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11 Historical Places in Bali to Visit This Year
Image credit: Klau Schrodt
When looking to explore historical places in Bali, you might feel stuck in a tourist loop.
And that is probably because you’ll find yourself repeating the same old sights and experiences as everyone else.
The same photos, spots, and stories.
But what if you could discover the real Bali—-the hidden places locals love and visitors rarely find?
In this guide, we’ll share 11 historical places in Bali that are relatively lesser known.
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1. Bali Museum
Image credit: Bali Museum
The Bali Museum is a state museum in Denpasar City. It holds historical items and cultural artifacts, such as tools, art, religious objects, and writings.
Image credit: Wikimedia
The museum is built in a traditional Royal style and has four pavilions, each representing a different district in Bali.
2. Uluwatu Temple
Image credit: Anandajoti Bhikkhu
Uluwatu Temple is one of the historical places in Bali that has been standing since the 11th century.
Image credit: Wikimedia
It sits on a 70-meter-high rock cliff overlooking the ocean in Pecatu Village. The temple is dedicated to Lord Siwa and is famous for its monkeys, gates, and stone stairs. Visitors also enjoy the Kecak Dance performance set against a beautiful sunset.
Check Out: Historical Tours in Bali!
3. Taman Ujung
Image credit: Wikipedia
Taman Ujung, originally a resting place for kings and important guests, has been in use since 1921 during the reign of King I Gusti Bagus Jelantik of Karangasem. The architecture blends Balinese, European, Middle Eastern, and Chinese styles.
Image credit: Wikipedia
The park was renovated after a major earthquake in 1963. After climbing around 100 steps, visitors can enjoy beautiful views from the top of the park’s famous roofless pillars. This place is among the historical places in Bali.
4. Kertha Gosa
Image credit: Wikipedia
Kertha Gosa is located in the center of Klungkung City and is part of the Klungkung Kingdom. It served as a court hall and features European-style architecture. The building was still in use during the Dutch colonial period until 1942.
Image credit: Wikipedia
The roof is decorated with Kamasan-style wayang paintings depicting the story of Sutasoma and other Balinese legends.
5. Tengenan Village
Image credit: Bali Culture Information
Tengenan Village is one of the original Bali Aga villages located in Karangasem. Over generations, the village has preserved its traditional buildings, lifestyle, and customs. Visitors may have the chance to see the unique pandanus or thorn fighting tradition.
Image credit: Wikipedia
The village is known for its special souvenirs, including geringsing cloth, Indonesia’s only double ikat woven fabric.
Read More: Do’s and Don’t in Bali as a Tourist!
6. Elephant Cave (Goa Gajah)
Image credit: Wikipedia
Elephant Cave (Goa Gajah) was discovered in 1923 by Dutch officials and is an ancient Hindu-Buddhist site dating back to the 11th century. Located in Bedulu village, this historical cave extends about 9 meters deep and contains various complexes with statues of gods and goddesses.
The site offers a glimpse into Bali’s rich cultural and religious history, making it a fascinating place for visitors interested in ancient architecture and spirituality.
7. Geopark Museum and Batur Temple
Image credit: Wikipedia
The Geopark Museum in Kintamani is a great place to learn about the Mount Batur caldera and geology in Indonesia and worldwide. You can also visit Batur Temple, which showcases a blend of Balinese and Chinese culture with its unique kong.
Image credit: Wikipedia
Both attractions are set in a high-altitude area that offers beautiful views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur, making them must-visit historical places in Bali for those interested in nature and culture.
Read More: Where To Watch Sunrise In Ubud?
8. Puri Anom Tabanan
Image credit: Astinsoekanto
Puri Anom Tabanan is a cultural site in the Kingdom of Tabanan featuring beautiful Javanese-style architecture. It includes a sacred prayer building for Putri Anom, adorned with symbolic porcelain plates.
Image credit: Beritabanan
Frequent prayer ceremonies attract tourists, making it a unique destination in Bali that blends history, tradition, and spirituality.
9. USAT Shipwreck
Image credit: Indopacific Images
The USAT Liberty shipwreck, located just 25 meters from the shore in Tulamben Village, is a popular diving spot in Bali. The wreck is home to vibrant marine life, making it an easy and attractive site for divers.
Image credit: Finns Beach Club
This area also plays a role in biodiversity conservation, highlighting its natural importance as a tourist destination.
Book Now: Past to Present Walking Tour in Ubud!
