The typical first time traveller to Bali has most probably watched documentaries about the island, heard pieces of information from friends or spent time surfing the internet, but are still relatively unsure of where to go and what to see. Therefore, baliprivatedriver.com has taken the liberty to develop several tour options that showcase the island as well as aspects of its unique culture and artistic heritage.

Kintamani Volcano Tour
This full day excursion travels to the village of Kintamani with its scenic views overlooking Mount Batur, a vast crater, lake, volcanic cones and solidified lava flows dominating the landscape. En-route we will stop at the famous stone carving village of Batubulan to watch an open stage performance of the Barong Dance, which depicts the universal tale of the battle of good against evil. A stop is also made at Celuk to see traditional Balinese silversmith creating exquisite pieces of handmade jewellery, a typical Hindu temple complex at Batuan and the famous wood carvers of Mas.

The return journey takes in views of emerald green rice terraces etched into the landscape and a brief stop in the village of Ubud, which is known as the cultural pulse of Bali. Here you will have time to visit local art galleries and a busy marketplace filled with handicrafts and gift items. The last stop for the day is at the Bali Birk Park to witness a comprehensive collection of rare and tropical birds in an eco-friendly green environment.

Kintamani and Hindu Temple Tour
A full day out created to showcase the best of Bali, this culturally inspiring tour is a must for any traveller who appreciates history and beauty. A planned route takes us to Goa Gajah, one of Bali’s oldest spiritual sites that dates back to the 11th century and reveals a cave with an entrance carved to resemble the mouth of a demon. Next is the memorial site of Gunung Kawi where a series of ancient tombs symbolise defied rulers and then we go straight on to Tirta Empul, which is a temple with bathing pools filled with spring water believed to possess mystical healing properties.

We pay a visit to Batur Temple on the rim of a volcanic crater that is considered a revered place of worship for followers of the Hindu faith. Then we venture to the village of Kintamani for scenic views of the distant volcano and lake, and then continue on to an area where the landscaped is enriched by emerald green rice terraces. The final point of interest for the day is the cultural village of Ubud, a charming destination that is thriving with examples of local artistry. Make time to visit the handicraft market to shop for souvenirs or cross the road to the royal palace where dances are performed on the open stage every night of the week.

Jatiluwih Rice Terrace Tour
Designed to showcase the gentle beauty of the Balinese countryside, the Jatiluwih Rice Terrace Tour ventures into remote hinterland and also takes in a number of Hindu temples. The first stop of the day is to Batu Karu Temple, an ancient site of rare spiritual energy located on the slopes of a mountain amidst rugged terrain. Then we travel through quiet village hamlets to Jatiluwih to admire the magnificence of its rice terraced landscape and sweeping views over southern Bali.

The next stop is Ulun Danu Temple, a Hindu/Buddhist shrine that seemingly floats in a lakeside setting. The temple was founded in the 17th century and dedicated to the Goddess of the waters. Local farmers make regular pilgrimages to this site to place offerings and pray for sufficient water supplies. A brief visit to a forest that is home to hundreds of monkeys is our last site of interest for the day.

Ubud Art Tour
This half day excursion takes you to the village of Ubud, an area that is rich with art, culture and tradition. First we stop at the stone carving village of Batubulan to see the Barong Dance performed on the open stage. This dance symbolically represents the universal conflict of good against evil through costumed characters. Next we visit Celuk, a village where silver and goldsmiths produce delicate jewellery and other ornate pieces using traditional tools.

We then detour to the village of Mas, home to a clan of woodcarvers who spend their days producing art products for export and sacred objects of religious significance. In Ubud you will have the opportunity to explore the gallery lined streets as well as the traditional marketplace where different kinds of handicrafts are sold. Our last stop for the day is at Blahbatu to see a factory that produces a unique kind of textile using a double ikat weaving technique.

Tanah Lot Sunset Tour
This is an afternoon tour that takes you to one of Bali’s most iconic sites. Tanah Lot temple is nestled on a rocky islet in the sea and surrounded by pounding surf. The temple dates back to the 16th century and was built by a wandering priest out of respect for the sheer beauty of the surrounding landscape. En-route we will take time to witness the splendour of Taman Ayun, which is the royal temple of Mengwi Kingdom. Surrounded by a wide moat and water ways, the temple is a fine example of Balinese architectural orientation with its courtyards, thatched pavilions and ornate shrines. The Alas Kedaton monkey forest is also an interesting temple complex where thousands of fruit bats have found refuge in the trees above.

Uluwatu Sunset Tour
The Uluwatu Sunset Tour is a relaxed afternoon excursion that stops first at the Jenggala Ceramic Factory. This family owned company has built up an international reputation for its handmade pottery, stylish tableware and delicate glass items. We then venture to Bali’s southernmost peninsular to Uluwatu Temple, which is perched dramatically on a cliff some 825 feet above the Indian Ocean. It is a revered site of worship for Balinese Hindu’s where a clan of sacred monkeys roam freely as temple guardians. On the return journey you have the opportunity to savour a delicious seafood dinner in a choice of beachfront cafes overlooking the tranquil waters of Jimbaran Bay.