Month by month
| Month | Rain (order of magnitude from guides) | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| November | about 150 to 200 mm | start of the season, still some fine days |
| December | between November and January | year-end holidays: busy around Christmas |
| January | about 300 to 350 mm, the wettest | one source counts about 18 rainy days in the month in Ubud |
| February | about 250 to 300 mm | short, heavy showers |
| March | about 200 to 250 mm | the rain eases |
For each month in detail, see Bali in November, in December, in January, in February and in March. To compare with the dry season, read the best time to visit Bali.
What a rainy day is like
Guides describe short, heavy showers with no fixed hour: always keep a fallback plan. The heat stays and the air is humid: take a light rain jacket rather than a coat, sandals that dry quickly and a cover for your phone. The rice fields are at their greenest, which makes this period the most beautiful for landscape photos, and the waterfalls are stronger, so also more slippery.
What still works in the rain
- A cooking class in Ubud: a farm workshop with market visit and tasting fills a sheltered half-day: see the cooking class in Ubud.
- A spa or a massage: the safe bet when it rains: see spa and massage in Ubud.
- Museums and galleries: see the Neka Art Museum for a covered visit.
- A coffee plantation: the tasting is under cover: see the coffee plantation.
- Yoga and wellness: see wellness retreats.
- Cafes and covered markets, between two showers.
What to avoid or move
- Sea trips (Nusa Penida, Gili Islands, snorkelling): the sea can be rougher and visibility poorer on some days; book with free cancellation.
- Volcano sunrises and distant viewpoints: clouds often hide the view.
- Waterfalls after heavy rain: muddy paths, take care: see Bali's waterfalls.
- Scooters on wet roads: reduced grip, prefer a driver.
The upsides of the wet season
The rice fields are green and there are often bright spells between showers. Just avoid planning a whole day outdoors without a fallback.
FAQ
When does the rainy season start in Bali? Around November, peaking in January, until about March.
Does it rain all day? Rarely: guides describe short, heavy showers with bright spells.
What can I do in Ubud when it rains? A cooking class, a spa, a museum or a coffee tasting.
Should I avoid Bali in January? No, but plan covered activities and free cancellation for sea trips.
