About Bali, Indonesia – Culture, Population, Religion, Expenses & Tour Itinerary for Tourists

Bali Beach

Bali, Indonesia – a paradise island that continues to mesmerize travelers with its rich culture, warm hospitality, spiritual depth, and lush landscapes. While often known for its stunning beaches and world-class resorts, Bali is much more than a vacation hotspot. This tourist guide offers insights into the culture, population, religious life, costs, and a recommended itinerary, giving you everything you need for a memorable Bali trip.

Bali's Culture: A Living Tradition

Bali is the cultural heart of Indonesia. Its traditions, rituals, dances, music, and arts have been preserved for centuries.

• Traditional Dance and Music: Balinese dances like Barong, Legong, and Kecak are performed regularly at temples and cultural venues.

• Art and Handicrafts: Ubud is the artistic center of Bali, known for wood carving, batik, silverwork, and painting.

• Festivals: Balinese Hindus celebrate unique festivals like Nyepi (Day of Silence), Galungan, and Kuningan. These celebrations fill the island with colorful processions and spiritual ceremonies.

Balinese culture is deeply rooted in the philosophy of Tri Hita Karana – harmony between people, nature, and the spiritual realm.

Bali City

Population of Bali

As of 2025, Bali has a population of approximately 4.4 million people. The population is a mix of indigenous Balinese and Javanese, with a growing number of expatriates and digital nomads.

• Urban Centers: Denpasar (the capital city), Kuta, Ubud, and Seminyak are among the most populated and tourist-friendly areas.

• Village Life: Despite tourism, much of Bali remains rural, with rice paddies, temples, and traditional homes shaping everyday life.

Religious Life in Bali

Bali is predominantly Hindu, which makes it unique in Muslim-majority Indonesia. Balinese Hinduism blends elements of Indian Hinduism with animism and local customs.

• Temples (Pura): Temples are everywhere – from majestic seaside temples like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu to smaller family shrines.

• Daily Offerings: You’ll see locals placing canang sari (small palm-leaf offerings) with flowers and incense at doorsteps, temples, and statues.

Respecting local customs and modest dress when visiting temples is appreciated and sometimes required.

How Expensive is Bali?

Bali offers a range of options for every budget:

Expense	Budget	Mid-range	Luxury
Accommodation (per night)	$10 – $25 (hostel)	$40 – $100 (resort)	$150 – $500+ (villa)
Meals	$1 – $3 (warung/local)	$5 – $15 (restaurants)	$25+ (fine dining)
Transport (daily)	$5 – $15 (scooter/car)	$20 – $50 (with driver)	$100+ (luxury transport)
Attractions & Tours	Free – $10	$20 – $80 (day tours)	$100+ (private experiences)

Bali remains one of the more affordable luxury destinations in Southeast Asia. Travel costs depend heavily on season, lifestyle, and area (Ubud is cheaper than Seminyak or Nusa Dua).

Seminyak

7-Day Tour Itinerary for Bali (Tourist Guide)

Day 1: Arrival & Relaxation in Seminyak

• Arrival at Ngurah Rai Airport (Denpasar)

• Hotel check-in & beach walk

• Sunset at Seminyak Beach

• Dinner at a beachfront cafe

Day 2: Ubud Culture & Rice Terraces

• Visit Tegenungan Waterfall

• Explore Ubud Monkey Forest

• Visit Ubud Palace & Art Market

• Sunset at Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Day 3: Spiritual Bali

• Morning Yoga in Ubud

• Tirta Empul Holy Spring Temple

• Gunung Kawi Temple

• Coffee plantation visit & tasting

Day 4: Mount Batur & Natural Beauty

• Sunrise trek to Mount Batur (optional)

• Breakfast with volcano view

• Relax at Batur Natural Hot Springs

• Evening spa treatment

Day 5: South Bali Temples & Beaches

• Uluwatu Temple & cliff views

• Kecak fire dance at sunset

• Explore Padang Padang Beach

• Dinner at Jimbaran seafood cafes

Day 6: Adventure & Marine Life

• Water sports in Nusa Dua (snorkeling, jet skiing)

• Day trip to Nusa Penida (optional)

• Visit Crystal Bay & Broken Beach

Day 7: Shopping & Departure

• Local market shopping

• Balinese massage or spa

• Depart for airport

Final Tips for Tourists

• Best Time to Visit: April to October (dry season)

• Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

• Language: Bahasa Indonesia; English is widely spoken in tourist areas

• Visa: Visa on Arrival for most countries (valid for 30 days)

• Cultural Tip: Dress modestly at temples; don’t touch people’s heads (a sacred part of the body in Bali)

Q: Is Bali safe for tourists?Yes, Bali is generally safe, but like any tourist destination, basic precautions should be taken.

Q: Do I need a visa for Bali?Citizens of many countries (including India, USA, UK) can get a Visa on Arrival for 30 days, which can be extended once.

Q: What’s the best time to visit Bali?The best months are April to October during the dry season.