From A to Z: This is all you need to know about the Island of Gods in the Bali Glossary.
A B C D E F G H I J K L M
N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
A – Amed, Agung & Arak …
Amed
Amed is a picturesque coastal village in Bali, known for its serene charm and diving experiences. More…
Agung (Mount)
Mount Agung, Bali’s highest volcano, is a majestic natural wonder and spiritual symbol. Read more…
Arak (drink)
A traditional Balinese alcoholic beverage that holds cultural significance and is used in various ceremonies.
Ayam Betutu
A signature Balinese dish, flavorful and aromatic.
Arts and Crafts
Bali’s arts and crafts scene is a vibrant tapestry of creativity and tradition. The island’s rich artistic heritage, with its traditional and contemporary forms of art and craftsmanship keeps amazing visitors.
B
Balinese Culture
Both ancient traditions & modern influences define Bali’s identity: Unique arts, festivals and rituals.
Batur (Mount)
An active volcano with crater lake in Bali, that offers an exhilarating adventure with its sunrise treks.
Barong Dance
A captivating Balinese traditional performance that embodies the eternal battle between good and evil. All you need to know about the Barong Dance.
Batik
A traditional textile art form that showcases the island’s rich cultural heritage. Read more in the Bali Glossary
Babi Guling
Famous Balinese roast pig dish that showcases the island’s culinary prowess.
Balian (Balinese Healer)
Known for their traditional healing practices that blend spirituality, herbal remedies, and energy work. All you need to know about Balinese Healers.
C
Canggu
Popular village for expats, digital nomads and surfers, with beaches and trendy cafes.
Campuhan Ridge Walk
This famous hiking trail offers a serene escape with picturesque views of lush landscapes, making it a must-visit in Ubud, Bali. Read more
Ceremonies
Bali’s vibrant ceremonies, rich in tradition and spirituality, showcase the island’s deep cultural heritage and are a captivating sight to behold.
Celuk (silver village)
Celuk, the renowned silver village in Bali, is a haven for silver craftsmanship, attracting art enthusiasts from around the world.
Coffee plantations
Coffee plantations offer a sensory journey through lush landscapes, where you can savor the aroma and flavors of freshly brewed coffee.
(Balinese) Calendar
The traditional Balinese saka calendar, 78 years behind the global gregorian calendar, is rich in cultural significance, as it dictates the island’s festivals and rituals.
D – The Bali Glossary
Denpasar
Denpasar, Bali’s capital, is a bustling city known for its vibrant markets, historic sites, and a gateway to island exploration.
Dive sites
Bali boasts numerous breathtaking dive sites, offering underwater enthusiasts a chance to explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Durian
Durian, a divisive tropical fruit, is renowned for its pungent aroma and unique taste, loved by some and despised by others. Read more in the Bali Glossary
Driving in Bali
Navigating Bali’s chaotic traffic and narrow roads can be both adventurous and challenging, requiring patience and defensive driving skills.
Deities of Bali
In Bali, hindu and nature deities and gods including Brahma, Vishnu, Ganesha and Shiva, but also Mount Agung, play a central role in the island’s rich culture and traditions. Learn more
E – Echo Beach & Elephant Cave
Eat, Pray, Love
“Eat, Pray, Love” is a bestselling novel and movie starring Julia Roberts, chronicling her transformative journey through Italy, India, and Indonesia.
Echo Beach
Echo Beach, a popular surf spot in Canggu, offers rolling waves and a vibrant beach scene, making it a surfer’s paradise.
Elephant Cave
The Elephant Cave, or Goa Gajah, is a historic and mystical site in Bali, known for its ancient rock carvings.
Es Campur (drink)
Es Campur, a traditional Balinese iced dessert, delights with a mix of fruits, jellies, and sweet syrups, perfect for hot days.
Eco-tourism
Eco-tourism promotes sustainable travel, connecting people with nature while conserving environments and supporting local communities’ well-being.
F
Full moon ceremonies
Full moon ceremonies in Bali are mesmerizing rituals that blend spirituality and culture, captivating visitors with their beauty and significance. Read more
Flores sea
The Flores Sea, located in Southeast Asia, boasts stunning underwater biodiversity and is a paradise for divers and marine enthusiasts. Read more in the Bali Glossary
Frangipani
The flower, also known as Plumeria, graces Bali with its fragrant blossoms, adorning the island’s landscapes and traditions with its beauty.
(Balinese) Food
Balinese food is a tantalizing blend of spices and flavors, featuring dishes like nasi goreng and satay that delight the palate.
Fish Market Jimbaran
Jimbaran’s fish market is a bustling hub where you can savor the freshest catch and enjoy beachfront dining.
