Planning your first international trip from Kolkata can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? What documents do you need? How much money should you carry? This complete Bali travel guide for Kolkata travelers has every answer you need.
Step 1: Check Your Passport & Documents
Before anything else, make sure you have:
- Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival in Bali
- Visa on Arrival: ₹2,750 (IDR 500,000) at Bali Airport — valid for 30 days
- Bali Tourist Levy: ₹850 (IDR 150,000) — pay online before travel at Love Bali website
- Return Ticket: Must be confirmed (immigration checks this)
- Hotel Confirmation: Keep a printout or digital copy handy
- Travel Insurance: Not mandatory but strongly recommended
Step 2: Choose the Right Bali Tour Package from Kolkata
This is the most important decision. Instead of booking flights, hotels, and tours separately (which is time-consuming and often more expensive), choose a pre-designed Bali tour package from Kolkata. Here’s what to look for:
- ✅ Flight Included: Ensure round-trip airfare from Kolkata is part of the package
- ✅ Visa Assistance: Some packages offer visa support or guidance
- ✅ Meals Covered: At least daily breakfast + 1–2 special dinners
- ✅ Airport Transfers: Both pickup and drop should be included
- ✅ Sightseeing: Key attractions covered (Kintamani, Ubud, Tanah Lot, etc.)
- ✅ Flexibility: Some free days for personal exploration
- ✅ Indian Food Options: Check if the package mentions Indian meal availability
Step 3: Budget Planning (All Costs)
Here’s a realistic budget breakdown for a 5-day Bali trip from Kolkata:
Step 4: What to Pack
Clothing
- Light cotton clothes (it’s warm all year)
- One light jacket or sweater (evenings can be cool, especially in Ubud)
- Swimwear (multiple sets)
- Comfortable walking shoes and flip-flops
- Sarong/Scarf (required for temple entry)
- Rain gear if traveling in wet season (Nov–March)
Essentials
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Mosquito repellent (dengue is present)
- Power bank
- Universal adapter (Bali uses Type C and F plugs, 230V)
- Basic first-aid kit (paracetamol, antacids, band-aids)
- Indian snacks (if you have specific dietary preferences)
Documents
- Passport copies (physical + digital in phone)
- E-ticket printouts
- Hotel and package confirmations
- Travel insurance documents
Step 5: Money Matters
- Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). ₹1 ≈ IDR 190
- Cash: Carry some IDR cash for small purchases. Exchange at authorized money changers in Bali (look for blue signboard with “Authorized Money Changer”)
- Cards: Visa and Mastercard accepted everywhere. ATMs are widely available.
- Tipping: Not mandatory in Bali but appreciated. ₹100–₹500 for hotel staff, guides, and drivers.
Step 6: Getting Around Bali
- Private Driver: ₹2,500–₹4,000 for a full day (6–8 hours). Best option for couples.
- Scooter Rental: ₹300–₹500 per day. Great for solo travelers or adventurous duos.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Grab and Gojek work in most parts of Bali. Very affordable.
- Taxi: Metered taxis start at around ₹150. Use Bluebird Taxi for reliability.
Step 7: Must-Download Apps
- Grab / Gojek: Ride-hailing and food delivery
- Google Maps (offline maps): Download Bali maps before you fly
- XE Currency Converter: Track exchange rates
- WhatsApp: Most locals communicate via WhatsApp
- Airbnb / Booking.com: Backup accommodation options
Step 8: Cultural Etiquette for Indians
- Dress Modestly at Temples: Cover shoulders and knees. Sarongs are usually available at temple entrances.
- Don’t Touch Heads: The head is considered sacred in Balinese culture.
- Use Right Hand: For giving and receiving things. Left hand is considered impure.
- Remove Shoes: Before entering homes and temples.
- Bargain Politely: At markets, start at 50% of the quoted price and negotiate respectfully.
- Be Mindful During Ceremonies: You’ll see offerings (canang sari) everywhere — don’t step on them.
Step 9: Food Guide for Indian Travelers
Bali is incredibly Indian-friendly when it comes to food:
- Indian Restaurants: Ganesha Ek Sanskriti (Ubud), Queen’s Tandoor (Seminyak), Gandhi’s Kitchen (Kuta)
- Local Dishes Indians Love: Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Mie Goreng (fried noodles), Satay (grilled skewers), Gado-Gado (veggie salad with peanut sauce)
- Vegetarian Options: Widely available. Most warungs have veg-friendly options.
- Water: Drink only bottled water. Avoid tap water and ice in street stalls.
Step 10: Book Your Bali Tour Package from Kolkata
By now, you have everything you need to plan an amazing trip. The easiest way to make it all come together is to book a comprehensive Bali tour package from Kolkata. You get the best prices, expert guidance, and total peace of mind.
Your Bali adventure is just one click away. 🌴
