Bali: Barong Dance and Kintamani Land with Mount Batur View Lunch

Exploring Bali’s Cultural and Natural Highlights in One Day
This Bali tour offers a balanced blend of culture, spirituality, and stunning scenery—all wrapped into a 7-hour experience that’s perfect for those wanting a taste of the island’s diverse appeal. With highlights like the enchanting Barong Dance, the sacred Tirta Empul temple, and a scenic lunch overlooking Mount Batur and Lake Batur, it’s a well-rounded way to spend a day.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is its affordability, especially considering the variety of experiences packed into the price of just $55 per person. Plus, the inclusion of a knowledgeable guide, entrance fees, and lunch makes it a straightforward, worry-free outing.

A possible consideration is the group size — with a maximum of 10 travelers, it’s not the most intimate experience, but it does help keep the tour lively and engaging. This setup suits travelers who enjoy small-group vibes but still want some flexibility.

This tour suits those who have a moderate amount of time in Bali and want an engaging, authentic introduction to Balinese culture and landscapes without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Witness a traditional Barong dance, a sacred blend of art and spiritual storytelling.
• Spiritual Insight: Visit Tirta Empul, a revered temple with spring water believed to have healing powers.
• Spectacular Views: Enjoy a scenic lunch overlooking Mount Batur and Lake Batur in Kintamani’s volcanic landscape.
• Well-Organized: Includes all entrance fees, water, transportation, and hotel pickup & drop-off (private option).
• Small Group: Max 10 travelers, ensuring more personalized attention from guides.
• Value for Money: Combines multiple attractions, transport, and meals at a reasonable price.

Initial Impressions: What to Expect from the Tour

This experience is designed to showcase Bali’s cultural richness and natural beauty in a single day. Starting early at 8:30am from the meeting point in Sanur, you’ll be picked up—either privately or in a group. The flexibility of a private pickup adds comfort, especially if you prefer a more tailored experience.

The itinerary is carefully curated to avoid rushing. It begins with the captivating Barong Dance, a ritualistic performance that illustrates Bali’s mythic battle between good and evil. According to reviews, guides like Made or Putri are highly knowledgeable, sharing insights into the dance’s spiritual significance, which adds depth to the spectacle.

Next, the visit to Tirta Empul—a temple renowned for its holy spring water—offers a chance to witness or even participate in purification rites. Visitors often note that the spring water is believed to have healing properties, making this stop more than just sightseeing; it’s an experience rooted in spiritual tradition. Guides typically explain the Hindu beliefs involved, giving visitors context that enhances the visit.

The latter part of the day takes you to the Kintamani Highlands. Here, the view of Mount Batur—an active volcano—and Lake Batur is truly breathtaking. Reviewers consistently highlight how stunning the scenery is, especially when the weather is clear. You’ll enjoy a delicious lunch in a restaurant that offers unobstructed views of the volcano’s rugged silhouette and the shimmering lake below, making it a memorable meal amidst extraordinary scenery.

Finally, the tour concludes with transportation back to your starting point, typically around 4-5 pm. The tour is designed to be comfortable and stress-free, with all entrance fees and water included, so there’s no need to worry about additional costs or logistics.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Stop 1: Sahadewa Barong Dance & Fire Dance

The Barong Dance is more than just a performance; it is a spiritual ritual that embodies Balinese mythology. Expect vibrant costumes and expressive movements that tell stories of good versus evil. Reviewers have appreciated guides who explain the importance of the sacred dance, noting that it’s performed during local ceremonies and tourist shows alike, blending entertainment with deep spiritual significance.

A reviewer mentioned, “The dance was mesmerizing, and our guide explained that it’s a sacred tradition performed to ward off evil spirits.” The inclusion of the Fire Dance adds an extra layer of excitement and drama, with performers skillfully handling flames—a spectacle that’s both impressive and culturally meaningful.

