Summary: In today's article, I compiled 20 of the best Bali travel books that will inspire and guide your journey to this stunning island paradise. Here are my top 3 choices:
- Lonely Planet Bali & Lombok by Lonely Planet
- Island of Bali by Miguel Covarrubias
- Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
Bali travel books are essential for anyone visiting this beautiful Indonesian island. They offer practical tips on where to stay, eat, and explore while delving into Bali’s rich culture and history. With personal stories and insider advice, these books help uncover hidden gems, ensuring a memorable and meaningful adventure.
TOP 20: Best Bali Travel Books
- Lonely Planet Bali & Lombok by Lonely Planet
- Island of Bali by Miguel Covarrubias
- Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
- The Rough Guide to Bali & Lombok by Rough Guides
- Fodor's Essential Bali by Fodor's Travel Guides
- Frommer's Bali and Lombok by Frommer's
- DK Eyewitness Bali & Lombok by DK Travel
- A Short History of Bali: Indonesia's Hindu Realm by Robert Pringle
- Explore Bali: The Best Routes Around the Island by Insight Guides
- Bali: Sekala & Niskala by Fred B. Eiseman Jr.
- Bali: A Paradise Created by Adrian Vickers
- Bali Travel Guide 2023 by Mia Simard
- Balinese Dance, Drama, and Music: A Short Introduction by I Wayan Dibia
- A House in Bali by Colin McPhee
- Bali: The Ultimate Guide: To the World's Most Spectacular Tropical Island by Tim Hannigan
- Bali Travel Guide: Essential Tips for First-Timers, Digital Nomads, and Unforgettable Vacations by Dedalo Agency
- Bali Island Travel Guide 2025 by Archer Scofield
- Diving & Snorkeling Guide to Bali by Tim Rock
- Bali: The Solo Girl's Travel Guide by Alexa West
- Bali Travel Guide 2024 by Herman E. Dominick
1. Lonely Planet Bali & Lombok
- Author: Lonely Planet
- About: A comprehensive travel guide covering the Indonesian islands of Bali and Lombok, offering insights into attractions, accommodations, dining, and activities.
- Style of Writing: Informative and practical with detailed descriptions and useful tips.
- Length: Approximately 500 pages (around 150,000 words)
- Year Written: 2023
- Emotional Impact: Provides confidence and excitement for planning a trip, leaving readers eager to explore.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to read; suitable for all traveler levels.
- Why Read It: Renowned for its reliability and thoroughness, it's an essential resource for anyone visiting Bali and Lombok.
2. Island of Bali
- Author: Miguel Covarrubias
- About: An anthropological study exploring Bali's culture, traditions, and social structures.
- Style of Writing: Academic and descriptive with rich cultural analysis.
- Length: Approximately 400 pages (around 120,000 words)
- Year Written: 1937 (Classic)
- Emotional Impact: Deepens understanding and appreciation of Balinese culture, leaving a lasting intellectual impression.
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate to advanced; suitable for readers with interest in anthropology and culture.
- Why Read It: A seminal work that provides an in-depth look at Bali's unique cultural heritage.
3. Eat, Pray, Love
- Author: Elizabeth Gilbert
- About: A memoir chronicling the author's journey of self-discovery, including a transformative year spent in Bali.
- Style of Writing: Personal, reflective, and engaging narrative.
- Length: Approximately 350 pages (around 90,000 words)
- Year Written: 2006
- Emotional Impact: Inspiring and uplifting, encouraging personal growth and exploration.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to read; accessible to a broad audience.
- Why Read It: Combines travel with personal development, offering both inspiration and practical insights into Bali.
4. The Rough Guide to Bali & Lombok
- Author: Rough Guides
- About: A detailed guide covering Bali and Lombok, including maps, accommodation options, and activity recommendations.
- Style of Writing: Practical and user-friendly with clear organization.
- Length: Approximately 400 pages (around 100,000 words)
- Year Written: 2023
- Emotional Impact: Equips readers with confidence to explore, leaving them prepared and excited.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to intermediate; suitable for all travelers.
- Why Read It: Offers comprehensive and up-to-date information, making it a reliable companion for your travels.
5. Fodor's Essential Bali
- Author: Fodor's Travel Guides
- About: An essential guide providing insights into Bali's top attractions, restaurants, and accommodations.
- Style of Writing: Informative with expert recommendations and practical tips.
- Length: Approximately 300 pages (around 80,000 words)
- Year Written: 2023
- Emotional Impact: Provides assurance and clarity, making trip planning straightforward.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to read; accessible for all travelers.
