10 Things to Do in Bali in January

Bali stands out, mainly, by its paradisiac beaches, but in January, during the beginning of the summer, the climate is humid and the rains are very frequent. If you plan to visit the island in the first month of the year, therefore, you will find the cultural facet of this destination, which will put at your disposal the Hindu temples with a smaller influx of tourists and some natural wonders, away from the coast, will show you its best side.

Between the best activities that you can make in Bali in January are to discover the waterfalls and the rice fields of Ubud, to contemplate the wide views of the Batur Mount, to cross the natural footpaths of the island in tours in bicycle, to discover the puras with a moderate affluence of visitors, to live the festive ones of New Year in Kuta and to participate in an exciting experience of rafting with the grown river and the tumultuous waters.

The rains of January are not going to allow you to discover the best beaches of Bali in their maximum splendor, but yes they will give you the opportunity to submerge in the natural beauty of Ubud in an ideal time of the year to discover its waterfalls and rice fields. During the first month of the year, due to heavy rainfall, the waterfalls reach their peak, with a flowing torrent that creates a visual spectacle not to be missed.

The tumultuous flow of water from the waterfalls not only provides a stunning experience for visitors, but also benefits the terraced rice fields of Ubud. The January downpours are essential for the growth and development of the rice fields, and it is during the first month of the year that these terraces colonize the landscape of the island's cultural heartland, exhibiting a natural symbiosis between the waterfalls and the cultivated fields.

Thus, exploring Ubud in January will not only allow you to witness the grandeur of the waterfalls at their peak, but will also lead you to discover the vital connection between nature and local agriculture, while learning about a traditional Balinese activity that has developed its economic engine around rice paddies since time immemorial.

January marks the time of glory for Bali's natural attractions away from the coast and Mount Batur is one of the main sites you can discover on the island. During the first month of the year, which is usually characterized by tropical rainfall, the sky, when it clears, offers one of the most impressive horizons from the 1,700 meters above sea level of the mount.

The changing conditions create a magical atmosphere, where clouds give way to panoramic views that stretch all the way to the Indian Ocean, revealing the grandeur of the surroundings and offering a spectacle that includes one of the most captivating natural phenomena: rainbows. Mount Batur, on the other hand, you can tour it on a sunrise hiking tour or an off-road jeep adventure tour.

In addition, the weather in January, despite occasional rains, is also conducive to hiking tours during dry days. The rugged terrain of Mount Batur becomes an exciting challenge for adventure lovers, and the cool, moist air after the rains contributes to a less stifling hiking experience in the middle of the Balinese summer.

Continuing with the ideal conditions that the climate of January offers in Bali for the tours of adventure, also you will be able to opt for a tour in bicycle. These experiences will allow you to dive into the island's tropical lushness and jungle landscape in an alternative way, away from the tourist crowds that usually flood the island's best beaches at other times of the year.

Among the most prominent routes for bicycle tours are the Kintamani highlands in the north of the island and the Jatiluwih rice fields, which during the first month of the year are favored by frequent rains. Kintamani offers a cycling experience with panoramic views of Mount Batur and its lake, while Jatiluwih will take you through the terraced rice fields, a Unesco World Heritage Site.

The combination of January's refreshing weather, trails cleared of tourists and scenic routes make this month the optimal time to discover Bali's natural beauty by bicycle on one of the best tours you'll find on the island at the start of summer.

January offers to the visitors of Bali a unique opportunity to discover the best Hindu temples of the island with a smaller affluence of tourists. After the celebrations of the New Year many travelers leave, which provides a calm and serene atmosphere to explore the spirituality and architecture of these religious buildings.

Among the visits that stand out during this season is the Besakih, known as the Mother Temple, is a must-see. Located on the slopes of Mount Agung, the Besakih Temple is the largest and most sacred temple on the island. Its architectural magnificence and spiritual significance can be fully appreciated without the usual crowds, allowing visitors to discover the serenity of the surroundings.

Another pure must-see is the Lempuyang Temple, known for its iconic Heaven's Gate. In January this temple is available for an intimate experience, allowing travelers to explore its sacred steps and enjoy the sweeping views stripped of crowds.

Kuta, Bali's bustling seaside town, is the perfect place to experience an unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration. During the New Year's Eve, the sky of the surrounding beach is illuminated with a spectacle of fireworks that reflects the local spirit. During this day, the resorts of Kuta are filled with tourists and become the epicenter of the festivities.

The fascinating thing about Kuta, however, is that the festivities do not end with the arrival of the New Year, but usually extend throughout the first week of January. The city continues vibrating with special events, parties and activities that continue the celebration and allow the visitors to enjoy concerts, thematic dinners and live shows in one of the best beaches of Bali.

There you will find a variety of options to celebrate, ranging from enjoying a quiet dinner overlooking the ocean to attending beach club parties. The celebrations in Kuta, therefore, offer alternatives for all the tastes and give memorable experiences, whether you have planned to visit Bali in December or during the first days of the new year.

In January, as the rains become frequent in Bali, taking a local traditional cooking class presents itself as an ideal activity and lends a cultural refuge amidst the island's humid climate. Often held in small local kitchens and under the tutelage of Balinese chefs, these culinary lessons will allow you to discover the secrets of Indonesia's rich gastronomic tradition.

