Bali, the famed Island of the Gods, is a tapestry of lush landscapes, enchanting temples, and vibrant culture that beckons solo travellers with its promise of adventure and self-discovery. While the thought of travelling alone to this Indonesian paradise can be daunting, it also offers the unique opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and immerse oneself in the local culture.
If you’re planning a solo trip to Bali, here are some of the best spots to meet fellow travellers and some of the island’s diverse festivals that will help you engage meaningfully with the Balinese way of life.
Where To Meet Fellow Travellers In Bali
Denpasar – The Urban Gateway
The bustling capital city of Bali, Denpasar offers a unique blend of urban energy and traditional Balinese culture. It’s a place where solo travellers can dive into the local way of life, meet residents and fellow explorers, and experience the island’s history and heritage.
Pasar Badung Market
Start your Denpasar adventure at Pasar Badung, the largest traditional market in Bali. This multi-story market is a sensory overload, with vibrant stalls selling everything from fresh produce and flowers to textiles and handicrafts.
Bajra Sandhi Monument
For a dose of history, visit the Bajra Sandhi Monument, which commemorates the Balinese struggle against Dutch colonialism. The monument’s architecture is rich in symbolism, and its dioramas offer a glimpse into Bali’s past. The surrounding park is a popular gathering spot for locals, making it a great place to strike up a conversation and learn more about the city’s culture.
Art Centre (Taman Werdhi Budaya)
The Art Centre, known locally as Taman Werdhi Budaya, is the cultural heart of Denpasar and a must-visit for solo travellers interested in the arts. Throughout the year, it hosts performances, exhibitions, and workshops showcasing traditional Balinese dance, music, and crafts.
Jagatnatha Temple
No visit to Denpasar would be complete without experiencing the spiritual side of Bali at the Jagatnatha Temple. This central city temple is dedicated to the supreme god, Sanghyang Widi Wasa, and is a serene place to observe religious rituals and connect with the divine. Joining in temple festivities or simply watching the offerings and prayers can be a moving experience that also offers the chance to meet locals and learn about their spiritual practices.
Ubud – The Cultural Heartland
Ubud is the cultural epicentre of Bali, brimming with art galleries, traditional dance performances, and craft markets. It’s a place where solo travellers can easily connect with others through shared interests in culture and spirituality.
Yoga Barn
Begin your journey at the Yoga Barn, a wellness sanctuary that offers a variety of yoga classes, workshops, and events. It’s a hub for solo travellers looking to find balance and companionship. After a rejuvenating class, strike up a conversation with a fellow yogi at the on-site café, which serves healthy organic fare.
Ubud Monkey Forest Road
Stroll down the bustling Ubud Monkey Forest Road, where cafes and bars are filled with solo adventurers. Stop by a communal table at a warung (local eatery) to enjoy traditional Balinese cuisine and chat with other diners. Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where you can meet playful macaques and explore ancient temple ruins.
Canggu – The Surfer’s Haven
Next up, WeRoad, who organise solo adventures and trips to Bali, recommend heading to Canggu, a laid-back coastal town known for its surf breaks and vibrant expat community. It’s the perfect spot for solo travellers looking to ride the waves and socialise with fellow surf enthusiasts.
La Brisa
La Brisa, nestled in Bali’s serene Canggu, exudes a rustic, tropical charm that naturally attracts a diverse, friendly crowd. Its beachfront location, with stunning ocean views, creates a relaxed ambiance perfect for socialising. The venue’s regular events and vibrant atmosphere make it a prime spot for meeting new people.
Old Man’s
Hang out at Old Man’s, a beachfront bar that hosts regular events and parties. It’s a great place to meet other solo travellers, especially during the weekly Wednesday night parties. Even if you’re not a surfer, the friendly atmosphere and stunning sunset views make it a must-visit.
The Lawn
The Lawn in Bali is a popular beach club located in the trendy area of Canggu, known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beachfront location, and vibrant social scene. With its spacious lawn, swimming pool, and comfortable seating areas, there are plenty of spots to mingle and chat with others.
The Practice
For a more serene experience, visit The Practice, a bamboo yoga studio offering classes with a view of the ocean. Connect with others in the communal spaces and participate in workshops that often lead to meaningful conversations and new friendships.
Seminyak – The Trendy Hotspot
Seminyak is where Bali’s fashionable crowd flocks, with its upscale boutiques, restaurants, and beach clubs. It’s ideal for solo travellers looking to indulge in a bit of luxury and socialise in a chic setting.
Potato Head Beach Club
Spend a day at Potato Head Beach Club, where you can lounge by the pool, enjoy a cocktail, and meet other globetrotters. The club’s open-air design and cultural events provide a relaxed environment to mingle and appreciate Bali’s contemporary side.
Motel Mexicola
Dine at Motel Mexicola, a colourful and quirky Mexican restaurant that turns into a lively party spot as the night progresses. The communal seating and dance floor encourage solo guests to join in the festivities and make new acquaintances.
Amed – The Diver’s Delight
For those who prefer a quieter setting, Amed is a tranquil fishing village with some of the best diving spots in Bali. It’s a place where solo travellers can connect over a shared passion for marine life and the underwater world.
Dive Centres
Join a group dive at one of Amed’s many dive centres, where you’ll find a community of divers ranging from beginners to pros. The shared experience of exploring Bali’s rich coral reefs and shipwrecks is a fantastic way to bond with fellow ocean lovers.
Warung Enak
After a day under the sea, visit Warung Enak for a taste of home-cooked Balinese dishes. The friendly owners and communal dining setup provide a warm atmosphere for solo visitors to share stories and enjoy the company of others.