Stop 2: Tirta Empul Temple

This is a highlight for many travelers. The Tirta Empul complex is famous for its spring water pools, which are believed to have healing and purifying powers. Visitors often comment on the peacefulness of the surroundings and the reverence of local worshippers.

Your guide will shed light on Hindu customs, explaining how pilgrims come to cleanse their spirits through ritual bathing. Some travelers choose to join in by bathing in the holy spring, experiencing a tangible connection to Balinese spirituality. An authentic element of this stop is the blessed water, which many find calming and rejuvenating.

Stop 3: Kintamani Highland and Mount Batur View Lunch

The Kintamani region offers one of Bali’s most iconic vistas. The ribbons of black lava on Mount Batur’s active volcano contrast sharply with the lush greenery in the valley. Lake Batur’s tranquil waters reflect the mountain’s rugged silhouette, making for perfect photo opportunities.

Lunch here is more than just a meal—it’s a chance to soak in spectacular views while enjoying local dishes. Reviewers have praised the restaurant for its delicious food and unobstructed vistas. The experience is heightened when clear weather allows a clear view of the volcanic landscape, which many consider the highlight of the day.

End of the Tour: Return and Reflection

After lunch, the journey back to Sanur takes about two hours. Reviewers often note the comfort of the transportation, with some mentioning the friendly, informative guides who keep the energy lively and the information flowing.

What Do Reviewers Say?

While there are no formal ratings yet, early reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and the stunning scenery as key positives. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide, Putri, was incredibly knowledgeable, explaining every part of the dance and the temple’s significance.”

Another noted, “The highlight was definitely the Mount Batur view; the landscape is simply awe-inspiring.” Such feedback confirms that the tour’s success hinges on its well-chosen stops and the guides’ ability to bring the experience to life.

Practical Details and Value

At $55, this tour offers good value, considering the all-inclusive price covering transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and a guide. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, which many travelers find makes the visit more engaging.

Timing is flexible with an 8:30am start, giving you a full day to explore without feeling rushed. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off (for private bookings) adds a layer of convenience, especially helpful if you’re staying in Sanur or nearby.

The group size limit of 10 ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and the free cancellation policy offers flexibility if your plans change.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of culture and scenic beauty. It’s perfect for those with a moderate schedule who prefer a structured tour that still feels intimate.

If you’re a first-time visitor looking for an authentic introduction to Bali’s spiritual side and its most picturesque landscapes, this tour hits just the right notes. It also suits travelers on a budget who want to maximize their experience without paying for multiple excursions.

However, if you’re seeking a more personalized or in-depth exploration, you might prefer private tours or more specialized guides.

The Sum Up

This Bali tour from Discova offers a well-rounded day that captures the heart of the island’s cultural traditions and natural grandeur. You’ll learn about Bali’s mythological stories through the spectacular Barong dance, gain insight into Hindu rituals at Tirta Empul, and marvel at Mount Batur’s volcanic landscape from a comfortable restaurant with panoramic views.

The experience’s affordability, combined with expert guides and all-inclusive pricing, makes it a smart choice for travelers who want value and efficiency. It’s particularly suited for those wanting a small-group, authentic experience that balances sightseeing, culture, and scenic beauty without the hassle of planning every detail.

All in all, this tour provides a vivid snapshot of Bali’s spiritual essence and breathtaking landscapes, making it a worthwhile addition to any Bali itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, for private bookings, hotel pickup and drop-off are included. For group tours, pickup details depend on the meeting point.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:30am from the designated meeting point in Sanur.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, ending around 4-5pm.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the attractions are covered in the ticket price.

Is food included?
Yes, lunch at Kintamani with views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur is included.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What’s the group size limit?
A maximum of 10 travelers ensures a more personalized experience.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended. You might also want to bring a small amount of cash for souvenirs or tips.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider if you have very young children or specific needs.

Will I learn about Balinese culture during the tour?
Absolutely—your guides are knowledgeable and eager to share insights about each site and local customs.