History of Bali: There is no trace of the Stone Age in Bali although it's certain that the island was already populated before the Bronze Age commenced there about 300 BC. Nor is much known of Bali during the period when Indian traders brought Hinduism to the Indonesian Archipelago. The earliest records found in Bali, stone inscriptions, date from around the 9th century AD and by that time Bali had already developed many similarities to the island we find today. Rice was grown with the help of a complex irrigation system probably very like that employed now. The Balinese had also already begun to develop the cultural and artistic activities which have made the island so interesting to visitors right down to the present day.

When to Go

Bali has a climate that is tropical all year. The average temperature hovers around 30°C year-round. There are dry and wet seasons - dry from April to September and wet from October to March - but it can rain at any time of year and even during the wet season rain is likely to pass quickly. In general May to August are the best months in Bali. At that time of year the climate is likely to be cooler and the rains lightest.

Around the coast, sea breezes temper the heat and as you move inland you also move up so the altitude works to keep things cool. It can get very cool up in the highlands and a warm sweater can be a good idea in mountain villages like Kintamani or Bedugul.

What to Pack

We have compiled a “what to pack” list specifically made for the needs of a traveler in Bali Island.

• Sunscreen with high SPF (Sun Protection Factor)

• Sunglasses

• Hat or Cap for shade from the sun

• Light cotton clothing

• Insect Repellent

• Bathing Suits

• Credit Card (Visa, American Express, MasterCard, Diners Club, and Eurocard are accepted)

Health Care

Tap water is not safe for drinking. The midday sun in Bali will fry the unwary traveller to a crisp, so slap on plenty of suntan lotion and drink lots of fluids. However, don't carry liters of water as you can buy a bottle virtually anywhere. The locals tend to stay away from the beaches until about two hours before sunset, when most of the fierceness has gone out of the sun.

Festivals & Culture of Bali:

There are an estimated 20,000 temples (pura) on the Bali island, each of which holds festivals (odalan) at least twice a year and there are many other auspicious days throughout the year, meaning that there are always festivities going on.

Bali Shopping - a Shopper's Paradise

Bali Island is a shopper's paradise particularly for casual and tailored clothing, locally made jewellery, handicrafts, antiques and artifacts. Leather ware is one of the unexpected local bargains with everything from handbags through to tailor made leather jackets and coats, all at unbelievable prices. In fact, prices are so inexpensive, you're sure to need more room in your suitcase! Try bargaining at the street markets of Kuta, Sanur of Nusa Dua or fixed price shopping at a Denpasar department store.

Entry Formalities and Bali Visa:

Indian citizens are granted VOA (Visa On Arrival), meaning they can arrive at an Indonesian port of entry and get 30 days, for $25 (subject to revise). They can also get 7 days / 6 nights for $10 (subject to revise). Those arriving must have a ticket out of the country and at least 6 months left on their passport from the date of arrival.

Indian citizens can also apply for a range of visas at the Indonesian Embassy in New Delhi, or visit the Indonesian Consulate in Mumbai.

The documents required when applying for a visa are:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months.

• Confirmed onward/return tickets.

• Covering letter to the Visa officer mentioning the purpose of travel.

• 3 passport size photographs

Time required to issue Indonesia Visa: From 4 working days to 4 weeks. It is advisable to allow plenty of time.