east bali places to visit

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Popular categories, east bali guide: top 11 awesome things to do.

By: Charlotte · Last updated 16. May 2024 · In: Bali , Indonesia , Travel

READY TO BOOK AN EAST BALI GETAWAY? Then you’re in the right place!

Often overlooked in favor of tourist hubs like Seminyak, Canggu and Ubud, East Bali is a true gem. It is a must on any Bali itinerary if you want to get away for a quiet night or two amongst lush rice fields, volcanoes and ancient temples.

Although many of East Bali’s attractions have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, there are still peaceful havens waiting to be explored.

My favorite thing to do in East Bali is to rent a scooter and just drive around on the backroads for hours and marvel at the beautiful landscape. Then, of course, stop for some mie goreng or nasi campur at a roadside warung and chat with the locals about what the island used to be like. Ah, the good life!

🌟 Remember to always get insurance before you travel to Bali or anywhere else. Safetywing is an affordable subscription travel insurance that you can purchase even after departure. You can read my complete SafetyWing review here.

Article overview

East Bali two-day tour

1. pura lempuyang, 2. taman ujung water palace, 3. tukad cepung waterfall, 4. pura besakih – the mother temple, 5. bukit cinta, 6. dusun kuning waterfall, 7. candidasa lotus lagoon, 8. sacred canyon of sukawati, 9. sidemen village, 10. diving in amed and tulamben, 11. surfing keramas, where to stay in east bali, is east bali worth a visit, what is the best time to visit east bali, where is the quiet side of bali, can i drink the tap water in east bali, my most popular bali guides, remember to pin for later 😉, how to get to east bali.

The easiest way to get to East Bali is to hire a private driver. Ask your accommodation to arrange a driver for you (everyone in Bali knows a driver) or book a driver in advance to make the experience as smooth as possible.

I usually book this driver , which is really a 10-hour customizable tour. Just tell your driver where you want to go. You won’t find a more affordable driver in Bali!

You can also rent a motorbike for around 75,000 IDR per day and drive by yourself. However, I only recommend driving by yourself if you’re comfortable on a scooter/motorbike, as some of the roads in Bali can be a bit rough. Read more about renting a scooter in Bali in my things not to do in Bali guide.

When I'm doing day trips, traveling across the island and on days it's supposed to rain, I often book this driver.

This is a super affordable full-day customizable tour, which means you have the driver for 10 hours and you can go where you want.

Limited on time? If you would rather have someone else organize everything for you, I recommend this popular two-day East Bali highlights tour . Discover white and black sand beaches, impressive water palaces and the famous Gates of Heaven at Pura Lempuyang.

The tour includes:

• Entrance fees
• A professional guide
• 1 night at an ocean-view hotel, including breakfast
• A private air-conditioned vehicle and driver
• Parking and toll fees

Top 11 things to do in East Bali

Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang is a Hindu temple located at the foot of Mount Lempuyang in the beautiful Karangasem Regency. It is one of the “six sanctuaries of the world”, which refers to the six holiest places of worship in Bali. According to Balinese beliefs, they are meant to provide spiritual balance to the island.

The places of worship around Mount Lempuyang, which actually includes an entire 7 temples, are believed to be older than the majority of other Hindu temples in Bali.

These days most people know about Pura Lempuyang through that iconic Instagram photo of the Gates of Heaven with a reflection in front of it. I hate to burst the bubble but that effect is achieved with the use of a mirror. There’s a local guy that will take the photo for you, in exchange for a little tip of course.

But if you want that shot you have to get there early or prepare to wait in line for a while. Sometimes hours. This is without a doubt the most popular attraction in East Bal i.

🌟 My top pick >> Experience Bali’s most magical temples with a private driver/guide

Taman Ujung , which loosely translates to “the garden on the far end”, tells a tale of a bygone era when the Karangasem Regency was a rich and powerful kingdom.

It was built as an addition to the Royal Palace along with the more touristy Tirta Gangga, as a place to welcome important visitors from neighboring countries. Today the water palace is still owned by a royal but has been opened up for the public to enjoy.

Wandering through the beautifully manicured gardens of Taman Ujung early in the morning is one of my favorite things to do in East Bali . The vast property boasts several large pools, colorful flowers, impressive palm trees and historic structures set against the mighty Mount Agung and the eastern shoreline in the background.

We got there a little past 7:00 am at had the whole place to ourselves, except for a few locals doing their morning workout. The entrance fee was 50,000 IDR and if you want to fly your drone you have to pay an additional 500,000 IDR.

Tukad Cepung Waterfall is without a doubt one of the most spectacular places I’ve been anywhere in the world. This waterfall is located inside a cave and you have to walk down a few hundred stairs to reach it. But I promise you, it is worth the effort.

I would normally advise you to visit a Bali waterfall early in the morning just as the sun comes up, but here you have to time it if you want the full experience with the rays of light you see above. And since the water accumulates inside the cave, it can get really deep during the rainy season.

So for that reason, I would not recommend visiting Tukad Cepung during periods of heavy rain. We visited in late March around 11.30 am and it was perfect timing. Not too many people and the light was incredible.

Keep in mind that you will have to walk through some water and there are several smaller cascades of water flowing down the cave walls. So you will more than likely get wet. There are some warungs and cafés along the path so you can sit down and enjoy a cold coconut on your way back up.

Best of Bali Waterfalls Tour

You can visit Tukad Cepung Waterfall as part of this very popular tour that also includes Tibumana and Tegenungan Waterfalls. To round off your day you’ll also be served a traditional Balinese lunch in a local warung. Don’t miss this one!

🌟 Check price and availability >> Best of Bali Waterfalls Tour

Perched high up on the side of Mount Agung, you’ll find the holiest and largest Hindu temple in Bali. Pura Besakih is a vast complex of over 80 separate temples and shrines, with the largest and most important being Pura Penataran Agung.

For the Balinese, visiting Pura Besakih is a truly special pilgrimage. It is the only temple on the island open to every caste group.

In the early 1960s, Mount Agung erupted several times which resulted in the death of around 1,700 people . However, for some strange reason, the lava flows missed Pura Besakih by mere meters. The Balinese people saw it as a miracle and a sign from the gods that they wished to demonstrate their power but not destroy the monument the Balinese had built in their honor.

So as you can probably tell, Pura Besakih is one of the most special places you can visit in Bali. Not only is the temple stunning in itself but the high location offers spectacular views across the beautiful countryside with rice fields, rolling hills and rivers.

I have quite a few favorite viewpoints in Bali, in fact, I throw the word favorite around a lot. A bit too much some would say. But I just can’t help myself, in Bali you’ll find incredible beauty around every corner, like Pinggan Village for sunrise and Karang Boma Cliff for sunset, just to name a few.

And in East Bali, one of the best viewpoints has to be Bukit Cinta . As the sun rises, Mount Agung glows in a pinkish-orange hew and a layer of mist covering the rice fields slowly dissolves which makes the whole experience feel so magical. A totally free attraction that will leave you speechless.

We went there two mornings in a row while staying in East Bali and they both felt totally different. And the day after we left, Mount Agung erupted. As you can see in the photo above, smoke was already coming out while we were there.

I decided to include Dusun Kuning Waterfall in this post, although it is located in central Bali, about 45 minutes east of Ubud .

If you’re doing a day trip, you could start with Dusun Kuning, then continue 30 minutes northeast to Tukad Cepung and finish the day at either Pura Besakih or in Sidemen Village. They are all located pretty close to each other and are a great introduction to East Bali if you only have one day to spare.

As with most waterfalls in Bali , you have to walk for about 15-20 minutes down to the waterfall from the car park. But there is so much beauty to look at along the way, so it’s just part of the experience.