- Why Read It: Trusted for its quality and depth, Fodor's Essential Bali is perfect for thorough trip preparation.
6. Frommer's Bali and Lombok
- Author: Frommer's
- About: A comprehensive travel guide to Bali and Lombok, featuring itineraries, maps, and practical advice.
- Style of Writing: Clear and concise with actionable recommendations.
- Length: Approximately 350 pages (around 90,000 words)
- Year Written: 2023
- Emotional Impact: Empowers readers with knowledge, fostering excitement and preparedness.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to intermediate; suitable for all levels of travelers.
- Why Read It: Known for its reliability and thorough coverage, making it an excellent resource for planning your trip.
7. DK Eyewitness Bali & Lombok
- Author: DK Travel
- About: A visually rich guide featuring detailed maps, illustrations, and photographs of Bali and Lombok.
- Style of Writing: Visual and descriptive, with a focus on imagery and easy navigation.
- Length: Approximately 250 pages (around 70,000 words)
- Year Written: 2023
- Emotional Impact: Inspires wanderlust through stunning visuals and engaging content.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to read; ideal for visual learners.
- Why Read It: Perfect for those who appreciate visual guides and want a visually immersive planning experience.
8. A Short History of Bali
- Author: Robert Pringle
- About: An exploration of Bali's Hindu heritage, tracing its historical development and cultural significance.
- Style of Writing: Scholarly yet accessible, blending historical facts with cultural analysis.
- Length: Approximately 320 pages (around 85,000 words)
- Year Written: 2004
- Emotional Impact: Enhances cultural appreciation, leaving readers with a deeper understanding of Bali's traditions.
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate; suitable for readers interested in history and culture.
- Why Read It: Provides a thorough historical context, enriching your appreciation of Bali's cultural landscape.
9. Explore Bali: The Best Routes Around the Island
- Author: Insight Guides
- About: A guide focused on the best travel routes in Bali, highlighting key attractions and scenic paths.
- Style of Writing: Practical with detailed itineraries and route maps.
- Length: Approximately 280 pages (around 75,000 words)
- Year Written: 2023
- Emotional Impact: Inspires adventure and exploration, encouraging readers to discover Bali's diverse landscapes.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to intermediate; suitable for all travelers.
- Why Read It: Ideal for those who want structured itineraries and optimized routes to make the most of their time in Bali.
10. Bali: Sekala & Niskala
- Author: Fred B. Eiseman Jr.
- About: An in-depth look at Bali's visible and invisible aspects, including its art, religion, and daily life.
- Style of Writing: Detailed and descriptive with a focus on cultural insights.
- Length: Approximately 450 pages (around 130,000 words)
- Year Written: 1971 (Revised editions available)
- Emotional Impact: Deepens cultural understanding, fostering a profound appreciation for Bali's traditions.
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate to advanced; suitable for those interested in cultural studies.
- Why Read It: A classic work that offers a comprehensive exploration of Bali's multifaceted culture and society.
11. Bali: A Paradise Created
- Author: Adrian Vickers
- About: Examines the impact of tourism on Bali's culture, economy, and environment, and explores the island's transformation.
- Style of Writing: Analytical and insightful with a balanced perspective.
- Length: Approximately 350 pages (around 90,000 words)
- Year Written: 2006
- Emotional Impact: Provokes thought and reflection on the consequences of tourism.
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate; suitable for readers interested in socio-economic studies.
- Why Read It: Provides a critical understanding of Bali's modern challenges and developments, enriching your perspective as a traveler.
12. Bali Travel Guide 2023
- Author: Mia Simard
- About: An up-to-date travel guide offering the latest information on Bali's attractions, accommodations, dining, and activities for 2023 travelers.
- Style of Writing: Practical and engaging with current insights and recommendations.
- Length: Approximately 300 pages (around 80,000 words)
- Year Written: 2023
- Emotional Impact: Equips readers with current knowledge, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to read; suitable for all travelers.
- Why Read It: Offers the most recent information and trends, making it essential for planning a timely and relevant Bali visit.
13. Balinese Dance, Drama, and Music: A Short Introduction
- Author: I Wayan Dibia
- About: A concise introduction to Bali's performing arts, including traditional dance, drama, and music.
- Style of Writing: Informative and descriptive with cultural insights.
- Length: Approximately 150 pages (around 40,000 words)
- Year Written: 2010
- Emotional Impact: Enhances appreciation for Bali's artistic expressions, leaving a cultural imprint.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to intermediate; suitable for all readers.
- Why Read It: Perfect for those interested in understanding the artistic and cultural performances that define Bali.
