Bali is a favourite travel destination in South East Asia. And a popular one among Indias as well. Many a times it beats Thailand, even Singapore and other South East Asian countries in terms of tourist footfalls. From getting your Bali visa for Indians to managing everyday expenses and travel hacks, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into everything you need for a budget friendly Bali trip from India!
Types of Bali Visas for Indians
Before you start packing, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the different types of visas available for Indian citizens when it comes to a Bali trip from India:
Visa on Arrival (VoA)
- Duration: Valid for 30 days (can be extended once for an additional 30 days).
- Purpose: Tourism, family visits, or attending conferences.
Requirements
- Passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- Return or onward flight ticket.
- Proof of sufficient funds for the stay.
Fee
Approximately USD 35 or IDR 500,000, payable upon arrival.
Extension
This can be extended once at a local immigration office in Indonesia.
e-Visa
- Duration: Valid for 30 days (can be extended once for an additional 30 days).
- Application: Apply online before travelling through the official Indonesian immigration website or authorised agents.
Requirements
- Digital copy of passport with at least six months validity.
- Return or onward flight ticket.
- Recent passport-sized photograph.
- Payment of visa fee online.
Processing Time
Typically 3-5 working days.
Single Entry Visit Visa (Type 211A)
- Duration: Initial validity of 60 days, extendable twice, each time by 60 days, allowing a maximum stay of 180 days.
- Purpose: Longer stays for tourism, social, or cultural visits.
- Application: Must be applied for before travelling, either online or through the Indonesian embassy.
Requirements
- Passport with at least six months validity.
- Detailed itinerary and purpose of visit.
- Proof of sufficient funds.
- Sponsorship letter if applicable.
Fee
It varies as per the duration and purpose.
Multiple Entry Visit Visa (Type D1/D2)
- Duration: Valid for one or two years, allowing stays of up to 60 days per visit.
- Purpose: Frequent business or family visits.
- Application: Must be applied for before travelling through the Indonesian embassy.
Requirements
- Passport with at least six months’ validity.
- Proof of frequent travel to Indonesia.
- Sponsorship letter from an Indonesian entity or individual.
Fee
Varies based on duration and purpose.
Now, that you know different types of Visas that apply for a Bali trip from India, you can choose one based on your requirements. The duration of your stay in Bali. And whether you want to work remotely (for digital nomads and worcation holidays). So, plan on applying for your visa accordingly. Even when going for a visa on arrival, you can pre-fill the form so that once you arrive in Bali, the waiting time for you is short on the visa-on-arrival counter.
Flight and Accommodation – Budgeting the Big Stuff
Your two biggest expenses on your Bali trip from India will be flights and accommodation. Let’s break them down so you can plan better.
Budget Flights for a Bali trip from India
Round-trip flights from major Indian cities cost between ₹18,000 to ₹35,000. But it really depends on how far in advance you book your ticket. And if you are booking around public holidays, school holidays, long weekends etc. Weekdays tickets will be slightly more costly that weekend ones. And during the peak season, year end or school holiday season, the flight costs will again be higher. So, if you can plan a trip around these times, you can get a really good deal. Otherwise, you can book as much in advance as possible to get a good deal on your flights.
Best deals often come from:
- Mumbai
- Delhi
- Bangalore
Book tickets 2-3 months in advance to get the best prices
|
City |
Average Return Fare (₹) |
Common Airlines |
|
Mumbai |
22,000 – 30,000 |
AirAsia, Scoot, Batik Air |
|
Delhi |
24,000 – 35,000 |
AirAsia, Singapore Airlines |
|
Bangalore |
20,000 – 32,000 |
Scoot, AirAsia |
PS: Check our flight booking hacks to book cheap flight every time you travel.
Affordable Stays in Bali
Bali offers something for everyone – whether you’re backpacking or honeymooning.
|
Type of Stay |
Cost per Night (₹) |
Inclusions |
| Hostels | ₹400 – ₹800 | Shared rooms, breakfast |
| Budget Hotels | ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 | Private room, Wi-Fi, pool access |
| Airbnb/Villas | ₹2,500 onwards | Kitchen, air conditioning, privacy |
Tip: Stay in areas like Ubud, Kuta, or Seminyak for great deals and easy transport.
Also, don’t forget to stay in an private pool villa when planning a Bali trip from India, particularly when staying in Ubud. These villas are affordable. And famous for their typical Balinese aesthetics. Surrounded by lush green fields, sometimes even overlooking the hills. These are the perfect relaxation spots you can hope for during a Bali trip from India.
