of a Bali sunset. It was the perfect ending to a day filled with discovery and natural beauty.

As I reflected on the day’s journey, I realized each destination had provided a unique window into the heart of Bali. Every moment contributed to an unforgettable tapestry of experiences. But this was just a part of my adventure. Please stay tuned for my next post, where I’ll take you along on the extended chapter of my journey – transitioning from our company’s cohesive trip to my own personal exploration. There’s so much more to share about the enchanting island of Bali and the deeper connections I made. Join me as I continue to uncover the hidden gems and cultural depths of this beautiful destination.

Date: 6th November 2023

Two weeks ago, our company embarked on a 4-day, 3-night team bonding adventure in the enchanting island of Bali, Indonesia. As a member of a small-medium enterprise, I’ve always appreciated the close-knit and non-hierarchical culture we nurture. This trip, fully sponsored by our incredibly generous bosses, covering both our flights and accommodation, perfectly encapsulated the ethos of the organisation.

Our home away from home was the Fairfield Bali Kuta Sunset Road Hotel, a haven that masterfully blends modern comfort with the quintessential Balinese charm. Each morning greeted us with an exceptional breakfast spread, a delightful array of local and international cuisines that was a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The hospitality and ambiance of the hotel added an extra layer of relaxation to our experience.

Our days were a whirlwind of activities, each carefully chosen to strengthen our teamwork and encourage personal growth. Among these, the ATV riding experience stood out. It was not just a thrill ride through Bali’s breathtaking landscapes, but a metaphor for our journey as a team – navigating challenges together, supporting one another, and enjoying every moment of the ride.

Another memorable team bonding activity took place in the lush, culturally rich area of Ubud, known for its artistic heritage and tranquil surroundings.

This trip to Bali was not just a team bonding experience but a journey filled with ‘firsts’ and unforgettable memories. It reinforced the gratitude I feel for being part of an organisation that values its people as much as its purpose. In the picturesque backdrop of Bali, we not only bonded as a team but also created memories that will be cherished for years to come.

“The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.” – Phil Jackson