14. A House in Bali
- Author: Colin McPhee
- About: A memoir detailing McPhee's experiences living in Bali, exploring the island's culture, music, and daily life.
- Style of Writing: Personal and narrative-driven with vivid descriptions.
- Length: Approximately 300 pages (around 80,000 words)
- Year Written: 1947 (Revised editions available)
- Emotional Impact: Offers a heartfelt and immersive glimpse into Bali, fostering a personal connection.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to read; accessible to a broad audience.
- Why Read It: Provides a unique, personal perspective of Bali from a Western artist deeply immersed in the island's culture.
15. Bali: The Ultimate Guide: To the World's Most Spectacular Tropical Island
- Author: Tim Hannigan
- About: An all-encompassing guide to Bali, covering top attractions, hidden gems, accommodations, dining, and cultural experiences.
- Style of Writing: Comprehensive and engaging with detailed recommendations.
- Length: Approximately 400 pages (around 100,000 words)
- Year Written: 2023
- Emotional Impact: Inspires excitement and anticipation, leaving readers eager to explore.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to intermediate; suitable for all travelers.
- Why Read It: Serves as a one-stop resource for planning a complete and enriching Bali experience.
16. Bali Travel Guide: Essential Tips for First-Timers, Digital Nomads, and Unforgettable Vacations
- Author: Dedalo Agency
- About: A versatile guide tailored for first-time visitors, digital nomads, and those seeking memorable vacations in Bali.
- Style of Writing: Practical and adaptable with specific tips for various traveler types.
- Length: Approximately 280 pages (around 75,000 words)
- Year Written: 2023
- Emotional Impact: Provides tailored advice, making readers feel supported and prepared.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to read; suitable for diverse audiences.
- Why Read It: Offers specialized insights and tips, catering to different travel needs and enhancing the overall Bali experience.
17. Bali Island Travel Guide 2025
- Author: Archer Scofield
- About: A forward-looking guide offering the latest insights, trends, and recommendations for Bali travelers in 2025.
- Style of Writing: Contemporary and trend-focused with future-oriented advice.
- Length: Approximately 350 pages (around 90,000 words)
- Year Written: 2025
- Emotional Impact: Builds excitement for future travel, leaving readers anticipating upcoming developments.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to intermediate; suitable for all travelers.
- Why Read It: Provides cutting-edge information and anticipates future trends, ensuring readers are ahead of the curve in their Bali planning.
18. Diving & Snorkeling Guide to Bali
- Author: Tim Rock
- About: A specialized guide focusing on Bali's underwater attractions, including top diving and snorkeling spots, marine life, and safety tips.
- Style of Writing: Detailed and technical with practical diving information.
- Length: Approximately 200 pages (around 50,000 words)
- Year Written: 2023
- Emotional Impact: Sparks excitement for underwater exploration, fostering a sense of adventure.
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate; suitable for divers and snorkelers with some experience.
- Why Read It: Essential for marine enthusiasts seeking to explore Bali's vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystems safely and enjoyably.
19. Bali: The Solo Girl's Travel Guide
- Author: Alexa West
- About: A guide tailored for solo female travelers, offering safety tips, accommodation recommendations, and curated itineraries in Bali.
- Style of Writing: Empowering and supportive with personal anecdotes and practical advice.
- Length: Approximately 220 pages (around 60,000 words)
- Year Written: 2023
- Emotional Impact: Provides reassurance and confidence, encouraging independent exploration.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to read; suitable for solo female travelers of all experience levels.
- Why Read It: Offers specialized insights and tips, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and empowering Bali experience for solo female adventurers.
20. Bali Travel Guide 2024
- Author: Herman E. Dominick
- About: An updated travel guide for Bali in 2024, featuring the latest attractions, accommodations, dining, and cultural experiences.
- Style of Writing: Current and comprehensive with up-to-date information and recommendations.
- Length: Approximately 320 pages (around 85,000 words)
- Year Written: 2024
- Emotional Impact: Ensures travelers feel well-informed and excited for their journey.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to intermediate; suitable for all travelers.
- Why Read It: Provides the most recent information and trends, making it an essential resource for planning a timely and relevant Bali visit.
Conclusion
In my opinion, these top three books are must-reads for anyone visiting Bali. Lonely Planet Bali & Lombok is packed with practical tips to help you navigate the island effortlessly. Island of Bali offers a fascinating dive into the culture and history that make Bali so unique. And Eat, Pray, Love brings an inspiring, personal perspective that captures the island’s serene magic. Together, they provide everything you need to plan, explore, and truly experience Bali.
