Getting Around Bali: A Complete Indian Tourist’s Guide to Transportation in Bali

Bali’s winding roads connect jungle-covered hills to white-sand beaches, but moving between them requires planning. Traffic crawls through popular areas like Kuta and Seminyak, while rural journeys take longer than maps suggest.

For Indian tourists, transportation in Bali presents a mix of options. The island’s compact size (just 145 km from west to east) doesn’t mean quick travel times. Whether you’re heading to sacred temples or seeking out surf spots, knowing your transport choices makes everything smoother.

1. Public Buses

Bemos are Bali’s colourful minibuses that serve as the backbone of public transportation in Bali. These modified vans with bench seating carry locals and budget travellers alike along set routes.

Highlights

• Journey past bustling local markets in Denpasar where vendors sell exotic fruits and handmade crafts

• Ride through authentic Balinese villages with traditional architecture and temple ceremonies

• Pass picturesque rice paddies and agricultural landscapes between Ubud and Gianyar

• Observe daily Balinese life up-close, from school children in uniforms to farmers tending their fields

Key Routes

• Denpasar to Ubud via Gianyar (approximately 1-1.5 hours)

• Kuta to Seminyak and Legian (30-45 minutes)

• Denpasar to Sanur (20-30 minutes)

• Denpasar to Singaraja in north Bali (2-3 hours)

Cost

• Short trips cost between 5,000-10,000 Rupiah (approximately Rs. 25-50)

• Longer routes like Denpasar to Ubud cost 15,000-20,000 Rupiah (Rs. 75-100)

• Pay cash directly to the driver; no special cards needed

• Prices can be negotiated for longer routes or if you want to charter the entire bemo

Operating Hours

• Monday–Friday: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM

• Saturday–Sunday: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM

• Frequency: Every 20-60 minutes depending on passenger demand and route popularity

Pro Tips

• Confirm your destination with the driver before boarding as route signs may be in Bahasa Indonesia

• Carry small denominations of Rupiah as drivers rarely have change for large bills

• Don’t expect air-conditioning or fixed schedules; bemos depart when full

• Keep valuables secure and easily accessible as space is cramped

Suggested Read: Bali on a Budget: Cost-Saving Tips for Indian Travellers

2. Taxis

App-based ride services have revolutionised transportation services in Bali. Grab and Gojek (Indonesia’s version of Uber) offer both car and motorbike rides through smartphone apps.

Highlights

• Direct access to beach clubs in Seminyak like Potato Head and Ku De Ta without parking hassles

• Easy rides to Ubud’s cultural attractions including the Sacred Monkey Forest and craft villages

• Quick transport to shopping centres and restaurants in Kuta or Legian

• Reliable airport transfers to major hotels throughout southern Bali

Key Routes

• Ngurah Rai Airport to Seminyak (30-45 minutes, longer during traffic)

• Seminyak to Canggu (20-30 minutes)

• Kuta to Sanur or Jimbaran (25-40 minutes)

• Ubud to Tegalalang Rice Terraces (20 minutes)

Cost

• Car rides: 30,000-150,000 Rupiah (Rs. 150-750) depending on distance

• Motorbike rides (GoJek/GrabBike): 10,000-60,000 Rupiah (Rs. 50-300)

• Payment via app (credit card, e-wallet) or cash

• Prices are fixed through the app, eliminating haggling

Operating Hours

• Monday–Sunday: 24 hours

• Frequency: 5-15 minutes for pickup in tourist zones; longer waits possible after midnight or in remote areas

Pro Tips

• Download both Grab and Gojek apps before arriving in Bali for price comparisons

• Use the apps’ built-in chat feature to communicate with drivers for precise pickup locations

• Some hotels and areas have pickup restrictions; you may need to walk a short distance

• Set your app to English language and Rupiah currency for easier navigation

Suggested Read: 35 Reasons Why You Should Visit Bali Right Now

3. Scooter/Motorbike

Renting a scooter is arguably the best transportation in Bali for flexibility and independence. This option gives you freedom to explore at your own pace and reach places inaccessible by larger vehicles.

