How to Plan a Trip to Bali:
A Complete Guide for First-Time Travelers
Dreaming of white sand beaches, lush green rice terraces, and tropical vibes? Bali is one of the most beautiful and budget-friendly international destinations you can visit. If you're planning to visit Bali for the first time, here’s everything you need to know—from visas to flights and what to expect.
1. Passport and Visa Requirements
Before anything else, make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival in Bali.
For Indian passport holders:
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Visa on Arrival (VOA) is available in Bali.
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You need to pay around IDR 500,000 (approximately ₹2,700) on arrival.
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Visa is valid for 30 days, and you can extend it once for another 30 days.
2. Flight Booking
There are no direct flights from India to Bali, but you can find one-stop options via Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, or Jakarta.
Popular airlines:
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Singapore Airlines
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AirAsia
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Batik Air
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Scoot
Book your tickets 2–3 months in advance for the best deals.
3. Best Time to Visit
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April to October is the dry season and the best time to visit.
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Avoid the monsoon months (November to March) unless you're okay with occasional rain.
4. Currency and Budgeting
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The local currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).
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1 INR ≈ 190 IDR (check current rates before travel).
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Budget hotels and hostels are affordable, and food is cheap too.
5. Accommodation
Bali offers everything from beach huts to luxury villas.
Popular areas to stay:
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Ubud – for culture and nature
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Seminyak & Kuta – for nightlife and shopping
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Canggu – for surfers and digital nomads
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Uluwatu – for cliffs and beaches
6. Local Transport
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Rent a scooter (if you're confident driving) or use apps like Gojek and Grab.
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Private drivers are also affordable for day trips.
7. Must-Visit Places
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Ubud – Monkey Forest, Tegallalang Rice Terraces
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Seminyak – Beach clubs, shopping
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Nusa Penida – Stunning island with cliffs and beaches
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Uluwatu Temple – Cliffside temple with sunset views
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Mount Batur – Sunrise trekking
8. Cultural Tips
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Dress modestly when visiting temples.
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Always use both hands to give or receive something.
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Don’t touch people’s heads—it’s considered rude.
9. Travel Insurance
It's highly recommended to get travel insurance that covers medical expenses, delays, and cancellations.
Final Thoughts Bali is not just a destination, it’s an experience. Whether you're going for a honeymoon, solo trip, or a chill vacation with friends, the island has something for everyone. With a little bit of planning, your Bali trip can be smooth, affordable, and unforgettable.