Gianyar, Bali, is a fascinating area offering the perfect mix of nature, culture, and adventure. With its lush rice terraces, old temples, and vibrant art bazaars, it provides an insight into the rich cultural heritage of Bali. Things to do in Gianyar for travellers can relax close to serene waterfalls, and take part in thrilling wildlife encounters. The region is also famous for its cultural handicrafts, Balinese dance performances, and cooking lessons and therefore is a paradise for those who love culture. If what you seek is spirituality, relaxation, or discovery, Gianyar’s highly diverse tourist attractions and natural environment ensure an unforgettable journey experience in Bali.
10 Things To Do In Gianyar
Discover Gianyar’s top attractions, from ancient temples and scenic rice terraces to wildlife adventures and cultural experiences. Here are the best things to do in Gianyar:
1. Visit The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Photo: Michelle Maria / Wikimedia Commons
The Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is an intriguing wildlife and cultural site. It is home to hundreds of mischievous long-tailed macaques, as well as ancient temples and moss-covered statues, which create a mystical atmosphere. Tourists can walk along picturesque forest paths, watch the monkeys in their natural environment, and appreciate the sacred environment. The blend of nature, spirituality, and Balinese culture makes it a destination that should not be missed by animal enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Location: Ubud, Gianyar
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Highlights: Monkey sightings, ancient temples, scenic trails
2. Visit The Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Photo: Stefan Fussan / Wikimedia Commons
Tegallalang Rice Terraces provide an astonishing view of the countryside in Bali, well known for the ornate, tiered rice fields. The beautiful, lush-green scenery is heaven for any photographer, either in the early morning or towards dusk. They may walk the tight pathways, have a discussion with the farm hands, and also get introduced to the system of subak irrigation. Its tranquil atmosphere and gorgeous landscape ensure its popularity with nature enthusiasts as well as for any one experiencing a taste of Balinese village life.
Location: Gianyar, Tegallalang
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Highlights: Photography, scenic walks, rice fields
3. Experience Bali Safari And Marine Park

Photo: Christophe95 / Wikimedia Commons
Bali Safari and Marine Park is a wonderful kids’ and wildlife adventure. The park features more than 100 species of animals such as elephants, lions, and zebras. The wild rides, spectacular animal shows, and viewing of the marine park are all part of what the visitors can enjoy. The water park and kids’ zone are also included, so it’s a full-fledged activity resort. It’s a perfect place to witness the rich biodiversity of Bali in a secure and informative way.
Location: Jl. Raya Bypass, Gianyar
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Highlights: Safari rides, wildlife shows, water park
4. Explore Goa Gajah, Elephant Cave

Photo: Ubud / Wikimedia Commons
Goa Gajah, or Elephant Cave, is an ancient location in Gianyar as old as history. Fierce faces of animals are found intricately decorated at the cave entrance, thought to repel evil spirits. Meditation rooms, rock remains, and bathing pools lie in store inside the cave. The peaceful environment, topped with ancient structures, is a fascinating experience for spiritualists and history buffs. It is a serene location where a person can tap into the rich religious and cultural heritage of Bali.
Location: Bedulu, Gianyar
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Highlights: Cave carvings, meditation site, historical relics
5. Relax At Tegenungan Waterfall

Photo: John Ellis / Wikimedia Commons
Tegenungan Waterfall is a stunning piece of nature amidst green environments. The falls plunge into a cool pool, so it’s perfect for swimming and relaxing. Tourists are able to hike through the trail in order to reach the bottom and soak up the cool, crystal clear water. The scenic surroundings and the soft voice of the falls give a serene haven from the more populous areas in Bali. It’s a wonderful spot for nature lovers and photographers seeking scenic views.
Location: Kemenuh, Gianyar
Timings: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Highlights: Swimming, scenic views, photography
6. Go To Pura Tirta Empul, Holy Water Temple

Photo: Tigerente / Wikimedia Commons
Pura Tirta Empul is a Hindu temple that is famous for its holy spring water with healing properties. Tourists can undergo the ancient melukat ritual cleansing in the holy pools for spiritual cleansing. The temple’s exquisite stone carvings, old shrines, and peaceful environment provide a peaceful ambiance. It’s a must-see attraction for anyone looking for a mix of spirituality, culture, and Balinese tradition.
Location: Tampaksiring, Gianyar
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Highlights: Holy springs, purification ritual, temple architecture
7. Visit The Ubud Art Market

Photo: Jorge Láscar / Wikimedia Commons
Ubud Art Market is a fun shopping experience with a wide range of Balinese traditional handicrafts on offer. There are sarongs in every color, wood carvings, bagged bags constructed of all kinds of material, and beautifully crafted jewelry crafted by hand. Individuals stroll about in the busy stalls, and they encounter locals who craft things by hand. The shopper can choose the specialty souvenir items of their preference as they negotiate prices with local artisans. It’s an active bargaining experience.
Location: Ubud, Gianyar
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Highlights: Handicrafts, local art, shopping
8. Try Balinese Cooking Classes

Photo: MGA73bot2 / Wikimedia Commons
Take a Balinese cooking lesson for an interactive culinary lesson. The classes begin with a trip to a local market for the purchase of fresh ingredients. Learners are taught how to make traditional dishes like nasi goreng, sate lilit, and lawar. The classes are interactive, providing information on Balinese flavor and preparation techniques. It’s an entertaining and informative activity, ideal for food enthusiasts and those interested in learning local cuisine.
Location: Ubud, Gianyar
Timings: 9 AM – 2 PM
Highlights: Interactive cooking, fresh local ingredients, Balinese dishes
9. Visit The Bali Bird Park

Photo: Christophe95 / Wikimedia Commons
Bali Bird Park is a paradise for bird watchers since it houses more than 1,000 birds belonging to more than 250 species. The bird watchers get to see unique birds such as Bali starlings, parrots, and hornbills in a richly tropical landscape. Interactive facilities in the form of free-flight demonstrations of birds and feeding times are made available inside the park. It is the perfect location for families and outdoor lovers to research the avifauna of Bali.
Location: Batubulan, Gianyar
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Highlights: Bird exhibitions, feeding hours, exotic birds
10. Tour Gunung Kawi Temple

Photo: Pinterpandai.com / Wikimedia Commons
Gunung Kawi Temple is an archaeological temple complex dating back to ancient times with 10 rock-cut shrines that are carved out of the cliff. The temple complex is hemmed in by rolling rice fields and tropical flora, providing a peaceful ambiance. It is most probable that the tourists can walk around the temple complex, view the intricate stone carvings, and imbibe the peaceful ambiance. Its rich history and scenic location render it an absolute must-visit place for history enthusiasts and culture enthusiasts.
Location: Tampaksiring, Gianyar
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Highlights: Ancient shrines, stone carvings, rice fields scenic landscapes
Gianyar, Bali, is a technicolor experience and one that is remembered by visitors in its blend of culture, nature, and adventure. From temple ruins discoveries and rice terracing scenery to wild life experiences and ancient Balinese crafts, there is something in store for everyone within the area. With its vibrant markets, peaceful waterfalls, and niche attractions personifying the beauty of Bali, it holds the potential for sweet memories. Make a booking on your trip to Gianyar through TripXL and discover the hidden treasures of Bali for an experience to remember forever.
Cover Photo: Matthew Waring / Unsplash