8 UNIQUE AND UNUSUAL THINGS TO DO IN BALI

If you are looking to do unusual and unique things to do in Bali, you came to the right place. Everyone knows about the waterfalls, rice terraces, and temples (they're fantastic, no doubt!). But if you're craving something a bit more off the beaten path, something that doesn't involve dodging selfie sticks, you're in for a treat.

Bali isn't just about the 'Instagram-famous’ spots. It's a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting for intrepid explorers like you to uncover. So, if you're ready to step into the world of the unusual, the unexpected, and the unforgettable, keep scrolling. I’m about to reveal Bali's best-kept secrets, and trust me, you won't find these in your standard tourist brochures.

Maha Gangga valley

CROSS THE COCONUT BRIDGE AT MAHA GANGGA VALLEY NATIONAL RESERVE

Maha Gangga is the perfect little getaway for families, because the kids will absolutely love this trip!

Just around the corner from Tirta Gangga water palace (east Bali), you’ll find the Maha Gangga Valley reserve. A local secret at this point, Maha Gangga is a large park that includes a campground, restaurant, multiple flower fields, a quirky coconut bridge, and several small cone-shaped straw huts.

What makes this reserve even more spectacular, is the beautiful backdrop of fearsome and mighty Mount Agung and the valley’s rice fields that surround the park. Spend an hour or two perusing and taking pictures to your heart’s content.

Taman Dedari Photo credit @soulintravels

WALK AROUND TAMAN DEDARI PARK

Taman Dedari is a new go-to venue in Ubud. Tjokorda Gde Raka Sukawati, a member of the Ubud Royal Family, used the 1.5 hectares of land to provide a unique venue featuring intricate Balinese design and architecture.

While Taman means “Park”, Dedari is a Balinese word derived from the Bahasa word Bidadari, meaning “angel”. Not surprisingly, the “Angel Park” – Taman Dedari – offers a green garden with several statues of angels (some as tall as ten meters) overlooking the Ayung valley. It is located in the Royal Pita Maha, a resort famous for its elaborate and meticulous carvings. And if the artwork appears out-worldly – the views enjoyed are breathtaking!

Trunyan cemetery bali

TRUNYAN CEMETERY ISLAND

Fair enough, this might not be everyone's idea of a tourist hotspot, but let me tell you, it's one of the quirkiest and most unique experiences you'll find in Bali: visiting a cemetery where the deceased rest above ground, lounging beneath trees instead of resting in traditional coffins. Forget what you know about cemeteries, this one's unique in its kind.

As you embark on this adventure, you might wonder if you've stumbled into a Tim Burton movie. The walk up to the Trunyan cemetery in Bali is littered with skulls and human bones which have been set up on stones. This is a byproduct of the nearby villagers’ unique death ritual that sees the deceased placed above ground at the foot of a tree to simply decompose in the open air. The bodies are laid out and placed at the foot of a large banyan tree which the villagers consider holy, and which seemingly masks the scent of the corpses. This sacred funeral rite is performed when one of the village’s number dies of natural causes.

Now, if you're the type who prefers their vacations devoid of quirky detours, that's perfectly okay. But for those seeking the road less traveled (and who don't mind a touch of the bizarre), we promise this Balinese escapade will leave you in..

How to get there? Trunyan cemetery is most easily accessible by boat from Kedisan and you will have to pay for the boat and give a donation to the village.

Goa giri putri temple nusa peninda

goa giri putri temple nusa pennida

VISIT THE UNDERGROUND TEMPLE GOA GIRI PUTRI IN NUSA PENIDA

Visiting a temple in Bali? Sure, there are many nice ones on the island. But this blogpost isn’t about normal activities,its about finding unique things to do in Bali. And that's exactly what you'll find when visiting the Goa Giri Putri temple...because its located underground, more specifically in a cave!

This is not for the fainthearted as it will require a little bravery: to be able to enter the cave you'll need to crawl through some very narrow and dark passages. But don't worry because the cave opens up sizably just a few meters into the crawl space! You'll be rewarded with a walk through the island's major cultural attraction!

menjangan island

Menjangan island

MEET WILD DEER ON THE BEACH OF MENJANGAN ISLAND

Imagine an island untouched by time, surrounded by clear blue waters. That's Menjangan Island, part of the West Bali National Park. It's off the northwest coast of Bali, far away from the tourist crowds, making it a haven for nature, diving and animal lovers! As you explore the island, you'll soon meet its most charming residents: wild deer. Yes, you read that correctly: Santa’s little helpers, right on a Balinese island (FYI Menjangan island translates to ‘deer island’)

But Menjangan Island isn't just for landlubbers. Under the waves, a whole new world awaits. It's a diver's dream, with some of Bali's most vibrant coral reefs. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, there's a dive site for you.