G
Garuda Wisnu Kencana
A colossal statue in Bali that represents a mythical bird deity and serves as a symbol of Indonesian culture.
Goa Gajah
Goa Gajah, or Elephant Cave, is an ancient archaeological site in Bali featuring intricate carvings and spiritual significance. Read more in the Bali Glossary
Gitgit waterfall
Gitgit Waterfall in Bali is a mesmerizing cascade surrounded by lush greenery, providing a tranquil escape into nature’s beauty.
Gili Islands
Gili Islands are a tropical paradise without cars near Bali, known for their white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant underwater life.
Galungan festival
Galungan festival in Bali marks the victory of good over evil, with locals decorating their homes and temples to celebrate.
Ganesha
Ganesha, the Hindu elephant-headed deity, is revered as a remover of obstacles and a symbol of wisdom and intellect.
Gamelan
Gamelan music, an intricate ensemble of traditional Indonesian musical instruments, creates mesmerizing melodies that accompany various cultural performances in Bali. Learn more.
H
Hindu temples
Hindu temples in Bali, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant ceremonies, are sacred places of worship and cultural significance. Read more…
Hiking spots
Bali offers breathtaking hiking spots like Mount Batur and Mount Agung, rewarding trekkers with stunning sunrise views and natural beauty.
Handicrafts
Bali’s handicrafts, including intricate wood carvings and beautiful textiles, showcase the island’s rich artistic heritage and craftsmanship.
Heritage sites
Bali’s heritage sites, like the Uluwatu Temple and Taman Ayun Royal Temple, offer a glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture.
Homestays
Homestays in Bali provide authentic cultural experiences, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in local life while enjoying warm hospitality.
Holidays of Bali
Bali’s diverse holidays, from Nyepi’s Day of Silence to Galungan’s festival of good over evil, reflect the island’s vibrant culture. Read more in the Bali Glossary
I
Ikat weaving
Ikat weaving in Bali is a traditional art form, where intricate patterns are created by dyeing threads before weaving.
Indonesian Rupiah
The Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the official currency, representing the nation’s economic growth and vibrant culture on banknotes and coins. Read more on IDR in the Bali Glossary.
Infinity pools
Infinity pools in Bali offer a luxurious and picturesque setting, blending seamlessly with the stunning natural landscapes and ocean vistas.
Island hopping
Island hopping in Indonesia is an adventure of exploration, offering diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences across its thousands of islands.
Interiors (Balinese)
Balinese interiors are a masterpiece of artistry, combining intricate woodwork, vibrant textiles, and spiritual elements to create captivating living spaces.
K
Kuta Beach
Kuta Beach is a popular Bali destination, celebrated for its stunning sunsets, vibrant nightlife, and world-class surfing waves.
Komodo dragons
Komodo dragons, native to Indonesia’s Komodo Island, are the world’s largest lizard species, known for their impressive size and predatory behavior.
Klungkung Palace
With its historical significance and intricate architecture, this temple offers a glimpse into Bali’s royal heritage and cultural legacy.
Kecak dance
The Kecak dance in Bali, performed with a captivating rhythmic chant, narrates mythological stories, captivating audiences with its vibrant storytelling.
Kitas
The Kitas (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) is an Indonesian residence permit allowing foreigners to live and work in the country legally.
M
Monkey Forest (Ubud)
Monkey Forest in Ubud is a sacred sanctuary where playful long-tailed macaques roam freely amidst lush jungle surroundings. All you need to know about Monkey Forest
Massage (Balinese)
Balinese massage, known for its gentle yet invigorating techniques, is a rejuvenating spa experience that soothes both body and soul.
Manta Point
Manta Point in Bali is a renowned diving spot where you can swim with majestic manta rays in crystal-clear waters.
Munduk
Munduk, a tranquil hillside village in Bali, offers lush landscapes, serene waterfalls, and a peaceful retreat from the tourist crowds.
Megibung feast
The Megibung feast in Bali is a communal dining tradition where people share a meal on a large, banana-leaf-covered platter.
J
Jimbaran Bay
Jimbaran Bay in Bali is renowned for its seafood restaurants, romantic beachfront dining, and stunning sunsets over the Indian Ocean.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Jatiluwih rice terraces in Bali showcase the island’s breathtaking agricultural landscapes, characterized by meticulously cultivated rice fields set against lush hillsides. Read more
Jungle treks
Bali’s jungle treks offer adventurous hikers the chance to explore lush rainforests, discover hidden waterfalls, and connect with nature.
Java
Bali’s neighboring island is renowned for its rich culture, historical sites, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant urban centers like Jakarta.
