The island of Bali in the Indonesian archipelago is one of the most diverse travel destinations offering beaches, forests, hills and even volcanoes. This island paradise surely has something for everyone. With deep cultural roots and a colourful history, Bali has countless mesmerizing sites to visit. At the same time, it also is a modern and developed beach island offering the latest amenities and ultimate relaxation.

Here are some of the top tourist places that should be on your Bali vacation checklist, from Tanah Lot Temple to Garud Vishnu, Mount Batur to Bali Swing... and a whole lot more.

Tanah Lot is an iconic point in Indonesia. The temple is built on a rock formation off Bali island and makes for one of the seven temples around the Balinese coast dedicated to the sea. This temple is dedicated to the Balinese Sea God Dewa Baruna. Interestingly the entrance is taken over by the ocean during high tides making these gradually transforming rocks accessible only during the low tides. The myth surrounding this temple is an exotic one, that of venomous sea snakes guarding the temple entrance.

Pura Uluwatu literally translates to the temple on the edge of a cliff. Built on a 70-meter high cliff that projects into the sea, the temple is dedicated to Achintya, or the all in one supreme God of the Balinese sect of Hinduism, in his Rudra avtar. It is also believed that Sage Niratha attained Moksha here. The temple is infested with monkeys who might try to steal your belongings, so better watch out!

Of the two active volcanoes in Bali, Mount Batur erupted as recently as the year 2000. However, of late, treks to the summit of the craters have become popular with travelers planning a sunrise trek to the volcano tops. Enjoy the amazing view from the top after the sheer thrill of walking along the mouth of a fairly active volcano. Some might even enjoy boiling eggs using the heat emitted by the calderas. All in all, this trek is not to be missed if your fitness levels are up to the mark.

What if you could see majestic tigers roam in the open from just a few feet away? Or what about relishing your lunch with a pride of lions at close vicinity? The Bali Safari and Marine Park is an open zoo with a wide range of fauna. From Chloe, the female orangutan, to the regal white tigers, to a large pride of lions or a herd of deer, here you can witness the wild in all its glory from up, followed by a refreshing break at the Tsavo Lion Restaurant.

Also, see the Bali Agung Dance Drama show which is one of the highlights here. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, opt for the night safari and watch the forest crawl closer from within the safety of a cage caravan. Often wild cats fancy jumping up to the caravan’s roof.

If you are an art aficionado and would like to explore culture, traditions and the Balinese way of life depicted in their art, stop at the Neka Art Museum in Ubud. Established by Suteja Neka, son of the famous woodcarver Wayan Neka, the gallery showcases works of some of the most famous Balinese artists. The museum is constructed in a traditional Balinese style with various compounds. A walk through the gallery will take you from classical paintings to contemporary Indonesian art.

When in Bali, you must visit the Besakih Temple. It is perched on Mount Agung, constructed well over a thousand years ago. The locals refer to Besakih as Mother Temple as it encompasses 86 varied temples in its premise. There are massive statues and intricate carvings, giving the place a rich heritage and history. Tourists find a tour of these grounds very fascinating. Add to that the unbelievable beauty of hilly verdant meadows and paddy fields around, and you have yourself a perfect day out in nature.

Nusa Penida is a delightful island in Bali that represents paradise. It is cut off from the mainland by the Badung Strait and is coveted by nature lovers and photographers. Backpackers and wanderers are also found in hordes here. From beaches to lagoons, cliffs to thick green woods, Nusa Penida is an explorer’s dream come true. And to top it all, there are many ancient Hindu temples to pepper your hike.

You must have seen this swing on so many hotshot Instagrammers’ profiles. The Bali Swing is all kinds of aesthetic and all levels of thrilling. It has been called the most iconic swing of the continent and hangs half on half off the cliff. The abyss down below is vast and unfathomable, its depth filled with tropical greens and white mist. Not only is swinging here coveted but the ropeway and wooden swings are also an experience worth having. Usually honeymooners love to enjoy this activity and take loads of photos.

Where is there any fun in Bali without walking through rice and paddy fields? The Tegallalang Rice Terraces offer you one such unique experience. They are situated in Ubud and make for some of the most beautiful fields around with a maze of plantations on different platforms. Photographers and nature enthusiasts, as well as those free souls who love a good walk, enjoy a visit to this place. On your way you get to see and understand the traditional Balinese agriculture system, their irrigation as well as marshy drainage system. For some refreshment, you can stop by a bistro or cafe.

