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Our Toll Free Numbers:

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You can also call us on:

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Within India+91 915 200 4511

Outside India+91 887 997 2221

Business hours: 10AM - 7PM

Why did I take so long to get here?

11 mins. read

Published in the Sunday Navbharat Times on 20th July 2025

That was the first thought that crossed my mind as I stepped onto the tropical shores of Bali. Isn’t it strange how we often delay visiting places that are right at the top of our wish lists—saving them for the “right time”? I had planned holidays for so many guests  here. Yet, somehow, I never planned one for myself and my family. Until one fine Ganesh Chaturthi break—when the stars aligned, and so did our calendars—we finally said, “Let’s go.” So, off we went, packing our bags and excitement, ready to explore Bali!

What unfolded was a journey that surprised me at every turn. Bali is a place where ancient traditions meet modern adventure, where every sunrise and every sunset looks like a postcard. Almost everything is Instagram-worthy—but if you look beyond the picture-perfect scenes, Bali offers something far deeper. It invites you to explore how culture can transcend boundaries, showing us that even though we may live worlds apart, we’re still connected by shared values and beliefs.

One of the first things that struck me about Bali was how familiar it felt—and yet, so wonderfully different. In a country that’s predominantly Muslim, over 85% of Bali’s population follows Hinduism. Balinese Hinduism is a unique blend shaped by centuries of influence from Indian traditions, Buddhism, and local animist beliefs. The result is a spiritual culture that’s both deeply rooted and beautifully distinct.

We hadn’t even reached Ubud yet, and Bali threw its first surprise at me—right on the drive from the airport! What greeted me was a beautifully made colossal white statue of Ghatotkacha. Built in 1993, the sculpture depicts the battle between Bhima’s son and Karna in the Kurukshetra war from the epic Mahabharata. Perceived as loyal, intelligent and powerful, Ghatotkacha is revered by the Balinese and is a key figure in wayang kulit (traditional shadow puppetry) of Indonesia. I had not seen these legends brought to life in India too. But here in Bali, Hinduism and stories from the legendary epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata are actually on display!

My next surprise came while we were rafting down the Ayung River. Now, rafting itself is a thrill—the rush of the rapids, the splash of cold water, and the infectious energy of the local guides who somehow make every bend of the river feel like a performance. But just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, the river revealed something magical. As we cruised through a quieter stretch, I glanced to the side—and there it was: an entire scene from the Ramayana, intricately carved into the stone cliffs lining the riverbank. Ancient art, set against the backdrop of a wild river.

Ubud stole my heart. With its terraced rice paddies, artisan villages, and serene cafes, it feels like a creative sanctuary. Here, you can explore traditional Balinese crafts, shop for handwoven ikat fabrics, or just sip on kopi while watching the rain dance over the green fields. I enjoyed the market in Ubud and completely lost the sense of time as I strolled and browsed through the arts and crafts. I think my favorite part of Bali is how there is culture and adventure intertwined at every step. After the fabulous experience of rafting, we decided to take a sunrise trek to Mt. Batur and set off in the night. It was a moderate trek and when we reached the top at sunrise, we were rewarded by an amazing panoramic view. The morning called for coffee and as if the guide read my mind, we also visited a coffee plantation next,  where I learned about Luwak coffee—yes, the famous (and slightly controversial) brew made from beans that have passed through a civet cat’s digestive system. Here’s how it works: the civet selects and eats only the ripest coffee cherries. Inside its digestive tract, the fruit is broken down, but the beans remain intact. These beans are then collected (yes, you read that right), thoroughly cleaned, dried, roasted, and ground to produce one of the world’s most expensive coffees. Strange as it may sound, the result is surprisingly smooth, earthy, and rich—unlike any cup of coffee I’ve had before.

In Ubud, I noticed that many homes had a small bowl of flowers placed outside their home. Later, I learnt that every morning, locals place tiny palm-leaf offerings called Canang Sari outside their homes, shops, and temples. These colorful trays filled with flowers, rice, and incense are a humble offering to the gods—a thank-you for the blessings of the day. Balinese rituals are really interesting  and even extraordinary. Traditionally,  every child is named based on birth order—Wayan, Made, Nyoman, Ketut. many other traditions known as the “Manasa Yadnya”, include celebrations of prenatal rites, birth ceremonies, marriage and cremation. One rite of passage is really interesting. This ritual is known as metatah or mepandes, which means “to chisel / carve”.The ritual is performed to remove the sharp edges of the canine teeth which symbolize the evil traits of a person.These days in our modern day and age, the filing procedure is more symbolic, however previously the teeth were indeed filed down till the canine features were gone!

