Bali is a tropical paradise nestled in the Indonesian group of islands. It has always captured the hearts of worldwide travelers. This delightful island is known for its splendid landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality.
If you’re wondering where Bali is located, this article will provide all the information you need to embark on an unforgettable journey.
That said, let’s dig deeper into this amazing island in Indonesia. And uncover the exact secret behind where Bali is located on the map of the land of thousands of islands.
In fact, its ideal location in the country makes it a treasure trove for many visitors and gives it advantageous weather that delights tourists for years to come.
Thus, stick around and find out about the location of Bali and why it is an ideal destination that you and your family can visit on your vacation.
If you decide to visit, you should check out our blogs about the best beaches in Bali, and the best hotels in Bali, which overlap.
What Is Bali?
Before clearing out where is Bali located, it is important to define what is Bali. Bali is an island province of Indonesia that is a popular destination for travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.
1. Geographical Location Of Bali: Here, we will answer the question of where The island of Bali is situated.
Bali is located in Southeast Asia, specifically within the Indonesian groups of islands. The island lies between Java and Lombok and is approximately 8 degrees south of the equator.
Bali’s geographic coordinates are approximately 8.3405° S latitude and 115.0920° E longitude. Here is where Bali is on the Indonesian map.
2. Bali Within Indonesia
Bali is part of the Republic of Indonesia, which comprises more than 17,000 islands, which is why it is called “the land of thousands of islands.”
You might wonder where Bali is. Situated in Indonesia, it is the westernmost major island in the Lesser Sunda Islands, which stretches eastward from Java.
In fact, Bali is the most well-known and popular tourist destination in Indonesia, attracting millions of visitors each year.
That is because of Bali’s ideal location, which gives it optimal weather conditions and plenty of natural wonders.
3. Proximity To Other Indonesian Islands:
To the west of Bali lies Java, the most populous island in Indonesia and home to the capital city, Jakarta. Bali is separated from Java by the Bali Strait, a narrow channel that can be crossed by ferry or a short flight.
To the east of Bali is Lombok, another stunning island known for its perfect beaches and breathtaking landscapes. Lombok is accessible from Bali by a short flight or boat ride.
4. What Are Bali’s Neighboring Countries?
Bali is an Indonesian island, which is located in Southeast Asia. Its neighboring countries are:
1. Australia
- Location: South of Bali, across the Indian Ocean.
- Proximity: Roughly 2,600 kilometers (1,615 miles) away. Popular for tourism, many Australian visitors travel to Bali.
2. Malaysia
- Location: Northwest of Bali, across the Java Sea.
- Proximity: Around 2,000 kilometers (1,243 miles) from Bali.
3. Singapore
- Location: Northwest of Bali, across the Java Sea.
- Proximity: About 1,670 kilometers (1,038 miles) from Bali.
4. Philippines
- Location: North of Bali, across the Celebes Sea.
- Proximity: Around 2,500 kilometers (1,553 miles) away.
5. Timor-Leste (East Timor)
- Location: Southeast of Bali.
- Proximity: About 1,200 kilometers (746 miles) from Bali.
6. Papua New Guinea
- Location: East of Bali.
- Proximity: Approximately 3,000 kilometers (1,864 miles) away.
7. Brunei
- Location: Northwest of Bali, on the island of Borneo.
- Proximity: About 1,500 kilometers (932 miles) from Bali.
These neighboring countries of Bali contribute to a diverse cultural and economic exchange within the Southeast Asian region. Thus, it is important to mention them when talking about the location of Bali.
5. Bali’s Relation To Surrounding Seas:
Many people wander where Bali is located within the sea, so here it is. Bali is surrounded by the Indian Ocean to the south and the Bali Sea to the north.
There is a relationship between the weather and its biodiversity with the surrounding ocean of Bali. We already have a blog about that.
The warm, turquoise waters that lap against the island’s shores are a haven for water enthusiasts, offering excellent opportunities for swimming, surfing in Bali, snorkeling in Bali, and diving.
However, there are more to experience on the island, such as chase waterfalls in Bali, and horseback riding on the beach, which are some of the most popular activities on the island.
6. Size And Topography:
Bali is approximately 5,780 square kilometers (2,231 square miles), a relatively small island compared to others in the Indonesian archipelago. Despite Bali’s size, it is renowned for its diverse topography.
The island is dominated by volcanic mountains, with Mount Agung being the highest peak at 3,031 meters (9,944 feet) above sea level.
Rolling hills, lush rice terraces, and verdant forests further contribute to Bali’s picturesque landscapes, which makes it a perfect spot for landscape and wildlife photography.
Therefore, do not forget to bring your camera. If you do not have one, then you should check out our guide on how to select the best camera.
7. Administrative Divisions:
Bali is a province of Indonesia and is divided into eight regencies: (Badung, Bangli, Buleleng, Gianyar, Jembrana, Karangasem, Klungkung, and Tabanan) and one city (Denpasar).
Each region offers unique cultural, historical, and natural attractions that contribute to Bali’s overall charm, specially the capital of Bali.
8. Bali’s Unique Culture And Traditions:
Bali is often referred to as the “Island of the Gods” due to its strong spiritual heritage. The island is predominantly Hindu, and Balinese customs, rituals, and ceremonies are deeply intertwined with daily life.
Temples like the famous Besakih Temple and Tanah Lot Temple dot the landscape, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich religious traditions.
9. Accessibility And Transportation:
Bali is well-connected to major cities around the world through Ngurah Rai International Airport, located in the southern part of the island near Denpasar.
Therefore, several international airlines offer direct flights to Bali, making it easily accessible for travelers from various countries.
