Bali, Indonesia is known for its yoga retreats, hip restaurants and awe-inspiring temples, but if you’re hoping to discover the island via the places that will make your Instagram followers’ collective heart skip a beat, you’ve come to the right place.
1. For architecture buffs
Located in Tirtagangga, where the water is often used for religious temple ceremonies, the Bali Water Palace was designed and built by Anak Anglurah Ketut Karangasem (aka the last king of Karangasem). Set over three levels of ponds and water towers, the gorgeous mix of Balinese and Chinese architecture attracts those who love all things H2O and are seeking lots of Instagram likes.
2. For something off the beaten track
Venture out to the caves of Kelingking Secret Point Beach, just a 30-minute boat ride away from Bali. There are plenty of Instagram-worthy opportunities here; whether it’s climbing a tilted tree or going to the lookout point for amazing snaps, this cliff and its cool caves will make your followers envious.
3. For a snap like the stars
Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o (below), TV star Shay Mitchell and Italian blogger Chiara Ferragni all love the statue-lined Oasis Pool at The Mulia, Bali, in Nusa Dua. There are five other pools at the property, but getting a swimsuit snap at their beachfront location is a must-do for anyone with stars in their eyes when in Bali.
4. For an incredible sunset
Uluwatu Temple on the south-west area of the peninsula is surrounded by Ganesha statues and offers awesome views of the Indian Ocean from a cliff that’s 70m above sea level. With “ulu” meaning “top” and “wat” meaning “rock”, it’s a great spot to catch a sunset and its Balinese architecture makes a good picture. Only worshipping Hindus are allowed into the inner temple.
5. For those who look better in water
Go chasing waterfalls at Banyumala in north-central Bali – the trek through the jungle offers a natural alternative to all of the lovely resort swimming pools in Bali. It also makes the perfect backdrop for pictures and videos to post on social media.
6. For views of Banuwedang Bay
Imagine having breakfast in the pool with a view of the beautiful Banyuwedang Bay. Head to the Menjangan Dynasty Resort and you could be showing off stunning shots of north-west Bali’s lush coastline, as well as the West Bay National Park forests that are visible from the peninsula property.
7. For an epic mountain shot
For a stunning view of Mount Agung, Bali Asli Restaurant and Cooking School in Karangasum is worth signing up for. Students are taken out for a taste of a day in the life of a fisherman, and with the school located in the foothills of Bali’s most sacred mountain, there are unobstructed views of the surrounding rice fields and more for the perfect photograph in nature.
8. For a picture in the clouds
You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world at The View Munduk restaurant, described as a “diamond in the rough, beautiful views, tasty morsels of food in undiscovered country”. The restaurant in Buleleng allows visitors to dine in the clouds, making for an incredible photo experience.
9. For those on a romantic trip
On the quieter eastern side of the island, blushing brides will love a photo at the Infinity Chapel at Conrad Bali. Whether it’s where you decide to say “I do”, want to pop the question, or simply take some stunning snaps while on honeymoon, staff can help you plan for the ideal pictures at the chapel’s marble walkway and reflection pool, which makes the building look like it’s floating.SEE ALSO: Best views of Bangkok for your Instagram account
10. For a room with a view
Karma Kandara is a cliff-top resort well known for its infinity pool and private beach club, but you won’t even have to leave the room for the perfect Instagram shot. Sunrises don’t get better than this, so you can post your most-liked social media picture of the trip even before you begin your day.
– TEXT BY LEAH SIMPSON
PHOTOS: INSTAGRAM, 123RF.COM
This article was originally published by Singapore Press Holdings.