Jamu (traditional drink)
Jamu, a traditional Indonesian herbal drink, is a flavorful and holistic remedy known for its health benefits and cultural significance.
L
Legian
Legian, located on the west coast of Bali, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and shopping opportunities.
Lovina
Lovina, on Bali’s northern coast, offers a tranquil escape with black sand beaches, dolphin watching, and serene coastal villages. All you need to know about Lovina.
Luwak coffee
Luwak coffee, produced from beans eaten and excreted by civet cats, is a unique and sought-after brew in Bali.
Lombok
Lombok, an enchanting island near Bali, boasts pristine beaches, lush forests, and the majestic Mount Rinjani for adventurous travelers.
Local cuisine
Local cuisine in Bali is a tantalizing fusion of flavors, featuring dishes like Nasi Goreng and Satay that showcase Indonesian culinary artistry.
Language in Bali (Indonesian/ Balinese)
Balinese, an Austronesian language, is spoken alongside Bahasa Indonesia in Bali, reflecting the island’s cultural diversity and heritage.
N
Nasi goreng
Nasi Goreng, a popular Indonesian dish, is a flavorful fried rice dish typically served with a variety of ingredients and spices.
Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida, an island near Bali, offers stunning cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and a serene escape from the bustling mainland. All you need to know about Nusa Penida.
Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan, a charming island near Bali, enchants visitors with its white sand beaches, vibrant marine life, and relaxed atmosphere.
Night markets
Balinese night markets come alive with a plethora of street food stalls, offering delicious local dishes and a lively atmosphere.
Nasi Campur
A delightful Indonesian dish, featuring a medley of flavors, from rice to various sides and condiments.
Nyepi (Silent Day)
Nyepi, Bali’s Silent Day, is a unique cultural celebration of stillness and reflection, marked by silence and self-contemplation.
O
Offerings (Canang sari)
Canang sari, Balinese daily offerings, symbolize gratitude and harmony, crafted with care and devotion to honor the island’s spiritual traditions.
Ogoh-ogoh festival
Ogoh-ogoh festival in Bali showcases giant, elaborate sculptures and vibrant parades, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil in Hindu mythology.
Oceanside temples
Oceanside temples in Bali offer serene sanctuaries, where spirituality merges with stunning coastal vistas for a truly tranquil experience.
Organic farms
Organic farms nurture the Earth, cultivating pesticide-free produce and sustainable practices for a healthier planet and nourishing harvests.
Orchids
Orchids, nature’s exquisite jewels, grace the world with their beauty, showcasing a diverse spectrum of colors and intricate patterns.
Q
Quaint villages
Quaint villages in Bali enchant with their timeless charm, where culture and tradition flourish amidst picturesque landscapes and warm hospitality.
Quiet beaches
Quiet beaches in Bali offer solace amid nature’s serenity, inviting peaceful contemplation and relaxation away from bustling crowds.
Quad biking
Quad biking in Bali is an exhilarating adventure, allowing riders to traverse rugged terrain and immerse in the island’s natural beauty.
P
Pura Besakih
Pura Besakih, Bali’s “Mother Temple,” is a sacred complex perched on Mount Agung, epitomizing the island’s spiritual and architectural grandeur.
Padi fields
Padi fields, Bali’s emerald terraces, sculpt the landscape, sustaining communities and embodying the island’s harmonious blend of nature and culture.
Pasar (Famous Markets)
Pasar, renowned markets of Bali, teem with vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and local treasures, inviting a sensory journey through culture.
Padangbai
Padangbai, a coastal gem in Bali, welcomes travelers with its tranquil beaches, bustling harbor, and a gateway to stunning underwater adventures.
Pendet dance
Pendet dance, a traditional Balinese ritual, weaves graceful movements and vibrant colors into a captivating tribute to spiritual harmony.
R
Rijsttafel
Rijsttafel, an Indonesian feast, delights with an array of flavorful dishes, embodying the culinary diversity of the archipelago in one meal.
Rafting spots
Bali’s rafting spots offer thrilling journeys through scenic river canyons, combining adventure and nature in an unforgettable aquatic experience.
Rendang (dish)
Rendang, a rich and aromatic Indonesian dish, tenderly simmers beef in a spicy coconut sauce, delighting the palate with bold flavors.
Rice terraces
Bali is famous for its beautiful rice fields, that make this island unique. All you need to know about Bali’s Rice Terraces.
Real Estate in Bali
Real estate in Bali offers diverse investment opportunities, from tranquil villas to beachfront properties, catering to those seeking a tropical paradise.
S
Seminyak
Seminyak, Bali’s chic beach destination, captivates with upscale resorts, trendy boutiques, and a vibrant nightlife scene along its stunning coastline.
