Rainy Season in Bali: Tourists Encouraged to Embrace Indoor Attractions This Christmas

Published on December 11, 2025

Bali’s tourism industry is gearing up for a busy Christmas season, but with the rainy season expected to continue, tourists are being advised to include more indoor activities in their travel itineraries. The island’s heavy rainfall, coupled with the worst flooding in over 70 years in September 2025, has caused disruptions in travel plans and raised concerns for the upcoming holiday season. As a result, local authorities and tourism leaders are calling on businesses to better prepare for the influx of visitors and to offer alternatives to outdoor activities.

Bali, known for its beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, and vibrant cultural attractions, has long been a top holiday destination. However, the unpredictable weather during the wet season, which runs from November to March, means that travelers may encounter heavy rains, strong winds, and potential flooding. This year, the flooding has been especially severe, causing widespread damage to infrastructure and affecting popular tourist spots. With Christmas holidays approaching, visitors are being encouraged to adjust their expectations and plan for indoor experiences that can still showcase the island’s unique offerings.

Bali’s Seasonal Weather Challenges

Bali’s tropical climate brings two main seasons: the dry season, which runs from April to October, and the rainy season, which spans from November to March. The rainy season brings occasional thunderstorms, high humidity, and heavy downpours, particularly in December. Although Bali remains a year-round destination, the wet season can lead to limited access to certain attractions, such as beaches, hiking trails, and outdoor temples, which are typically popular with holidaymakers.

In recent years, the rainy season has intensified, with 2025 seeing some of the most severe floods Bali has experienced in decades. The flooding in September caused significant damage in both urban and rural areas, particularly affecting regions like Ubud, Denpasar, and parts of southern Bali. These extreme weather events have prompted local officials to take a proactive approach in preparing for the Christmas tourist rush, ensuring that both tourists and businesses are ready to adapt to the changing conditions.

Indoor Activities for Christmas Travelers

Given the uncertainty of the weather this festive season, tourists are advised to plan indoor activities as part of their Bali itinerary. Despite the rains, Bali offers a range of exciting and educational indoor attractions for visitors. These experiences allow travelers to enjoy the island’s rich cultural heritage, artistic traditions, and relaxation opportunities, all while staying dry.

Cultural and Art Centers
Bali is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, with a number of museums and cultural centers offering enriching experiences. The Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) in Ubud is a great indoor spot where visitors can explore traditional and contemporary Balinese art. The museum features an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts, providing a glimpse into Bali’s cultural history. Similarly, the Neka Art Museum and the Blanco Renaissance Museum offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Bali’s creative spirit, all within the comfort of indoor spaces.

Wellness and Spa Retreats
For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Bali’s world-famous spa and wellness industry offers plenty of indoor activities to escape the rain. Many resorts and wellness centers in Ubud, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua provide a variety of treatments, such as traditional Balinese massages, aromatherapy, and yoga classes. These activities offer travelers the chance to unwind in serene, peaceful environments while staying dry.

Cooking Classes and Cultural Workshops
Bali is also famous for its cuisine, and many cooking schools offer hands-on cooking classes that provide a unique indoor experience. Tourists can learn to prepare traditional Balinese dishes such as Babi Guling (suckling pig) or Sate Lilit (spiced minced meat satay). These classes typically include a tour of local markets to purchase fresh ingredients, followed by an interactive cooking session in a cozy, covered setting.

In addition to cooking classes, travelers can engage in cultural workshops such as batik painting, wood carving, or silver jewelry making. These workshops offer a chance to create personalized souvenirs while learning about traditional Balinese crafts, all in an indoor, sheltered environment.

Shopping and Dining Experiences
Bali boasts a variety of indoor shopping malls and markets, which provide an excellent opportunity for tourists to explore local products and enjoy some downtime away from the rain. The Beachwalk Shopping Center in Kuta and the Discovery Shopping Mall in Nusa Dua are two popular destinations where visitors can shop for clothing, souvenirs, and local crafts. These malls are also home to a wide range of dining options, offering visitors the chance to enjoy local and international cuisine in comfortable indoor settings.

Indoor Entertainment
For those looking for more modern indoor experiences, Bali offers a variety of entertainment options, from cinemas to indoor trampoline parks. The cinema in Bali’s Kuta Beachwalk Mall often features the latest international films, while the Bali Trampoline Park in Denpasar offers an active, fun indoor experience for families and adventure seekers.

Preparing for the Christmas Rush

With Christmas approaching, Bali is expected to see a large influx of visitors, as it is a popular destination for both international and domestic tourists during the festive season. In preparation, tourism leaders are urging local businesses to offer packages that include both outdoor and indoor activities, allowing tourists to adjust their plans as needed based on weather conditions.

Hotels, resorts, and tour operators are being encouraged to ensure they have indoor alternatives available for travelers, particularly for those with children or elderly family members who may not be able to participate in outdoor activities during heavy rains. Offering indoor experiences, such as cooking classes, spa treatments, or cultural workshops, will help ensure that tourists can still enjoy their time in Bali, rain or shine.

Conclusion: Embrace Bali’s Indoor Delights

Despite the challenges posed by the rainy season, Bali remains a destination that offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. For tourists visiting during the Christmas season, the addition of indoor activities will ensure a memorable holiday, no matter the weather. Bali’s rich cultural offerings, wellness retreats, and unique workshops provide plenty of opportunities to explore the island in a comfortable, sheltered environment.