Bali
Bali – 3–4 days: Yey or Nay?
I’ve lived in Malaysia for nearly 11 years, and Bali has always been on my radar. Some people rave about it, others shrug in disappointment. I tend to avoid overly touristy places, so I never pulled the trigger…until this year.
What changed? Nothing major, just the itch to celebrate my birthday, and to clear my head after resigning from a fulfilling but tiring job. I muted all the noise and unsolicited advice, watched a few videos, and impulsively bought a history book about Bali (not a guidebook, ha!). The island’s turbulent past, culture, and customs fascinated me to the point that a few days before departure, I grabbed another book. My excitement was officially on.
If you're too lazy to read the whole article, feel free to skip to Final Thoughts, Practical Tips and Useful Links. 💁🏻♀️
Day 1 - Arrival at Nusa Dua
We landed later than planned. The flight had been rescheduled from early morning, and we ended up arriving at the hotel after 3 pm, instead of 11am. With half the day gone, my plans had already become questionable. And like it wasn't enough, right after check-in, the rain started to pour…
Downside? Not going to Uluwatu Temple and not starting our trip with the I-really-want-to-see-it Kecak dance with a dramatic cliff sunset view, followed by a birthday dinner at an Italian restaurant. (Also on the edge of a cliff. Because why not?)
Okay, let's pause. I know what you’re thinking—Italian? In Bali? Yup. As it was my birthday, and my favourite food is pizza, I was willing to deal with all the judgment and whispers and eat that delicious cheesy pie anyway. Even in Bali. Simple as that.
However, we decided to stay in, so none of the above happened. Besides the pizza.
The fabulous resort, Conrad Bali, was so welcoming that my usual grumpiness took a day off. Despite all the bumps during my birthday. To clarify, by fabulous, I don’t just mean the design and ocean views. I mean the hospitality, the people, the care. From the minute we checked in to the moment we left, the hotel staff took excellent care of us and made our stay truly exceptional. So much so that we’re going back to Bali with family in a few months — and we’ve already decided to stay there again. It already feels like going back home.
You're probably wondering what happened to my pizza wish, huh? We ordered it from Nusa Dua Pizza and washed it down with a bottle of bubbly we’d picked up at the airport.
(Big shout-out to Nusa Dua Pizza! It was delicious, and the size was way bigger than I expected. Fantastic quality at a great price—we’ll definitely order again when we’re back!)
To sum up the first day, even if plans don't go your way when travelling (and very often they don't), you can still have a fantastic day, as long as you stay open-minded and flexible. I couldn’t have complained about my birthday even if I tried. Everything was just flawless — even the rain.
Side Note: Kuala Lumpur to Denpasar to Your Hotel
Getting to Bali from Malaysia is extremely straightforward—just hop on a plane. ("Duhh.." right?)
We flew out with Batik Air and returned with AirAsia. I have to admit that the outbound flight was much more comfortable and overall a more pleasant experience. Unfortunately, the Batik Air schedule didn’t match our return plans, so we had to go with AirAsia, but if I were to recommend based on that one trip, I’d choose Batik Air again.
As for getting to your hotel, there are a few options. Our resort offered transportation, but at a much higher rate than Grab, and since we already use GrabCar in Malaysia, we found it more convenient and very affordable.
There’s a designated lounge at the airport where you can wait for your ride (less than a 5-minute walk from the arrivals hall). However, if you prefer something more luxurious and don’t mind spending extra, you can go with the hotel’s car service. Happened to be on a tighter budget? Book a GrabBike or Gojek — just make sure you’re not carrying a large suitcase, for obvious reasons. Scooters have their limits!
Day 2 - Central Bali
Good morning, world. Good morning, Bali. 🌊
Waking up to a stunning ocean view was the perfect start to our trip. While I had hoped for early mornings and full days exploring the island, the resort was just too good to leave so soon. Breakfast was exquisite, and we couldn’t stop chatting with the staff. The more we spoke with them, the more I learned and the more I started changing our plans.