Highlights

• Cruise along the scenic coastal road from Uluwatu to Nusa Dua with stunning ocean views

• Explore hidden waterfalls near Munduk in north-central Bali

• Reach secluded beaches in Amed and East Bali where larger transport doesn’t go

• Visit small traditional villages off main tourist routes to see authentic Balinese culture

Key Routes

• Ubud to Tegalalang Rice Terraces (20 minutes)

• Seminyak to Tanah Lot Temple (45 minutes)

• Canggu to Echo Beach and Batu Bolong (10-15 minutes)

• Sanur to Sukawati Art Market (30 minutes)

Cost

• Daily rental: 60,000-120,000 Rupiah per day (Rs. 300-600)

• Weekly rates: 350,000-700,000 Rupiah (Rs. 1,750-3,500)

• Fuel: 10,000-20,000 Rupiah per litre (Rs. 50-100)

• Deposit requirement: 500,000-1,000,000 Rupiah (Rs. 2,500-5,000) or passport

Operating Hours

• Rental shops: Monday–Sunday, 7:00 AM–9:00 PM

• Once rented, scooters can be used 24/7

• Frequency: Always available in tourist zones; book ahead in peak season (July-August, December)

Pro Tips

• International driving permit is legally required for riding in Bali

• Always wear a helmet and drive cautiously; traffic is chaotic and road rules often ignored

• Take photos of any existing damage before accepting the bike

• Avoid riding after dark or in heavy rain when road conditions become more dangerous

Suggested Read: Nightlife In Bali: 15 Places To Experience The Vibrant Bali

4. Traditional Taxis

Metered taxis, particularly the blue Bluebird taxis, are a reliable form of safe transportation in Bali, especially in urban and tourist areas.

Highlights

• Convenient for hotel-to-hotel transfers in Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak

• Comfortable rides to popular attractions like Waterbom Bali water park

• Air-conditioned transport to shopping malls like Beachwalk and Discovery Shopping Mall

• Professional service for airport pickups and drop-offs

Key Routes

• Ngurah Rai Airport to Kuta (15-20 minutes)

• Kuta to Jimbaran for seafood restaurants (25 minutes)

• Seminyak to Legian shopping areas (10-15 minutes)

• Sanur to Denpasar city centre (20-30 minutes)

Cost

• Metered fare starts at 7,000-10,000 Rupiah base (Rs. 35-50), then 6,500-7,000 Rupiah per km (Rs. 32-35)

• Typical short trip: 40,000-80,000 Rupiah (Rs. 200-400)

• Airport surcharge: 20,000 Rupiah (Rs. 100)

• Cash payment preferred; some taxis accept cards

Operating Hours

• Monday–Sunday: 24 hours in main tourist areas

• Frequency: Readily available at airports, malls, and major hotels; less common in rural areas

Pro Tips

• Always insist on using the meter; refuse taxis offering flat rates

• Look for genuine Bluebird taxis (light blue with bird logo) to avoid imitators

• Note that some areas have taxi “territories” where certain companies operate exclusively

• Ask for a receipt if you leave items in the taxi accidentally

5. Ferries and Speedboats

For island hopping, ferries and speedboats provide essential transportation in Bali to nearby destinations like Nusa Penida, Lombok, and the Gili Islands.

Highlights

• Spectacular views of Mount Agung from the sea en route to Lombok

• Dolphin spotting opportunities during morning crossings to Gili Islands

• Access to pristine beaches and snorkelling spots on Nusa Penida

• Beautiful sunset views returning to Bali from day trips

Key Routes

• Padang Bai (East Bali) to Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Lombok

• Sanur to Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan

• Serangan Harbour to Gili Islands (via speedboat)

• Amed to Gili Trawangan (fastest route)

Cost

• Public ferry: 50,000-80,000 Rupiah per person (Rs. 250-400) for Padang Bai to Lombok

• Speedboat: 250,000-600,000 Rupiah per person one-way (Rs. 1,250-3,000)

• Return tickets often offer 10-20% discount compared to two one-way tickets

• Tickets purchasable online, at harbours, or via travel agents (often 10-15% cheaper at harbour)

Operating Hours

• Public ferries: Monday–Sunday, 24 hours (departures every 1-2 hours)

