Live like a local in Bali and have the adventure of a lifetime.
While Bali is famous for its glamorous beach clubs, luxury resorts, and sunset spa sessions, there’s a whole other side to the island waiting to be discovered — one rooted in culture, community, and centuries-old traditions.
If you’re ready to go beyond the usual tourist trail and truly connect with the spirit of Bali, this guide is for you. From secret local dishes and handwoven textiles to encounters with royalty, here’s how to experience Bali like a local — and leave with memories that last a lifetime.
1. Taste Bali’s Most Beloved Traditional Dish
One of the most immersive ways to experience any culture is through food, and in Bali, nothing speaks more to local life than babi guling — a spit-roasted suckling pig dish served with rice, vegetables, and flavorful crackling.
For a truly authentic version, head to Warung Babi Guling Pande Egi in Gianyar. Set amidst peaceful rice fields, this spacious open-air restaurant serves what many locals consider the best babi guling on the island. The pork is tender, the skin is perfectly crisp, and the homemade sambal (spicy sauce) adds just the right amount of heat.
Pair your meal with daluman, a traditional Balinese herbal drink made from grass jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar. It’s not only delicious but also packed with health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and natural fiber.
2. Enjoy a Real-Life Royal Encounter
Bali is home to several royal families, descendants of the ancient Klungkung Kingdom, who still play a vital role in preserving the island’s culture and spiritual traditions. Visitors have a rare opportunity to engage with this heritage — including private palace tours and even lunches with members of the royal family.
One exceptional experience allows guests to explore the grandeur of Klungkung Palace and enjoy an intimate meal with a royal host. Along the way, you’ll gain insights into Bali’s ancient kingdoms, ceremonial customs, and the stories that shape modern Balinese identity. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime cultural encounter that offers a deeper understanding of the island beyond the beaches.
3. Discover Bali’s Hidden Textile Tradition in Ubud
For travelers looking to bring home something truly special, skip the mass-produced souvenirs and head to Manik Bali— a hidden gem in Ubud that preserves the fading art of Balinese cotton ikat weaving.
Tucked away on Jalan Raya Pengosekan, this small family-owned shop has been weaving fine cotton by hand for generations. Starting from raw cotton, they dye each thread naturally and weave it into shimmering fabrics that resemble silk but are soft and breathable — ideal for tropical wear.
Choose from ready-made items like clothing, scarves, bags, and cushion covers, or request a custom design. Every purchase supports local artisans and helps keep this endangered craft alive.
📍 Manik Bali: Jl. Raya Pengosekan, Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80571, Indonesia
4. Dive Deeper Into Local Culture and Spirituality
To live like a local in Bali, you need to slow down and immerse yourself in the island’s rhythms. This means more than sightseeing — it’s about participation.
- Wake up early to explore a traditional morning market in Ubud or Gianyar, where locals buy fresh produce, spices, and ceremonial offerings.
- Join a canang sari-making class to learn how these daily floral offerings — found in front of every home and business — are made and what they represent.
- Attend a gamelan music performance in a village temple, or watch traditional Balinese dance under the stars.
- Strike up a conversation in a quiet café or roadside warung — the locals are often happy to share stories and travel tips.
These small, unscripted moments are often the ones you’ll remember most.
5. Bring Home More Than Souvenirs
The beauty of exploring Bali like a local isn’t just in what you see — it’s in how you feel. You’ll leave with a better understanding of the island’s deep-rooted spirituality, community values, and artistic soul. Whether it’s sharing a traditional meal, connecting with a royal family, or supporting a village artisan, these experiences create a deeper bond with the place and its people.
So next time you plan your trip to Bali, skip the tourist traps and seek out the heart of the island — the Bali that locals know and love. It’s a destination full of hidden treasures, ancient stories, and authentic encounters waiting just beyond the beaten path.