We decided to rent a motorbike, and the hotel recommended a former employee named Obama (contact no below), who delivered the bike straight to us in the morning. That’s when we set off for our first real adventure. I had originally planned to visit East Bali, but it turned out to be way too far—and probably too uncomfortable—on the type of bike we had. (Note to self: don’t ask ChatGPT for route and trip suggestions next time. 🙄) The traffic was painful, and the humidity was brutal, so we settled on a few sites closer to Central Bali—temples and rice terraces.
Tirta Empul Temple: A Sacred Source of Purification in Bali
After a two-hour ride, we arrived at our first Balinese temple: Pura Tirta Empul.
Nestled in the lush hills near Tampaksiring, Tirta Empul is one of Bali’s most revered Hindu water temples. Known in Indonesian as Pura Tirta Empul, this spiritual site is centred around a sacred spring believed to possess purifying powers.
The temple features a petirtaan—a series of bathing pools fed by the crystal-clear spring—where locals and visitors (more visitors) take part in a traditional cleansing ritual called Melukat. The water, considered holy by Balinese Hindus, is believed to be amritha, the elixir of life. The name Tirta Empul literally means “holy spring,” a fitting title for a place so rooted in ritual, renewal, and spiritual healing.
To my surprise, the temple wasn’t crawling with tourists. Yes, there were a few (mostly white) folks going through the purification rituals, but it wasn’t overwhelming. Perhaps the fact that Balinese temples are open (no rooftops, just walls), unlike typical Hindu temples in India, made the experience more relaxing and peaceful.
Before we entered the temple, we were given sarongs, despite both of us wearing long pants. Out of respect for the holy site, everyone has to wear it (no extra charge). I did see a few girls in short tops or bras, and while they were allowed in (to my surprise), I personally found it distasteful and inconsiderate. This is not just a tourist attraction; it is a holy place, so I would advise being mindful of what you decide to wear.
On your way out, you'll pass through a beautiful market where you could easily spend time browsing arts, crafts, local fashion, and souvenirs. (Ohhh, wasn't it hard not to stop and buy a few items for myself...)
The entrance to the temple cost us IDR 150,000 (for two people). Washrooms are available on-site, clean, and free of charge. Pro tip: Always a good idea to carry tissues and hand sanitiser — just in case.
Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu: A Tranquil Sanctuary in Bali’s Highlands
Clouds began to gather, it was getting late, and since we didn’t want to ride after dark (sunset is around 6 pm), we made one final stop nearby at Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu.
Tucked away in the heart of Bali, this peaceful temple feels like a hidden gem. Unlike the island’s more popular spots, this water sanctuary offers a quiet retreat steeped in nature and devotion.
Dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu god of preservation, the temple is known for its sacred springs, lotus-filled ponds, and calming water features. Surrounded by vibrant greenery and spiritual energy, it’s a perfect place to slow down — ideal for reflection, meditation, or just catching your breath.
Entrance was slightly cheaper here, IDR 50,000 per person (including sarong), plus a small fee for bike parking.
Important note: Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu and Gunung Kawi Temple are often confused, but they’re completely different places. The Sebatu temple, located in Sebatu village, is a tranquil water temple dedicated to Vishnu. Gunung Kawi Temple in Tampaksiring, on the other hand, is a historical archaeological site known for its cliffside shrines carved into rock believed to honour 11th-century Balinese royalty.
After a short visit to the temple, we stopped at a small coffee stall across the street. I tried (unsuccessfully) to charge my phone, which had almost died thanks to heavy GPS use and video recording on the ride up. Fingers crossed, we will make it back home!
Alas Harum - The Vibrant Sneak Attack
One of the very friendly hotel staff members, let's call her T to protect her identity, recommended a spot worth visiting: Alas Harum in Tegallalang. (Thank you, T!) I can’t even begin to describe how unexpectedly beautiful the place was.
Set in the iconic Tegallalang rice terraces, Alas Harum is a vibrant agrotourism destination that blends nature, culture, and leisure. You can wander through lush fields, learn about traditional Luwak coffee production, and enjoy scenic photo spots like glass platforms, bird nests, and sky swings. (None of which we had time to do.)
