If you have landed here, that means you are looking for an answer for the best time to visit Bali. The simplest answer is that April to October is considered the best time to visit Bali. In this article by Dimaak Tours, you will get clarity about why this time is considered to be the best to visit Bali, why other months are not recommended, and what types of fun you can have there!
To begin with, Bali is an island located slightly right to the equator, which gives it a tropical, humid and dry climate. It has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Tourists usually don’t prefer the rainy season as visiting beautiful attractions becomes challenging, and no water activities can be done.
On the other hand, with beautiful golden beaches, spiritual temples, and water sports, Bali during the dry season can make you fall in love with its simple yet perfect beauty at any given time.
“An hour of planning can save 10 hours of doing.” Greatly said by Dane Carnegie. Travelling to a new country takes an ample amount of planning. But if you are confused about how to plan and execute it, there are many tailored guides you must read to make your vacation memorable-
- Bali itinerary
- Bali Visa for Indians
- Best Place to Stay in Bali
Weather Conditions that Determine the Best Travel Time to Visit Bali
Before knowing why April to October is considered to be the best time to travel to Bali, let’s know the annual average temperature in Bali-
| Month | Max/Min °C | Rainfall (mm) |
|
Jan |
30°-24°c |
296mm |
|
Feb |
28°-24°c |
244mm |
|
Mar |
28°-24°c |
210mm |
|
Apr |
27°-24°c |
131mm |
|
May |
27°-24°c |
74mm |
|
Jun |
26°-24°c | 57mm |
|
July |
25°-23°c |
53mm |
|
Aug |
25°-22°c |
42mm |
|
Sep |
26°-23°c |
53mm |
|
Oct |
26°-23°c |
68mm |
|
Nov |
27°-24°c |
154mm |
| Dec | 27°-24°c |
300mm |
The average daily temperatures of Bali range from 26°C to 30°C (79°F to 86°F). Tourists can feel a little warm in the afternoons, especially in areas like Ubud, which have higher humidity. Coastal areas, including places like Kuta and Seminyak, tend to have slightly cooler breezes.
While the humidity is lower during the rainy season, it still remains relatively high, especially near the coast. The dry season has a more comfortable humidity level, with less frequent rain showers.
The dry season in Bali is its peak tourist season due to its sunny weather, which makes it ideal for outdoor activities like beach outings, hiking, and exploring beautiful temples. The period often has mild breezes, particularly along the coastal areas, making it favourable for surfing. Winds can be stronger around the northern and western parts of the island. The weather is generally perfect for outdoor adventures, with clear skies and less risk of rain.
[Note: Avoid the rainy season (November to March), which has heavy rains, flooding, and high humidity].
Why is April to October Considered the Best Time to Visit Bali?
The months between April to October are the dry season, which is characterised by warm and sunny weather. Let’s consider the key weather variations by month:
- With the start of the dry season in April, you can expect pleasant weather, with temperatures warming up after the rainy season.
- Then, the months from May to August are typically the peak of the dry season with the most sunshine, mild temperatures, and lower humidity, making it the best time for outdoor activities and beach holidays.
- Last, the weather from September to October remains delightful, though the humidity may start to rise slightly toward the end of October as the wet season approaches.
Overall, from April to October, Bali offers ideal conditions for tourists, with clear skies, minimal rainfall, and warm temperatures perfect for beach, nature, and cultural experiences. The time from April to October is considered the best time to visit Bali for several factors:
Dry and Sunny Weather
During this period, Bali is in its dry season, with minimal rainfall, especially from May to July. The skies are mostly clear, and there is minimal disturbance to outdoor activities. This time is ideal for outdoor activities.
You can enjoy outdoor adventures like beach activities, hiking, water sports, and exploring the island’s cultural and natural attractions without the hindrance of frequent rain showers.
Comfortable Temperatures
The temperatures or heat in Bali are moderate during this time, around 26°C, which is warm but not unbearably hot. The evenings cool down, making outdoor dinners, sightseeing, and nightlife comfortable.
Perfect for Beach and Water Activities
The dry season gives you the most transparent water to enjoy diving, swimming, and snorkelling. Popular beaches like Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, and Sanur are perfect for tourists to relax or try water sports such as surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kite surfing.
Bali is a renowned surfing and snorkelling destination, and during the dry season, the waves are great for both beginners and seasoned surfers. For the best experience, visit the West Coast, such as Kuta and Uluwatu, which typically have better waves during these months.
Favorable for Sightseeing
Nature rewards tourists with beautiful and colourful sightseeing. Bali is home to many great places to visit, and the dry season allows you to explore landmarks like Tanah Lot, Uluwatu Temple, and Besakih Temple without worrying about rain. The clear skies enhance the beauty of these historic sites.