The waterfall itself is tall and made up of two cascades. There’s a pool below where you can cool off and even a few small rock pools to take a dip in.

And the best part is that this is not one of the most popular waterfalls on the island, so we have only encountered around 3-4 other people when we’ve been there. Definitely one of my favorite waterfalls in Bali.

I’ve already talked about the old resort town of Candidasa in my Bali island guide , but I thought this beautiful Lotus Lagoon deserved a mention of its own. It is probably the most iconic attraction in Candidasa and its location right next to the main road makes it really easy to access.

The 1000 m 2 lagoon is filled with gorgeous pink and white lotuses and has a small garden island in the middle. It’s the perfect place to sit down and relax for a little under the shade of the Frangipani trees.

Just across the road from the Lotus Lagoon lies Pura Candidasa, a 12th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and the goddess of fertility, Hariti. A tip is to walk up the stairs for an even better view of the lagoon and on a clear day, you can also see Nusa Penida island on the horizon.

🌟 I recommend >> Explore Candidasa as part of this exciting East Bali Full-Day tour

Beji Guwang Hidden Canyon is one of the few attractions in East Bali that are still relatively unknown. It is located further south than all the other attractions I mention in this post, just 30 minutes northeast of Denpasar.

The strangely beautiful ravine has been created over thousands of years by the powerful water that flows through during the rainy season. The canyon is considered to be sacred by the locals in the surrounding villages and there is a temple close by with a holy water spring.

No matter when you decide to visit the sacred canyon, you should prepare to get wet as the water can be chest-deep even during the dry season.

It is best to walk barefoot or in water shoes and to wear a swimsuit under a shorts and t-shirt. And if you want to get some shots of this incredible place, you should bring protective gear for your camera.

Entrance fee

The entrance fee to Hidden Canyon depends on how many people you are in your group:

• 1 person 200.000 IDR
• 2 people 300.000 IDR
• 3-4 people 400.000 IDR

The entrance fee includes a local guide, changing room with shower, towel, mineral water and the use of a locker.

Guided canyon tour

You also have the option to visit as part of a tour. This Hidden Canyon, Waterfall & Temples full-day tour includes both the Sacred Canyon and my favorite temple in Bali, Gunung Kawi. You will also get to experience Goa Gajah Cave and Tegenungan Waterfall, four major Bali highlights in one day!

Sidemen Village is East Bali’s answer to Jatiluwih Rice Terraces in the west and the famous Tegalalang Rice Terrace north of Ubud. Lush green rice fields for as long as the eye can see, still farmed today as they have been for centuries.

Sidemen is a great place to experience the “real Bali” and enjoy the slower side of island life. Join a guided trek of the rice terraces, a bicycle tour through the village or just explore on your own.

In addition to the natural beauty, Sidemen is also one of Bali’s weaving hotspots. So if you’re interested in learning about traditional Endek or Songket weaving, make sure to visit one of the local weaving factories.

The textiles are beautiful and the perfect souvenir to bring with you home. I have bought several over the years and made them into pillows which I always get compliments on.

🌟 Check price & availability here >> Experience the incredible Sidemen Village

On the northeast coast, Amed and Tulamben attract divers from all over the world. Both are old fishing villages with traditional Jukung boats lining the black sandy shore.

It is, however, the underwater world that makes this area so special. Colorful corals, fishes in all shapes and sizes, turtles and of course the famous USAT Liberty shipwreck.

The American warship was torpedoed by the Japanese back in 1942, in the midst of WWII. It was towed back to Bali from the Lombok Strait in hopes of saving it. However, it was taking on so much water that it was just left on the beach.

Today the 120-meter-long shipwreck lies between 8 and 30 meters below the surface, just 50 meters offshore. Which makes it one of the most accessible shipwrecks to dive in the world.

East Bali dive tours 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Tulamben Bay beginner dive experience – Learn the basics of scuba diving and take a shallow dive with an instructor in Tulamben Bay. The dive counts as credit towards a PADI Open Water Diver course. Experience blue-spotted stingrays, octopus, scorpionfish, moray eel and many more beautiful species up close.

3-Day PADI Open Water Diving Course – Receive your PADI diving certificate in only 3 days. Enjoy ocean dives in the Blue Lagoon at Padang Bai and Tulamben, where you’ll get to experience the USAT Liberty shipwreck.

Amed snorkeling trip – Spend a day in paradise, exploring shipwrecks and other snorkel spots off the east coast of Bali. Visit the Japanese Shipwreck Point, Amed Beach, Lipah Bay and Vienna Beach where you can snorkel in between a variety of reef fish, coral and other marine life.

Once only surfed by locals and travelers in the know, Keramas has over the last few years become one of the most popular waves in Bali. The fast-barrelling right-hander is best suited for experienced surfers as it breaks just 50 meters offshore over a shallow section of the reef.

I’ve seen more than one bad injury here. If the main break gets too crowded, there are several other great waves close by. And as with every surf spot in Bali, remember to respect the locals.

Keramas is home to an annual World Surf League event that can be fun to experience even if you’re not a surfer yourself. Hanging out at Komune Beach Club is super fun all year round as all the action happens right in front of their pool.

Komune also offers the opportunity to surf at night or early in the morning under powerful floodlights. They only allow 6 surfers in the water at a time, so it can be a good way to experience the break without the crowds.

During our most recent visit to East Bali , we stayed at a place called Kubu Carik Bungalows . Not only was it the most affordable few nights of that trip, but also one of the most gorgeous places we’ve ever stayed in Bali. So you should definitely check it out!

🌟 Kubu Carik Bungalows – One of the best-kept secrets in East Bali. Check out my full Kubu Carik Bungalows review here.

🌋 Villa di Bias – You have to see the view from these highly-rated budget villas! It doesn’t get much better. One of the villas even has a private pool. And some of East Bali’s best attractions, like Tirta Gangga, Bukit Cinta and Pura Lempuyang, are only a short drive away.

🌴 Shunyata Villas Bali – This award-winning Eco-Luxury Resort sits on a secluded cliff, far away from the hustle and bustle of south Bali. Enjoy a private ocean-view pool villa, healthy gourmet food, yoga, meditation and holistic spa treatments. I can’t wait to experience this place!

FAQs East Bali

I get asked questions about East Bali all the time, here are the most common ones.

Yes, East Bali is definitely worth a visit for its beautiful landscapes, cultural experiences, and less-visited attractions. The Karangasem Regency is much calmer the the south of the island, and you can still find places you can have all to yourself.

The east coast also has some of the most spectacular viewpoints in all of Bali, such a Bukit Cinta and Mount Batur.

I personally prefer to visit the east, and Bali in general, from February to April, when it’s still lushly green after the rainy season but with fewer crowds.

But generally, the best time to visit East Bali is during the dry season, from April to October. During this period, the weather is generally sunny and rain showers are less frequent, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities, beach excursions, and sightseeing.

In terms of weather, East Bali experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. During the dry season, temperatures are pleasantly warm, ranging from 24-35°C.

Humidity levels are generally lower, and the region enjoys plenty of sunshine, creating favorable conditions for exploring the area’s natural attractions and engaging in water-based activities such as snorkeling and diving.

The quiet areas in Bali are often considered to be the eastern and western parts of the island.

Amed, Candidasa, and Sidemen are known for their tranquil atmosphere, serene beaches, and a more laid-back pace compared to the bustling tourist areas in the south and central parts of the island. These eastern regions offer a peaceful retreat and a chance to experience the authentic, traditional side of Bali.

The northwestern side of Bali is also considered one of the most serene and tranquil parts of the island.

