Bali Beyond the Beaches: Rice Terraces, Temples, and Volcanoes

Ubud: The Cultural Heart

Skipping the beach scene entirely, I headed straight for Ubud. The Tegallalang Rice Terraces at sunrise, with mist rising from the valley, were worth the early alarm.

Mount Batur Sunrise Trek

Climbing Mount Batur in the dark, guided only by headlamps and stars, we reached the summit just as the sun broke over the horizon. Hot eggs cooked in volcanic steam made the best breakfast ever.

Temple Ceremonies

Witnessing a full-moon ceremony at Ulun Danu Beratan temple, with hundreds of Balinese in traditional dress making offerings on the lake shore, was profoundly moving.

Nusa Penida

The dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters of Nusa Penida felt like a different planet. At Kelingking Beach, the cliff shaped like a T-Rex head is even more incredible in person.