How to spend a month in Bali – Travel through a slice of paradise

From sprawling coastlines, sublime sunsets, verdant forests, and terraced rice fields to towering volcanoes, Bali sure does have a lot going for it and thus, is often a magnet for backpackers, honeymooning couples as well as adventure travellers. For those wanting to immerse their senses within the pleasures of the ‘Island of the Gods’ and that too for a complete month, then here is what you need to plan for.

Days 1 to 2

As one of the conveniently positioned tourist hotspots from the island’s airport, Kuta best serves those vacationers who are passionately fond of late-night parties and plenty of merrymaking. Equipped with a slew of beachside bars and clubs such as Pyramid Club and Sky Garden, your travels within Kuta are sure to have a special focus on these establishments that will make you forget every care in the world as you prepare to show off your best dancing moves. 

Days 3 to 4

While the sunsets here are renowned for being among the best in the world, Seminyak’s welcoming vibes are more toned down than Kuta but continue to offer travellers a host of opportunities to party it up in style. Ideal for both roaming and basking, Seminyak’s restaurants are an absolute ‘must’ in the event you yearn for an island lifestyle draped in the hues of carefree living. 

Days 5 to 7

With widespread real estate development underpinning its appeal, Canggu stands on the verge of attracting a greater range of visitors. Replete with beachside clubs, vegan cafes, yoga studios and countless ways to surf, especially if you’re a beginner; Canggu is very much at the heart of a holiday to Bali. In terms of places worth heading over to, do beeline for Tanah Lot Temple where stunning sunsets can be delighted in.  

Day 8

Rise with the lark, put on your favourite hiking boots and journey onwards and upwards in the direction of Mount Batur. Be greeted by the ever-changing shades of nature as the early morning breeze coaxes you towards the summit of one of Bali’s most visited landmarks and active volcanoes. 

Days 9 to 15

Given the stature of Ubud, chances are that you will not have to deal with crowds of tourists consistently. Treated as the hippie capital of Bali, Ubud sure does feature its fair share of value additions to take stock of. Yoga sessions can be had no sooner the sun rises while one will be presented with many a choice of restaurants the longer you decide to stay here. Rent a scooter, buckle up and ride along winding roads as scenes of rice terraces and local farmers fill your gaze. Furthermore, be sure to reserve time for trips to Campuhan Ridge Walk and the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.  

Days 16 to 20

Few groups of islands in the world can match up to the appeal of the Gili Islands which comprise 3 captivating escapes, each with its own unique charm. While Gili Meno which is fondly called ‘Honeymoon Island’ will have newlyweds falling in love all over again, Gili Trawangan appears in stark contrast to the former. This is because the latter has for many years acted as a magnet for party animals and night owls alike with groovy tunes and a free-flow of beverages being amongst its highlights. On the flip side, stays on Gili Air pave the way for laidback living and relaxed vacationing.  

Days 21 to 26

Hop on a boat and get away from it all as you focus your attention on the Nusas of Bali. The more developed island of Nusa Lembongan can be your springboard into diving and swimming alongside manta rays while the sunset from Devil’s Tear will have you clicking away at a rate of knots. The untouched and somewhat isolated islet of Nusa Penida is ideal to enjoy a few moments by yourself with just sun-soaked beaches and rocky stretches to disturb you. 

Midori, Kecak Pura Luhur Uluwatu Rama Sinta 2 201, CC BY 3.0 

Days 27 to 30

Head down the home stretch of your time in Bali by residing in Uluwatu. Described as being dreamy, dramatic and well known for its jaw-dropping cliffs, Uluwatu boasts a wide spectrum of pastimes to while away the hours with. While accessing the eastern portion of the Bukit Peninsula as part of a riveting dive will appear worthy of inclusion in your itinerary, one may also make plans to visit Uluwatu Temple where the popular Kecak dance can be caught sight of while the 2-hectare Bali Bird Park with its near 250 species of birds must not be excluded from your thoughts. Staying at Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort which is one of the finest Uluwatu resorts in the region can be contemplated ahead of your time in Indonesia’s most sought-after island getaway.