Where is Bali?
Hearing the name “Bali” often brings images of a tropical paradise to mind. Although Bali is, in fact a tropical paradise, where exactly is it and what is so unique about it?
The island of Bali is part of the Republic of Indonesia, the largest archipelago in the world with over 18,000 islands. It is 145 km (90 miles) long and 80 km (50 miles) wide. Indonesia is the world’s most populous Muslim nation with 231 million people; interestingly, most of Bali’s 3 million people are Hindu. As shown on the map below, Bali is situated just east of the island of Java and west of Lombok.
Bali is a popular tourist destination known for its natural attractions, perfect climate and relaxed atmosphere, this island of flowers, temples and friendly people is considered a real gem by travelers worldwide. Although many of the islands that make up Indonesia are beautiful and appealing, Bali is particularly attractive. Much of the island is surrounded by beautiful beaches with clear water. Mount Agung, an active volcano, towers 3,142 m (10,308 feet) above the terrain in the center of the island. Hindu temples dot the landscape and the fertile island overflows with green rice paddies.
Bali also has a fascinating cultural tradition. Ubud, in the center of the island, is known for arts and crafts including woodcarving, batik-making and painting. Balinese dance and Gamelan orchestra performances are common. Small artistic touches are evident throughout much of the island in the form of small offerings presented to Hindu Gods.
Name Bali
Population 3,325,000
Capital City Denpasar
Languages Bahasa Indonesia (official), English, Dutch and many local dialects.
Official Currency Indonesian Rupee (IDR)
Currency Converter here
Religions Hindu (95%), others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude 08° 39S, 115° 13E
Relative Location Bali is located in the eastern and southern hemispheres. It’s positioned in Southeast Asia, in central Indonesia, and sits just to the east of the island of Java, and just west of the island of Lombok. It’s bordered by the Bali Sea and the Indian Ocean.
Land Statistics
Land Area 5,632 sq km (2,174 sq miles)
Terrain Dormant volcanoes (some exceeding 3,000 meters) stretch across the island. Tropical rain forests, crater lakes and rivers dot the landscape. White sand beaches are on the southern coastline.
Time and Weather
Time Zone (UTC +8). Note that UTC is also known as GMT, or Greenwich Mean Time.
Climate Pleasant (low humidity) conditions with average daily temperatures between 70 and 93 degrees year-round. The rainy season is December through March, with most of the showers occurring in the evening.
Denpasar Dialing Code 62, then 361
Electricity Bali uses 127/230 volts AC (50 Hz)