Pemuteran, located on the northwest coast, is known for its laid-back vibe, black sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling and diving. The area is also home to the Pulaki Temple, a significant Hindu sea temple situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking the ocean.

Menjangan Island, part of the West Bali National Park, is a popular destination for diving enthusiasts, boasting an abundance of marine life and vibrant coral reefs. The park itself offers opportunities for trekking and birdwatching amidst its pristine wilderness.

I do not recommend you drink tap water in East Bali, or anywhere else on the island, due to the risk of contamination with bacteria and parasites that may cause illness.

The tap water in Bali is not treated to the same standards as in some other countries, and consuming it can lead to gastrointestinal issues for visitors who are not accustomed to the local water supply.

To stay safe, it is recommended to drink bottled water or use water that has been properly filtered or boiled. Some hotels and restaurants in East Bali provide complimentary refills, so remember to bring a reusable bottle. Or even better, a filtered bottle you can fill up anywhere.

My favorite bottle for travel, backpacking and hiking.

You can fill it up anywhere, LifeStraw filters bacteria, parasites, chemicals and microplastics.

For every Life Straw product purchased, a child in need receives safe water for an entire school year!

• 29 things you should know before going to Bali!
• Top 11 unusual things to do in Bali!
• Discover the 14 Best Waterfalls in Ubud Bali (including map)
• Tegalalang Rice Terrace Ubud swing & sunrise photo spot
• Pura Lempuyang Temple (Gates of Heaven) in East Bali: A first timer’s guide
• Bali Budget Breakdown : How much do two weeks in Bali cost?
• The 11 most common scams in Bali + How to avoid them!

I hope this post has inspired you to visit East Bali!

About Charlotte

Charlotte is the passionate traveler and online business coach behind Sunshine Seeker. She started working as a content creator on Instagram in 2014, before social media was even a thing, and as a travel blogger in 2015. Over the past 14 years she has explored 45+ countries and lived in Oslo, Kraków, Bali and Lombok. Every month she helps more than 50,000 people plan their adventures and learn how to create more freedom by working online.

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18. January 2020 at 03:10

I haven’t spent much time on the Eastern side of Bali but I can’t wait to explore my on my next trip.

18. January 2020 at 03:34

You definitely should! The east coast is magical 😉

18. January 2020 at 06:24

This place looks seriously amazing! I can’t wait to visit. Will hopefully there in a few months time. I’m saving this to refer to later

18. January 2020 at 18:33

I hope you get to go 😀 It’s awesome!

3. May 2024 at 08:28

Any suggestion area on east side where should we stay?

3. May 2024 at 12:42

You can’t really go wrong with any area in East Bali, it is so easy to get around. The hotels I mention above are among my favorites, but if I had to choose an area I would probably say Sidemen or the area between Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung.

15. February 2020 at 14:16

Such a great list! I was just planning to go back to Bali and definitely need to visit the Eastern side 🙂 That view point is lovely!

15. February 2020 at 20:40

Thanks Nam 😀 Yes you definitely should!

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East Bali: 25 Unmissable Adventures and Things to Do

Are you considering a visit to East Bali as part of your Bali trip? This enchanting region is a treasure trove of captivating landscapes, thrilling adventures, and ancient heritage, meaning there are so many wonderful things to do in East Bali.

While Ubud may have claimed its fame among travelers, East Bali offers its own unique charm. You’ll be able to immerse yourself in the beauty of cascading waterfalls, laze around on beaches, visit traditional villages, explore underwater worlds, and even partake in a traditional weaving lesson. 

But, with an abundance of remarkable experiences, how do you go about selecting the perfect activities? Prepare for your journey to East Bali by ensuring you don’t miss out on the top 25 things to do! 

Things To Do In East Bali: Hand-Picked By Us For You

East Bali is truly a gem. While on a road trip around the Island of the Gods, Jack and I stayed at a small village called Amed and fell in love with the laidback seaside vibe. Everything was much more chilled out, less tourist-focused, and more authentic.

Don’t get me wrong, there were still plenty of restaurants, cafes, tour offices, and some smaller resort hotels dotted around and you’ll find people on day trips for a spot of snorkeling , but in general, the area had an off-the-beaten-path atmosphere – which is totally us! 

Although East Bali is becoming more popular with tourists wanting to escape the busier areas of south Bali, it still sees fewer crowds. If you’re after a more traditional Balinese experience while looking for the best things to do on the island, head East. 

There’s no shortage of old temples, soft sandy beaches, rice paddies, and lost villages to explore – it’s the best place to experience rural Bali without going too far from the airport.

The beautiful thing about East Bali is the landscapes. If you’re beachside you’ll have a stunning backdrop of Mount Agung; if you’re in the mountains it’s lush greenery and sweeping hillside views. 

Due to the calmer bays, the waters in this region are also perfect for underwater adventures like snorkeling and diving. So, if you’re a water baby who loves hiking, visiting temples, and stunning views, East Bali is going to be for you!

What Is East Bali Known For?

East Bali is known for its unbeatable scenery and age-old temples. It’s where you’ll encounter majestic volcanoes, pristine beaches, endless rice paddies, and incredible scenic views. The region is steeped in rich cultural history with traditional villages preserving ancient customs. 

With such incredible landscapes, you’ll also get the thrill of countless outdoor activities such as diving, snorkeling, rafting, and hiking, making it a paradise for adventure seekers.

25 Things To Do In East Bali

Let’s delve into the 25 best activities of East Bali and create an unforgettable experience in this captivating corner of the island.

1. Sidemen Village

Slowly being referred to as the “new Ubud”, Sidemen Village is an up-and-coming traditional village in, slightly more, remote Bali. It’s wonderfully picturesque, nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of the East. 

It’s best known for its terraced rice fields and peaceful ambience and offers a serene retreat away from bustling tourist areas. If you’re after local culture, learning some traditional weaving techniques, and scenic hiking trails, you’ll enjoy visiting this hidden gem.

2. Diving In Tulamben

One activity that can’t be missed while you’re in East Bali is a visit to the famous USAT Liberty Shipwreck. It’s just off the beach and is easily reached by a short swim – if you prefer to snorkel – but the gem is best explored during a scuba dive!

The wreck is a super popular diving site in Indonesia where you can experience an incredibly diverse ecosystem of marine life. We started our dive at sunrise and witnessed an eel garden, a huge Napoleon fish, bump heads, a barracuda, a lionfish, and an unbelievable array of tropical fish. 

3. Pura Besakih – The Mother Temple

Pura Besakih, oh, the Mother Temple of Bali! This is a sacred Hindu temple that is nestled on the slopes of the mighty Mount Agung. It holds a special place in the hearts of the Balinese people and to them, it’s not just a temple, but a revered pilgrimage site.

As you enter, you’ll be mesmerized by the sight of towering pagodas reaching toward the sky. Around the temple, you’ll notice intricate stone carvings which will leave you in awe of the Balinese craftsmanship while the views are breathtaking.

Pura Besakih is more than just a destination; it’s a spiritual journey that unveils the depths of Balinese spirituality and the grandeur of their architectural heritage. 

4. Pura Lempuyang

Otherwise referred to as Heavens Gate is a hugely popular temple in Bali. You’ve likely seen photos plastered over Instagram and might already have it on your Bali must-visit list. 

There’s no denying it offers a great photo opportunity and the views are stunning, but there are some things you might want to consider before going. 

You won’t get a good view of Mount Agung in the background if it’s cloudy, it’s also more expensive than other temples and it is very commercialized. The temple is quite small and there is no “reflective pond”, this is an optical illusion.