For those looking for entertainment, there’s also a stylish open-air restaurant and bar, an infinity pool with jungle views, and live DJ sets that give the space a laid-back, day-club vibe. Whether you're after culture or cocktails with a view, Alas Harum delivers. 😎
Entrance fees vary depending on the activities you choose. Bike parking was free, and we paid IDR 100,000 for two people to enter the venue, which gave us access to the restaurant, the coffee tour, and a short walk through the rice fields—but not the pool.
How the Pricing Works at Alas Harum
-
General entrance includes:
-
Coffee plantation tour
-
Luwak coffee tasting
-
Scenic rice-terrace walk
-
Access to photo spots (glass platforms, bird nests, bridges)
-
-
Add-ons (usually USD 5–25):
-
Swings, sky bike, flying fox
-
-
Cretya Ubud (pool club experience):
-
Pool access only: IDR 50,000 – includes welcome drink (varies)
-
First-drink seating: IDR 150,000 – includes pool access, towel, one drink, and table/lounge
-
Premium seating: IDR 3–5 million – includes hammock/cabana/daybed, towels, VIP food & drink experience
-
About Luwak Coffee
Luwak coffee (kopi luwak) is often promoted as a luxury experience — coffee beans that have passed through the digestive system of a civet cat before being cleaned, roasted, and brewed. The idea is that natural fermentation enhances the flavour, creating a smoother, less acidic cup.
But here’s the truth: the majority of Luwak coffee today comes from civets kept in captivity, often in cramped cages, with poor diets and living conditions — all to meet tourist demand. What was once a rare, wild-sourced curiosity has become a commercialised and ethically problematic industry.
My take? Skip it. Indonesia produces countless incredible coffee varieties — rich, complex, and ethically grown — from regions like Sumatra, Java, and Bali itself. Try one of those instead. Your taste buds and your conscience will thank you.
After visiting the temples, we didn’t have much time at Alas Harum, so we decided to grab a quick pizza (yes, again, out of lack of time — don’t judge!) and a couple of drinks. They have a vegetarian option, and they were even happy to make half of the pizza vegan (shoutout to my finicky husband), and to all my veggie friends: no need to worry — they’re super accommodating when it comes to food preferences.
Pro tip: At this point, my phone died — and, surprisingly, most Balinese still use the older micro-USB chargers. So if you're planning to roam around on a bike using GPS, bring a power bank with you! Luckily, we found one kind soul at the front desk who let us charge it just enough to get a 5% boost. It was barely enough to get us back to the hotel, so we had to rely on road signs during another 2-hour ride.
Day 3 - South Bali
Here we are, waking up to yet another beautiful sunrise. 🌅 I could easily get used to this…
Pantai Melasti
In my opinion, no island holiday is complete without a visit to the beach. We had a few options, but our now-almost-friends (aka the staff at Conrad Bali) recommended Melasti Beach. So, after a delicious breakfast and a cup of long black enjoyed on the resort’s beach, we set off once again on our mighty motorbike.
The ride from the resort was relatively quick and pleasant. The entrance fee to Melasti Beach was IDR 20,000 for two people, plus a small fee for bike parking. (At this point, I realised this is pretty standard — anywhere you go, you’ll pay around IDR 2,000–5,000 for parking.)
The road down to the beach was absolutely stunning, winding between dramatic limestone cliffs that open up to panoramic views of the coastline.
Pantai Melasti, located on the southern tip of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, is known for its crystal-clear turquoise water, soft white sand, and towering cliffs that create a postcard-perfect setting. It’s one of the cleanest and most scenic beaches in the area — less crowded than some of the more popular spots like Kuta or Seminyak, but just as beautiful, if not more.
We stopped here on our way to another temple, so we didn’t bring towels or swimwear, but we took a slow walk along the shore, letting the waves kiss our feet and soaking in the serenity of the place. Even without diving into the ocean, the beach gave us exactly what we needed — a moment of calm, surrounded by natural beauty. Next time, I'll definitely dive in!
