Bali, one of the most picturesque provinces in Indonesia, is well-known for its idyllic locations, serene beaches, exotic cuisine, performing arts like traditional dances and music, and fine arts like sculpture and painting, apart from leather and metal works. Part of the Coral Triangle, Bali boasts of high biodiversity of marine creatures, including 500 reef-building coral species. It is also home to the Subak irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
With its majestic temples, thriving ecology, awe-inspiring topography and soul-stirring spirituality, Bali is a cornucopia of magical experiences. And when in Bali, you must indulge in a bit of island-hopping to soak in the breath-taking beauty, culture and cuisine. But before you plan a Bali trip in 2022, make sure you buy the best travel insurance for Bali.
Here are 6 islands in Bali you should visit definitely:
- Gili Trawangan
‘Gili’ in Balinese means ‘island’. Gili Trawangan is one of the three Gili Islands – the other two being Gili Air and Gili Meno – together, they form an archipelago of coral isles. Thanks to its robust infrastructure and tourist-friendly facilities, coupled with an interesting mix of dining and nightlife hotspots, this island is a popular pick with tourists. If you are the adventurous type, you can have your fill of marine activities that will give you a glimpse of the colourful underwater world, including the vivid shades of corals. For those who wear their hearts on their sleeves, the Ombak Sunset Swing on the shores of Gili Trawangan makes the visit truly memorable. Should you prefer quieter resorts, then you can visit the sunset beach on the south-eastern end.
- Menjangan Island
Menjangan draws its name from the rare Javan deer found in the savannahs of Bali. The calm and clear waters, coral gardens and over 200 species of fishes and marine creatures make this island a hidden gem. And if you like a good mystery, then you will definitely like to explore the 150-year-old shipwreck embedded deep within the sea.
- Nusa Lembongan
Similar to Gili Trawangan, Nusa Lembongan is part of a triumvirate of islands with Nusa Penida and Nusa Ceningan being the other two. Together these three are called the “Nusa Islands”.
Time slows down on this island which is also devoid of traffic and hawkers. Four-wheelers are not allowed on this island, thus enabling you to explore the island on foot or on a bicycle. With its scenic countryside, rich aquamarine biodiversity, cliff-jumping and snorkelling with the mantas, Nusa Lembongan offers an ideal vacation for both adrenalin junkies as well as couples looking for a romantic getaway.
- Nusa Ceningan
If you are in Nusa Lembongan, then you can literally walk over to Nusa Ceningan simply by crossing a scenic causeway bridge also called Yellow Bridge. that spans over a narrow strait between the two islands.
Nusa Ceningan is packed with attractions galore. Explore the underwater gardens, sunken temples and statues through scuba diving or underwater scooter rides. You can also visit the turtle nesting beaches and seaweed farms around the edge of this island.
- Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is popularly known as the ‘bird watcher’s paradise’ due to the spell-binding collection of avians found on this island. Visit the FNPF Bird Sanctuary in Ped Village to marvel at nature’s riot of colours. Bird-watching can be accompanied by visits to some of the oldest and most rugged caves of Indonesia. One of these, Crystal Bay, boasts pristine stretches of sand and azure waters. You can also visit the Giri Putri caves in Pakraman village.
- Lombok
Lombok is a huge volcanic island off the east coast of Bali. Mount Rinjani in Northern Lombok is well-known for its jaw-dropping waterfalls and an active volcano. The mountain is accessible to tourists and offers a breath-taking view of the island. It is as-yet-undiscovered by tourists and hence is relatively quieter and untouched. The main attractions in Lombok are the tropical Gili Islands. Apart from that, you can laze on the Selong Belanak beach, meander in the Sukarara village, known for local handicrafts or visit the ‘Fountain of Youth’ in Narmada Park.
Travel Insurance
With so much adventure in the offing — both on land and underwater – it is prudent to arm yourself with an international travel insurance policy that covers both medical and non-medical emergencies. You can look at the various companies offering a travel insurance Bali policy and choose the one that best suits your trip. Also, with so much island-hopping and changing of hotels, you could end up misplacing your luggage. Hence it is advisable to opt for a baggage insurance travel policy to safeguard your belongings.
Summing Up
Bali is a smorgasbord of natural beauty. Rich and biodiverse seas, rugged cliffs, thriving flora and fauna, rustic villages and centuries-old heritage and culture, Bali offers the picture-perfect vacation. The natural colours on land, sea and sky form a kaleidoscope of memories that will keep you coming back for more. So, what’s holding you back? Say Om Swastyastu to Bali!
