ADVENTURES, HIDDEN GEMS, WATERFALLS AND UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES - BALI

On our second day, we booked a tandem ATV ride and Ayung River rafting via baliquadbiking.  It was an action-packed, adventurous day that the whole family thoroughly enjoyed.  Rafting on the Ayung River was a thrilling experience, though less intense than our previous rafting at the Teesta River in Sikkim.  What made it special was the serene environment, the dense forests of Bali provided a picturesque backdrop, and the camaraderie with fellow tourists made it all the more fun. We found ourselves chanting, shouting, and splashing each other throughout the 90 minute journey. The path to the rafting point involves descending a series of stairs through lush greenery, and it felt like being fully immersed in nature’s beauty. Every step added to the anticipation of the rafting experience ahead.

The ATV ride, however, might have been the highlight of the day. We can honestly say we enjoyed the ATV ride even more than rafting, thanks to the muddy tracks, the journey through cave and waterfalls, and the thrill of riding through dense jungle paths and rice fields. At one point, one of our ATV broke down, but the support team was quick to replace it, and within minutes, we were back on track. The route, known as the Balaji ATV Ride, was an exhilarating adventure, full of surprises. The waterlogged paths, jungle terrain, and the rush of adrenaline made it an unforgettable experience.

We started day four with a trip to Nusa Penida, departing from Sanur Port.  Our first stop was Crystal Bay Beach, a serene beach known for its crystal-clear waters.  After soaking in the beauty of Crystal Bay, we headed to Angel's Billabong, a unique rock formation that creates a natural infinity pool.  The sound of the waves splashing against the rocks was mesmerizing.  It felt like a massive crystal-clear water pool with the sea roaring just beyond it.

On day three, we visited the Heaven Bali Swing to capture some scenic swing photos.  From there, we headed to Alas Harum and Cretya, a well-known tourist spot famous for its lush rice terraces, jungle views, and stunning swings.  The area has a beautiful vibe, with numerous Instagram worthy spots.  We strolled through the picturesque walkways and admired the serene environment.  Alas Harum is also known for its coffee plantations.  Afterward, we spent the evening at the bustling Ubud Market, where we browsed through local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Balinese art.

We had a quick breakfast and set off for the port at 8:30am to catch the ferry to Gili Trawangan.  Although we had originally planned to visit the Rumah Pohon Tree House, we had to cancel due to time constraints.  The ferry, which was delayed by an hour, finally arrived at 10:30 and we reached Gili Trawangan in the afternoon.  After checking into our guesthouse, we booked a sunset snorkeling session.  While the three of us went snorkeling, Tabasum decided to rest at the guesthouse.  We snorkeled around Gili Meno, where the famous underwater sculptures are located.  The vibrant fish swam all around us, and we even had the chance to see turtles.

Next, we visited Broken Beach, another iconic site in Nusa Penida, and continued on to Kelingking Beach, perhaps the most famous spot on the island.  The views from the top of Kelingking were breathtaking, with the iconic rock formation jutting out into the turquoise waters.  We decided to stay at the top but Zaid and Zoya hiked down the steep stairs to the beach.  They returned exhausted, but expressed their experience as amazing.  They told us about the soft, clean sand and the fact that there were only a handful of visitors.  Watching the sunset at Kelingking was magical.  The sky turned vibrant shades of orange and pink, reflecting off the crystal clear waters and creating an unforgettable moment.

After a full day of exploring Nusa Penida’s natural wonders, we stayed at a hotel close to Diamond Beach to catch the sunrise the next morning.

We woke up early on day five, leaving the hotel in the dark to head to Diamond Beach for sunrise.  It was about a 15 minute walk from the hotel to the Beach, we enjoyed the beautiful pinkish-red color just before the sunrise on the sky while walking to the beach, a beautiful work of GOD.  We were the first to reach the Cliffside.  Others started coming immediately.  By the time the Sun rose there were only about 12 - 15 people enjoying the sunrise.   Most of the them had come from the north after booking hotels near the Nusa Ferry Port.  They had started their journey as early as 4:00 in the morning just to witness this spectacular sunrise.  The sky slowly shifted through a spectrum of colors, creating a truly mesmerizing experience.

After witnessing the first light, Zaid and Ateeq decided to descend the steps leading to a secluded beach.  The trek down was much easier than the previous hike at Kelingking Beach, and except for one other visitor, we had the pristine beach all to ourselves.  The serenity, combined with the clear turquoise waters and soft white sand, made it a perfect moment to pause and take in the beauty of nature.  After about 15 peaceful minutes, we headed back to the top.

Day 6 began with check-out followed by a horse cart ride.  Unfortunately, almost full day was spent at the port and traveling, as the ferry made stops at Gili Air and Nusa Penida before finally reaching Sanur Port, Bali.  Exhausted, we headed back to our guesthouse and decided to rent two scooters for our remaining explorations in Bali.

So far our Bali adventure had been nothing short of spectacular, with a perfect mix of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation.  Each day offered a new and exciting experience, from thrilling rides through the jungles to quiet moments on serene beaches.