What to Eat in Bali Without Overspending?
Bali is a food lover’s dream. And you don’t have to spend a fortune to eat well when on a Bali trip from India.
Local Food Options
Local warungs (small eateries) serve authentic Balinese meals at super affordable prices.
- Nasi Goreng (Fried Rice): ₹100–₹150
- Mie Goreng (Fried Noodles): ₹100–₹150
- Satay (Meat Skewers): ₹150–₹200
Vegetarian options are widely available. Which is a good news for Indians for sure!
Indian Restaurants in Bali
Missing home food? No worries! Bali has several Indian eateries.
- The expected amount to be spent is around ₹500–₹800 for a meal
- Some popular areas: Seminyak, Ubud, Kuta
Tip: Carry some ready-to-eat packs or dry snacks for convenience.
However, given the option of Indian food, vegetarian food and even continental food in Bali is much more than in other neighboring countries like Thailand, you will have plenty of budget eatery options of your choice on a Bali trip from India.
Getting Around Bali – Transport Tips
Getting around in Bali is easy and doesn’t have to be expensive.
Local Transport Options
- Scooter rentals: ₹300–₹500/day
- Taxis: Use Blue Bird Taxis or apps like Gojek and Grab
- Private car with driver: Around ₹2,000–₹3,000 per day (great for group travel)
Areas You Can Explore on a Budget
- Ubud: Rice terraces, monkey forest, art markets
- Kuta: Surfing, nightlife, and beaches
- Seminyak: Cafés, shopping, and sunset views
- Nusa Penida: A short boat ride away; budget tours available
Sightseeing & Activities on a Budget
Here are some of the most attractive sightseeing points and activities in Bali:
Must-See Attractions (and Costs)
|
Attraction |
Entry Fee (INR) |
|
Tanah Lot Temple |
₹200 |
|
Uluwatu Temple |
₹250 |
|
Sacred Monkey Forest (Ubud) |
₹300 |
|
Mount Batur Sunrise Trek |
₹1,200–₹1,500 |
|
Waterfalls (Tegenungan) |
₹100 |
Tip: Buy combo tickets or group tours to save more.
Free or Low-Cost Things to Do
- Watch the sunset at a beach, particularly near Tanah Lot temple, or, at Uluwatu Beach
- Explore local markets of Bali, do window shopping.
- Join free yoga sessions in Ubud.
- Walk through rice fields.
- Join a free walking tour or curate on for yourself.
- Wander through the streets of Kuta to get a real vibe of the coastal areas of Bali
Travel Insurance and Health Tips
Many travellers skip insurance when trying to save money, but it’s worth it. A good international travel insurance policy covers you for medical emergencies, flight delays, lost luggage, and more.
Why International Insurance Matters?
- Medical facilities for tourists can be expensive
- Peace of mind while doing activities like surfing or trekking
- Required for long stays or specific visa types
Tip: Compare plans online and pick one that suits your travel style and duration.
Money Matters – Currency & Daily Budget
Here are the currency and daily budget tips:
Currency Tips for Indians Traveling to Bali
- 1 INR ≈ 190 Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
- Carry a multi-currency forex card for safety
Withdraw cash from ATMs using an international debit card
Daily Budget Guide (Per Person)
|
Category |
Approx. Daily Cost (INR) |
|
Meals |
₹300–₹800 |
|
Local Transport |
₹100–₹500 |
|
Entry Fees |
₹100–₹300 |
|
Accommodation |
₹400–₹2,000 |
Total Daily Spend: ₹1,000 – ₹3,500 (based on travel style)
Packing and Travel Tips for Bali
Here are the top packing and travel tips:
Must-Haves for a Smooth Trip
- Lightweight clothes
- Rain jacket (for sudden tropical showers)
- Power adapter (Indonesia uses type C and F plugs)
- Sunscreen and mosquito repellent
- International insurance documents (printed or digital copy)
Here’s our tried and tested travel packing tips and tricks for more.
Smart Travel Tips
- Download offline maps
- Buy a local SIM card to stay in touch during your trip
- Follow local customs and wear modest clothing when visiting temples
- Bargain at markets politely – it’s part of the culture
A Bali trip from India doesn’t have to be expensive. With the right visa, careful budgeting, and a few clever tips, you can explore this island paradise without overspending. Don’t forget to get your international insurance, sort your Bali Visa for Indians, and pack your spirit of adventure!