Duration: 10 hours 30 minutes
Highlights: Ubud and Kintamani area
Language: The tour is originally in Indonesian and English

If you're looking to experience Bali's cultural and natural wonders in one unforgettable day, the Ubud Kintamani Tour is a perfect choice. From watching traditional Balinese performances to visiting sacred temples, and from gazing at the incredible Mount Batur volcano to wandering through vibrant rice terraces, this tour is packed with must-see spots. Plus, the blend of culture and nature will make you fall in love with Bali all over again.

I compile this Bali tour last year, and let me tell you—it’s an incredible way to get a taste of Bali’s heart and soul. It starts early (around 8:00 AM), but trust me, the experience is worth the early wake-up.

Traditional Barong and Keris Dance: A Cultural Awakening
Our first stop of the day was to watch the Barong and Keris Dance, a traditional Balinese performance that’s full of color, music, and drama. The Barong dance tells a classic story of good versus evil, with elaborate costumes, masks, and hypnotic music performed live. I didn’t know much about Balinese mythology before watching this, but the performance really pulled me in.

One of the most memorable parts of the dance is the Keris dance scene, where the performers wield traditional swords in a battle. It’s intense, and the level of skill involved was incredible to witness. I could feel the energy in the crowd as we watched the performers act out this timeless story.

If you're interested in learning about Bali's culture, this is the perfect introduction. It’s entertaining, educational, and unlike anything I’d seen before. Just make sure you arrive on time; the show typically starts early, around 9:30 AM, and lasts for about an hour.

Tirta Empul Temple: A Sacred Experience
Next, we made our way to Tirta Empul Temple, also known as the Holy Spring Temple. This temple is famous for its sacred spring water, where locals and visitors alike come to participate in a purification ritual. The temple itself is beautiful, with ancient stone carvings, lush gardens, and tranquil ponds filled with koi fish.

I remember standing by the holy springs, watching people immerse themselves in the water to cleanse their spirits. You can even take part in the ritual if you’d like—it’s a deeply spiritual experience that offers a unique glimpse into Bali's Hindu traditions. I didn’t participate myself, but just being in that peaceful environment made me feel calm and connected to the culture.

If you go, remember to dress modestly, as it is a place of worship. Sarongs are usually provided at the entrance if you don’t have one. Walking around the temple, I could really feel the deep reverence the locals have for this place. It’s easy to see why it’s considered one of Bali’s holiest sites.

Kintamani Village: Majestic Views of Mount Batur
After leaving Tirta Empul, we headed toward Kintamani Village, which is known for its jaw-dropping views of Mount Batur, an active volcano, and Lake Batur. The drive itself was scenic, with winding roads offering glimpses of local villages, dense forests, and bright green landscapes.

When we finally arrived at the viewpoint, I was stunned by the sight of the volcano towering over the lake. It’s one of those moments where you just have to stop and take it all in. The view of Mount Batur against the backdrop of the sky and the lake below is nothing short of breathtaking. And while the volcano is still active, it’s perfectly safe to view from the village.

We had lunch at a nearby restaurant with a panoramic view of the volcano. The food was great, but let’s be real—the view was the star of the show. Sitting there, eating a Balinese meal with Mount Batur in the background was one of those pinch-me moments. If you have a camera, this is definitely the time to snap a few photos.

Ubud Tegallalang Rice Terrace: A Walk Through Bali’s Iconic Landscape
After lunch, we headed back toward Ubud to visit the famous Tegallalang Rice Terrace. This is one of Bali’s most iconic landscapes, and for a good reason. The vibrant green terraces, cascading down the hillside, create a picture-perfect view that looks straight out of a travel magazine.

Walking along the terraces was one of my favorite parts of the day. You can really see the hard work that goes into maintaining these rice fields. The terraces are not only beautiful but also a vital part of Bali's agricultural tradition. It’s humbling to witness how something so practical can also be so stunning.

If you're into photography (or Instagram!), this is one of the most photogenic spots in Bali. We spent about an hour here, walking through the terraces, enjoying the fresh air, and soaking in the views. And yes, the famous “Bali swings” are nearby if you’re looking for that iconic swinging-over-the-jungle shot!

Art Village and Bali Batik: Discovering Bali’s Creative Spirit
Our last stop before heading back to the hotel was a visit to an Art Village and Bali Batik workshop. Bali is known for its artistic culture, and visiting one of these villages was a great way to see how traditional crafts are still very much alive. From wood carving to painting and textiles, the artists here create stunning works of art that reflect Bali’s rich cultural heritage.

The Batik process, in particular, is fascinating to watch. Batik is a traditional Indonesian fabric dyeing technique, and the intricate patterns are hand-drawn with wax before the fabric is dyed. I watched an artist carefully apply wax to a cloth in an intricate design, and it made me appreciate just how much time and skill goes into making these beautiful textiles.

I even picked up a few souvenirs, including a hand-painted Batik scarf and a small wooden carving. It’s one thing to buy a souvenir, but when you can see the craftsmanship that goes into it, it feels even more special.

Reflections on the Day
By the time we got back to the hotel, it was late afternoon, and I was both exhausted and exhilarated. The Ubud Kintamani Tour is a perfect blend of culture, nature, and art, offering a deep dive into everything that makes Bali unique. Whether you're watching the Barong dance, visiting holy temples, or gazing at an active volcano, every moment of the tour is an unforgettable experience.

If you're planning a trip to Bali, this tour should definitely be on your list. It’s one of those days where you really get to see the heart of the island—its people, its landscapes, and its traditions. Just be sure to bring your camera, sunscreen, and an open mind, because this tour is one for the books!