When we visited, it was not busy and so for us, it was a good experience. Since then, many people have complained about the long queues which is another thing you should be mindful of when planning a trip. 

Even so, I know how many of you want to visit and get your photo so, of course, it has to be on this list of things to do in East Bali!

5. Tirta Gangga Water Palace

Another popular temple, this time it’s a Royal Water Palace. It’s well-loved for its intricate water gardens, fountains, serene pools, and famous stepping stones where you can grab a lovely photo. 

Would you believe we actually missed visiting this temple? We got it confused with another one which had a similar name! 

Nevertheless, I’ve seen the photos and it looks lovely. An enchanting oasis with a tranquil ambiance, a place where you can stroll through lush gardens adorned with statues, and even take a refreshing dip in the natural spring water pools. 

6. Taman Ujung Water Palace

If you’re having a day of exploring the temples in East Bali then don’t miss Taman Ujung, also known as the Ujung Water Palace. It’s another captivating water temple, blending Balinese and European architectural styles, and is set against the backdrop of Mount Agung. 

Like most water palaces in Bali, it boasts beautiful gardens, ornamental ponds, and historic structures. You can crisscross through the intricate pathways, admire elegant bridges, and enjoy the harmonious fusion of nature and architecture.

7. Bukit Cinta Viewpoint

Are you looking to take some incredible scenic photos during your trip to East Bali? One of the most popular viewpoints is Bukit Cinta. It offers a mesmerizing panorama of East Bali’s lush landscapes, rolling hills, and picturesque coastline. 

You’ll find the spot perched on a hilltop, this viewpoint provides a particularly tranquil and romantic setting to witness stunning sunrises. For the best chance of good visibility go between April and October.

It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone seeking solace in embracing East Bali’s natural beauty.

8. Lahangan Sweet Viewpoint

Another great spot to see Mount Agung is Lahangan Sweet Viewpoint. It’s a little hidden gem that offers captivating views of the surrounding landscape; although it’s becoming much more popular these days.

You’ll find this lesser-known viewpoint offers small decking platforms within the trees and a peaceful, unobstructed view. It’s an ideal spot to unwind, take stunning photographs, or simply marvel at the panoramic scenery.

9. Gembleng Waterfall

Who doesn’t love a waterfall? Bali is full of them and chasing waterfalls has become a favorite pastime for anyone visiting the island.

But you know, you can’t visit them all, and (full disclosure), we didn’t get to visit these next two waterfalls. Sigh. There are only so many waterfalls one can visit and these two were missed from our radar. Nonetheless, I have it on good authority that they are fantastic waterfalls to visit in East Bali!

Gembleng Waterfall is a secluded cascade tucked away in the lush jungles and surrounded by pristine greenery. It’s a hidden gem, off the main tourist route, and offers a refreshing escape with a chance to reconnect with nature. 

It’s not to be missed from your East Bali adventure!

10. Dusun Kuning Waterfall

Sometimes referred to as the Yellow Waterfall, it’s said to be a bewitching natural wonder nestled in the heart of East Bali. As it cascades down a rocky cliff, the waterfall creates a beautiful spectacle glistening a golden hue in the sunlight. Adventurous souls can take a refreshing swim or simply bask in the tranquillity of this hidden oasis.

11. Tukad Cepung Waterfall

Tukad Cepung Waterfall was one we did visit and thought it was lovely. It’s interesting as it falls into a cave and so you’ll have to walk down some steps to reach it. There isn’t a pool for swimming like many others and generally, you’ll only visit this one for the photo. But, the area is what we enjoyed the most!

There are some boulders that you can climb on for a great photo, there are a few smaller caves to explore, a stream, and lush vegetation curving through the cave and into the forest. In the end, there is a cafe where you can enjoy lunch overlooking the jungle below.

12. Guwang Hidden Canyon

Fancy exploring a natural wonder while having a thrilling adventure? Guwang Hidden Canyon is a unique experience in East Bali which will be one for the memory books! 

With its towering cliffs, breathtaking rock formations, narrow passages, and emerald waters, the canyon is a hidden gem perfect for canyoning enthusiasts, cliff jumping, and nature lovers alike.

The best way to experience Guwang Hidden Canyon is on a guided tour where you can share a hassle-free, fun-filled day with other travelers. If you’re after adventure, don’t miss adding this East Bali gem to your list!

13. Pura Goa Lawah

Also known as the Bat Cave Temple, any guesses why? It’s a sacred Hindu temple known for its unique feature – an underground cave that houses thousands of bats!

It’s an intriguing place to visit where you’ll be able to witness the mesmerizing sight of bats swarming out of the cave during sunset and explore the temple’s serene grounds, surrounded by a mystical aura.

14. Tenganan Ancient Village

There are a handful of traditional villages in Bali set up for tourists, Tenganan Ancient Village is one of them. We actually visited Penglipuran Village instead of this one, but they are both well-preserved Balinese villages known for their rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life. 

This ancient settlement offers a glimpse into Bali’s past, with its unique architecture, traditional crafts, and age-old rituals. As a visitor, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the village’s timeless charm and learn about the community’s distinct customs.

Again, the best way to visit this village is on a guided tour with a local from the village. They will be able to share their knowledge and take you around the village introducing you to the locals and their way of life.

15. Besakih Village

Besakih Village is a charming rural village located near the iconic Pura Besakih Temple I mentioned above. It’s surrounded by dense rice fields and panoramic vistas, providing a serene setting where you can experience the authentic Balinese way of life. 

Visit here if you want to explore the village’s narrow paths, walk amongst the rice fields, interact with friendly locals, and gain insights into traditional agriculture and village customs.

16. Candidasa Lotus Lagoon

Unfortunately, Candidasa is another place we missed but I’ve heard the Lotus Lagoon is a nice spot to visit while out exploring the area. 

It’s said to be a picturesque spot adorned with blooming lotus flowers and tranquil waterways. This serene oasis offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and contemplation. 

17. Maha Gangga Valley National Reserve

Maha Gangga Valley National Reserve is a nature lover’s paradise, encompassing lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. It’s a protected reserve that offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the region’s natural beauty. 

If you choose to add a visit to your East Bali itinerary, you’ll embark on a wonderful adventure through the forest discovering wildlife and hidden treasures, and immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscape.

18. Snorkelling in Amed

And we finally make it to Amed, our favorite place to visit in East Bali! No joke, if you’re thinking of staying in the East then I would strongly suggest choosing Amed. It’s full of fantastic hotel options to suit all budgets and is strategically located along a calm bay. 

Amed is perfect for snorkeling. The tourism in the area is set up mostly for snorkeling and diving and although you’ll notice many day trippers, in the evening you’ll find a much more tranquil setting.

There are a handful of excellent snorkeling spots in and around Amed, namely at Amed Beach, Jemeluk Bay, Japanese Shipwreck, Bunutan Reef, and the Amed Wall.

You’ll be swimming alongside tropical fish, marveling at beautiful coral formations, and witnessing the extraordinary biodiversity that thrives beneath the waves.

19. White Water Rafting Telaga Waja River

As we had done white water rafting on a previous trip, we didn’t do it in Bali. However, I can tell you that if you’re an adrenaline junkie it’s an experience not to be missed!

Telaga Waja River is the place to go for the adventure and you’ll find it a thrilling destination for rafting. It offers an adrenaline-pumping adventure amidst a spectacular landscape. 

Alongside an experienced guide, you’ll be able to navigate through rapids while surrounded by lush forests and towering cliffs. This exhilarating activity in East Bali is best done on a guided tour which will ensure all safety precautions are met. 

20. Virgin Beach 

Do you love beaches? I know I do! Virgin Beach is a stunning gem boasting fluffy white sands and almost transparent turquoise waters. 