As night fell, Gili Trawangan came alive with vibrant lights and activity.  The food street was particularly magical, with its mix of local flavors, live music, and lively crowds.  The air was filled with the smell of sizzling street food, from grilled seafood to traditional satays, creating an unforgettable experience for the senses.  The kids had a blast riding bicycles along the busy, sparkling streets, while we enjoyed our dinner, taking in the island’s bustling evening energy.

Day 7 was an adventure of nature, starting with a visit to Tibumana Waterfall.  The trek to the waterfall led us through a lush, green trail filled with the sounds of birds and trickling streams.  The surrounding nature was enchanting, with vines hanging from the trees and the air thick with the fragrance of fresh rain. When we finally arrived, the cascading waterfall greeted us like a hidden gem, and the cool water was incredibly refreshing. After spending time at the waterfall, we headed to Ubud Market for a leisurely afternoon.

On Day 8 we set off to visit Tukad Cepung Waterfall, Jagasatru Waterfall, Gate to Heaven and Lahangan Sweet.  Visited Tukad Cepung Waterfall first, and it was truly a magical experience.  The journey down the final steps felt like stepping into another world, where sunlight streamed through the narrow canyon and reflected off the flowing water.  We walked through a shallow stream, feeling the cool water around our ankles as the path led us closer to the falls.  The sight of the sun’s rays breaking through the cave-like walls onto the waterfall was mesmerizing, casting a golden glow on the water and creating an almost ethereal atmosphere.

Tukad Cepung Canyon is a hidden gem, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and serene ambiance.  Surrounded by lush greenery, the canyon features a majestic waterfall that cascades through a narrow opening between towering cliffs, creating a magical play of light and shadow.  The sunlight filters through the dense foliage above, casting beams onto the water and giving the entire area a mystical, emerald glow.  It’s a tranquil retreat where visitors can connect with nature, bask in the peaceful surroundings, and admire the pristine, green landscape.

We continued our journey from Tukad Cepung to Jagasatru Waterfall, which truly felt like our own private paradise.  Aside from a few workers nearby, we had the entire waterfall to ourselves, allowing us to soak in its beauty in complete solitude.  Jagasatru is a hidden gem and is one of the island's tallest waterfalls, cascading an impressive 40 meters (about 131 feet) into a serene pool below.  Tucked away within a lush jungle, the waterfall is framed by towering cliffs and vibrant greenery, offering a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.  The crystal-clear water flows down gracefully, creating a soothing sound that harmonizes with the surrounding natural beauty.  Unlike many of Bali's more popular spots, Jagasatru remains relatively untouched and less crowded, making it the perfect destination for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature.  The journey to the waterfall, through verdant landscapes and quiet paths, only adds to the sense of adventure, rewarding visitors with breathtaking views and the calming sound of cascading water.

Day 9 began with us hiring Mr. Dekgan Hendru's car again and setting off to explore Bali's northern treasures.  Our first stop was at Handara Gate, where we unfortunately spent almost two hours waiting for a photo.  In hindsight, we regretted wasting so much time there.  Afterward, we continued to Sangeh Monkey Forest, which more than made up for the delay.  The forest was an enchanting place, with towering nutmeg trees that seemed ancient and grand, creating a mystical atmosphere.  Feeding the monkeys was a highlight for the kids, but what stood out even more was the sheer size and majesty of the trees.  Walking beneath the towering canopy, surrounded by wildlife, was a magical experience that connected us to Bali’s natural beauty.  By the time we reached Sekumpul, it was late afternoon, and we decided to save our energy for the next day’s adventure.

The adventure took a turn on the way back from Jagasatru.  Around 03:00pm, while navigating a sharp left turn near Banjar Pateh at East Duda, Selat, we had an accident.  The steep road caused us to stop the bike, and as Ateeq tried to steady it by placing his left foot on the ground, his foot slipped on algae.  Both Ateeq and Tabasum fell, and Tabasum's right leg was injured, with a large patch of skin peeled off just below her knee.  It was a painful and unforgettable moment, but the kindness of the locals made a huge difference.  They applied initial First-Aid before we took Tabasum to nearby Clinic for dressing.  We cancelled our plans to visit the Gate of Heaven and Lahangan Sweet after the accident.

Day 10 was set to be our best day in Bali.  Our guide arrived at the guest house promptly at 7am, and by 7:30, we were ready to go (Tabasum stayed behind due to her injury).  Our first destination was Hidden Waterfall, a secluded paradise tucked away in Bali's lush greenery.  The trek to the waterfall was enchanting, with dense forests full of vibrant green vegetation and streams flowing beside us.  Crossing the streams and walking through the forest felt like we were in a magical oasis.  When we reached the waterfall, the sight of the cascading water, surrounded by untouched nature, was simply breathtaking.  The tranquil beauty and the cool, misty air made it feel like we had discovered our own private paradise.

