BALI A SLICE OF PARADISE

Stunning beaches, lush rice paddies, and a vibrant culture make this tropical haven a tourist's delight

- by Purnima Sharma

The soft golden sands of Kuta Beach feel blissfully cool as I enjoy the delightful vistas that open up at every turn -- of Bali's clear blue skies, tropical greenery, and aquamarine waters. Having taken a 'ticket to paradise' (the title of the 2022 Julia Roberts-George Clooney starrer set in Bali), I am ready for a holiday like no other in this archipelagic country situated in Southeast Asia and Oceania.

“You'll be struck high soon after you land in Bali,” I recall a friend saying to me as I leave the island’s Ngurah Rai International Airport. And sure enough, it’s love at first sight as I take in the sights and sounds of the place that’s often counted among the world’s most outstanding destinations.

Indian tourists never fail to be charmed by Bali's connection with Hindu mythology. And it starts with its moniker -- named as it is after the monkey-king of Kishkindha in the Ramayana. “With an almost 80% Hindu population, you're likely to find temples and Ganesha and dwarpala statues in almost every home,” informs Pak Suta, our Indonesian friend.

As evening descends and the Kuta waters take on a stunning tangerine hue, we get set to enjoy a unique slice of Bali's cultural chapter -- the Balinese version of the Ramayana called the Kecak dance-drama.

The charming amphitheatre in Ubud soon comes alive with 'chak chak chak' - sounds akin to 'monkey chants' sung by a 'choir' of over 100 men as they sit on stage recounting the story of Sita’s kidnapping by Ravana and the resultant war between Rama and the Lanka King. Dressed in striking costumes, the artistes keep the audience spellbound through the hourlong performance.