It’s tucked away from the bustling tourist areas, although it’s frequently visited by day trippers. Even so, it still offers a peaceful and idyllic setting where you can relax on the soft sands, swim in the warm waters, and indulge in the serenity of this coastal paradise.

Not in East Bali, but if you’re wondering what our favorite beach is in Bali, you’ll want to head to Uluwatu and Nunggalan Beach!

21. Blue Lagoon Beach

Blue Lagoon Beach is a captivating coastal destination renowned for its azure waters and vibrant marine life. It’s a treasure trove for snorkelers and divers who usually visit on day trips. 

You’ll be able to easily explore the coral reefs which are teeming with life. Head here if you want to surround yourself with colorful fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating creatures.

The beach lagoon is famous and is always listed as one of the best places to go on a snorkel trip in Bali!

22. Komune Beach Club

Honestly, we didn’t make it to this beach club but I’ve heard that Komune Beach Club is a popular beachfront venue that combines relaxation and entertainment with everything else you would want from a beach club. 

I’m thinking of sunbathing, refreshing cocktails, delicious cuisine, and a lively atmosphere. Oh, and it’s smack-bang in front of one of Bali’s best right-handers!

It’s more South East than East, but it’s the most accessible (if you’re staying in the East) and planning an afternoon of social drinking… I mean this is Bali after all. 

23. Pasir Putih Beach – White Sands Beach

Another beach in paradise. This time it’s White Sands Beach and since it’s perched on the eastern coast of Bali it sees fewer crowds making it a little treasure trove worth your time. 

It’s loved for its powdery white sands and azure waters, offering a tranquil and picturesque escape. You’ll be able to unwind on the pristine shoreline with little worries while tucking into local seafood at a beachfront Warung.

24. Mount Batur Sunrise Trek

We loved our Mount Batur Sunrise Trek and think it’s another activity that can’t be missed in East Bali. It’s actually one of the most popular things to do in Bali, as a whole, with some people visiting the Island of Gods just to climb this volcano. 

I mean, who doesn’t love panoramic scenery and breathtaking sunrises? What we didn’t love so much was the early morning departure, but it was all worth it in the end!

25. Stay in a Bamboo Villa 

If you haven’t stayed in a bamboo house have you ever really visited Bali? Well, funnily enough, we didn’t. We tried but it was fully booked or too expensive… note to self, pre-book this experience!

A good one and the one we wanted to visit is the Hideout Bamboo House. It’s a unique accommodation option in East Bali, offering bamboo villas nestled in lush greenery. 

These eco-friendly retreats provide a serene escape from the modern world, allowing you to reconnect with nature. They’ve got a sustainable design, breathtaking views, and rustic charm which will make your trip to East Bali an even more memorable one!

Things To Do In East Bali: Conclusion

East Bali offers an abundance of captivating experiences that I’m sure will leave you enchanted. From exploring the cultural gems of Sidemen Village and the awe-inspiring Pura Besakih to diving into the vibrant underwater world surrounding Amed, there is something for every one of you.

The region’s picturesque water palaces like Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung, breathtaking viewpoints such as Bukit Cinta and Lahangan Sweet, and hidden natural wonders like Gembleng and Tukad Cepung waterfalls offer moments of tranquillity and awe. 

With its rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and thrilling activities like rafting and hiking, East Bali promises an unforgettable journey filled with beauty, adventure, and cultural immersion.

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18 Best Things to Do in East Bali

East Bali beckons with its untouched waterfalls, uncrowded beaches, and sacred Hindu sites, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist hubs. From the enchanting Sidemen rice terraces to the underwater wonders of Amed, this less-explored paradise promises a serene adventure for those seeking authenticity and natural beauty.

Looking to get away from the island’s hustle and bustle? East Bali is THE place to avoid the crowds whilst enjoying a more quintessentially Balinese experience, surrounded by nature…and we have a list of all the things to do in East Bali!

The waterfalls in East Bali are some of the most beautiful and the least explored, beaches are uncrowded and pristine, and there’s plenty of natural beauty to discover around every corner. It’s also the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local religion, with a variety of sacred Hindu places of interest to be found throughout the area. 

Even travelling by road you will catch views of the incredible landscape of Bali’s east coast, including the legendary Mount Agung volcano, rice terraces and stunning hilltops. Not to mention the vivid underwater landscapes you will discover when diving and snorkelling in the Amed area. 

Humble East Bali is a little more low-key than the south of the island or Ubud, but we can assure you it’s totally worth the visit, as there are plenty of things to do in East Bali. Whether visiting for the day or planning a longer stay, here are some tips for visiting East Bali, so you can create the perfect itinerary for your exciting East Bali adventure. 

How to get to East Bali

From pretty much anywhere in Bali such as the airport, Canggu, Seminyak, Kuta or Uluwatu areas, the best way to get around the island as a tourist is by car with a driver. The roads are mostly good but some destinations may require you to use roads that are in poor condition, with steep and winding roads which are sometimes not safe for scooters, especially if you are an inexperienced rider. When exploring East Bali, you are sure to catch amazing views around every corner when driving around this scenic part of the island!

Your transport options to checkout things to do in East Bali include:

• Hiring a private driver – this gives you your own private vehicle and driver to create your own itinerary, without having to worry about directions!
• Rent a scooter – if you are a licensed and an experienced rider, you’ll enjoy scooting from place to place in East Bali on a scooter.
• Rent a car and driver by the hour with GRAB app – we love GRAB app for getting from A to B in the South of Bali, when is comes to East Bali though GRAB cars are not as readily available, if you want to use GRAB to explore East Bali we recommend using the Rent by Hour feature so that you have a driver who will wait for you.

Where to stay in East Bali

You can take a day trip to various locations in East Bali from Sanur. From other areas like Canggu, Seminyak, Uluwatu and Kuta, it may take 2-3 hours to reach various destinations. If you really want to hit all the best spots in East Bali we recommend staying 2-3 days and there are a few different areas where you will find decent accommodation options.

These are the different areas of East Bali you can stay in:

Candidasa is a great central spot to base yourself if you are exploring the East Bali area. You will find the widest choice of accommodation and eating options here. 

Amed is made up of a 14km long strip of fishing villages in Karangasem, and is the ideal place to stay if you’re looking to snorkel or dive. It is located around 1 hour and 20 minutes north of Candidasa.

40 minutes north of Amed is Tulamben. Whilst Amed has more dining and accommodation options and is also closer to other points of interest in East Bali, Tulamben’s main attraction is the site of the USAT Liberty Shipwreck – just a stone’s throw from the beach and a breathtaking snorkelling and diving experience! 

Sidemen Village

If you drive 45 minutes inland of Candidasa, you will discover a handful of homestays, or bed-and-breakfast-style places to stay, as well a handful of luxury villas and hotels. There are rice field views from almost everywhere in this peaceful village.

Jasri Beach

20 minutes north of Candidasa is Jasri, a laid-back beachside village that offers some basic accommodation options.

Known as Bali’s gateway to the Gili Islands, Padang Bai is located 20 minutes south of Candidasa and is the main port for fast boats. 

Day trips to East Bali

If you choose to take a day trip, you can usually visit 3-4 sites in a day. For example the Besakih Temple, Tirta Gangga Water Palace and Lempuyang Temple.

If time is precious, we’d recommend booking a guided day trip so you can be sure to get around as many sites as possible. Take a guided tour through the highlights of East Bali with Klook.

What to do in East Bali

1. have your breath taken away at sidemen.

