Things To Do
in Ban
Ban is a tranquil village on the east coast of Bali, offering quiet beaches and rice terrace scenery. It is known for traditional crafts, friendly locals, and a slow-paced rhythm that invites relaxed exploration. Visitors can discover temple gates, coastal trails, and markets tucked between hillside farms.
The area blends Balinese culture with dramatic sea views, making every stroll feel like a small adventure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at Ngurah Rai International Airport and meet your private driver for a scenic drive through lush rice paddies to Ubud. Stop at a local warung for traditional Balinese breakfast of nasi campur and fresh tropical fruits. Arrive at your jungle-side accommodation and settle into the tranquil ambience of your villa.
Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary for an up-close encounter with playful long-tailed macaques amid ancient temple ruins. Continue to the Ubud Royal Palace to admire intricate carvings and watch street artists practicing gamelan music. Explore the bustling Ubud Art Market where you can haggle for handmade textiles, silver jewelry, and wood carvings.
Dine at a riverside restaurant offering panoramic views of the lush Ayung River gorge. Indulge in a traditional Balinese dance performance just steps from your table. Return to your villa for a soothing herbal bath under a canopy of tropical foliage.
Rise before dawn for coffee and snacks at the trailhead of Mount Batur. Begin the guided two-hour trek through volcanic terrain as stars fade and the sky blushes at dawn. Reach the rim in time to watch the sun emerge above the caldera lake with steaming vents below.
Descend back to base camp for a hearty brunch of local produce and freshly cooked eggs from the volcanic vents. Head to a nearby natural hot spring to soak aching muscles and bask in hillside vistas. Visit a family-run coffee plantation to sample Bali’s famous kopi luwak and learn about sustainable farming practices.
Return to Ubud and unwind with a holistic Balinese healing massage at a spa surrounded by rice terraces. Dine by candlelight at a farm-to-table restaurant set in a tropical garden. Stroll through lantern-lit pathways to enjoy Ubud’s relaxed nightlife at a boutique cocktail bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel (per night) | $25-70 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi/ride (local)</ | $5-12 |
| 🧭Souvenir or market purchases | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic Balinese experience
- Stunning coastal and temple scenery
- Friendly locals and affordable prices
- Limited nightlife in Ban itself
- Fewer direct flight options to Ban
- Roads can be winding and travel times longer
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please / Help
- "Berapa harga?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana kamar mandi?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Ban
Visit one of these nice places.
Floating terraces, reflective pools, and pastel-colored pavilions set against the sea; ideal for sunrise or late afternoon shots.
A regal water garden with stone steps, statues, and lily-filled pools that create serene compositions.
A dramatic coastline viewpoint near Amed offering dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, perfect for sunset photography.
Food in Ban
Ban Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A mixed plate of rice with small portions of vegetables, meat or fish, and sambal. Commonly found at warungs across Ban.
Must-Try!
Rotisserie spit-roasted pig, a Balinese specialty often enjoyed during special occasions and in larger family meals.
A savory mixture of vegetables, coconut, and minced meat or fish, seasoned with traditional spices.
Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and your choice of protein; a staple easy to find at most eateries.
Slow-cooked duck seasoned with rich spices and wrapped in banana leaves; a festive Balinese dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling traditional market in nearby Karangasem where you can sample fresh produce, herbs, and local snacks.
Coastal street stalls offering quick bites like grilled fish, satay, and fried banana desserts with sea breeze views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, wear a sarong when visiting temples, and avoid pointing feet toward deities or sacred objects. Offerings are common; do not step on them.
Greet with a polite smile and use Indonesian phrases like 'Selamat pagi' or 'Terima kasih.' Show respect in conversation and avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Ban
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Round up the bill or leave small denominations for service in restaurants, guides, and drivers.
Cash (Indonesian rupiah) is widely used; many places accept debit/credit cards in larger establishments. ATMs are common in towns nearby; smaller warungs often prefer cash only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry, sunny days with clearer skies and comfortable beach conditions. Great for outdoor activities and photography, but expect more visitors and higher seas at some beaches.
Frequent brief showers and high humidity. Lush landscapes, dramatic clouds, and fewer crowds—ideal for green scenery but plan for possible travel delays.
Ban at Night
Hiking in Ban
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic temple complex with sweeping views; best done early morning for light and crowds.
Coastal ridge walk offering sea views and glimpses of local villages.
Airports
How to reach Ban by plane.
Primary gateway to Bali, located near Denpasar; drive time to Ban varies with traffic, typically 1.5–2.5 hours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant local population with traditional customs centered on farming, fishing, and tourism.
A mix of domestic travelers and expatriates drawn to the coast, temples, and natural beauty.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at nearby beaches such as Amed and Candidasa; suitable for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
Strong marine life along the eastern coast; numerous reef spots and clear waters.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ban.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many warungs offer vegetarian versions of local dishes; look for gado-gado, vegetable curries, and tofu dishes. Communicate clearly that you don’t eat meat or fish to ensure no meat broths are used.