5 Hidden Gems in Bali You Should Add to Your Next Trip

1. Mount Batur Sunrise Trek in Kintamani

If waking up before sunrise doesn't sound too bad, the Mount Batur sunrise trek is worth putting on your Bali itinerary.

The trek usually starts in the early hours of the morning so you can reach the summit before sunrise. The climb is not extremely long, but the early start and uphill sections make it a proper workout.

Then comes the reward. As the sky starts getting brighter, you can see the surrounding mountains and Lake Batur from above. Watching the first light spread across the landscape is the main reason people make the early-morning climb.

Location: Kintamani, Bali Best for: Sunrise views, hiking and photography Best time: Early morning, around sunrise Experience needed: Basic fitness; a guide is recommended

Photo tip: Carry a small tripod if you're planning to photograph the sunrise or take long-exposure shots

2. Bungee Jumping in Seminyak

For travellers who prefer their Bali experiences with a little more adrenaline, bungee jumping in Seminyak is one to consider.

The idea is simple: step off the platform and let gravity do the rest.

The few seconds before the jump are probably more intimidating than the actual fall. Once you take that step, everything happens quickly.

It's also an easy activity to combine with a day or evening around Seminyak, so you don't need to dedicate an entire day to it.

Location: Seminyak, Bali Best for: Adrenaline seekers and thrill lovers Best time: Late afternoon or early evening Experience needed: No previous experience for standard guided jumps

Tip: Check the operator's current safety requirements before booking, especially age and weight restrictions.

3. Goa Lawah Cave in Klungkung

Not every hidden gem in Bali needs to involve a huge adventure.

Goa Lawah, also known as Bat Cave Temple, is a fascinating stop on Bali's east coast. The temple sits around a cave that is home to a large population of bats.

The cave itself is not a conventional tourist cave where you simply walk deep underground. Instead, the temple and cave entrance are the main attraction, making this a good stop if you're exploring the Klungkung area.

The combination of Balinese architecture, temple details and the natural cave environment gives photographers plenty to work with.

Location: Klungkung, East Bali Best for: Culture, photography and offbeat sightseeing Best time: Morning or late afternoon Experience needed: None

Photo tip: Be respectful when photographing the temple, especially during religious ceremonies. Dress appropriately when entering the temple grounds.

4. Canyoning at Gitgit Waterfall

If you want to get away from Bali's busy southern beaches, head north towards Gitgit Village.

The area around Gitgit is known for its waterfalls and lush landscapes, and canyoning takes you right into that environment. Depending on the route and operator, the experience can involve walking through canyons, swimming, climbing and navigating sections of the waterfall.

It's a very different way to experience Bali's northern landscape.

Instead of simply standing at a viewpoint and looking at a waterfall, you're actually moving through the environment.

Location: Gitgit, North Bali Best for: Outdoor lovers and adventure travellers Best time: Dry-season months and suitable weather conditions Experience needed: Basic fitness and swimming ability; guided tours are recommended

Tip: Wear proper water shoes and follow the guide's instructions, as rocks around waterfalls can be slippery.

5. Underwater Scooter in Nusa Dua

You don't need a diving certification to get a closer look at Bali's underwater world.

With an underwater scooter in Nusa Dua, you can sit on a specially designed underwater vehicle and explore beneath the surface while wearing the appropriate breathing equipment.

It offers a different way to experience marine life compared with snorkelling or traditional scuba diving. You can spend time underwater looking at fish and the surrounding reef without having to swim continuously.

Nusa Dua's clear tropical waters make it a popular area for water-based activities.

Location: Nusa Dua, Bali Best for: Families, couples and first-time underwater explorers Best time: Morning, when sea conditions are often more favourable Experience needed: Generally beginner-friendly, subject to operator requirements

Photo tip: If you're taking an underwater camera, use a wide-angle setting so you can capture both yourself and the surrounding marine life.