10 Things to Do in Bali in January

Bali is mainly known for its paradisiacal beaches, but in January, during the early summer, the weather is humid and rainfall is very frequent. If you plan to visit the island in the first month of the year, therefore, you will find the cultural side of this destination, which will offer you the Hindu temples with a smaller influx of tourists and some natural wonders, away from the coast, will show you their best side.

Some of the best things to do in Bali in January include discovering the waterfalls and rice paddies of Ubud, taking in the sweeping vistas of Mount Batur, cycling the island's nature trails, discovering the moderately crowded puras, experiencing the New Year festivities in Kuta and taking part in a thrilling white-water rafting experience in the swollen river and tumultuous waters.

The January rains won't allow you to discover Bali's best beaches at their best, but they will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Ubud at an ideal time of year to discover its waterfalls and rice paddies. During the first month of the year, due to heavy rainfall, the waterfalls are at 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 paddies 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 colonise 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 to discover on the island. During the first month of the year, which is usually characterised by tropical rainfall, the sky, when it clears, offers one of the most breathtaking horizons from the mountain's 1,700m above sea level.

The changing conditions create a magical atmosphere, where clouds give way to panoramic views stretching 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, can be explored on a sunrise hiking tour or an off-road jeep adventure tour.

Moreover, the weather in January, despite occasional showers, is also conducive to trekking tours during dry days. The rugged terrain of Mount Batur makes for a thrilling challenge for adventure lovers, and the cool, moist air after the rains makes for a less stifling hiking experience in the middle of the Balinese summer.

In keeping with Bali's ideal January weather conditions for adventure tours, you can also opt for a cycling tour. These experiences allow you to dive into the island's tropical lushness and jungle landscape in an alternative way, away from the tourist crowds that tend to flood the island's best beaches at other times of the year.

Among the most prominent routes for cycling excursions are the Kintamani highlands in the north of the island and the rice fields of Jatiluwih, which during the first month of the year benefit from frequent rainfall. Kintamani offers a cycling experience with panoramic views of Mount Batur and its lake, while Jatiluwih takes you through the terraced rice fields, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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

January offers visitors to Bali a unique opportunity to discover the island's best Hindu temples with fewer tourists. After the New Year celebrations many travellers leave, providing a calm and serene atmosphere to explore the spirituality and architecture of these religious buildings.

Among the highlights during this season is the Besakih, known as the Mother Temple, which 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 travellers to explore its sacred steps and enjoy the sweeping views devoid of crowds.

Bali's bustling seaside town of Kuta is the perfect place to experience an unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration. On New Year's Eve, the sky above the surrounding beach is lit up with a fireworks display that reflects the local spirit. On this day, Kuta's beach resorts fill with tourists and become the epicentre 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 through the first week of January. The town continues to buzz with special events, parties and activities that continue the celebration and allow visitors to enjoy concerts, themed dinners and live entertainment on one of Bali's best beaches.

There you will find a variety of options to celebrate, from enjoying a quiet dinner overlooking the ocean to attending beach club parties. Celebrations in Kuta, therefore, offer something for everyone and provide memorable experiences, whether you plan to visit Bali in December or in the early 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. These include bebek betutu, a tasty roast duck dish that requires skill and patience. You can also learn how to make 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 served on special occasions and celebrations.

These culinary experiences will not only allow you to indulge your palate with the authentic flavours 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 can be 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 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 energetic 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.

Known for combining pressure and stretching techniques, this massage aims to restore balance and relieve neck tension. In a quiet and usually scented room, the masseuses can transport you to the sensations of a Balinese massage.

One of the benefits of enjoying a massage is the opportunity to discover a different side of Bali's famous beaches. Although you won't be in the bright sunshine of the beach due to the January weather, the gentle sound of the waves and the misty sea will create an ideal environment to discover one of the island's most fascinating features.

Finding the ideal time to take a dip in Bali in January may seem like a daunting task, but if you can cope with the weather conditions you can enjoy the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, as at this time of year the coastal waters tend to be unusually warm compared to other seasons.

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

This climatic phenomenon helps make Bali's beaches attractive destinations even during the rainy season. While in other regions rainfall might deter visitors, in Bali, January is the perfect time to enjoy the waters of the Indian Ocean and to discover the island's excursions to nearby destinations, where you'll also find paradisiacal spots.

Celebrating Chinese New Year in Bali in January is a fascinating and somewhat indigenous experience, as the island is home to a large Chinese community that has kept the 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 Bali's Chinese areas 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 spectacle of sight and sound 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 symbolising prosperity and good fortune for the coming year.

January in Bali experiences warm and humid temperatures that characterise 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, bear in mind that it is advisable to pack light clothing and insect repellent, and be prepared for occasional showers.

Bali experiences a moderate tourist influx in January, as many holiday travellers from Australia and New Zealand choose to visit the island in December, although they tend to leave when the rainy season starts. As a result, beaches, temples and tourist attractions tend to be less crowded than usual, except at festive times such as during the Chinese New Year celebrations, which is a major event 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.

Prices in Bali can fluctuate in January as this month marks the start of summer, despite persistent rains. With the influx of visitors looking to escape winter elsewhere, demand for services and accommodation tends to increase, which can lead to a slight increase in prices. However, inclement weather tends to keep rates affordable for 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's also the wettest month of the year, so pack the following in your suitcase:

• Rain jacket
• Insect repellent
• Lightweight t-shirts
• Lightweight trousers
• Comfortable shoes
• Lightweight coat
• Beach shoes
• Swimwear
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Umbrella