7 Days in Bali: A Family Adventure from Kolkata via Kuala Lumpur
Our long-awaited trip to Bali finally came to life as we set off with my family, which includes my wife and daughter. This was a much-needed break, and with Bali being one of the top travel destinations, it promised us an unforgettable experience. Coming from Kolkata with a layover in Kuala Lumpur, our journey was filled with excitement, anticipation, and lots of laughter along the way. Here’s a detailed account of our amazing 7-day Bali adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in Bali
After an early morning flight from Kolkata and an 11-hour layover in Kuala Lumpur, we finally landed in Bali late at night. We were exhausted but thrilled to have made it to this paradise. Our first stay was at City Garden Bali Dwipa Hotel, a 3-star hotel in Kuta. The hotel was comfortable, and they surprised us by upgrading our rooms. After a long journey, we couldn’t have asked for a better start to our trip. The breakfast the next morning was excellent, offering a mix of local Balinese and international options that fueled us for the days ahead.
Day 2: Exploring Kuta, Lempuyang Temple, Uluwatu Temple & Tanah Lot
Our first full day in Bali was packed with iconic sights. We started our exploration with Kuta Beach, which was conveniently close to our hotel. We enjoyed a peaceful morning walk along the shore, with the sound of the waves setting the perfect tone for our trip.
Our next destination was the famous Lempuyang Temple, also known as the “Gates of Heaven.” The temple offered a magnificent view of Mount Agung, Bali’s highest volcano, and the iconic gateway that frames the view made for some stunning family photos.
From there, we headed to Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. The temple is not just famous for its stunning views but also for the Kecak Dance performance that takes place during sunset. Watching the dance with the backdrop of the sun dipping into the ocean was one of the most magical experiences we had. My wife, who loves cultural experiences, was particularly moved by the performance.
As the evening approached, we made our way to Tanah Lot, a beautiful temple located on a rocky outcrop. The sunset here was nothing short of breathtaking. The temple was surrounded by the ocean, and as the waves crashed against the rocks, it created a dramatic scene that made the moment unforgettable.
Day 3: Full-Day Temple Tour – Ulun Danu Bratan and Taman Ayun Temple
We spent the third day immersed in Bali’s rich cultural heritage, starting with a visit to Ulun Danu Bratan Temple. This temple, located on the serene Lake Bratan, looked like it was floating on water. Surrounded by misty mountains, it had a peaceful, almost otherworldly feel. We took some quiet moments to soak in the beauty and tranquility.
Next, we visited the Taman Ayun Temple, which is a lesser-known but equally stunning temple complex. The intricate carvings and expansive gardens were impressive, and we were able to wander around without large crowds, making it a very personal experience for our family.
Our driver, who we had hired for the day, turned out to be a massive Bollywood fan. He excitedly told us all about Shahrukh Khan, and it was fun to bond over Bollywood conversations while driving through the scenic landscapes. He shared that his mother was a big fan of Tanuja, the yesteryears actress, and my brothers and I couldn’t stop laughing at how global Bollywood truly is.
Day 4: Nusa Penida – Snorkeling and Beach Adventures
The fourth day took us to the beautiful island of Nusa Penida. We had booked a snorkeling package tour and were excited to dive into the crystal-clear waters. However, we had a slight hiccup when we had to skip the first snorkeling spot due to a swarm of jellyfish. Disappointing as it was, the day only got better from there.
The remaining snorkeling spots were fantastic. My daughter was especially thrilled to see schools of colorful fish and beautiful coral formations. It was a surreal experience, and the underwater world felt like something out of a dream. Our stay at Kanha Palace on Nusa Penida was comfortable, though the breakfast options were simple.
We spent the rest of the day visiting Crystal Bay, Pasih Uug Beach (Broken Beach), and the majestic Kelingking Beach. Kelingking Beach is one of the most iconic sights in Bali, with its jaw-dropping cliffs and the turquoise ocean below. We were in awe of nature’s beauty, and my brothers couldn’t stop taking photos. The secluded beauty of Angel’s Billabong added to the charm of Nusa Penida, making it a day we would never forget.
Day 5: Exploring Tembeling Beach and Nusa Penida’s Hidden Gems
On our second day in Nusa Penida, we decided to explore some of the island’s hidden gems. Tembeling Beach, with its secluded pools and stunning beach, was an incredible spot that felt far removed from the tourist crowds. The natural pools here were perfect for a family dip, and the scenic walk through the lush forest to reach the beach was an adventure in itself. The seniors in our group took their time, but the destination was worth every step.
We also visited Atuh Beach and Diamond Beach, both known for their striking cliffs and pristine waters. The unspoiled beauty of these spots made us feel like we had discovered a side of Bali that few tourists get to see.
In the evening, our tour guide dropped us back at City Garden Bali Dwipa Hotel, where we settled in for the night, excited for the days to come.
Day 6: Cultural and Culinary Tour of Ubud
Our sixth day was dedicated to exploring the cultural heart of Bali—Ubud. We began with a visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest, where we wandered through the lush forest and observed the playful monkeys that call it home. It was a fun experience for the whole family, although we had to keep an eye on our belongings as the monkeys are known to snatch things!
Next, we visited the famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces, where the emerald-green landscapes took our breath away. Walking through the terraces felt like stepping back in time, and we learned about the traditional farming methods still used by the Balinese people.
A highlight of our day was visiting a Luwak Coffee Plantation, where we learned about the process of making the famous Luwak Coffee. My family enjoyed sampling different coffee and tea varieties, while my brothers were intrigued by the unique coffee-making process.
In the afternoon, we visited the Ubud Market to pick up some handmade souvenirs, including artwork and handicrafts. We also made a quick stop at Goa Gajah Temple, known for its ancient stone carvings and tranquil surroundings.
Day 7: Farewell and Final Shopping in Kuta
On our final day in Bali, we took it easy and spent the morning shopping around Kuta. The local markets were full of vibrant clothes, accessories, and souvenirs, and we enjoyed interacting with the shopkeepers who were always ready to share stories about Bali’s rich culture.
After some last-minute shopping and a quick visit to Kuta Beach, we headed back to the hotel to pack up and prepare for our journey back to Kolkata. As we boarded the flight, we couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible memories we had made over the past seven days.
What We Missed
Although we covered a lot, there were still a few places we couldn’t visit due to time constraints. We missed out on the Tirta Empul Water Temple, known for its holy spring water, and the Bali Swing, a famous Instagram spot that offers amazing views of the rice terraces. These will definitely be on our list for our next visit!
Our 7-day family trip to Bali was nothing short of magical. The island’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality made it a trip we will never forget. Whether it was snorkeling in Nusa Penida, watching the sunset at Tanah Lot, or bonding over Bollywood with our driver, every moment was special. Bali is truly a paradise, and we’re already looking forward to our next adventure there.