Prepare for Sidemen to take your breath away! Home to cascading rice terraces that are more beautiful and far less visited than the famous Tegalalang and Jatiluwih. Sidemen offers a less touristy, more authentic Bali experience and is a great escape if a little peace and tranquillity is what you are looking for. There are quite a few accommodation options, from homestays to luxury villas, most with views over the rice fields towards Mount Agung. 

2. Catch the Keramas surfing action from Komune Beach Club

This is a great spot for groups and families who want a beach club vibe with a side of surfing. Komune Hotel & Beach Club overlooks the popular Keramas surf break on Bali’s east coast and is located around 40 minutes north of Sanur. Keramas is also a stop on the World Surf League circuit. Their pool is in prime position so that you can float on a bean bag with drink in hand whilst checking out all the surf action right before your eyes!! There is also a lawn area, chilled DJ tunes and direct beach access, creating a perfect laid-back setting.

Want to stay the night at Hotel Komune? Check our great room rates at Komune with Klook.

3. Spend a day sunbathing and drinking coconuts at Virgin Beach

Virgin beach, located just 20 minutes from Candidasa, is just the spot to satisfy all your tropical vacation dreams – with soft, white sand, turquoise waters and nothing but a few beach shacks with umbrellas serving coconuts and snacks. The waves generally don’t get too big, making it ideal for swimming. The beach is full of local fishing boats so you can spend your day relaxing whilst watching the fisherman come and go with their catches. Just when you think your day can’t get any better, why not indulge in a massage on the beach for around IDR 100k ($10AUD) per hour – pure bliss! This is for sure one of our favourite things to do in East Bali.

4. Visit the atmospheric Tukad Cepung Waterfall and capture a shot of the uplifting light rays

Want to capture a killer IG waterfall shot? This waterfall in East Bali is located within a canyon complete with large boulders and beautiful light rays pouring in from the canyon’s opening, creating an ethereal cave experience. Of course, you will have to get there early to capture the serene atmosphere before all of the other tourists arrive. However, this waterfall has steep and challenging stairs, so you may not encounter as many tourists as some of the other waterfalls with more convenient access. There is a handrail and with decent waterproof shoes and a moderate fitness level, most people should manage this small trek. We would recommend bringing waterproof shoes or booties, as your feet are likely to get wet once you are in the cave. 

5. Be showered by a 25m Waterfall at Dusun Kuning

If you don’t mind a small hike up and down stairs through lush jungle, then this is a fabulous waterfall to explore! The trek down to the main waterfall is not usually busy and takes around 15 minutes navigating a mixture of stone and steel steps, where afterwards you’ll be rewarded with a stunning 25m waterfall. Most people with a moderate level of fitness should be able to take on this hike. There are several small waterfalls along the way to the main falls and amazing jungle scenery everywhere you look. You can swim beneath the falls in the rockpools while taking in the raw power of the waterfall cascading down from above. However, exercise caution when swimming as the water flow can be surprisingly powerful and you don’t want to get washed down the river into the canyon! Dusun Kuning Waterfall is around an hour from Candidasa and Sideme

6. Telaga Waja River

Just 15 minutes from the scenic village of Sidemen, you can visit Telaga Waja River. The river flows from several springs in the Bali mountains, including the holy Mount Agung which later on meets the sea in the regency of Klungklung on the east coast. The river is popular for white water rafting and swimming, especially around the Telaga Waja river dam area.

7. Take a spiritual cleansing dip at Jagasatru waterfall

If you are looking for something a little more ‘off the beaten track’, the impressive 40 metre Jagasatru Waterfall is one of East Bali’s best kept secrets. Located in Karangasem, it’s about a 30-minute drive from Candidasa, near a village called Pateh. Access to the waterfall is a little rough with rocky tracks for the last 300 metres or so. It’s not as well maintained as some of the other sites, but is well worth the visit to marvel at a tranquil waterfall set amongst the mystical jungle surroundings. Catch a glimpse of the ocean in the distance, as well as some spiritual Hindu statues. There is also the opportunity to take a cleansing dip in the refreshing waters around the base of the waterfall should you wish. 

8. Capture that once in a lifetime shot for ‘The Gram’ at Lempuyang Temple

Lempuyang Temple, aka Bali’s Gates Of Heaven, is the setting for many iconic photos where Mount Agung aligns perfectly with the majestic Hindu temple gate. There are three levels to the Lempuyang temple in East Bali, which is the highest temple on the island. The first level is accessible to tourists, however the other levels are reserved for ceremonial use. Of course, you will need to dress appropriately with legs and shoulders covered. Sarongs are also available to borrow from the ticket office or you can bring your own. To capture the iconic ‘mirrored lake’ image, you will need to take a ticket and queue – it’s worth noting that during peak season there have been reports of queues taking 2-3 hours! However, there are 7 different temples at the site to visit whilst you wait, as well as gorgeous views of the surrounding landscape, making the Lempuyang Temple definitely worth checking out on your East Bali adventure!

BOOK WITH KLOOK: Gate of Heaven, Lahangan Sweet, Gembleng Waterfall & Virgin Beach Day Tour for just AUD$85

9. Stroll the Botanical Gardens at Tirta Gangga Water Palace

Tirta Gangga Water Palace is the former Royal Palace built in 1948 by the Raja, or King of Karangasem, and was almost destroyed in the 1963 eruption of nearby Mount Agung volcano. Located around 30 minutes from Amed in Ababi VIllage, it has more recently been preserved as beautiful botanical gardens with maze-like ponds surrounded by gardens, temples and beautiful stone work. There is a large swimming pool open to the public where you can cool off and enjoy refreshments from the warung, as well as a large fish pond with statues and stepping stones which makes for great photos. The water source is the lifeblood of the surrounding villages and is believed to be sacred. Although this temple is less visited than some other spots, it’s recommended to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to capture the peaceful atmosphere. 

10. Embrace the spiritual life of the Balinese at Besakih Temple 

Besakih temple, or Pura Agung Besakih, is the largest and most important temple on the island. Located on the foothills of Mount Agung, the tallest and most sacred volcano in Bali, you will be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and ocean. There are 23 different temples at the site which are split over 6 levels and thought to be around 1,000 years old. The temple is still very active today and is particularly fascinating to visit when there is a ceremony taking place. We can all do with a bit of good karma, and here at Besakih you have the unique opportunity to purchase an offering and personally take part in a prayer – something not commonly offered at other Balinese temples. Sarongs are also provided, but it’s best to dress conservatively and women who are menstruating should not enter certain areas. The temple has many stairs and requires a moderate level of fitness. There’s no doubt that Pura Agung Besakih’s structure, terraces and impressive views make it a truly breathtaking place to visit.

11. Avoid the long queues at Lahangan Sweet Viewpoint

Visit Lahangan Sweet to capture an impressive photo of Mount Agung through the temple gates – much like Lempuyang Temple, but without the long queues! The lookout is not as elevated as Bali’s Gates of Heaven, yet the view is just as captivating! There are a few different vantage points you can shoot Mount Agung from, which means there are no long queues like at Lempuyang. It’s best to walk up the hill or splurge on a Jeep ride, as navigating the track can be tricky on a scooter.

INSIDER TIP: There is also the option of going to Lempuyang temple first, grabbing a queue number and then taking a leisurely 15-minute stroll to Lahangan Sweet whilst you wait your turn. It’s a great way to make the most of your time.

12. See the bats at Goa Lawah Temple

Three of the six holiest places of worship in Bali are found on the East Coast. Goa Lawah Temple in East Bali is located in Klungkung, around 30 minutes south of Candidasa. Goa Lawah is unique because it has been built into the side of a beachfront cave which is the hangout of local nectar bats. The temple is alive with frequent ceremonies and offers an interesting insight into the religious life of the Balinese. There are several temples, gates and stone carvings to explore, including some impressive bat statues and a water pond.