A fun day out in Bali can include the Ubud Monkey Forest. With the hupa-hupa of monkeys punctuating the chirping of birds and fluttering of leaves and branches as they jump from tree to tree — you are in a for a visual and audio treat. Close to a thousand local Balinese monkeys enjoy their life in this forest, giving you a sneak peak into what goes on a typical day. There are 3 temples dedicated to Hindu gods in this forest, where these monkeys are fed to bursting by the devotees. Nature walks, monkey-sightings and photography are coveted activities here.

Goa Gajah is a very famous tourist haunt in Bali. It is a historical site, with great archaeological significance. There is a cave here with a temple made by Hindus. It is said to be more than 1000 years old and was used as a meditation hub back in the day. The mouth of the cave is carved with motifs and designs on rock. Many Buddhist and Hindu relics are also found near the tunnel of this cave as well as in the temple verandah.

Sekumpul Waterfall is a unique waterfall that is reached after a long arduous hike up a hundred steps and rice fields and dirt roads. The village by the same name ensconces this beauty. Sekumpul is a coming together of 7 waterfalls that flow down the verdant green hills together. A trek or picnic is the ideal way to enjoy this place. You can also dive into the cool waters and enjoy a swim, or just sit by its side and nibble on snacks.

A Hindu temple by Bratan Lake, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan was founded back in 17th Century CE. A collection of four temples sits inside this complex, with megalithic statues and artefacts and a classic Balinese architecture to boot. The beauty of the temple is enhanced by the fact that it is surrounded by water on all sides, making it an almost floating shrine. So do visit when you are in Bali for a wonderful sightseeing experience.

Nusa Lembongan is an exotic island of Bali, home to untouched virgin nature in the form of limestone caves and labyrinths, beaches, rock formations and cliffs. The aquatic life of the water here is also splendid for marine enthusiasts to see. You can sunbathe on beaches, swim in transparent water, take cruises or just walk through the island village. It’s a great weekend or day trip idea in Bali.

Garuda Wishnu is a grand statue in a huge park that is dedicated to Hindu culture, nature and religious myth. There are many sculptures in this park, the most famous being that of Vishnu Bhagwan riding his bird of choice — Garud. The rock statue is brilliantly carved, with tiny intricate details that only a person aware about Hindu myth can understand. This park hosts many religious as well as cultural events and is best visited on idle evenings.

Bali Bird Park is a splendid place for avifauna lovers. Here the birds and animals and reptiles aren’t locked up behind cages, but inhabit their own unique ecosystems. Hence, you get to see them without any artifice or hassle on their part. You get to even play with some of them. With over 5000 birds from many different species, Bali Bird park is also said to conserve some rare wildlife of Indonesia.

Bali is a beacon of untouched nature in many ways, one of them being its stretch of rice fields. They look like a smooth roll of velvet carpet, and Jatiluwih Green Land lets you enjoy a stroll on this carpet! A trek or small hike up these terraced as well as plain fields makes for a great morning out. You not only soak in gorgeous views and experiences but also educate yourself about the agriculture and horticulture practises of this indigenous land.

A night market in Kuta’s Jalan Blambangan, this is your go-to for shopping, entertainment, late-night binging and some nightlife exploration in Bali. People from all walks of life come here, locals as well as tourists, domestic as well as international. You can gorge on street food and authentic Balinese delicacies, shop from stalls and stores alike, bargain your heart out, and pick up loads of cheap souvenirs. Kuta Night Market is open everyday from 5 in the evening to 10 at night.

Finns Beach Club is a place for beach fun and water sports. You get to enjoy the open beach outside, eat your way through a delicious cafe menu, soak in the blue water scenery or choose to jump into the beautiful infinity pool. People come here to enjoy the sunset from the infinity pool as well as to enjoy some much needed chill time with drinks.

Another place to enjoy some drinks in Bali is the Rock Bar Bali, where you are partly in nature. The seating on limestone cliff adds to that natural charm and makes you feel connected to the outside. Sunsets are coveted here, as you cradle a goblet of wine and sit tight with your loved one. As the night falls, world class DJs take over and play some chick rock and roll music to get you in the mood. Rock Bar Bali is located inside AYANA Resort.