Afterwards, we settled at Uma Bar for a refreshing drink and a moment to unwind. (Nothing says holidays like the Aperol Spritz on a hot day!) The bar offers stunning ocean views and a breezy, laid-back vibe — perfect for cooling off before continuing the ride. (Pro tip for Hilton members: bring your ID or have the app ready — Uma is part of the Hilton group, so your membership discount applies here!)
Uluwatu Temple: History, Monkeys & Sunset Magic
We didn’t make it on the first day, but I still really wanted to see Uluwatu Temple. And I’m so glad we did.
Set high above the crashing waves on a towering cliff, the temple offers panoramic views that are nothing short of breathtaking. You can stroll around the entire compound for quite a while, soaking in the sea breeze and sweeping coastline, but the main shrine itself is off-limits to visitors. (As with many Balinese temples, the innermost sanctum is reserved for Balinese Hindus.)
Uluwatu dates back to the 11th century and is believed to have been established by Mpu Kuturan, a respected priest from the Majapahit era. Today, it's considered one of Bali’s most sacred spiritual sites. Locals believe that the divine powers of the Hindu Trinity — Brahma, Vishnu, and Siva — converge here, making it a place of worship for Siva Rudra, the deity representing all cosmic forces and elements.
Entrance fee: IDR 30,000 (includes must-wear sarong or sash).
As you enter, you’ll pass through a forest inhabited by cheeky macaques, believed to spiritually guard the temple. (In reality, they’re mostly interested in whatever shiny object you forgot to hide.) Out of fear, I stored my jewellery, sunglasses, and even my sports watch in my bag. I also wouldn't recommend wearing flip-flops unless you’re ready to run after them or go back home barefoot. These monkeys are professionals.
A scenic cliffside path wraps around the edge of the temple complex and leads to the open-air amphitheatre, where the famous Kecak fire dance is performed daily at sunset (at an additional fee). As the sun drops into the ocean and the story of the Ramayana unfolds to rhythmic chants, the whole atmosphere turns electric. (So they say.)
Since we had already seen the Kecak dance at Conrad, we opted to skip the performance and head back before dark. It was our last evening in Bali, and we chose to wind down with a Chakra Rebalancing massage at the resort. The day ended with a peaceful dinner and drinks at a lovely Indian restaurant just across the street — highly recommended, especially for vegetarians. (If you blamed me for having pizza, my husband is to be blamed for choosing Indian food.)
Day 4 - Shopping, Pierogi & Departure
As with most of our trips, we made time to visit a local market to pick up a few souvenirs. (You're welcome, friends and family!) At first, we considered heading to Krisna Oleh-Oleh, which is known for its fair prices and no-haggling shopping experience. Tempting, yes — but in the end, we chose to support the small local vendors right outside our hotel. We picked up some handcrafted items and textiles from them instead. (Careful though, after I purchased a bag from one aged innocent-looking uncle, he didn't want to let me go unless I buy 2-3 more! 😂)
Later, we made our way to Bali Collection, a small shopping and dining complex in Nusa Dua. Since we’d already returned our motorbike, we booked a Grab (without any issues). The market is surrounded by restaurants, cafés, and bars, and we even found a small grocery store where we picked up coffee and some edible gifts for friends and family. We weren’t particularly hungry at the time, but next time, we’ll definitely visit with an appetite — there were quite a few places that looked worth trying! Including an Indian restaurant.
Now, for the final culinary surprise of the trip: pierogi in Bali. (Don't judge, you've judged enough!)
On the way back from Ubud the day before, my husband spotted a tiny restaurant claiming to serve Polish dumplings. I didn’t believe it at first — I mean, you can’t even find proper Polish food in Kuala Lumpur — but lo and behold, there it was. And yes, we ended our Bali journey eating something entirely not local. Again. And it was absolutely delicious. And I don't feel guilty at all. The menu included both vegetarian and vegan pierogi, and you can even wash them down with a cold local beer. Total win.