13. Explore Amed’s magical underwater landscape including the USAT Liberty at Tulamben

Vibrant coral reefs, shipwrecks and exotic marine life makes Amed arguably the best spot for snorkelling and diving in Bali. There are several different bays and beaches to choose from, and all are easily accessible from the beach. There is a Japanese Patrol Ship that was shipwrecked in Banyuning Bay during WWII, which is well-covered in coral and inhabited by many fish. The wreck is close to shore and not too deep, so it is easy to explore with just snorkelling gear and great for adventurers of all ages. 

If you’re up for an exciting scuba diving experience, make your way to Tulamben village, where the USAT Liberty awaits, a mere 30-minutes away. Snorkelers can easily access the USAT Liberty at low tide also. You can easily rent decent snorkel gear for around IDR 50k at various beach spots, including a mask and fins. Bringing your own equipment is recommended, especially for kids, to ensure a proper fit. The area also offers plenty of PADI certified dive centres. 

Amed Beach is a great spot for turtle spotting and you may even see some friendly black tip reef sharks! There is also an underwater coral wall which is always bustling with marine activity, as well as underwater pyramids and other structures to explore in the Amed area. Keep in mind that dry season usually offers better underwater visibility. Even though you can access all spots from the shore, consider booking a tour for the convenience of exploring various spots without the hassle of driving and parking.

BOOK WITH KLOOK: Take a Guided Snorkelling Tour with transport to 4 different sites in Amed with this Klook Voucher for just $168AUD!

14. Take a relaxing walk around Candidasa Lotus Lagoon

Close to central Candidasa you’ll find the Lotus Lagoon – an icon of the Candidasa area. The large pond is an easy stroll from most of the hotels in town and is located right by the beach. The flowers bloom twice a day, perfect for enjoying a leisurely morning or evening stroll whilst taking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding hills and ocean. 

15. Enjoy the activities and sights of Lake Batur

Around a 1-hour drive northwest of Besakih Temple is the picturesque Lake Batur, located within a volcanic crater on the eastern slopes of Mount Batur. The main access is via Penelokan Village, however, you can also see Danau Batur Lake along the main Kintamani road, with several convenient lookout spots located around the lake. The lake is mainly used for fishing, and breeding freshwater fish and is also the source of water irrigation for most of Bali. You can catch a boat across to the secluded old Balinese village of Trunyan (known as Skull Island) where there is an interesting graveyard with open graves. You’ll also find hot springs in the area, offering the perfect opportunity for a relaxing soak with magnificent views of the lake and surrounding hills.

BOOK WITH KLOOK: Get Toya Devasya Hot Springs Tickets with Klook for just $6AUD here!

16. Catch the sunrise at Bukit Asah

Perched in the Karangasem region, Bukit Asah serves as a lookout that provides breathtaking clifftop panoramas of the ocean and small island of Pulau Ikan Paus, also known as Whale Island, situated just off the coastline. Camping is popular in this area, with tent rentals available for around IDR 300k and well-maintained bathroom facilities. Wake up to the sun rising over the ocean with Mount Agung behind you. Whilst the ocean breeze keeps things cool, it’s wise to take a hand-held or electric fan in case it gets hot at night!

17. Be humbled by Mount Agung at Bukit Cinta lookout

At Bukit Asah lookout you will find an uninterrupted view of Mt Agung set against idyllic rice fields and traditional villages. It is a great spot to catch a killer photo of Gunung Agung and enjoy some refreshments from one of the nearby warungs. Another bonus is that it’s often less busy than many of the other Mount Agung lookouts and vantage points.

18. Indulge in a sensory chocolate-making experience at Sorga Chocolate Factory 

A little further north of Candidasa lies Sorga Chocolate Factory, a haven for premium chocolate which is crafted on-site using locally sourced, organic ingredients. Indulge in sampling the rich flavours of the factory’s signature chocolates, or join a chocolate-making class to explore the art of crafting these delicious treats firsthand.

Final Words

East Bali manages to seamlessly combine the stunning landscapes of south Bali with the culture richness of central Bali, but without the annoying hustle and bustle of crowds. Whether you choose to spend your stay temple-hopping or exploring hidden waterfalls and pristine coastline, the options are endless. To ensure an authentic Bali experience, we recommend arriving at destinations before the crowds take over. Don’t forget to keep your camera handy, as East Bali is a treasure trove of picture-perfect moments just waiting to be captured!

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8 Top Cultural and Natural Explorations to Discover in East Bali

There's plenty to do and see in East Bali , as long as "party" is not at the top of the agenda. The attractions in Klungkung and Karangasem lean more toward cultural and nature-friendly pursuits .

The region is home to a number of temples and royal structures along the coast, including the most important Balinese temple of all, Pura Besakih. Hiking trails criss-cross the mountainous terrain, and the waters surrounding East Bali are full of scenic diving sites. The next time you're in East Bali , check out one—or all—of these destinations.

Gunung Agung

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The 10,308-foot-high Gunung Agung is Bali's highest mountain. The mountain is an active volcano whose beauty is nothing compared to its deadly power. In March of 1963, Gunung Agung erupted, covering the entire island in ash and destroying villages and temples with floods of lava and volcanic mud. Gunung Agung sleeps today, and the temples and towns in its shadow rest easy.

Two hiking trails to the summit are popular with Bali visitors and are best climbed between July and September. Hikers are prohibited from climbing during religious ceremonies on Pura Besakih, and during these times, no person should stand higher than the temple.

Pura Besakih, the Mother Temple

Corbis / Contributor / Getty Images 

Coined the "Mother Temple," Pura Besakih is the biggest temple in Bali—a sprawling complex of over 20 temples set on the side of the active Gunung Agung volcano. The temple complex venerates the Hindu trinity (trimurti) of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, drawing thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year.

With over 50 festivals conducted at Pura Besakih annually, you're likely to be in town just as one celebration is ongoing or about to start. Check with your Bali resort or hotel if you're going to be lucky when you visit. Pura Besakih is most easily reached via a bemo from Klungkung.

USAT Liberty Wreck, Tulamben

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The USAT Liberty was an American merchant ship that was torpedoed by Japanese forces during World War II. Taking on water fast, the ship was beached off Tulamben and stripped of her valuables. The eruption of Gunung Agung in 1963 ripped her in half and pushed her deeper into the water.

Today, the crumbling remains of the ship can be explored by snorkelers and divers. The proliferation of coral and marine life in and around the ship make the Liberty one of the most popular dive destinations in Bali.

Puri Agung Karangasem

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This 19th-century royal palace combines Balinese, Chinese, and European influences within a complex of building clusters that used to house the King of Karangasem's formidable court, and it still retains a ceremonial significance today.

The inner court features the king's former home (Loji) and retains some relics from those long-gone days. From photos of the king with Dutch colonialists to well-worn furniture, guests can get an inkling of royal life just before the Dutch came and conquered all.

The descendants of the last king maintain a website that curates information and images about Karangasem's royal structures. 

Tirta Gangga

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The last king of Karangasem built this bathing palace in 1948, and it continues to fascinate visitors to this day. It's essentially a network of pools framed by an eclectic assortment of architecture.

The present site is actually a reconstruction; the former structures were destroyed by the 1963 Gunung Agung eruption. The reconstruction captures much of the place's former charm. An 11-tiered fountain pagoda is the palace's most notable architectural feature, and swimming is allowed for a nominal fee.

