North and West Bali Become Must-Visit Destinations for Singaporean Tourists Seeking Peace, Nature, and Cultural Richness – Everything You Need to Know

Published on December 13, 2025

Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism has launched an exciting initiative aimed at boosting tourism to North and West Bali—regions often overshadowed by the bustling southern parts of the island. The campaign is targeting Singaporean tourists with tailored familiarization trips (Famtrips) from December 8 to 12, 2025, to showcase the serenity, culture, and rich experiences these areas offer. The Famtrips aim to provide tour operators firsthand exposure to hidden Bali—known for its nature tourism, wellness retreats, marine adventures, and gastronomy. By fostering stronger relationships with Singaporean travel agencies, Indonesia seeks to expand the appeal of these quieter, untouched regions to a wider audience, enhancing both the visitor experience and local business opportunities.

A New Focus on Bali’s North and West Regions

Bali is globally celebrated for its vibrant southern coastline, featuring destinations like Kuta and Seminyak, but its North and West regions remain largely untapped. These areas promise a refreshing contrast with Bali’s more commercialized destinations, offering peaceful beaches, lush green landscapes, and unique cultural experiences.

To elevate these regions, the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism has been actively engaged in promoting these areas through events like Famtrips. A select group of Singaporean tour operators recently participated in one of these programs, designed to expose them to the region’s offerings in an effort to boost tourist arrivals and promote sustainable tourism practices.

What Singaporean Tourists Can Expect in North and West Bali

Both North and West Bali are known for their diverse and sustainable tourism offerings. Tourists visiting these regions can indulge in a wide variety of experiences ranging from wellness retreats in tranquil settings to eco-friendly marine adventures. The Bali Barat National Park in the West is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, while the lake regions and mountainous landscapes in the North provide spectacular trekking opportunities.

Additionally, Bali’s lesser-known towns and villages are home to traditional gastronomy experiences. Local restaurants and street food vendors offer a taste of Bali’s authentic dishes, crafted with fresh, local ingredients. This focus on local culture and sustainability offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Bali’s natural beauty, all while supporting the local community.

Singaporean Visitors: A Key Market for Bali’s Tourism Growth

Singapore plays a vital role in Bali’s tourism landscape, with a significant share of the island’s international tourist arrivals. In October 2025, 9.43% of all international visitors to Indonesia came from Singapore, with 1.33 million visits recorded in the same month. Between January and October 2025, the total number of Singaporean tourists to Indonesia reached over 1.19 million.

As one of Bali’s key international markets, Singapore’s proximity to the island and its well-established travel connections make it an important focus for tourism officials. Bali’s strategic marketing campaigns are not only aimed at bringing in first-time visitors, but also encouraging repeat travel, fostering long-term tourism growth.

Business Opportunities and Networking for Local Tour Operators

During the Famtrip, Singaporean tourism representatives were introduced to local Bali business owners through a business matching event. This initiative helps create collaborations between Singaporean travel agents and Bali’s tourism operators, paving the way for customized tour packages. These collaborative efforts aim to cater to the specific interests of Singaporean tourists, who seek both authentic cultural experiences and relaxation in Bali’s tranquil corners.

For local Bali businesses, these Famtrips are invaluable in facilitating networking opportunities that can lead to long-term partnerships with overseas operators. This is particularly important for businesses in the North and West regions, as it helps them gain exposure beyond Bali’s already saturated southern markets.

Why Visit North and West Bali Now?

1. Nature and Wellness Tourism: Bali’s North and West are perfect for travelers looking to unwind in nature. Activities like eco-tours, forest hikes, and wellness retreats allow visitors to reconnect with their surroundings in a peaceful environment.
2. Marine Adventures: With diving spots and snorkeling opportunities in places like the Menjangan Island, Bali’s West offers a haven for marine enthusiasts.
3. Cultural Immersion: Visitors can explore traditional Balinese villages, experience local festivals, and indulge in unique art and gastronomy that showcase Bali’s cultural richness.
4. Sustainable Tourism: The Ministry is keen on ensuring eco-friendly practices in these regions, promoting a sustainable travel model that benefits both visitors and local communities.

What Should Singaporean Travelers Know Before Visiting?

If you’re planning a trip to North and West Bali, here are some tips to make the most of your journey:

• Pack Light and Comfortable: Due to the more remote nature of these regions, lighter luggage is recommended as many areas are less developed than Bali’s southern resorts.
• Respect Local Culture: Bali’s northern and western regions are home to more traditional communities. Be sure to respect local customs, dress codes, and temple etiquette.
• Stay at Eco-Friendly Hotels: There are plenty of sustainable resorts and eco-lodges in these regions, offering a chance to relax while minimizing your environmental impact.

What’s Next for Bali’s Tourism?

The Bali Tourism Ministry hopes to continue promoting these regions by organizing more Famtrips in the future. Through such efforts, the Ministry aims to create a more balanced distribution of tourists across the island, ensuring that Bali’s natural resources and local communities are better protected from the pressures of over-tourism in the south.

In the coming years, North and West Bali could become the go-to destinations for those seeking peace, tranquility, and an authentic Balinese experience—helping to support the island’s sustainable tourism development.

Additional Tips for Travelers:

• Explore Lesser-Known Beaches: The beaches in North and West Bali offer a quieter, more serene experience compared to the crowded beaches in the south.
• Take Time to Explore Local Villages: These regions offer fantastic opportunities to engage with local artisans and experience Bali’s rich cultural heritage.