10. Singaraja Old Port
Image credit: This is Luxury Travel
Singaraja Old Port, Bali’s oldest port, is surrounded by historic Dutch colonial buildings. It’s an ideal spot for those interested in architecture and history.
Image credit: Museum.co
Located in Singaraja, the harbor offers a pleasant walk where visitors can enjoy the unique blend of cultural heritage and scenic beauty in a peaceful setting.
11. Pura Taman Saraswati temple
Image credit: Alesia Kozik
Lastly, we have the Pura Taman Saraswati temple on our list of the historical places in Bali you should visit. This Hindu temple is devoted to the goddess of knowledge, Saraswati and is famous for its stunning carvings and pink lotus flower pool.
Walk across the bridge lined with statues and explore the temple grounds. Best of all, entry is free. If lucky, catch a live Kecak dance performance at 7:30 pm for a small fee.
You can enjoy the show from the temple or nearby Café Lotus. It is one of the must-visit historical places in Bali for a unique experience.
Explore Bali With Ubud Story Walks!
Are you ready to explore the real Bali in Ubud?
Let’s take a walk together.Our guides will take you on a custom-made journey through Ubud’s secret corners and local favorites.
FAQ's
Seminyak is Bali’s most popular beach resort, famous for its stunning beach and vibrant nightlife. It’s been a top tourist destination since the 1980s, offering various restaurants, hotels, and bars.
Bali was ruled by the Majapahit Empire from 1343 to 1478 and then later influenced by Muslims. The Dutch arrived in 1597, finding the island divided among various Muslim states, marking the beginning of European involvement in Bali’s history.
Ubud is a great place to visit in Bali. It’s known for its beautiful scenery, art, and culture.
Which area is famous in Bali?
Kuta is a famous area in Bali. It’s known for its beautiful beach, shopping, and lively nightlife.
Read what people say about Ubud Story Walks...
Ubud Story Walks is something different. It’s a fun, entertaining and refreshing way to delve into Ubud’s past. The knowledgeable guides place as much emphasis on how they tell a story as they do on what they’re sharing, which means all sorts of magical and mystifying details are revealed. I believe the best way to get to know a place is to walk its streets, which makes Ubud Story Walks one of the best ways to get to know Ubud.
Julia Winterflood
We had a fantastic time walking around the historical centre of Ubud! Even though we've been based in Bali for a few years, we'd never had an actual tour of some of Bali's most iconic landmarks and learning about the history was fascinating. Our guide was hilarious and full of information and it was a lovely and relaxing way to learn so much. The tour was early in the morning which was perfect timing as the temperature was still cool and we were able to witness the morning bustle of Ubud's famous markets. 10/10 would recommend!
Rahima Saikal
Anthony Besnault2024-05-04I highly recommend this tour for anyone eager to delve into the rich culture, tradition, art, philosophy and history of Bali. My experience with Khana was truly delightful; her warmth and knowledge made for a smooth and captivating discussion. It's undoubtedly a 5-star tour!
Elia Argentiero2024-05-02Wonderful tour! Khana is a passionate and knowledgeable guide which made the whole experience amazing!
Caroline o'Hara2024-04-28What a gem of a morning this was! We just loved it and we learnt so much. Perfectly paced and beautifully explained, Balinese and specifically Ubud history and culture came alive for us. Thank you Khana and Joe for such a great start to our few days in Ubud. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a more bespoke and small group learning experience.
Amanda Frisby2024-04-07The past to present tour was excellent! Our guides were passionate about the history they were telling us and explained things very well. The story walk was a high light for me in my visit to Bali!
Clara Gómez Donoso2024-03-27Amazing tour to learn about Balinese culture! Really made me appreciate their way of living. Highly recommended, the guides are very generous sharing their knowledge and experience. Thanks so much Khana and Ira!
Olivia Pilla2024-03-15Khana was my guide and she was so friendly and knowledgeable about the history of Bali. I had an extremely enjoyable tour and would highly recommend it! The morning tea stop was delicious also. Thank you again Khana!
Marry Jay2024-03-14It was a beautiful little tour through ubud and a truly authentic experience. Though a bit more expensive than other tours I would highly recommend to book this tour to experience an authentic tour with a local. Thank you again Windari.
Judy Astridge2024-03-11Our guide Win shared interesting insights into Balinese culture. We highly recommend the walk Ubud past and present. Very enjoyable and a nice size of group.
Kate Gilkison2024-03-06I can 100% recommend this tour. I was looking for a short tour that would give me a taste of Bali’s history, culture, art and way of life, and this definitely delivered. Khana was an excellent guide, who answered all our questions and more!