• Speedboats: Typically 7:00 AM–5:00 PM, with 3-5 departures daily

• Frequency: More services during high season; some routes cancelled during rough seas

Pro Tips

• Book tickets 1-2 days in advance during peak season (July-August, December-January)

• Arrive at the harbour 30-60 minutes before the scheduled departure

• Take motion sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness; the waters can be rough

• Check weather conditions before booking; crossings may be cancelled during storms

Suggested Read: Discover the Top 15 Must-Visit Temples in Bali

6. Shuttle Buses

The Kura Kura bus network offers tourist-focused public transportation in Bali connecting major attractions and hotels in southern Bali and Ubud.

Highlights

• Regular stops at Bali’s top attractions including Ubud Monkey Forest and Kuta Beach

• Routes passing through scenic coastal roads connecting beach towns

• Direct access to Waterbom Bali water park and Bali Zoo

• Comfortable, air-conditioned rides between top hotels and shopping malls

Key Routes

• Kuta ↔ Ubud (approximately 1.5 hours)

• Seminyak ↔ Nusa Dua (45-60 minutes)

• Legian ↔ Jimbaran (30-45 minutes)

• Airport ↔ Main resorts on select routes

Cost

• Single trip: 100,000-120,000 Rupiah (Rs. 500-600)

• Day pass: 160,000 Rupiah (Rs. 800) for unlimited rides within 24 hours

• 3-day pass: 380,000 Rupiah (Rs. 1,900)

• Tickets available via Kura Kura app, website, or on board

Operating Hours

• Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM–10:00 PM

• Saturday–Sunday: 8:00 AM–11:00 PM

• Frequency: Every 30 minutes on main routes; every 60 minutes on secondary routes

Pro Tips

• Download the Kura Kura app for real-time bus tracking and ticket purchasing

• Plan your day around the fixed timetable to maximize efficiency

• Look for combination tickets that include attraction entry with bus transport

• Buses have free WiFi and USB charging ports for devices

Suggested Read: 20 Most Captivating Markets in Bali: An Insider’s Guide!

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FAQs

What is the best way to get around Bali?

For most Indian tourists, a mix of options works best. Rent a scooter for local exploration, use Grab/Gojek for longer trips, and try Kura Kura buses for main tourist routes. Your choice depends on your comfort with local driving, budget, and time constraints.

What is the main transportation in Bali?

Scooters and motorbikes are the main transportation in Bali, used by both locals and tourists. You’ll see families of four on a single bike and tourists exploring the island on rented scooters. App-based services like Grab and Gojek follow as the second most popular option.

What is the cheapest way of transport in Bali?

Local bemo minibuses are the most affordable transportation in Bali, with fares as low as 5,000-15,000 Rupiah (Rs. 25-75) per ride. While they’re budget-friendly, they lack air conditioning and follow irregular schedules.

Is a taxi expensive in Bali?

Compared to Indian taxi prices, transportation in Bali via taxi is moderately priced. Short trips start at 40,000-80,000 Rupiah (Rs. 200-400). For Indian standards, this is reasonable, but costs add up for longer journeys or if you get stuck in traffic.

Can tourists use the Bali Metro?

No, Bali has no metro system. The island relies on road-based transportation in Bali including buses, taxis, and scooters. The closest thing to a metro is the Kura Kura bus network that connects major tourist areas.

What currency is used in Bali?

Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is used for all transportation services in Bali. As of 2025, 1 Indian Rupee equals roughly 190-200 Indonesian Rupiah. Many places accept cards, but always carry cash for local transport and small vendors.

Are taxis in Bali expensive?

For Indian tourists, private transportation in Bali like taxis are reasonably priced compared to major Indian cities. A 10km taxi ride costs around 75,000-90,000 Rupiah (Rs. 375-450), similar to or slightly more expensive than major Indian cities.

Are buses cheap in Bali?

Yes, public buses and bemos are the cheapest transportation in Bali. A typical bemo ride costs 5,000-15,000 Rupiah (Rs. 25-75), making them ideal for budget travellers willing to sacrifice some comfort and convenience.