bali family villa
06 Jun 2025

Is Bali a Country? Understanding the Island of the Gods

Many people wonder, is Bali a country or simply an island on the map? The confusion is understandable, this island is often promoted in travel ads and programs as if it were an independent destination, without clearly explaining its political status.

While it’s world-famous for its beaches, temples, warm hospitality, and affordable family attractions. To better understand this unique destination, here is an explanation about is Bali a country and what makes this island special. 

Is Bali a Country?

The short answer is no, it is not a country. It is a province and an island that is part of the Republic of Indonesia in Southeast Asia. The phrase Bali country is a common misconception, but officially, this tropical paradise belongs to Indonesia.

It is an island, one of more than 17,000 that make up the Indonesian archipelago. It spans around 5,590 square kilometers and has one capital city, Denpasar. This serene getaway has just one international airport, Ngurah Rai International Airport, which offers stunning ocean views as you land.

Where Is Bali Located?

Bali is located in the central part of the Indonesian archipelago, nestled between the islands of Java and Lombok. 

It’s also a part of the Lesser Sunda Islands and belongs to the Asian continent. Thanks to its strategic location, it is easily accessible by air and sea. 

With over 6.3 million international visitors recorded in 2024, according to Road Genius, it remains one of Southeast Asia’s top destinations for travel, culture, and nature.

Why Do People Think Bali Is a Country?

Many people ask if Bali is a country because it has a distinct cultural identity that feels different from the rest of Indonesia. This cultural heart of Indonesia is also heavily marketed as a standalone destination with thousands of romantic villas and kid-friendly hotels for family travelers, which often causes confusion.

The island has its own traditions, ceremonies, languages, and even architecture that set it apart, leading some to think it is a city or even a separate nation. The vibes of this enchanting destination are also different compared to other cities in Indonesia, like Jakarta and Surabaya. 

Many assume that living in Bali is cheaper than in other Indonesian cities. In reality, because it is an island located outside Java, the cost of transporting goods can drive prices up, making certain items more expensive.

Bali’s Unique Cultural Identity

Known as the “Island of the Gods,” it is celebrated for its spiritual and artistic richness. While Indonesia is a Muslim majority nation, this vibrant province is predominantly Hindu, with religious traditions deeply woven into daily life.

Major holidays like Galungan, Kuningan, and Nyepi (Local New Year) are observed with unique customs. Nyepi is marked by a day of total silence, preceded by the colorful Ogoh-Ogoh Festival, where giant effigies symbolizing evil spirits are paraded and symbolically destroyed.

The local people make daily offerings almost every day. You’ll often see canang sari, which are small flower arrangements, placed at the entrance of buildings in this area, including hotels, restaurants, and offices.

Another unique fact: even though it has become a world class tourist destination, there are no skyscrapers here. That’s because locals believe that no building should be taller than a coconut tree, as it would bring bad luck.

This deep cultural life often makes it feel like a world of its own, another reason people mistakenly think Bali is a country.

Administrative Structure of Bali

Administratively, it is a province of Indonesia, made up of eight regencies and one independent city, Denpasar, as the capital. If you're still wondering if Bali is a city or an island, the answer is: both. 

It is an island with a central city and several regencies such as Badung, Gianyar, Buleleng, Karangasem, Tabanan, and Jembrana. Each regency has its own culture, dialect, and local attractions, contributing to the diverse tapestry of tradition. 

Languages Spoken in Bali

The official language in this province is Bahasa Indonesia, but Bahasa Bali is widely spoken by locals, especially in rural villages. English is also commonly used in tourist areas, which helps travelers get around easily.

Every regency may have a different dialect, which can make it a bit challenging for newcomers to learn. This language diversity enriches the cultural experience and makes each area of this seaside haven feel unique.

Conclusion: Bali’s Place in the World

To sum up, Bali is not a country, but a beautiful coastal enclave and province of Indonesia. It has its own rich culture, religion, and traditions that set it apart. For a memorable stay, book your family holiday at SOLO, the best family villa in Bali, and enjoy the comfort and charm of the exotic retreat like never before.