Holiday Inn Resort Baruna Bali

The central highlands of Bali are celebrated for their mountains, jungles and rice terraces, as well as playing a key role in preserving the island's cultural and artistic heritage. Ubud has plenty of markets and cultural villages where outsiders can experience the rich cultural heritage. The lush jungles and serene valleys attract those looking to get away from the rush of the coastal cities for a quieter pace of life.

As one of hundreds of islands that make up the Indonesian archipelago, Bali has some spectacular snorkelling sites - home to a wide variety of coral reefs and tropical marine creatures. Furthermore, there are several diving sites around the island that have drop-off walls, and even shipwrecks.

If you're seeking a more relaxed pace away from the crowds, tourists and flashy stores - the Nusa islands are where you need to be. Easily reached by speed boat, the islands are perfect for water sport activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, paddle boarding and diving. The islands are also home to several natural attractions like beautiful beaches, caves and outcrops.

Located in the Singaraja region, the Sekumpul Waterfall is actually seven falls that are said to be the most beautiful waterfalls in all off Bali. To get here, you'll need to hire a guide to take you along the 4 hour hike which will lead you past rice terraces, sleepy villages, and dense jungles before you reach the falls. The trip can be challenging at times as you need to hike down slopes and wade across rives, but one you reach the falls you can cool off with a refreshing swim at the base of the falls.

Bali's tallest mountain, Mount Agung, is actually an active volcano and the location of the mother temple of Besakih - Bali's holiest temple. Mount Agung attracts hordes of adventure seekers who dream of climbing this sacred mountain and taking in the spectacular views across the island from the summit. Don't forget to visit the temples on the way up.

Bail is known as the island of the gods for a good reason - the island is home to several stunning ancient temples; frequently seen on tourism posters and travel magazines. Several temples are iconic landmarks, set against a backdrop of tropical greenery and azure waters, leaving many first time visitors in awe. Tanah Lot is one of Bali's most famous temples, thanks to its unique offshore setting. This Hindu shrine sits on a rocky outcrop amid crashing waves - the best time to see it is during evening as the sun sets behind it. If you are staying at a Bali Kuta resort, do check if they organise excursions to this magnificent temple, as several hotels around the area, such as Holiday Inn Resort Baruna Bali, for example, offer day trip packages.

The Monkey Forest, also known as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, is one of the top tourist attractions in Ubud, and a must-see for nature lovers. Besides the mischievousness groups of grey long-tailed macaques that call the forest home, the dense jungles are captivating to behold. Tall banyan and nutmeg trees create a canopy over the forest, throwing shadows across the old, moss covered statues that can be seen scattered around the forest. In addition, there are three temples located inside the forest which visitors can view.