Once you arrive at the airport, you’ll find a range of transportation options to reach your desired destination on the island. Taxis, private transfers, and ride-sharing services are available for convenient and comfortable travel.
Additionally, Bali has a well-developed road network, making it easy to explore different parts of the island by car or scooter.
You might need a form of transportation in Bali to navigate throughout the island while saving some money along the way. We got you covered in our separated blog.
10. Climate And Weather:
Due to the ideal location of Bali, you can enjoy a tropical climate during the year, with cheerful temperatures and high humidity.
The island undergoes two primary seasons: the dry season and the rainy season, making the climate of Bali is ideal to visit in both seasons.
The dry season typically spans from April to September. It is characterized by sunny days, low rainfall, and pleasant temperatures ranging from 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F).
Therefore, this period is considered the peak tourist season, with many visitors flocking to Bali to soak up the sun and enjoy outdoor activities.
The rainy season, from October to March, brings increased rainfall, particularly in the form of afternoon showers and occasional storms.
Despite the rain, Bali’s natural beauty still shines through, and this period offers a unique charm with lush greenery and fewer crowds. For more information, check out our blog on the best time to visit Bali.
11. Popular Destinations In Bali:
Bali is renowned for its diverse range of attractions, catering to different interests and preferences. Below are some of the best places to visit in Bali:
- Ubud: Known as the cultural heart of Bali, Ubud is famous for its art galleries, traditional markets, and sacred temples. It’s a hub for yoga and wellness retreats, surrounded by serene rice terraces and lush jungles.
- Seminyak: This vibrant beach town is a favorite among tourists for its upscale resorts, trendy restaurants, and lively nightlife. It also boasts beautiful beaches where you can relax, surf, or enjoy stunning sunsets.
- Kuta: Popular for its energetic atmosphere and lively beach scene, Kuta is a hub for water sports and surfing. It offers a wide range of accommodations, shopping malls, and entertainment options.
- Nusa Dua: This luxurious resort area is known for its pristine beaches and world-class resorts. It is perfect for those seeking a tranquil and upscale retreat with access to stunning white sand beaches.
- Uluwatu: Located on the southern tip of Bali, Uluwatu is famous for its majestic sea cliffs and the iconic Uluwatu Temple. It’s a surfer’s paradise and offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.
12. Cultural Experiences And Festivals:
Immersing yourself in Bali’s vibrant culture is an essential part of any visit to the island. Witnessing traditional dances, exploring ancient temples, and participating in colorful ceremonies are some of the cultural experiences you can enjoy.
The Balinese people celebrate numerous festivals throughout the year, showcasing their rich traditions and spirituality.
The Galungan and Kuningan festival, Nyepi (the Day of Silence), and the Bali Arts Festival are just a few examples of the vibrant celebrations that take place on the island.
13. Natural Wonders And Outdoor Activities:
Beyond its cultural offerings, Bali boasts a remarkable natural landscape that beckons adventure seekers. From trekking in the lush green mountains to exploring hidden waterfalls and diving in vibrant coral reefs, the island offers a plethora of outdoor activities.
Mount Batur, an active volcano, is a popular destination for sunrise treks, rewarding hikers with panoramic views from the summit.
The iconic Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Ubud showcases Bali’s breathtaking terraced landscapes, while the Gitgit Waterfall in North Bali provides a refreshing escape amidst lush jungle surroundings.
For water enthusiasts, Bali offers excellent opportunities for surfing, snorkeling, and diving. The island’s renowned surf spots, such as Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Canggu. For more information, check out our guide on what are the best beaches in Bali.
It attracts surfers from around the world, and vibrant coral reefs teem with marine life. It also invites underwater explorers to popular diving areas like Menjangan Island and Amed Island, specially in West Bali National Park.
14. Balinese Cuisine And Culinary Delights:
Beside knowing where is Bali located, you need to know about the delicious food. As a matter of fact, no visit to Bali is complete without indulging in its flavorful cuisine.
Balinese food is a delightful blend of local ingredients, spices, and traditional cooking techniques.
From aromatic barbecue skewers and spicy sambal to refreshing tropical fruits and traditional sweets, the island offers a wide array of culinary delights.
Don’t miss the opportunity to sample dishes like Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Babi Guling (suckling pig), and Lawar (a traditional mixed vegetable dish).
Bali’s bustling food markets and roadside warungs (small local eateries) are excellent places to taste authentic Balinese flavors.
We already have a blog about what to eat in Bali that offers some popular dishes on the island and where you can eat them.
15. Unique Souvenirs And Shopping Experiences:
Bali is a shopper’s paradise, offering a plethora of unique handicrafts, artwork, textiles, and souvenirs. Traditional markets like Ubud Art Market and Sukawati Art Market are treasure troves for handmade crafts, paintings, and traditional Batik fabrics.
The streets of Seminyak and Kuta are lined with trendy boutiques, designer stores, and surf shops, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Support local crafts’ person by purchasing sophisticated wood carvings, silver jewelry, handwoven textiles, and colorful Batik garments as mementos of your Bali experience.
Conclusion:
Bali, located in the Indonesian group of islands, is a destination that truly captivates the imagination. Its geographical position, placed between Java and Lombok, offers easy accessibility for travelers seeking an unforgettable tropical getaway.
From stunning landscapes and vibrant cultural traditions to a wide range of outdoor activities and lovely cuisine, Bali has it all.
Immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of this enchanting island, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Discover where is Bali on the map of Indonesia and embark on a journey to this paradise on earth.
We already have blogs that educate you about the safety of Bali, is Bali cheap, honeymoon in Bali, the currency of Bali, and what time is it in Bali?
We also have a guide about what language is spoken in Bali that also give you some common phrases to use during your visit to the island.
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