Bali in January

January is the start of a brand-new year in Bali. It is also part of the rainy season. That means the weather can be warm but also wet. You may see sunshine in the morning and rain in the afternoon. Sometimes, it rains briefly, and other times it rains a lot. So, always carry an umbrella or raincoat. Bali in January is still very green and beautiful. The plants and trees look fresh because of the rain. You can visit temples, enjoy traditional dance shows, or take cooking classes indoors. Beaches are not too crowded, and hotel prices are often lower than in other months. This is good if you want a peaceful holiday.

You may not be able to swim or surf every day because of the strong waves, but you can enjoy quiet walks, tasty food, and relaxing spa time. January in Bali is perfect for people who like nature, slow travel, and cool, peaceful days. Just pack light clothes, a rain jacket, and sandals, and you’ll be ready for a fun time in Bali, even if it rains.

Weather and Temperature in Bali in January

In January, the weather in Bali is warm but also rainy. This month is part of the rainy season. That means it rains often, especially in the afternoon or evening. Sometimes the rain is light, and sometimes it can be heavy with thunder. But don’t worry - it usually doesn’t rain all day.

The temperature in Bali in January is between 24°C to 31°C. That means the days are hot, and the nights are warm too. You can still wear t-shirts, shorts, and flip-flops. Carrying an umbrella or raincoat when you go out is a good idea. Also, bring extra clothes in case you get wet.

Even with the rain, Bali still looks very green and pretty. The trees and rice fields are fresh and bright. Some days you may see the sun in the morning and clouds later. The air can feel a little sticky because of the rain and heat. That’s called humidity. So, if you don’t mind a little rain, January can still be a nice time to visit Bali. You can enjoy indoor things like shopping, massages, and trying yummy food while waiting for the rain to stop.

Why Visit Bali in January?

Visiting Bali in January can be a unique and peaceful experience. The island is less crowded because it’s the rainy season, so you can enjoy quieter beaches and attractions. The rain makes Bali’s nature look beautiful and green. You can take amazing photos of the fresh plants and trees.

Even though it rains, there are still many fun things to do indoors, like visiting temples, trying local food, and enjoying Balinese dance performances. Hotel prices are usually cheaper too. If you don’t mind the occasional rain, January is a great time to relax, explore, and enjoy Bali without the large crowds of tourists.

Things to do in Bali in January

Visit Ubud Monkey Forest

The Ubud Monkey Forest is a great place to visit in Bali in January. You can walk through the forest and see the friendly monkeys up close. The trees are green and beautiful because of the rain, and the air feels fresh. The monkeys love to play, and you can take lots of fun pictures. It’s a peaceful place to walk around, even though it might rain a little. The rain makes the forest even more special, and you’ll enjoy the cool weather as you explore.

Why visit in January: The rainy season makes the forest lush, quiet, and full of life.

Visit Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot is a beautiful sea temple that’s perfect to visit in January. The temple looks amazing, especially with the ocean waves crashing around it. Even though it may rain a little, the view of the temple on the rocks is still breathtaking. It’s a great place to take photos and learn about Bali’s culture. The temple is also peaceful, and you can watch the sunset if it’s not raining. It’s one of the best spots for a spiritual experience in Bali.

Why visit in January: Fewer tourists and moody skies make the temple view even more dramatic.

Explore Rice Terraces in Tegallalang

Tegallalang Rice Terraces are famous for their beautiful views. In January, the terraces are lush and green because of the rain. You can walk around and take in the stunning scenery. The sound of the rain hitting the leaves and the smell of fresh plants make the experience even better. You can also take some great pictures of the terraces. If you like nature, this is a must-see spot when visiting Bali in January.

Why visit in January: The rice fields are at their greenest and most vibrant this time of year.

Enjoy a Spa Day

If it rains in January, a spa day is a perfect way to relax. Bali has many spas that offer massages, facials, and other treatments. The rainy weather makes the atmosphere more cozy, and you can relax while enjoying a traditional Balinese massage. It’s a great way to feel refreshed after a long day of exploring Bali’s sights. Many spas are surrounded by nature, so you can listen to the sound of rain while getting pampered.

Why visit in January: It’s the ideal indoor activity for staying warm and relaxed during rainy days.

Take a Balinese Cooking Class

A cooking class is a fun way to experience Bali’s culture, especially in January when it’s rainy and cool. You’ll learn how to make delicious Balinese dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice) and sate lilit (skewered meat). The cooking classes are usually held indoors, so the rain won’t stop you from having fun. After cooking, you can enjoy the food you made and share it with other travelers. It’s a great way to learn about Bali’s food traditions.

Why visit in January: Indoor cooking classes offer warmth, fun, and culture when the weather is wet.

