Yes, of course. Bali is still worth visiting in the year 2026 for its unique culture, beautiful scenery, and picture-perfect landscapes. The place is very famous and affordable, yet the fact that it is not exactly a hidden gem means it sits on almost everyone’s bucket list. It is a necessary escape from personal, social, and professional commitments. The place is very breezy and coastal—an absolute gem for those who love beaches and mountains. It remains one of the best locations for resonating and connecting with nature.
It is essential, however, to manage expectations regarding heavy traffic, crowds, and rising costs in popular areas like Canggu and Ubud.
Here is why Bali is still worth visiting, along with some considerations.
What are the reasons to visit Bali?
Cultural and Spiritual Hub: Sky Garden Bali, Woobar, and La Favela are famous night venues in Bali with an energetic atmosphere. It is more about the chilling experience and music, which is perfect for a relaxed evening or a romantic honeymoon. The place is free-spirited and very breezy.
Affordability: The place is quite affordable, though trendy beach clubs and sophisticated high-end hotels can be very expensive. But no worries—a smart and seamless experience can be curated with Bali tour packages from Go Around the Globe.
Diverse Experience: Bali is a great option when it comes to food. The special cuisine of this island includes smoothie bowls, plant-based cafes, and authentic warungs found at local eateries. Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Babi Guling (roasted suckling pig), and Gado Gado (Indonesian-style salad) are three of the most famous foods in Balinese cuisine. All the dishes come as a kind of wholesome platter, bursting with flavours and perfect for mindful eaters. The place feels very earthy and warm when it comes to culture, especially for people from Kerala.
Stunning Scenery: Bali's Ubud and Canggu areas are lively, while serene north spots like Amed offer peace. The place offers ample spots for photos, and the memories can be cherished forever.
What are the points to be considered when visiting Bali?
Traffic and Congestion:
The roads in Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud are packed with cars, creating dense traffic that moves very slowly. Cars and scooters crawl alongside each other, especially during peak season. This happens because the roads were built for small villages, not for millions of tourists. If you have already visited or are planning to visit, you will understand that the place is built for the subtle feel of old, vintage villages.
Solution: For short distances, walking is preferred, or you can book a rented scooter for local use. To explore the island, hire a local driver for the day—they know the roads and it’s a stress-free trip.
Over Tourism:
Due to the impact of social media and over time, the place is flooded with a lot of people. Places like the Tegallalang Rice Terrace, famous temples, and popular beaches can feel crowded and busy, with lots of shops and vendors. It can take away from the peaceful, natural feeling you might expect.
Solution: While Bali has many famous spots, the calmer, greener Bali you imagine still exists if you go away from the busy south and centre. Northern Bali is cooler and greener. You can find waterfalls, hikes through clove and coffee plantations, and black sand beaches. Lovina is known for calm seas and dolphin watching.
Key Things to Know Before You Go to Bali?
· Value for Money: The place was considered cheap a decade ago. However, with social media trends, it is now very much focused on honeymoons and family trips. That said, it still offers exquisite sights and remains budget-friendly compared to many international destinations.
· Explore Beyond the Hotspots: Visit North Bali, Sidemen, or nearby islands like Nusa Penida for a more authentic, quieter experience. There are principal cities and must-visit places and beaches, but beyond that, there are local hidden gems in Bali. Try to include those places in your itinerary.
· Timing: Try to visit during the shoulder season for fewer crowds.
· Transport: Be prepared for travel times to take longer than expected due to traffic.
For many, the magic of Bali still shines through, provided you are willing to explore beyond the most crowded spots. Therefore, it is still a great pick for 2026. Let’s kick off your journey starting with Bali by partnering with Go Around the Globe.