If you are interested in hiking or trekking, such as climbing Mount Batur to catch a sunrise, the best time to visit Bali is April to October. The paths are drier, making the hike safer and more enjoyable.
Echoing Festivals and Events
If you are a culture and art lover, visiting Bali between April and October will give you many festivals and events to enjoy as Bali hosts several cultural festivals during the dry season, such as the Bali Arts Festival (usually in June-July) and the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (in October).
These events highlight the island’s echoing arts, music, dance, and local culture. As it’s the peak tourist season, Bali has various events, markets, and entertainment options for visitors, making it a lively time to experience the island’s culture.
Fewer Mosquitoes and Bugs
The dry season typically sees fewer mosquitoes and insects compared to the rainy season, as the cooler, drier weather reduces breeding conditions for mosquitoes.
Great for Photography
For photographers and tourists who love to update their photos on social media, the dry season offers spectacular conditions for photos. The entire Bali turns out to be a lovely bride with clear skies, exquisite sunsets, and deep green rice terraces (especially after the rainy season in April and May), making it the perfect time for photography.
So, the period from April to October offers perfect weather, clear skies, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities, cultural exploration, and enjoying Bali’s natural beauty. The combination of warm temperatures, minimal rain, and vibrant events makes this the best time to experience all that Bali has to offer.
Festivals and Events to Attend During the Best Time to Visit Bali
During Bali’s dry season (April to October), the island hosts numerous cultural festivals and events to showcase Bali’s rich traditions, arts, music, and spirituality. These festivals attract both locals and tourists, offering a unique opportunity for tourists to experience Balinese culture. Here are some notable festivals and events that you shouldn’t miss on your visit to Bali during the peak season.
Bali Arts Festival (June to July)
The Bali Arts Festival is the door to ultimate entertainment as it celebrates Balinese arts, including traditional music, dance, drama, and visual arts. It lasts about a month, where you can experience Gamelan Music, Legong Dance, Shadow Puppetry (Wayang Kulit), and various other traditional performances from outdoor performances, exhibitions, and art workshops.
[The highlight is the unique parades, which showcase the colourful costumes of the local communities as they participate in their unique art forms].
Location: Denpasar, Bali
Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (October)
The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival attracts the highly intellectual group of the society. It is an internationally recognised event that brings together writers, journalists, and thinkers from around the world. It’s the perfect event for literature lovers who are ready for a literary event that focuses on writing, reading, and discussions on important global issues.
This festival includes author talks, book launches, panel discussions, creative workshops, and cultural activities. It’s an excellent opportunity to meet authors, get inspired by literary talents, and engage in thought-provoking conversations. So, if you are a creative and conscious individual, this is the festival that you shouldn’t miss.
Location: Ubud, Bali
Galungan and Kuningan (June or July)
Galungan is one of the most unique festivals with its religious significance celebrated in Bali. It is celebrated every 210 days (according to the Balinese calendar). This festival marks the victory of Dharma (good) over Adharma (evil). The festival lasts for 10 days and is followed by Kuningan, which marks the end of Galungan celebrations.
During Galungan, Balinese people decorate their homes and temples with penjor (bamboo poles adorned with offerings). Temples and streets are decorated with vibrant offerings, and traditional ceremonies are held. It’s a time of family reunions and religious activities. Kuningan celebrates the return of ancestral spirits to heaven, which is marked by ceremonies and offerings. So, it is a great time to see authentic Bali.
Location: Across Bali
Sanur Village Festival (August)
The Sanur Village Festival runs for a week-long celebration of Sanur’s culture, community, and natural beauty. It is a unique festival that focuses on the preservation of local traditions, the environment, and sustainable tourism. The festival includes beach clean-up activities, art exhibitions, traditional dance performances, food festivals, and cultural workshops. It’s a great way to explore Sanur’s local lifestyle and culture.
Location: Sanur, Bali
Bali Kite Festival (July or August)
The Bali Kite Festival has its roots in Balinese agricultural traditions, where it is believed that flying kites during the dry season helps bring good harvests and drive away evil spirits. People gather together for this colourful event and fly large, traditional kites.
The festival includes competitions and performances, and it’s a visually attractive event for both locals and tourists. So, you will watch enormous, beautifully crafted kites flying in the sky, some as large as 4 meters (13 feet) long.
Location: Sanur, Bali (often held on the beach)
Nusa Dua Fiesta (October)
The Nusa Dua Fiesta is a week-long art and cultural festival in Bali. It has many fun, family-friendly performances, art exhibitions, food stalls, and sports activities. The festival highlights include cultural performances, traditional dances, local music, fashion shows, and culinary delights. The event is also a great place to enjoy live performances by local and international artists.