Next, we headed to Sekumpul Waterfall, a sight that exceeded all expectations.  The journey to the falls was an adventure in itself, taking us through a complete forest trek with narrow streams, a small bridge, and uneven stone paths.  The sound of rushing water grew louder as we neared the falls, building anticipation.  When we finally arrived, the view was nothing short of spectacular.  The water cascaded from a great height, creating a misty atmosphere that added to its mystique.  The power and beauty of Sekumpul were truly awe-inspiring, with the falls looking like a magical curtain of silver and white plunging into the pool below.  It was one of the most unforgettable moments of our trip, a scene that left us spellbound by nature’s raw beauty.

After Sekumpul, we made our way to Fiji Waterfall, another hidden gem tucked in Bali’s rugged landscape.  Like Sekumpul, the trek to Fiji Waterfall was filled with natural beauty, passing through lush greenery, forested paths, and streams that seemed to spring from the ground itself.  The height of the waterfalls, along with the surrounding landscape, made for a stunning sight.  The area was peaceful, and the sound of cascading water was the only noise that accompanied us as we soaked in the beauty of this serene place.

By noon, we were back at the homestay for a quick brunch before setting off for Ubud.  Along the way, we made a stop at Leke Leke Waterfall, a small yet picturesque waterfall surrounded by thick, green foliage.  The trail down was well-maintained, with steps carved into the hillside, though some parts were steep and slippery.  Despite her leg injury from the previous accident, Tabasum bravely trekked down to the waterfall, showing remarkable determination.  The 15-minute hike took us through beautiful plant life, and there was even a charming bamboo bridge that stretched across the river, offering a peaceful spot to enjoy the sounds of the flowing water.

When we reached Leke Leke, the sight was incredible.  The waterfall, flowing like a delicate stream of white satin threaded with silver, surged down a crack in the rock face, creating a beautiful scene.  It emptied into a serene natural pool below, surrounded by lush greenery.  The entire setting felt like something out of a dream, and the photos we took captured the essence of Bali’s hidden beauty. Leke Leke, with its peaceful ambiance and lush surroundings, was the perfect way to end our day of exploring Bali’s waterfalls.

Day 11 was a day of complete rest and indulgence for us. It was our designated “Rest Day.”  It was a simple but much-needed day to unwind and relax after all the adventures.

Day 12 began in the early hours of the morning as we set out for Lahangan Sweet with Mr. Hendru to catch the sunrise.  We left at 3:15am and made a brief stop at a bustling market around 4am, where the locals were selling an array of fresh produce and goods.  By 4:50am, we reached the shuttle point that would take us to the Jeep station.  The shuttle ride lasted about 15 minutes, followed by a short 10 minute Jeep ride that brought us to the entrance of Lahangan Sweet.

We were the first ones to reach the summit that morning, and it was a breathtaking experience.  Watching the sunrise in complete tranquility, with the stunning sea and sky blending into one another, was a mesmerizing sight.  The views from Lahangan Sweet were nothing short of spectacular.  We took memorable photos with Mount Agung in the backdrop, capturing the serene beauty of the moment.  After soaking in the views, we headed to Akasa Coffee in Kintamani for Breakfast and relaxation.  Surrounded by the stunning landscape of Mount Batur, the Black Lava Fields, and Batur Lake, it was the perfect spot to unwind after our early morning adventure.

Later, we visited Sukawati Market, known for its local crafts and souvenirs, before heading back to our guest house to rest after the long day.

Day 13 marked our final day in Bali.  We return the bikes, though we had to pay extra for the scratches caused by the accident.  After that, we spent the rest of the day relaxing, reflecting on the incredible journey we have had, and packing for the trip home.  We made our way to the airport, saying goodbye to Bali and the unforgettable memories we had created.  After check-in, we bid farewell to Zaid and proceeded through immigration to catch our flight to Dubai.  Zaid’s flight to Sydney was scheduled three hours after our departure.

As our Bali adventure came to an end, we were left with a deep appreciation for the island’s extraordinary natural beauty and the warmth of its people.  From thrilling ATV rides and breathtaking waterfalls to tranquil beaches and vibrant local markets, each day brought something new and memorable.  Bali had given us more than just a vacation; it gave us stories, moments, and memories that will stay with us forever.

We took an Indigo flight from Bengaluru, which landed at Denpasar at 10:20 in the morning. Zaid, who flew with Batik Air from Sydney, arrived shortly after at 11:50.  Immigration and customs were a breeze since we had e-visas, which we obtained through the Atlys App.  The e-visas were processed within just a few hours after submitting our documents on the app.  Opting for e-visas saved us significant time compared to the long queues for on-arrival visas.  Before exiting the airport, passengers need to scan a QR code for customs clearance.  To save the time, one person in the group can also fill out the form by just providing number of Passengers and Bags the group has.  It’s a quick and simple process, taking no more than a minute.

We had booked a homestay in Ubud, since Pandawa Beach is located south of Bali and close to Denpasar, we opted to make it our first sightseeing spot.  This allowed us to avoid making another trip back south just to visit the beach. Pandawa Beach is known for the impressive road leading to it.  The road, carved through a limestone cliff, features towering 40 meter high walls on either side, stretching for about 300 meters.  After enjoying some time on the beach and refreshing ourselves with giant tender coconuts, we took the scenic limestone road towards Ubud, stopping in the middle of the cliffs for some photo ops.