Bali is an amazing location, so much history, a must see for any travel fan. On a small island along the western shore of Lake Bratan, in the cool highlands of central Bali, the 17th-century Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is one of Bali’s most picturesque temple complexes. Set against the imposing backdrop of Gunung Bratan, the thatched temples reflect on the lake, and when the water levels rise, they seem to float on its surface. Lake Bratan is one of Bali’s main sources of irrigation and drinking water, and the temple complex is dedicated to Dewi Danu, goddess of the sea and lakes. An unusual feature is the Buddhist stupa on the left of the entrance to the first courtyard, with figures of Buddha meditating in the lotus position in niches on the square base. The stupa reflects the adoption of Buddhist beliefs by Balinese Hindus. This sacred Hindu temple complex is best seen in the soft morning light, before the tourist buses arrive, when cool mist sometimes cloaks the lake and the mountains beyond. You can also hire a canoe and paddle out on the lake to explore the meru (thatched shrines) at close range.
You’ve probably seen the photos and now really want to visit Nusa Penida. The good news is that it can easily be done as a day trip from wherever you’re staying in Bali (assuming that’s Ubud or one of the popular southern beach areas). We did the typical Nusa Penida day trip and really enjoyed it. Kelingking Beach is amazing, and the other places are nice too. Nusa Penida is a large island and you could spend a couple of days exploring it by scooter or car / driver if a day trip doesn’t appeal. I think over time Nusa Penida will get way more popular and more beaches and viewpoints will be “discovered”. Read extra info at Ferry to Gili.
Located in southern Bali, Nusa Dua is a lovely beach resort with a stylish and sophisticated vibe. Couples can fall under the area’s spell while making many happy memories together. The soft sands and clear waters are ideal for lazy beach days and swimming in the refreshing sea, and nearby attractions include temples, unusual natural features, viewing points, museums, a golf course, and shopping centres. There’s definitely enough to keep you busy in Nusa Dua!
Bebek Bengil means the ‘Dirty Duck’ in Indonesian and is one of the best loved restaurants in Ubud. The restaurant backs onto a pretty rice field and the main specialty here is the duck which comes in a variety of different dishes. The signature style here is the bebek betutu which is boiled in a broth made with aromatic herbs and then rubbed with local spices. The duck is then fried until it is crispy and the skin is blistered and then served with some simple rice and vegetables.
Getting from Bali to Gili Trawangan is easy, on Giliferries.com you can compare boat prices and book directly with the best fast boat operators in Bali. All our Gili Islands fast boat partners operate multiple daily boat trips from Padangbai, Serangan and Nusa Penida to the Gili Islands. Source: https://giliferries.com/.