If you happen to be in Bali in March don’t be surprised if you find everything quiet and almost still on a. Certain day. The Balinese New year is celebrated in March according to the Sakya (lunar calendar) and it is one of the most unique cultural experiences, as the Balinese New Year, also known as the Day of Silence. Unlike the fireworks and festivities seen elsewhere, Nyepi is a solemn, introspective day when the entire island comes to a standstill. Streets are empty, the airport shuts down, and even tourists are expected to stay indoors. The day before, however, is filled with vibrant energy as locals parade massive, fearsome Ogoh-Ogoh statues through the streets—symbolizing the cleansing of evil spirits. At night, these effigies are set ablaze in a dramatic display. Nyepi itself is spent in total silence, giving everyone a chance to reflect, reset, and welcome the new year with peace and clarity.

But not everything in Bali is about quiet reflection. If you’re in the mood to celebrate, you can party till sunrise at some of the island’s iconic beach clubs like Potato Head and Rock Bar, favorites among honeymooners and creative tour groups alike. Bali is also a dream destination for incentive tours, where experiences can be fully customized. From private beach parties to exclusive venues and luxurious hotels with world-class meeting facilities and warm hospitality, Bali offers everything needed to impress and inspire your company’s dealers or employees on a MICE tour. You can even charter a private boat for a sunset cruise, perfect not just for incentive groups, but even for a family outing—yes, you can book a yacht all to yourself.

In fact, we did exactly that! I had long dreamt of visiting the stunning Gili Islands, famous for their powder-white beaches and laid-back vibe. While an overnight stay is ideal, we were short on time, so we rented a private boat and set off for a day trip. It turned out to be the best decision! Not only did we explore the serene beauty of the islands, but on the way back, we asked the captain to stop the yacht right in the middle of the ocean. We jumped straight into the deep blue sea, swimming freely with nothing but sky and water around us—a memory forever etched in my mind.

And of course, some of the most unforgettable moments are found right in Bali itself. Thanks to influencers and Instagrammers, the Bali Swing has become an iconic attraction. It’s now available at several locations, and they even provide you with a flowing dress to wear! With your hair flying, dress billowing, and the jungle below, you’ll not only leave with a stunning photo, but a memory to cherish for life. The beaches in bali are most popular with families offering powder soft sand, blue waters and fun  water sports!

Bali’s temples are just as captivating as its beaches—and with more than 20,000 temples on the island, you’re bound to cross paths with a few. These sacred sites are often carved from volcanic stone and set in dramatic locations—tucked into rice fields, perched on cliffs, or rising out of the sea.

There’s Uluwatu Temple, balanced high above the ocean, or Tirta Empul, where locals take part in purification rituals in holy spring waters. Tanah Lot, a sea temple, looks like it floated up from the waves, especially striking at sunset. And if you’re chasing that iconic photo, head to Lempuyang Temple’s Gates of Heaven. With Mount Agung towering in the background, it’s more than just Instagram-worthy—it’s a symbolic gateway between the earthly and the divine. In fact, Mount Agung is seen as the island’s sacred center, guiding temple design and even the direction of Balinese homes.

With so much to do and see in Bali and something for everyone, its only natural that at  Veena World  we have a Bali holiday for everyone! Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic honeymoon, a women’s special trip, or a senior citizen getaway, Veena World has something for everyone. Choose from thoughtfully curated group tours, or go for luxury group tour experiences with private pool villas, romantic island stays, sunset dinners, and cultural immersion like Canang Sari making and purification ceremonies with the services of Veena World’s professional and caring tour manager.

Or perhaps you want to gift a honeymoon with Veena Worlds customised holidays divison who can make your every wish come true- whether you want to stay in a king’s palace, rent a private yacht, or escape to a bamboo hideaway in Ubud, or a private pool villa stay in Bali—just the way you dream it, Bali is calling- so why wait?

July 18, 2025

Author

Sunila Patil
Sunila Patil

Sunila Patil, the founder and Chief Product Officer at Veena World, holds a master's degree in physiotherapy. She proudly served as India's first and only Aussie Specialist Ambassador, bringing her extensive expertise to the realm of travel. With a remarkable journey, she has explored all seven continents, including Antarctica, spanning over 80 countries. Here's sharing the best moments from her extensive travels. Through her insightful writing, she gives readers a fascinating look into her experiences.

More Blogs by Sunila Patil

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