Bali is located in Southeast Asia, in the country of Indonesia. It is an island situated between the islands of Java and Lombok in the Indonesian archipelago. Bali lies south of the Equator and is surrounded by the Indian Ocean and the Bali Sea, making it one of the world’s most famous tropical travel destinations.
Known for its stunning beaches, volcanic mountains, rich culture, ancient temples, and vibrant tourism industry, Bali attracts millions of visitors every year. Whether you are looking at a world map, planning a vacation, or simply curious about its geographic location, understanding where Bali is located helps explain why it has become one of the most popular islands on Earth.
Quick Facts About Bali
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Bali Province |
| Type | Island and Province |
| Country | Indonesia |
| Region | Southeast Asia |
| Continent | Asia |
| Location | Between Java and Lombok Islands |
| Coordinates | Approximately 8.34° S, 115.09° E |
| Capital City | Denpasar |
| Area | About 5,780 sq km (2,230 sq mi) |
| Population | Approximately 4.4 million |
| Highest Point | Mount Agung (3,031 m / 9,944 ft) |
| Time Zone | Central Indonesia Time (WITA, UTC+8) |
| Major Airport | Ngurah Rai International Airport |
| Famous For | Beaches, temples, culture, surfing, and tourism |
| Surrounding Waters | Indian Ocean, Bali Sea, and Lombok Strait |
Where Is Bali Located?
Bali is located in the Indonesian archipelago, a vast collection of more than 17,000 islands stretching across Southeast Asia.
The island sits:
- East of Java
- West of Lombok
- South of the Equator
- North of Australia
- Between the Indian Ocean and the Bali Sea
Bali is part of the Lesser Sunda Islands, a chain of islands extending eastward from Java.
Bali’s Geographic Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Bali are approximately:
8.34° South latitude and 115.09° East longitude
These coordinates place Bali in the tropical zone, giving it warm temperatures year-round.
Where Is Bali on the World Map?
On a world map, Bali can be found in Southeast Asia, within Indonesia.
To locate Bali:
- Find Asia.
- Move south toward the Equator.
- Locate Indonesia.
- Find the large island of Java.
- Bali lies immediately east of Java.
Nearby Countries
Several countries are located relatively close to Bali:
CountryDirection from BaliAustraliaSouthSingaporeNorthwestMalaysiaNorthwestTimor-LesteEastPapua New GuineaEastPhilippinesNorth
Although Bali belongs to Indonesia, it is geographically closer to northern Australia than many people realize.
Where Is Bali Located in Indonesia?
Within Indonesia, Bali is both an island and a province.
The province includes:
- Bali Island
- Nusa Penida
- Nusa Lembongan
- Nusa Ceningan
- Several smaller islands
Bali lies directly east of Java, separated by the narrow Bali Strait, and west of Lombok, separated by the Lombok Strait.
Major Cities in Bali
Some of Bali’s most important cities and towns include:
- Denpasar (capital city)
- Ubud
- Kuta
- Seminyak
- Sanur
- Nusa Dua
- Jimbaran
- Canggu
- Singaraja
Geographic Setting of Bali
Bali occupies a strategic location between Asia and Australia.
Its position has historically made it:
- A trading center
- A cultural crossroads
- A maritime hub
- An important tourism destination
The island covers approximately 5,780 square kilometers and has diverse landscapes ranging from coastal plains to volcanic mountains.
Geography and Landscape of Bali
Bali is famous for its extraordinary natural beauty.
Mountains and Volcanoes
The island contains several volcanic peaks.
Important mountains include:
Mount Agung
- Height: 3,031 meters
- Highest mountain in Bali
- Considered sacred by Balinese Hindus
Mount Batur
- Active volcano
- Popular hiking destination
- Known for sunrise treks
Coastal Areas
Bali’s coastline stretches for hundreds of kilometers.
