Although Indonesia comprises over three hundred ethnic groups and over three thousand populated islands, Bali is the only province that is also at once an island and an ethnic group, and this gives the Balinese a heightened sense of their distinctiveness as they try to find their identity as modern Indonesians.
Meanwhile, behind handsome courtyard walls of soft stone, an archaic, spirit-smitten way of life continues.
Bali is society of hamlets clustered around temples. Bali as a culture organism, the villages are its vital organs, and the network of temples its nervous system.
Bali, " Island of the gods", has been enchanting visitors for centuries with its rich cultural traditions and spectacular panoramas.
From lofty, mist enshrouded volcanoes and cool mountain lakes down through terraced rice fields to a golden strand lapped by azure waters, every square inch if Bali offers a fresh and unforgettable image.
Besakih
Situated on the slopes of Mount Agung. Besakih, and its complex of about 30 temples, is a focal point for Balinese Hinduism.
Batubulan
Near Bali's capital, Denpasar, on the road to Ubud, Batubulan is the home of skilled stone carvers and famous for its Barong or Kecak dance performance.
Batur
On the slopes of the smoldering Mount Batur, Batur village was destroyed in a 1926 eruption. The villagers then moved further up the mountain, where they build an impressive temple.
Bedugul
Bedugul's cool western highlands climate is ideal for growing vegetables, fruits and flowers for market.
Denpasar
Bali's administrative and commercial centre, Denpasar is a fascinating city where spices, salted fish, intricately woven clothe, gold and silver craft wares are traded in traditional markets alongside modern department stores, banks and restaurants.
Goa Gajah
Known as the Elephant Cave because of the thousand years old Ganesha (elephant-headed god). There is also an intricately carved bathing area and the remains of a Buddhist monastery.
Goa Lawah
On the southern coast road to Candi Dasa beach, a cave in the courtyard of Goa Lawah's temple is home to thousands of bats.
Kintamani
Here, at 1500 meters above the sea level, the climate is damp and cool. Kintamani is the centre for growing oranges and passion fruits. The main street on some days becomes a bustling market place.
Kuta
Famed for its spectacular sunsets, this once sleepy fishing village has becomes a bustling tourist resorts in recent years. The surf is excellent for board and body surfing.
Lembongan Island
About 20 kilometers due east of Sanur and two hours by motor boat, this is one of Bali's three sister islands. It has white sandy beach and crystal clear waters. Ideal for diving.
Lovina
About 12 kilometers west of Singaraja, Lovina is a peaceful and quiet beachside village with several guesthouses.
Mas
Mas is home to some of Bali's most talented wood carvers. Groups of young craftsmen work under the supervision of the masters. Their work is renowned throughout Indonesia.
Nusa Dua
Carefully planned to protect the environment, Nusa Dua has fine resort hotels, excellent shopping and entertainment centers. Some claim it has the best beaches and is the sunniest part of Bali.
Negara
Famous for its Makepung, a traditional buffalo race originally held as a part of the harvest festival, has now become a tourist attraction.
Sanur
Sanur is an international-standard resort with every modern facility. Nearby, village life continues much as it has for centuries.
Sangeh
Site of the "monkey forests", where large families of monkeys live in nutmeg trees.
Tampaksiring
The holy spring Tirta Empul, in the temple at Tampaksiring, is said to have magical powers. There are also special bathing pools.
Tanah Lot
Carved by the tides, the seaside sentinel rock of Tanah Lot is the side of the temple. It is connected to the shore by a bridge. Large sea snakes are said to guard the rock.
Tulamben
At Tulamben, about 100 kilometers by road from Sanur, on the north-east coast, are the remains of an American World War II vessel.
Ubud
Home to painters and celebrities, Ubud attracts art lovers and visitors from all over the world.
Uluwatu
The ancient Luhur Uluwatu temple is on that part of the south coast where the tablelands end at steep cliffs.
Uluwatu beach is considered one of Bali's best surfing spots, attracting surfers from around the world.