Uluwatu – Where Yogis & Surfers Han
Uluwatu, located on the southwestern tip of the Bukit Peninsula in Bali, Indonesia, is a popular destination known for its stunning cliffside views, surf spots, and cultural attractions like the Uluwatu Temple. Meeting fellow travelers in Uluwatu can be a fun and enriching experience. Here are some of the best places to connect with other travelers:
Morning Light Yoga Studio
Uluwatu has a thriving yoga community. Joining a class at studios like Morning Light Yoga Studio at Uluwatu Surf Villas can be a great way to meet health-conscious and like-minded travelers.
Uluwatu Beach
Uluwatu is famous for its surf breaks, such as Uluwatu Beach, Padang Padang, and Bingin Beach. These spots are great for meeting fellow surf enthusiasts.
Single Fin Bali
This bar and restaurant is a hotspot for travellers, especially during their famous Sunday sessions. It offers a great view of the ocean and a chance to mingle with a crowd of surfers and international visitors.
Uluwatu Temple
Visiting this iconic temple not only provides a cultural experience but also an opportunity to meet other travelers who are exploring the sights of Bali.
SR Hostel Uluwatu
Staying in a hostel is a classic way to meet other travelers. Uluwatu has several options, such as SR Hostel Uluwatu, which often organise social events and communal activities.
Ulu Cliffhouse
Beach clubs like OMNIA and Ulu Cliffhouse are not only perfect for a day of relaxation but also for socialising with other visitors.
Warung Heboh Uluwatu
Casual dining spots and local warungs (small family-owned businesses) are great for striking up conversations with other travelers. Warung Heboh Uluwatu is one such place known for its communal seating and friendly atmosphere.
Participating In Local Ceremonies & Festivals In Bali
Bali’s cultural calendar is a vibrant showcase of ceremonies and festivals that reflect the island’s deep spiritual roots and community life. As a solo traveller, participating in these events can be a profound way to connect with the local culture and its people. Indeed, keep an eye out for local events, music festivals, or cultural celebrations happening. These gatherings are often filled with travelers looking to experience the local culture and meet new people too.
Here’s a rundown of the best ceremonies and festivals to attend:
Galungan & Kuningan
Galungan marks the beginning of one of the most important recurring religious ceremonies in Bali. It’s a 10-day celebration that occurs every 210 days according to the Balinese calendar. The festival commemorates the victory of dharma (good) over adharma (evil). Streets and homes are adorned with ‘penjor’ – tall, decorated bamboo poles symbolising prosperity. Kuningan, occurring 10 days after Galungan, marks the end of the celebration, with special rituals dedicated to ancestral spirits.
When to attend: The dates vary according to the Balinese Pawukon calendar, so check local listings for the current year.
Nyepi – The Day of Silence
Nyepi is the Balinese Hindu New Year, known as the “Day of Silence.” It’s a day of complete stillness on the island; no flights arrive or depart, shops are closed, and streets are empty as locals and visitors alike observe a day of silence, fasting, and meditation. The night before Nyepi, the island comes alive with the ‘Ogoh-Ogoh’ parade, where giant papier-mâché demons are carried through the streets and then burned to drive away evil spirits.
When to attend: Nyepi falls on a different date each year, typically in March or April.
Saraswati
Saraswati is a day dedicated to the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, art, and learning. On this day, offerings are made to books and lontar (traditional palm-leaf manuscripts), and it’s considered auspicious to start learning something new. It’s a quieter festival but offers a unique insight into the reverence Balinese culture has for knowledge and education.
When to attend: Saraswati occurs every 210 days, so check the local calendar for the exact date.
Melasti
Melasti is a purification ceremony held several days before Nyepi. During Melasti, processions from temples head to the nearest body of water, such as the sea, a lake, or a river. Sacred objects are cleansed, and people purify themselves in the water. It’s a beautiful ceremony to witness, with participants dressed in traditional white clothing, against the backdrop of Bali’s stunning natural scenery.
When to attend: Melasti takes place a few days before Nyepi each year.
Bali Arts Festival
The Bali Arts Festival, held in Denpasar, is a month-long celebration of Balinese art and culture, featuring daily performances, handicraft exhibitions, and cultural activities. It’s a fantastic opportunity for solo travellers to experience the diversity of Balinese culture, from traditional dances to contemporary music.
When to attend: The festival usually starts in June and runs through July.
Makepung Buffalo Races
For something truly unique, head to the regency of Jembrana in West Bali to witness the Makepung buffalo races. This traditional event involves water buffaloes racing on specially made tracks, a spectacle that combines sport with ritual and celebration.
When to attend: The races are held on Sundays from July to November.
When attending these ceremonies and festivals, it’s important to be respectful of local customs:
- Dress modestly, covering shoulders and legs. Sarongs and sashes are often required when entering temples.
- Ask permission before taking photographs, especially during religious ceremonies.
- Participate quietly and observe the rituals without intruding.
- Learn a few phrases in Bahasa Indonesia or Balinese to show respect and enhance your connection with locals.
By engaging with these cultural events, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Bali’s rich traditions and the warmth of its people. Each ceremony and festival is an open invitation to experience the island’s soul and leave with memories that resonate far beyond your journey home.
Respect Religious Customs
Religion is woven into the fabric of Balinese life. When visiting temples or attending ceremonies, always show the utmost respect. This means wearing appropriate attire, following the temple’s rules, and not interrupting or walking in front of people when they are praying. If you’re unsure about protocol, observe what others are doing or ask your host for guidance.
The Bottom Line
Travelling solo to Bali is an opportunity to forge new friendships and immerse yourself in a rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re enjoying urban life in Denpansar, practising yoga in Ubud, surfing in Canggu, partying in Seminyak, or diving in Amed, Bali offers endless possibilities to connect with people and the local way of life. Embrace the adventure, and you’ll find that in Bali, you’re never truly alone.