Visitors enjoy:
- Sandy beaches
- Rocky cliffs
- Coral reefs
- Surfing locations
Famous beaches include:
- Kuta Beach
- Seminyak Beach
- Nusa Dua Beach
- Sanur Beach
- Padang Padang Beach
Rice Terraces
The island’s famous rice terraces include:
- Tegalalang Rice Terraces
- Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
These landscapes showcase Bali’s traditional irrigation system known as Subak, recognized by UNESCO.
Climate of Bali
Bali experiences a tropical climate.
Dry Season
April to October
Characteristics:
- Sunny weather
- Lower humidity
- Less rainfall
- Ideal for tourism
Wet Season
November to March
Characteristics:
- Frequent rain showers
- Higher humidity
- Lush green scenery
Average Temperatures
Temperatures generally range between:
- 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F)
The warm climate makes Bali a year-round travel destination.
Natural Ecosystems and Wildlife
Despite its popularity, Bali remains rich in biodiversity.
Ecosystems
The island contains:
- Tropical forests
- Mangrove forests
- Coral reefs
- Coastal ecosystems
- Volcanic landscapes
Wildlife
Animals found in Bali include:
- Long-tailed macaques
- Bali myna (a rare bird)
- Sea turtles
- Deer
- Monitor lizards
Protected areas help preserve these ecosystems.
History of Bali
Early Settlement
Archaeological evidence shows that humans lived in Bali thousands of years ago.
The island developed connections with neighboring regions through maritime trade.
Hindu Influence
Beginning around the first millennium CE, Hindu and Buddhist influences arrived from India and Java.
Over time, Bali became a major center of Hindu culture.
Majapahit Era
In the 14th century, Bali came under the influence of the Majapahit Empire from Java.
Many traditions still practiced today trace their roots to this period.
Dutch Colonial Rule
The Dutch gradually established control over Bali during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Modern Indonesia
Following Indonesian independence in 1945, Bali became part of the Republic of Indonesia.
Today, it is one of Indonesia’s most important cultural and tourism regions.
Why Is Bali Famous?
Bali has gained worldwide recognition for many reasons.
Unique Culture
Bali is known for:
- Traditional dances
- Festivals
- Ceremonies
- Art and crafts
- Balinese Hinduism
Beautiful Beaches
The island offers:
- Surfing
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Diving
Temples
Bali is often called the “Island of the Gods” because of its thousands of temples.
Luxury Tourism
Visitors enjoy:
- Resorts
- Villas
- Wellness retreats
- Spas
Adventure Activities
Popular activities include:
- Volcano trekking
- White-water rafting
- Diving
- Cycling
Major Attractions in Bali
Ubud
The cultural heart of Bali.
Known for:
- Art galleries
- Rice terraces
- Traditional performances
- Yoga retreats
Tanah Lot Temple
A famous sea temple located on a rocky offshore formation.
Uluwatu Temple
Perched dramatically on coastal cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Mount Batur
One of Bali’s most popular hiking destinations.
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Located in Ubud and home to hundreds of monkeys.
Nusa Penida
An island known for:
- Kelingking Beach
- Crystal Bay
- Spectacular cliffs
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
A UNESCO-recognized cultural landscape.
How to Get to Bali
By Air
The primary gateway is:
Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)
Located near Denpasar.
Direct flights connect Bali with:
- Singapore
- Kuala Lumpur
- Bangkok
- Sydney
- Melbourne
- Dubai
- Tokyo
- Seoul
By Sea
Ferries connect Bali with:
- Java
- Lombok
- Nusa Penida
- Gili Islands
Domestic Transportation
Travelers can use:
- Taxis
- Ride-sharing apps
- Rental scooters
- Rental cars
- Tour buses
Best Time to Visit Bali
Best Overall Period
May to September
Benefits:
- Sunny weather
- Lower rainfall
- Comfortable outdoor conditions
Appropriate time for Surfing
- May to October
Best months for Diving
- April to November
Best for Cultural Festivals
Various festivals occur throughout the year, especially around Hindu religious celebrations.