Location: Nusa Dua, Bali
Bali International Film Festival (September)
Also known as Balinale, Bali International Film Festival showcases a selection of films from around the world. It provides a platform for filmmakers to present their work to an international audience and promotes the art of cinema in Bali. The film festival features film screenings, Q&A sessions with directors and actors, and workshops for aspiring filmmakers.
[Highlight: It’s an excellent event for film fans and a local and international cinema celebration].
Location: Kuta or Denpasar, Bali
Tumpek Uduh (April or May)
Tumpek Uduh is a traditional Balinese ceremony that shows gratitude to nature for its abundance and ensures a good harvest. This festival is part of the Balinese Hindu calendar, which is dedicated to honouring plants and trees. This shows how the Balinese respect nature.
People create offerings for plants, trees, and fruits and conduct rituals to praise the natural world. If you visit, you will see beautifully decorated offerings at temples and in rural villages.
Bali Spirit Festival (April)
The Bali Spirit Festival is a celebration of Balinese energetic spirit. It celebrates yoga, dance, wellness, and spirituality. This event attracts people from all over the world and offers various workshops, performances, and classes. There are yoga classes, dance workshops, healing sessions, and music performances by international and local artists.
[Highlight: It’s a holistic celebration focusing on well-being, personal growth, mental peace and spiritual exploration].
Location: Ubud, Bali
Batur Lake Festival (August)
The Batur Lake Festival is an event that idolises and celebrates the beauty of Lake Batur, which is Bali’s largest lake, and the surrounding natural environment. This festival features traditional music and dance, boat races on the lake, and various activities that highlight the local culture and community spirit.
Location: Mount Batur, Kintamani
These cultural festivals and events from April to October allow visitors to experience Bali’s rich heritage, traditional art forms, and unique celebrations. They also provide a deeper connection with the local community and the island’s spiritual practices.
Whether you are a culture enthusiast, a lover of the arts, or just looking for a memorable experience, Bali’s cultural festivals are a perfect addition to your travel plans.
List of Activities to Try During the Best Time to Visit Bali
Hiking and Trekking
If you are visiting Bali during the best time and are fit and good at hiking and trekking, there are many iconic landmarks to explore. These places make your heart flutter by rewarding you with the unimaginable view that you are going to cherish for your lifetime.
- Mount Batur Sunrise Trek: The most popular early morning trek to watch the sunrise from the summit of an active volcano.
- Mount Agung: It is a challenging hike that gives you unexpected views but requires a high fitness level.
- Campuhan Ridge Walk: It is a scenic, relatively easy walk between lush green valleys and rice fields.
Surfing
Bali is known for its world-class surf spots. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or a pro, you are going to get trained by surfing experts and will be the best surfing expert. The places mentioned below give you the ultimate surfing experience-
- Uluwatu: It is famous for its powerful waves, great for experienced surfers.
- Kuta Beach: It is ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers.
- Canggu: It is a trendy spot with consistent waves for surfers of all levels.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
If you love water and want to try adventurous water activities, then visit the places mentioned below-
- Amed and Tulamben: It is good for diving with coral reefs, including the famous USS Liberty wreck dive. You can even get a diver certificate here.
- Nusa Penida: This small island offers incredible snorkelling with manta rays and crystal-clear waters.
- Menjangan Island: This island is known for its fresh marine life and vibrant coral reefs.
If you want to go to other areas to snorkel, you can find numerous snorkelling places in Bali.
Cycling Tours
Tourists can take a guided cycling tour through Bali’s picturesque landscapes, including rice terraces, local villages, and coastal paths. Popular routes include the areas around Ubud and Kintamani.
Rafting and White Water Rafting
Try something thrilling that will make your heart skip a bit, such as rafting on the serene river water bodies of Bali, such as
- Ayung River: It is considered one of the best rivers for rafting, proffering an exciting experience amidst beautiful jungle scenery.
- Telaga Waja River: It is a more intense rafting experience for the extreme level of adventure seekers.
Visit Rice Terraces
Bali’s other wonder lies in the beautiful sloppy rice terrains, which appear like a many-tier cake, asking you to take a slice of its beauty. Wander through the rice terraces and take home the beauty of Bali.
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces: It is a must-see spot for those interested in Bali’s famous rice terraces. Great for photography and short hikes.
- Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, less touristy but just as beautiful.
Waterfall Exploration
The incredible charm of this island can be seen in the waterfalls that give you a magical view- when the striking rays of the sun pierce through the caves. Nothing can be more impressive than standing down and stealing the view of the white milk falling from the top.
And that’s the beauty of waterfalls in Bali. Some of the popular waterfalls of Bali are:
- Gitgit Waterfall: A serene and picturesque waterfall in North Bali.
- Sekumpul Waterfall: A stunning multi-tiered waterfall located in a lush jungle.
- Tegenungan Waterfall: Near Ubud, popular for swimming and relaxing.
