When to visit Bali
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Situated in the centre of Indonesia, the tropical island of Bali is a perfect place to visit for a beach break. While you may need to be more cautious during the months with the highest rainfall, Bali offers many cultural activities and various events that make it worth visiting throughout the year.
If you want the warmest weather, consider braving the crowds and travelling around Bali during the peak season. However, there are also several cultural events and festivals that are worth seeing when you visit the island during the rainy season between November and March.
Here are the best times to visit Bali, along with the activities you can do on the island all year round.
Weather and climate in Bali
Bali has two seasons: the wet season, which typically starts from October to April and the dry season, from May through September.
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While Bali is popular among domestic and international tourists all year round, you can expect April to August as the peak season to travel to Bali. During this period, you can expect the highest fare on flights and accommodations around the island.
If you're looking to score bargains on accommodations and experience a less crowded Bali, consider visiting the island during the wet season, around October to April.
The downside of travelling to Bali during this period is that the chance of rain is high, especially in January. On top of that, be cautious with mosquitos, as they are more common during the wet season.
When to visit Bali for outdoor activities
Best time for a beach break in Bali
Bali offers numerous pristine beaches around the island. Whether you want to go to the beach for sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling, or even scuba diving, the option is endless!
While the best time to visit beaches in Bali is during the dry season from May to August, it is usually the peak season on the island too, so you can expect some beaches to be crowded with visitors.
Alternatively, you can also visit during the slow season from September to November. Although technically the wet season, the chance of rain is usually lower than the latter wet season in March and April. In addition, you can also avoid the crowds who visit Bali during the holidays in December and January!
Best time for hiking in Bali
Bali has numerous mountains suitable for hiking. Whether you want to go hiking Mount Batur in Kintamani or go all the way to climb the highest summit of Bali in Mount Agung, consider travelling during the dry season from April to October.
Festivals and events in Bali
On top of its lush rice terraces and beautiful beaches, Bali is also renowned for its vibrant festivals that attract travellers worldwide to experience a glimpse of its local culture and traditions. In addition, you can also find some contemporary events and festivals you shouldn't miss while travelling in Bali.
Take note of some of these Balinese events and festivals to enhance your experience when travelling around the island!
Nyepi
Known as "The Day of Silence," Nyepi is the day when the entire island shuts down for 24 hours, where Balinese people observe silence, fasting, and self-reflection during this day.
You can also experience the Pengerepukan day, where you attend the ogoh-ogoh festival prior to the Nyepi day. Commemorated every Saka New Year according to the Balinese calendar, Nyepi falls on different dates from time to time. However, you can expect Nyepi around March or April every year.
Galungan and Kuningan
Galungan and Kuningan are the important Balinese Hindu celebrations that occur twice a year, or every 210 days in the Balinese calendar. These events mark the victory of good over evil, while the festivals will highlight intricate decorations, temple visits and traditional dances during the celebration.
Bali Arts Festival
Known by the locals as Pesta Kesenian Bali, Bali Arts Festival is an annual event held in Bali since 1979. Initiated by the then governor of Bali, Ida Bagus Mantra, the festival is a month-long celebration to showcase Balinese artistic heritage through traditional dances, music performances, and art exhibitions.
Since its opening in 1986, the Taman Werdhi Budaya Art Centre in Denpasar has become the main venue of the Bali Arts Festival. The festival typically starts on the second Saturday of June throughout July every year.
Ubud Food Festival
Held at Taman Kuliner Ubud, the annual event is held for three days, where you can indulge in the best Balinese and Indonesian and Balinese diverse culinary. The date for this festival may differ every year, and you can check their website for the updated schedule for this festival.
Bali Kite Festival
Awaken your inner child by participating in the annual Bali Kite Festival. Held annually around July in the Padang Galak area around Sanur beach, Bali Kite Festival is one of the most vibrant and colourful festivals around the island.
Apart from showcasing various kites in different shapes and colours, the festival also holds cultural and spiritual significance as the Balinese believe in the mythology of Rare Angon. Depicted as the Lord Siva in the form of a boy riding a buffalo while playing the flute to demand wind so it can bring good harvests for the local communities in Bali.
Planning a trip to Bali? Read our Bali travel guides
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Last Updated 6 July 2023
