Modern-Day Bali Jatra: Your Travel Plans Made Easy

A couple thousand years ago, seagoing merchants in Odisha, then Kalinga, crossed the Indian Ocean to trade with South-East Asia. These seamen, called Sadhabas, went all the way to Bali, Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. To commemorate this epic voyage, a seven-day celebration called Bali Jatra (Journey to Bali) is still held every year in Cuttack, Odisha. On the banks of the Mahanadi, this great journey made for furthering trade and cultural ties between such far-flung areas is still respected and given proper importance.

However, just because we are in the 21st century doesn’t mean these ties have fallen by the wayside. With the advent of modern technology, we are no longer dependent on fair winds to take us places. As such, more Indians are flying to Bali now than ever before. In fact, more than 11 million Indians visited Indonesia in 2023, double the number in 2022. Of those, 5.23 million Indians went to Bali, which was about half of Indonesia’s total tourism arrivals.

Why Should You Visit Bali?

There are plenty of reasons. If you were thinking of going over there but are still on the fence, here are some reasons that I think might convince you:

Cultural links

Because of the many shared cultural practices, particularly in regard to Hinduism, between Bali and India, Indian tourists often report feeling more at ease throughout their stay. Hindu ceremonies, celebrations, and temples can make Indian tourists feel at home in Bali by fostering a feeling of cultural affinity. Because of our shared history, Indian travellers interested in learning more about their religious and cultural roots find Bali an even more appealing vacation spot.

Food

Indians like food, and Bali boasts an abundance of restaurants serving a broad range of cuisines. As far as I’m concerned, it’s a match made in Heaven! Try out traditional Balinese cuisine, like nasi goreng, babi guling, and sate lilit, which are skewers of minced pork. Want something more familiar? Bali is home to a wide variety of international restaurants serving cuisines such as Japanese sushi and Italian pasta. Whether you like a rooftop restaurant or a cafe by the ocean, Bali has a wide variety of cuisines that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Shopping

You can find a wide variety of unique things, from modern clothing to traditional arts and crafts, in Bali’s marketplaces and speciality shops. Shopaholics from India will have a blast exploring the local markets and charming shops for unique souvenirs, clothing, and home decor. Bali’s marketplaces have a wide variety of goods, from traditional batik sarongs to stylish beachwear sets, as well as hand-carved wooden masks.

Beaches

Bali’s beaches are famously tranquil and beautiful, making them the perfect place for visitors to relax and rejuvenate. Spectacular sunsets, shimmering waters, and golden dunes provide a picture-perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories. Bali’s beaches are perfect for a beach bum like me, whether to swim, get a massage, or just lay out in the sun.

Luxury

Looking for a lavish experience? You will find what you’re looking for in Bali’s many five-star resorts, private villas, and spas. With first-rate features like private pools, personalised butler service, gourmet meals, and luxurious spa treatments, these accommodation options promise an exceptionally luxurious stay. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil getaway, a romantic retreat, or simply a way to indulge yourself, Bali offers extraordinary luxury possibilities.

Affordability

The low cost of living is a major selling point for Indian tourists like me. Bali is a popular destination for Indian travellers on a budget because of its relatively inexpensive hotel, dining, and entertainment options compared to other international vacation destinations. Bali is a popular choice for budget-conscious travellers because it offers a perfect balance between luxury and adventure without breaking the bank.

What About a Guide?

I can tell you from personal experience that a proper guide can make the difference between a bad tour and a great one. A guide shows you the best places to eat, stay, relax, walkthrough, and even sit and watch the sunset. They get you the best deals when it comes to accommodation, adventure sports, or whatever it is that takes your fancy. Bali has a lot to offer. Too many things, I think, which is why you need a good guide to rescue you from analysis paralysis.

That is where OnBali.com comes into the picture. This website has been creating some of the best and most extensive guides about everything there is to do in Bali. They have guides for all the different parts of Bali, too. If you’re staying in Nusa Dua and going to Canggu to eat and then taking a walk through Kuta, they have information on everything. From affordable hostels to luxury villas and from relaxing spas to pulse-pounding parties, On Bali brings you the guide you need to get the perspective you want. 

So, if you are planning a trip to Bali from India, check out On Bali. Whenever I visit, I know I’ll be spending hours going through all the guides and sketching out the details of my trip!

A Few Words in Closing

Bali is a popular destination for Indian travellers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime holiday due to its unique blend of cultures, low prices, breathtaking scenery, and abundance of activities. If you are looking for a place to relax on beautiful beaches, explore lush rice terraces, experience the vibrant local culture, or indulge in luxurious pleasures, Bali is the place for you. 

Bali’s beautiful landscapes and welcoming people never fail to captivate India’s tourism industry, and with On Bali shining the light ahead, you will never be led astray. Enjoy the food, the temples, and the beaches, all while knowing that you are being guided by one of the most trusted portals in the world.

Have fun planning your own Bali Jatra! I know I will!

Cover Image PC: Nico_Boersen/Pixabay