Zip-lining and Jungle Adventures
If you are not scared of heights, then doing some sort of adventure in the middle of the air is worth trying. Check out some of the adventure sports that you can try during your visit to Bali at the best time-
- Bali Treetop Adventure Park: Located in Bedugul, it offers zip-lining, tree-top walks, and other exciting activities in the forest.
- Bali Jungle Swing: Popular near Ubud, it allows you to swing over the jungle for a unique view.
Kite Surfing
The way Bali Kite Festival is popular in Sanur, and so is kite surfing. Try out kite surfing in the places mentioned below-
- Sanur Beach: This beach is known for its consistent wind conditions, which make it ideal for kite surfing.
- Nusa Dua: It also offers excellent conditions for kite surfing, with clear waters.
Wildlife Experiences
If you are tired of doing fun, adventurous things, the best thing to do is visit the wildlife parks and stay close to nature and other wildlife creatures.
- Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: it is Ubud’s most famous monkey forest, where you get to spend time with the playful long-tailed macaques.
- Bali Safari and Marine Park: You can get up close with exotic animals and enjoy animal shows and safaris.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Bali’s calm beaches, like Sanur, Canggu, and Nusa Dua, offer ideal conditions for stand-up paddleboarding.
Horseback Riding
Saba Bay: Ride horses along the beach at sunset for a scenic, relaxing experience.
Off-road Adventures
Show your expert level of riding skills in Bali and take the adventure to another height.
- ATV Riding: Ride through Bali’s volcanic landscapes, rice fields, and villages on an ATV.
- Bali Buggy Tours: Explore Bali’s rugged terrain and hidden spots on a buggy.
Cliff Jumping
Overcome your fears of height and water by trying the below-mentioned adventure sports.
- Bingin Beach: A popular spot for cliff jumping into the clear blue ocean.
- Nyang Nyang Beach: A less crowded but stunning spot for cliff jumping.
Paragliding & Fishing
- Bukit Timbis: Fly over the stunning coastline of Bali with a paragliding experience.
- Jemeluk Bay: A popular location for deep-sea fishing, you can go on a guided fishing trip.
These activities combine adventure, culture, nature, and relaxation, giving you a complete experience of Bali’s diverse offerings between April and October.
Conclusion
The beauty of a place can be best experienced during the right season. We hope you have got clarity about the best time to visit Bali to have the highest level of fun. Bali comes alive during the dry season between April and October, and tourists take full advantage of the weather by trying outdoor and water activities.
Also, the eternal beauty of the best places to visit in Bali can be witnessed during its peak season. So, if you want to travel from India, the best time to visit Bali is during your summer holidays. Students, without taking leave from school, families can enjoy their vacation. Check out the Bali itinerary for your smooth and hassle-free vacation, but if you need customisation, feel free to contact us; we will be happy to help you.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Time to Visit Bali
What is the best time to visit Bali with your family?
If you are visiting with family, the best time to visit Bali with family is during the dry season, from April to October. This period offers sunny weather, which is ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and beach enjoyment for kids and adults. The family-friendly atmosphere and less rainfall make it an excellent choice for a hassle-free vacation.
What is the best time to visit Bali for a honeymoon?
The best time for a Bali honeymoon is between April to October. This period offers warm, cosy temperatures and sunny weather, perfect for romantic beach days, exploring serene temples, and enjoying luxury resorts.
When is the best time to visit Bali beaches?
The best time to visit Bali’s beaches is from April to October. During these months, the weather is dry, and the ocean is calm, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beaches are less crowded during this period too.
Is January the best time to visit Bali?
January is not the best time to visit Bali as it is the rainy season. You will find higher humidity and frequent rainfall, which can limit outdoor activities. However, if you don’t mind the rain, you can find lower prices and fewer tourists during this time.
What is the best time to visit Bali from India?
The best time to visit Bali from India is during the dry season, from April to October. This period offers clear skies and pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing, beach activities, and outdoor adventures. The weather is ideal for a comfortable holiday, and it’s a great time to avoid the heavy rainfall of the wet season.
Is March a good time to visit Bali?
March marks the end of Bali’s rainy season, and while the weather may still be unpredictable, it’s a good time for fewer tourists and lower prices. You can expect some rain, but the lush landscapes are beautiful, and there are fewer crowds in tourist spots.
Is October a good time to visit Bali?
Yes, October is a great time to visit Bali. It is at the tail end of the dry season, with warm weather and little rainfall. It’s ideal for enjoying Bali’s beaches, exploring temples, and participating in outdoor activities before the peak tourist season begins.
Is July a good time to visit Bali?
Yes, July is one of the best times to visit Bali. It is the peak dry season, with plenty of sunshine and low chances of rain. It’s perfect for beach activities, water sports, and sightseeing. However, it is also the high season, so expect more tourists and higher prices.