How to get there:

To reach Menjangan Island, start in Labuan Lalang, a charming fishing village in northwest Bali. From there, a short boat ride will whisk you away to the island. The journey itself is an adventure, with stunning coastal views along the way. Know that you will always need a local guide to take you around the island, you can’t visit without one.

WATCH THE OGO OGO PARADE

If you are lucky enough to find yourself in Bali during Nyepi, the island's celebrated Day of Silence, there's a thrilling precursor you shouldn't miss: the Ogo Ogo ceremony. Held on the day before Nyepi, it's a lively event that adds a burst of color and excitement to the calm before the storm.

For the Balinese, Nyepi is a Hindu celebration that marks the start of a New Year – a day to cleanse the island from the previous year's misdoings and bad omens, establishing a pure and positive year ahead. The whole island shuts down for a full 24 hours, and the streets are off limits to everyone. No one is allowed outside their homes or hotels. The streets fall silent, lights are dimmed, and even the restaurants and the airport close. It's a day for introspection, meditation, and reflection. In short, it's a day of absolute serenity.

Now, let's talk about the Ogo Ogo, which takes place on the day before Nyepi. It's like a grand send-off, a last burst of joy before the island retreats into silence.

During the Ogo Ogo Parade, Balinese communities create large, grotesque dolls and demons, called "Ogo Ogo." These are massive puppets made of bamboo, paper, and other materials. Some resemble demons, while others take on more whimsical forms. They represent everything negative from the past year, and the parade is a cathartic release of these negative energies.

The Ogo Ogo puppets are paraded through the streets, accompanied by music, dance, and cheering crowds. The atmosphere is electric as everyone participates in the spectacle, often in traditional dress. It's a time for communities to come together, and for visitors to immerse themselves in Balinese culture.

Why You Should Attend:

Attending the Ogo Ogo ceremony is a fantastic way to witness the vibrant spirit of Bali. It's a joyful prelude to Nyepi's serenity. The enthusiasm of the Balinese people during this parade is contagious, and it's a memorable experience for travelers.

Next OGO OGO parade will be on March 11 2024

Taman festival Bali

Taman festival theme park bali

VISIT THE ABANDONED THEME PARK TAMAN FESTIVAL

Sometimes, the spookier side of life holds an irresistible allure, and Taman Festival Bali is no exception. It's an abandoned theme park located on Padang Galak Beach, just a stone's throw from central Sanur.

Now, you might be thinking, "Wait, isn't this supposed to be about fun and adventure?" Well, hold that thought, because there's something undeniably captivating about places with strange energies. Taman Festival is often dubbed the "spooky ghost town of Sanur." The reason? Well, the locals believe that long-abandoned sites like this one are home to wandering spirits. Even if you're not one to believe in paranormal beings, the atmosphere here is enough to send a shiver down your spine.

Back in 1997, this theme park burst onto the scene, promising thrills and chills to its visitors. But like many great stories, it faced its own set of challenges and soon closed its doors due to marketing and financial woes. Today, it stands as a captivating relic, a time capsule of a bygone era.

You’re free to explore the park grounds, where deserted entrance gates, ticket booths, empty cafeterias, and deteriorated structures with partially collapsed roofs give it a creepy sensation even in broad daylight.

People still visit the abandoned theme park regularly and there seem to be no plans to prevent people from entering at this time.

On arrival, you will likely encounter a gatekeeper. It’s unclear whether he is an official security guard or a local posing as a guard, but he will want a bribe of around 20,000 IDR (about $1.30). He’ll happily let you into the park after you pay

Tembeling natural pool nusa penida

SWIM IN TEMBELING NATURAL POOL IN NUSA PENIDA

Tucked away in the west coast of Nusa Penida lies a hidden paradise known to only a few: Tembeling Natural Pool, a pristine little oasis amidst lush tropical greenery. As the name says, it’s a pool created by mother nature and you are most likely to have this place completely to yourself!

Getting there is a bit of a mission but really worth the effort! Reaching the Tembling pool on Nusa Penida is possible by motorbike or foot. From the parking area, either get on the back of a motorbike for 10 minutes or walk for 30 minutes. A motorbike return trip should cost about 50000 IDR (3 USD) per person. The drive down is very steep and only recommended for experienced motorbike drivers.