Sanur
Sanur, Bali’s peaceful coastal town, embraces visitors with its laid-back charm, pristine beaches, and a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation.
Satay
Satay, a beloved Indonesian dish, grills skewered meat to perfection, smothered in a flavorful peanut sauce, pleasing palates with every bite.
Surfing spots
Bali’s surfing spots beckon with world-class waves, offering surfers thrilling rides and a paradise for those seeking the perfect swell.
Short Cut Canggu
Short Cut Canggu, used to provide a scenic pathway through lush rice fields, connecting visitors to serene Balinese landscapes.
Scooter Rentals
Scooter rentals in Bali offer an adventurous way to explore the island’s wonders, providing freedom and flexibility for memorable journeys.
Sarong
Sarong, a versatile Indonesian garment, drapes in elegance, serving as clothing, a fashion statement, or a sign of respect and tradition.
T
Tirta Empul
Tirta Empul, Bali’s sacred water temple, invites purification rituals and spiritual cleansing in its tranquil spring-fed pools, a revered site.
Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot, an iconic sea temple in Bali, stands as a testament to the island’s spiritual heritage amidst breathtaking ocean views. All you need to know about Tanah Lot.
Tegalalang rice terraces
Tegalalang rice terraces in Bali showcase stunning landscapes of stepped green fields, blending agriculture and artistry in perfect harmony.
Temples
Temples in Bali are sacred havens of spirituality, adorned with intricate architecture and rich traditions, offering glimpses into Indonesian culture.
Traditional healing
Traditional healing in Bali combines ancient knowledge and natural remedies, fostering holistic well-being and connection to the island’s cultural roots.
U
Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple, perched on a dramatic cliff, offers breathtaking ocean views and mesmerizing Kecak dance performances, embodying Bali’s allure. Read more in this Bali Glossary.
Ubud
Ubud, Bali’s cultural heart, enchants with its artistry, lush jungles, serene rice terraces, and a vibrant community of artisans.
Umalas
Umalas, Bali’s tranquil enclave, offers a peaceful escape with its serene countryside, charming villas, and easy access to nearby attractions.
Uluwatu
luwatu, Bali’s stunning coastal area, boasts dramatic cliffs, world-class surf breaks, and the revered Uluwatu Temple, a captivating destination. Read more in this Bali Glossary.
V
Volcanic landscapes
Bali’s volcanic landscapes intrigue with lush forests, serene lakes, and majestic peaks, forming the island’s natural beauty and spiritual essence.
Villas (Balinese style)
Balinese-style villas enchant with their intricate architecture, private gardens, and serene pools. Read more in this Bali Glossary.
Vegan eateries
Vegan eateries in Bali celebrate plant-based cuisine, offering diverse and delectable dishes.
Village tours
Village tours in Bali immerse travelers in local life, showcasing cultural traditions, crafts, and the warm hospitality of rural communities.
Vesak day
Vesak Day in Bali commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha, illuminating the island with spiritual celebrations.
Visa
Visa regulations for Bali vary by nationality, so check entry requirements.
W
Waterbom Park
Waterbom Park in Bali offers thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and family fun, providing a refreshing escape from the tropical heat.
Water temples
Water temples in Bali blend religion with irrigation, honoring both spiritual beliefs and the island’s vital agricultural practices.
Warungs (local eateries)
Warungs, Bali’s beloved local eateries, serve authentic cuisine, allowing visitors to savor traditional flavors and experience the island’s culinary heritage.
Wayang kulit (shadow puppetry)
Wayang kulit, Balinese shadow puppetry, narrates epic tales with intricate puppets and music, preserving Indonesia’s cultural legacy with artistry.
Z
Zen retreats
Zen retreats in Bali offer spiritual rejuvenation through meditation and mindfulness, inviting inner peace and harmony in the island’s tranquil settings.
Zero waste initiatives
Zero waste initiatives in Bali promote sustainable living and responsible tourism, protecting the island’s natural beauty for future generations.
Zoos and animal parks
Zoos and animal parks in Bali provide educational and conservation experiences, allowing visitors to connect with diverse wildlife in ethical environments.
Y
Yoga retreats
Yoga retreats in Bali offer serene sanctuaries, where practitioners find inner peace and balance amidst the island’s natural beauty.
Yeh Pulu
Yeh Pulu, an ancient rock carving site in Bali, showcases intricate stone reliefs, providing a glimpse into the island’s historical artistry.
Yachts and marinas
Yachts and marinas in Bali offer seafaring enthusiasts a gateway to explore pristine waters and coastal beauty in style.
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