Comparing Bali With Nearby Destinations
DestinationCountryKnown ForBaliIndonesiaCulture, beaches, templesLombokIndonesiaQuieter beaches, hikingJavaIndonesiaCities, volcanoes, historyPhuketThailandBeach resortsBoracayPhilippinesWhite-sand beachesMaldivesMaldivesLuxury island resorts
Compared with many tropical destinations, Bali offers a rare combination of culture, adventure, nature, and affordability.
10 Interesting Facts About Bali
1. Bali Is Part of Indonesia
Many travelers mistakenly think Bali is a country, but it is an Indonesian province.
2. Most Residents Practice Hinduism
Unlike much of Indonesia, Bali has a predominantly Hindu population.
3. Mount Agung Is Sacred
The volcano is considered the spiritual center of the island.
4. Bali Has Thousands of Temples
The island contains more temples than many countries.
5. The Subak Irrigation System Is UNESCO Listed
This ancient farming system remains in use today.
6. Bali Lies South of the Equator
This location contributes to its tropical climate.
7. Tourism Drives the Economy
Millions of visitors arrive annually.
8. Bali Is a Popular Surfing Destination
Professional surfers visit from around the world.
9. Traditional Ceremonies Are Common
Religious celebrations occur throughout the year.
10. Bali Is Known as the Island of the Gods
The nickname reflects its spiritual traditions and temple culture.
FAQs
Where is Bali located in India?
Bali is not located in India. It is an island and province of Indonesia, situated in Southeast Asia between the islands of Java and Lombok.
Where is Bali located in which country?
Bali is located in the country of Indonesia. It is one of Indonesia’s most popular islands, known for its beaches, temples, culture, and natural beauty.
What is Bali known for?
Bali is known for its stunning beaches, ancient temples, lush rice terraces, volcanic mountains, vibrant Hindu culture, and world-class surfing. It is also famous for luxury resorts, wellness retreats, and scenic landscapes.
Is Bali in Thailand?
No, Bali is not in Thailand. It is part of Indonesia, while Thailand is a separate country in Southeast Asia.
What continent is Bali in?
Bali is located on the continent of Asia. More specifically, it lies in Southeast Asia as part of the Indonesian archipelago.
Is Bali safe?
Yes, Bali is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. Like any travel destination, visitors should take normal precautions, such as safeguarding valuables and following local safety advice.
Is Bali in India or Indonesia?
Bali is located in Indonesia, not India. It is an Indonesian island province in Southeast Asia, famous for its culture, beaches, and tropical scenery.
Where is Bali located in Asia?
Bali is located in Southeast Asia, within the Indonesian archipelago. It lies between the islands of Java and Lombok, south of the Equator and north of Australia.
Conclusion
Bali is located in Indonesia, Southeast Asia, between the islands of Java and Lombok, just south of the Equator. This tropical island province sits within the vast Indonesian archipelago and is surrounded by the Indian Ocean and the Bali Sea. Known for its spectacular beaches, volcanic mountains, ancient temples, rich Hindu culture, and thriving tourism industry, Bali has become one of the world’s most recognizable travel destinations. Whether viewed on a world map, an Asian regional map, or an Indonesian map, Bali’s strategic location, unique cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural landscapes make it one of the most fascinating and popular islands on Earth.
About Leo Sterling
Leo Sterling is a geography and travel writer at Triporra.com who believes understanding a place starts with knowing exactly where it is. He turns geographic details on countries, regions, islands, and cities into clear, engaging content for everyday readers.
For Leo, a good location article does more than mark a spot on a map. It shows what borders a place, which region it belongs to, and how it connects to the world around it—an approach reflected in guides like where is Anguilla, where solid research meets a simple, conversational style.
Whether readers are planning a trip, studying, or just curious, Leo’s goal is the same: deliver accurate, easy-to-understand information without unnecessary complexity.
Areas of Focus: Geography | Countries & Regions | Caribbean Islands | Travel Destinations | Location Research | “Where Is?” Content