Side note: Why wasn’t I too disappointed about not diving into more local dishes this time around? Indonesian cuisine is very popular where we live, and honestly, I knew we’d be back in Bali again soon, with plenty more food adventures to come.
Final Thoughts – Is 3–4 Days in Bali Worth It?
In short? Absolutely, hands-down, without a doubt — a solid Y E Y.
Even with just a few days, we managed to explore ancient temples, chill by the ocean, ride through jungly hills on a motorbike, chat endlessly with the kindest locals, and eat everything from nasi goreng to pierogi (don’t ask, it was worth it).
Sure, 3–4 days won’t let you see all of Bali — but it’s plenty to fall in love with the island, recharge, and get a proper feel for the culture, the vibe, and the rhythm of life here. The trick? Keep the plans light, stay flexible, and be open to changing course (the best parts usually aren’t in the itinerary anyway). And bring a power bank. Seriously.
We’ve already booked our tickets to come back in a couple of months — because once Bali gets under your skin, there’s really no going back. 🧡🤍
Practical Tips for Your Perfect Bali Trip:
💵 Bring cash. Most places — especially temples and local shops — don’t accept cards. We also met many kind and helpful people, and often felt bad that we couldn’t tip because we were out of cash.
🔋 Carry a charger or power bank. If you’re planning a full day of exploring, navigating with GPS, and snapping photos/videos, your battery will drain quickly.
🧣 Sarongs & temple wear. Sarongs are often provided at major temples, but it’s still a good idea to carry one just in case. More importantly, dress respectfully. These are sacred sites, not just photo ops.
🌴 Humidity is real. I live in Malaysia, and even I found Bali intense. Just after breakfast (yes, we ate outside — but still), I had to change outfits. So do yourself a favour and pack a few extra tops. You’ll thank yourself.
🦟 Mosquitoes? I didn’t get a single bite during our trip, so unless you're staying somewhere deep in the jungle, mosquito spray may not be necessary. (Though feel free to pack one just in case — no jinxing!)
🚫 Skip local alcohol at the airport. It might look tempting, but you’ll find better options — and prices — on the island. Stick to duty-free before departure if you’re travelling with only hand luggage.
🥗 Vegetarian-friendly (mostly). Veggie options are available and quite decent, especially in touristy areas. Remote spots may have fewer choices, but you’ll usually find something.
🏍️ Getting around:
-
If you ride a motorbike, do it. It's faster and way more flexible in Bali traffic.
-
Don’t ride? Use GrabBike or Gojek, but check first if they operate in the area (some tourist zones ban pickups).
-
Car rental is a better option than taxis if you want comfort and flexibility.
-
GrabCar is convenient but may only be available for drop-offs in certain areas, not pickups.
🏍️ Please wear a helmet. - Yes, many people ride without one — but they're either locals (who can navigate the system) or tourists trying to “blend in” (spoiler: they don’t). We saw a girl fall off her bike right in front of us. She was lucky — but not everyone is. If you value your brain, wear a helmet.
🚿 Bonus tip: Don’t like wearing rental helmets? Bring a bike cap or do what we did — use a shower cap. Yep, it’s hot and makes you look like a mushroom, but it’s better than someone else’s helmet sweat on your scalp.
For the Bookworms 📚
If you're curious to dive deeper into Balinese history and culture, here are two great reads — very different in tone, but both worth it:
📜 A Short History of Bali: Indonesia's Hindu Realm by Robert Pringle — A more academic, slightly dry read, but packed with solid information. If you’re the type who enjoys historical context and can push through a denser structure, this one’s for you. (I struggled.)
🌺 Island of Bali by Miguel Covarrubias — Written in the 1930s, so some bits feel a little dated, but it’s rich in detail, full of personality, and surprisingly immersive. It blends anthropology, travel writing, and art in a way that’s both charming and enlightening.
Useful Links:
-
Obama Bike Rental (Instagram) – 📞 +62 819-3620-9241