During these classes you will have the opportunity to prepare some of Bali's most iconic dishes. Among them is the bebek betutu, a tasty dish of roast duck that requires skill and patience. Also you will be able to learn to elaborate the lawar, a typical salad that combines minced meat with a mixture of spices and fresh herbs. In addition, classes often include the preparation of the famous babi guling, a roast pork that is served on special occasions and celebrations.

These culinary experiences will not only allow you to delight your palate with the authentic flavors of Bali, but will also take you into the very essence of the local culture. From the careful choice of ingredients to the meticulous preparation of the recipes, each step reveals the deep connection between food and Balinese identity.

Although January may present itself as an unpopular season for water sports in Bali due to frequent rainfall, rafting activities particularly benefit from the abundant rainfall. Unlike other water sports that can be affected by the weather, rafting gains momentum during the first month of the year, as rivers become fast-flowing and challenging thanks to persistent rainfall.

One of the most exciting routes for rafting in January is along the Ayung River. This meandering river not only offers frantic descents, but also provides the opportunity to discover Bali' s jungle skyline from a unique perspective. As you navigate the turbulent waters, you will be surrounded by dense vegetation, tumultuous waterfalls and the wildlife that inhabits the riverbanks.

The rainy season, then, transforms the Ayung River into a thrilling aquatic adventure, turning every gust and paddle into an energy-filled experience. Are you up for a ride on its turbulent waters?

Enjoying a classic Balinese massage becomes a traditional experience when visiting Bali, as this practice is an intrinsic part of the local culture and offers deep relaxation in the midst of tropical paradise. Available at most spas on the island, Balinese massage is a reflection of ancient customs and healing techniques that have been passed down through generations.

This massage, known for combining pressure and stretching techniques, aims to restore balance and relieve cervical tensions. In a quiet and usually scented room, the masseuses can transport you to the sensations of Balinese massage.

One of the advantages of enjoying a massage is the opportunity to discover a different profile of the famous beaches of Bali. Although you will not be under the brilliant sun of the beach by the climate of January, the soft sound of the waves and the mist of the sea will create an ideal atmosphere to discover one of the most fascinating kindnesses of the island.

To find the ideal moment to give you a bath in Bali in January can seem a very complicated mission, but if you manage to face the climatic conditions you will be able to enjoy the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, since in this time of the year the coastal waters tend to be unusually warm in comparison with other stations.

This phenomenon is due to the rainy season that affects the region during these months. Constant rainfall and less sun exposure allow the surface layers of the ocean to retain more heat, creating perfect conditions to enjoy warm, comforting waters.

This climatic phenomenon helps make Bali's beaches attractive destinations even during the rainy season. While in other regions the precipitations could dissuade to the visitors, in Bali, January is presented like the perfect moment to enjoy the waters of the Indian Ocean and to discover the excursions from the island to the nearby places, where also you will find paradisiacal corners.

To celebrate the Chinese New Year in Bali in January is a fascinating experience and, to a certain extent, also autochthonous, since the island lodges a numerous Chinese community that has maintained this tradition alive for generations. The New Year celebration is an exciting display of Bali's cultural diversity, where locals and visitors alike congregate to welcome the new lunar cycle.

The streets of the Chinese areas in Bali are filled with traditional activities during Chinese New Year. Vibrant parades are a prominent feature, where dragons and lions dance to the beat of drums and cymbals, translating the festive energy of this large community. In addition, fireworks light up the night sky, creating a noisy visual and sound spectacle to mark the beginning of the new lunar year.

In addition to parades and fireworks, the festivities include traditional religious and family ceremonies, such as offerings at Chinese temples and family dinners. Food plays a central role in the celebrations, with specific dishes symbolizing prosperity and good fortune for the coming year.

In January Bali experiences warm and humid temperatures that characterize the rainy season in the region. Daytime highs tend to range between 28° and 30°. However, it is important to note that January is one of the wettest months of the year, with frequent rainfall and heavy downpours contributing to the island's jungle-like landscape.

Although the rains can affect the intensity of the sun and visibility in some areas, Bali's pleasant temperatures and tropical atmosphere make January an ideal time to explore the spirit of the island during the summer. However, keep in mind that it is advisable to bring light clothing and insect repellent, as well as to be prepared for occasional showers.

In January Bali experiences a moderate tourist affluence, since many travelers of Australia and New Zealand, coinciding with the vacations, choose to visit the island in December, although they usually leave when the rainy season begins. Therefore, beaches, temples and tourist attractions tend to be less crowded than usual, except at festive times such as during Chinese New Year celebrations, which is a highlight in Bali.

It is important to note that although January is a relatively popular month to visit the island, rainfall can affect accessibility and visibility in some areas. However, many tourists take advantage of this time to explore Bali's natural beauties, such as the tumultuous waterfalls and rice fields.

In January the prices in Bali can fluctuate due to the fact that this month marks the beginning of the summer, in spite of the persistent rains. With the influx of visitors looking to escape winter elsewhere, demand for services and accommodations tends to increase, which can lead to a slight increase in prices. However, inclement weather tends to keep rates affordable on all tourist services, including Bali's best excursions.

It is important to note that although prices may be slightly higher compared to other times of the year, Bali remains an accessible destination with affordable options for those looking to explore the island.

January marks the beginning of summer in Bali but it is also the rainiest month of the year, so I advise you to pack the following in your suitcase:

• Raincoat
• Insect repellent
• Light t-shirts
• Lightweight pants
• Comfortable shoes
• Lightweight coat
• Beach shoes
• Bathing suit
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Umbrella