Visit Bali Safari and Marine Park

The Bali Safari and Marine Park is a great place to see animals like tigers, elephants, and zebras. Even if it rains in January, you can still enjoy seeing the animals because the park has indoor areas where you can learn about them. You can also watch animal shows and see the wildlife in their natural habitats. The rain makes the air cooler, so walking around the park won’t be too hot, and it’s a fun way to spend the day with your family or friends.

Why visit in January: Cooler weather and smaller crowds make animal watching more enjoyable.

Discover Bali’s Waterfalls

Bali is home to many stunning waterfalls, and visiting them in January can be a magical experience. Some of the most popular waterfalls to visit are Tegenungan, Gitgit, and Sekumpul. The rain makes the waterfalls stronger, and they look even more beautiful with the water rushing down. You can take a short hike to reach the falls, and the surrounding jungle looks amazing in the rainy season. Don’t forget to bring waterproof shoes and a raincoat to stay dry.

Why visit in January: The waterfalls are at their most powerful and scenic after the rains.

Visit the Bali Museum

The Bali Museum in Denpasar is an indoor activity that’s perfect for rainy days in January. The museum has many interesting exhibits about Bali’s culture and history, including traditional art, clothes, and musical instruments. You can learn a lot about Bali’s past and see beautiful artifacts. The museum is quiet, so you can take your time to explore and enjoy the displays. It’s a great way to spend a few hours indoors when it’s rainy outside.

Why visit in January: It's a peaceful indoor escape into Bali’s history and culture during wet weather.

Shop at Ubud Market

Ubud Market is a popular spot for shopping, and January is a great time to visit. The market has many stalls selling handmade goods, clothes, and souvenirs. Because it’s the rainy season, the market is less crowded, so you can shop peacefully. You can buy beautiful items like wooden carvings, paintings, and jewelry. The market is also a great place to practice your bargaining skills and get unique gifts for friends and family back home.

Why visit in January: Fewer crowds mean better deals and a more relaxed shopping experience.

Experience a Balinese Dance Performance

A Balinese dance performance is a fantastic way to experience Bali’s rich culture. Many cultural centers in Ubud and other parts of Bali offer dance shows in Bali In January. The performances are colorful and filled with traditional music and storytelling. Even if it rains, the performances are usually indoors, so you can still enjoy the show. The dances are beautiful to watch, and they tell interesting stories about Bali’s mythology and traditions. It’s a fun and cultural experience for visitors of all ages.

Why visit in January: The indoor performances provide a warm and enchanting escape from the rain.

Essential Information to Plan a Bali Trip in January

How to Reach Bali

Bali is an island in Indonesia that you can reach by plane. The main airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport, located in Denpasar. Many airlines from different countries fly to Bali, and it takes about 4-7 hours, depending on where you are flying from.

If you're traveling from other Indonesian islands, you can take a domestic flight to Bali. Some ferries connect Bali to nearby islands like Java and Lombok. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or a private car to get to your hotel or other destinations in Bali.

Transportation Options to Travel in and Around

In Bali, there are many ways to get around. You can take a taxi or rent a scooter, which is very popular for short trips. Many people prefer renting a scooter because it’s easy to navigate through traffic and explore small streets.

You can also hire a driver with a car for a day tour or use online ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek. If you want to travel longer distances, there are buses and even ferries to other nearby islands. Bali also has traditional transport like “bemos,” which are shared vans that can take you to different places on the island.

Local Rules & Regulations

When visiting Bali in January, there are some important rules to follow. Always dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. It is respectful to wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Be mindful of local customs, like not touching someone’s head because it’s considered the most sacred part of the body in Bali.

When you’re at a beach or temple, make sure to follow the rules, such as not littering or being too loud. Bali also has strict laws about alcohol and drugs, so it’s important to avoid illegal substances. Always ask permission before taking photos in temples or of local people to show respect for their privacy.

Visitor’s Tips

Carry Cash: Some places don’t accept credit cards, so it’s a good idea to carry cash for small purchases.
Stay Hydrated: Bali can be hot and humid, so always carry water with you, especially if you’re doing outdoor activities.
Respect the Culture: When visiting temples, remember to dress modestly and be respectful of the local customs.
Use Sunscreen: The sun in Bali in January is strong, so protect your skin by applying sunscreen frequently.
Check Weather: January is part of the rainy season, so bring an umbrella and a light raincoat to stay dry.
Book in Advance: January is a popular time to visit Bali, so it’s better to book your hotels and activities in advance to avoid the last-minute rush.
Use a Local SIM Card: To stay connected, buy a local SIM card for your phone to use the internet and make calls at cheaper rates