Bali’s Best Spiritual Experiences And Healing Rituals - Here’s Where To Go
For seekers of inner peace, these wellness options take you on a spiritual journey
When asked why I return to Bali every year, my answer is simple: it’s where I go to get grounded. I’ve traveled all over the world, but Bali? Bali is the mothership. After more than 10 years of visiting this island, I’ve learned that it’s the perfect place for anyone seeking inner peace and a deeper spiritual connection.
Sure, I meditate at home. Sure, I have an altar with all the things. But in incense-filled Ubud, Bali, a magic-like feeling takes over. There’s an energy that you feel on the inside—it vibrates, kind of like anticipation. The good kind, the delicious kind. You hope you can bring it home.
But here’s the thing—Bali’s secret is out. Overtourism is real, and Instagrammers are everywhere. Do you want to stand in line for hours just to have a photographer stage a fake mirror shot? You’re smarter than that. If you’ve come to Bali seeking self-discovery or a retreat, there are better ways to spend your time. Below, you’ll find places for true and (still) authentic experience opportunities.
Priestess blessings
Water Blessing Ceremony - Taman Griya Beji Waterfall
Overview: This Hindu water blessing ceremony takes place on sacred ground, where you move through a series of rituals, some inside ancient caves. Guided by a local expert, you’ll carry incense, say prayers at each stop, and receive blessings from priestesses. You’ll be dressed in a provided sarong, and although it’s become more popular, the ceremony remains an authentic spiritual experience.
Personal Experience: A powerful moment came towards the end - standing directly beneath the waterfall. The guide tells me to do something unexpected: scream. Not a little shout - to scream as loud and as long as I needed. When will I get the chance to do this in public, ever? As I walked toward the falls I thought of something that really pissed me off. And I let it rip. I screamed until my throat felt raw - and then I laughed. I kept laughing thinking those pent-up pissed off feelings are now in the water, washing away. It was worth it, dare I say even fun? And I’d do it again.
Practical Tips: Expect to get wet, and be prepared for some light climbing on rocky steps, barefoot. Lockers are provided for your belongings. It’s best to visit in the morning to avoid crowds. The guide can take photos using your phone— be sure to bring a waterproof case.
How to Book: You can find them on Instagram by searching for @TamanBejiGriyaWaterfall and sending a WhatsApp message to inquire about your visit.
Flower bath and treats at Karsa Spa
Medicine For Your Soul - Karsa Spa
Overview: With a heartwarming backstory rooted in support for the local deaf community, Karsa Spa has held a top-rated spot on TripAdvisor for years, often with a months-long waitlist.
With menu choices like chakra balancing, reiki treatments and their not to miss thousand petal flower bath, reconnecting with your body, mind, and spirit here is effortless.
Personal Experience: Chat with a fellow traveler, maybe over coffee, and you’ll likely hear Karsa Spa is either on their list or they’ve already been. Forever more, every other spa experience you have will be measured against your treatment here.
Practical Tips: Reserve way in advance! Don’t miss the hair creambath - a sixty minute slice of heaven with seaweed shampoo, hair mask and a deep scalp massage.
How to Book: Make reservations online at KarsaSpa.com. You can also email them at KarsaSpa@gmail.com.
Jungle sound healing center
Wellness Center / Sound Healing - Pyramids of Chi
Overview: “Build two pyramids in Ubud” the mysterious voice said to Peter, an Australian entrepreneur. The voice couldn’t be ignored. People called him crazy. With no idea on how to start a business in Bali, Peter completed the impossible task and has since changed thousands of lives. Today, you’ll see Peter’s team wearing T-shirts that say, “Expect the Unexpected.” Pyramids of Chi offers a space where love, intention, and the energy of sound combine to bring about personal transformation and unexpected miracles.
Personal Experience: “I have never been so relaxed in all of my life.”...”What just happened?”
Practical Tips: Go early and stay late. Outside the pyramids, there's a cafe with vegan desserts to die for. You’ll also want to check out the shop with the coolest new-age treasures.
How to Book: Visit their website here.
Meditation class at Yoga Barn
More Than Yoga - Yoga Barn
Overview: Celebrating over fifteen years of mind, body, and spirit work, this sanctuary welcomes seekers from all around the world—people of all ages, interests, and abilities. With over twenty classes per day, Yoga Barn is an established leader in the wellness industry. You'll find diverse offerings, ranging from yoga and meditation to workshops in every imaginable modality. There's also a detox cleanse center, retreats, a restaurant, and on-site accommodations.
Personal Experience: I credit Yoga Barn with teaching me so much about my own personal journey. Before coming here, I thought yoga was just poses that made our body feel good. I had no idea of the ancient philosophy behind the poses. The part that teaches we are all One and how to practice getting back to what matters.
Yoga Barn’s space and architecture are breathtaking. It’s like no yoga studio you’ve ever seen before. There’s lots of cozy spots to lounge, a healthy juice bar and a sense of community you’ll want to be a part of.
Practical Tips: Opt for their weekly or monthly passes to try lots of different classes. Be sure to order the Jamu at the juice bar—it's a famous Balinese "cure-all" elixir made from turmeric and coconut water.
How to Book: Visit their website here.
Merlin’s Cafe, Ubud
Mystical Dining - Merlin’s Cafe
Overview: Honorable mention goes to a fun and unique restaurant in Ubud—where else can you blend magic and tarot cards with dinner? At Merlin’s Cafe, the "Tarot Tasting Menu" lets you select three tarot cards to represent your past, present, and future, with each card corresponding to a different dish. Since having fun is an important part of self-care, why not treat yourself to a meal at this whimsical spot?
Personal Experience: Our group had a blast with the tarot card readings, and we were all surprised at how accurate the cards were for most of us. We couldn’t stop taking pictures of everything!
Practical Tips: Reservations are a must. Don’t miss the hidden speakeasy bar for an extra layer of intrigue.
How to Book: Visit their website here.
Final Thoughts
In and around Ubud, Bali, there’s a goldmine of unique wellness experiences, each offering its own path to self-discovery. Even Elizabeth Gilbert, the main character in the true story of Eat Pray Love, came to Bali in search of healing and transformation.
Remember, self-care doesn’t have to look the same for everyone—we’re all a work in process.
Whatever journey you’re on, there are plenty of options here to explore.
Namaste.