Goa Lawah (Bat Cave)

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Goa Lawah is an ancient temple built in front of a bat cave. The bats, not the temple, are the main draw. The bats are venerated by visiting worshippers, who buy offerings from nearby vendors. According to legend, the cave extends over 19 miles underground to emerge at Pura Besakih.

Balinese Hindus hold Goa Lawah in great regard where the afterlife is concerned. Worshippers stop at Goa Lawah to complete the Nyegara Gunung ceremony, a part of the Balinese funeral process: At Goa Lawah, offerings can be made to purify the newly released spirit so it can come home to the family’s household shrine.

Traditional Village of Tenganan

Daniela White Images / Getty Images 

The Bali Aga, or the pre-Hindu original people of Bali, remain only in a few isolated communities on the island, the most famous one being the village of Tenganan about 10 minutes from Candidasa. The Bali Aga live in a walled community that enforces a strict separation between "pure" Bali Aga and the "fallen," who live outside the walls.

The village is open to tourists in the daytime and offers a very different perspective on Balinese culture; the architecture, language, and ceremonies retain the old pre-Hindu ways. Tenganan's most famous product is a fabric known as gringsing, and its wearers are said to gain magical powers from its use.

Pura Luhur Lempuyang

Waitforlight / Getty Images

Despite its relatively obscure status, the temple of Pura Luhur Lempuyang is one of Bali’s most important religious places. As one of the island’s nine directional temples, Pura Luhur Lempuyang “protects” the native Balinese from evil spirits coming in from the east.

The temple presents an interesting challenge to visitors, reaching the top takes an hour and a half of serious climbing. The temple at the top offers awesome views of Gunung Agung, framed by the temple gate.

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East Bali Day Trip: What to See Beyond the Bali Gates of Heaven

East Bali is home to some of the top Bali attractions and landmarks including the famous Pura Lempuyang, former water palaces and incredible volcano viewpoints. Short on time? Here is an East Bali itinerary to get you started.

With the vast majority of travelers to Bali frequenting popular areas like Canggu, Seminyak, Uluwatu and Ubud, East Bali has remained somewhat quieter than its “Bali poster child” counterparts despite being home to some of the island’s most iconic landmarks.

If you only have 2 weeks in Bali and don’t have time to spend a few nights in the eastern part of the island, it is actually also possible to venture over for a day trip to visit a few of Bali’s most revered temples, perfectly preserved water palaces and sweeping viewpoints.

Here is my guide to spending 1 day in East Bali, including tips on how to get there, what to see and what to expect.

Travel tips for visiting Bali

But first, here is a quick refresher on Bali travel logistics.

✈️   The main airport in Bali is Ngurah Rai International Airport (airport code: DPS).  Many airlines fly direct to Bali. 🛂 A 30-day tourist visa-on-arrival is available for passport holders from  more than 80 countries . The Bali visa fee is US$35 or 500,000 IDR, and can be paid by cash or credit card – the fee is the same for adults and children. As of November 2022, you can also apply for an electronic visa ahead of your trip  here  – this may save you some time at the airport on arrival. Complete the electronic customs declaration ahead of your Bali trip  here . As of February 14th 2024 you will also be required to pay a 150,000 IDR (approximately US$10) “tourism levy” to be used towards the conservation of Bali’s nature and support sustainable tourism – this fee is in addition to the visa-on-arrival fee. You should  pay this fee online  before your trip.  Read more on the new levy here .

💱  The currency used in Bali is the Indonesian rupiah and the exchange rate is approximately US$1/1 Euro: 15,000 IDR or AUD$1: 10,000 IDR.  There are ATMs in the airport where you can withdraw some cash to get you started, and then you can visit a local ATM or money exchange place once you are in town.

Legitimate currency exchange/money changer shops in Bali advertise the rates clearly and do not charge a commission  – make sure you count your cash before leaving to avoid any later disputes. The majority of hotels, tourist restaurants and supermarkets accept credit card payments (you may find that in Southeast Asia that Visa and Mastercard are preferred over American Express), though you will still need cash to pay drivers and for any tips.

📱  Buy a local Indonesian SIM card . Everyone in Bali uses Whatsapp to communicate – this includes hotels, taxi drivers, spas and equipment rental companies. The easiest way to stay connected is to buy a Bali SIM card via Klook . You will need to provide certain information including your passport copy and phone IMEI number.  Buy your Bali SIM card here .

🏖️  The best time to visit Bali  is widely considered to be during the northern hemisphere’s summer months between July to early September (also the “dry” season with lower rainfall) – this also means that this is Bali’s peak tourism season. The rainy season in Bali usually runs during the winter months from December to February and it can be very humid and sticky during this time (though the rain storms tend to come and go rather than linger all day long).

That being said, there is no “bad” time to visit Bali. One important thing to note for first time visitors to Bali is that  Nyepi , New Year’s day in the Balinese calendar, falls in March (the date changes each year) and during this day the island observes complete silence. Shops and businesses close for the day, and everybody (including tourists) is expected to stay indoors as part of the ritual. The airport is no exception – there are no arrivals and departures on the day of Nyepi and some hotels may not arrange check-ins and outs during this day. In 2024 Nyepi will fall on March 11th and last until the morning of March 12th, and in 2025 Nyepi will take place on March 29th until the morning of March 30th.

Another major holiday in Bali to take note of is  Galungan and Kuningan , a Hindu celebration which takes place every 210 days. The two major events are 10 days apart, and many Balinese Hindus will spend the festival visiting family temples – many government offices will be closed on Galungan and Kuningan, and some major religious landmarks (like Pura Lempuyang) may close for ceremonies or have different opening and closing times. It is a beautiful time to be in Bali, when all the streets are lined with towering bamboo penjors.

🚁  Flying a drone in Bali:  You can fly a small drone in Bali for recreational, non-commercial purposes without a license as long as you follow  a few important guidelines . You should not fly a drone around or over any temple, and many hotels and beach clubs will have their own policies for drone usage on their property, so it’s best to check ahead before you launch your UAV.

You might also like: 2 Week Bali Itinerary For First Time Visitors

Where to stay for an East Bali day trip

Though Bali is small, the travel times between destinations can be lengthy. I do not recommend going on an East Bali day trip from anywhere west of Denpasar (places like Seminyak, Canggu or Uluwatu) as the drive times would simply be too long – you would be looking at nearly 3 hours by car each way , and that’s only if you get lucky and encounter minimal traffic! If you are planning a day trip to East Bali I recommend staying in the following locations instead:

Sanur : Popular with families and people looking for a less frenetic pace and thinner crowds, the white sand beaches of Sanur are a big draw, as is the long beachfront boardwalk spanning almost the entire length of the Sanur coast. It is located a quick 30-minute drive from the international airport, and a 2-hour drive from East Bali. This is where I stayed to embark on my East Bali day trip!

We highly recommend booking your stay at  Tandjung Sari , a family-owned boutique hotel in Sanur with a location that can’t be beat, stunning spacious rooms and a private beach area.  Check the rates and availability at Tandjung Sari or read my full hotel review here .

Looking for more Sanur hotel options?  You may also want to consider  Maya Sanur  (a luxury beachfront hotel in Sanur with a fantastic pool and oceanfront restaurant and bar),  Andaz Bali  (a high end peaceful resort with modern and sleek rooms, perfect for couples) or  Hyatt Regency Bali  (a family-friendly resort in Sanur with excellent facilities).

Ubud : Ubud  in central Bali is one of the top tourist destinations in Bali and often referred to as the cultural capital of the island. It is famous for its emerald cascading rice terraces in Tegallalang, thousands of Hindu shrines, powerful waterfalls and art museums. You can travel from Ubud to Pura Lempuyang and Tirta Gangga in East Bali in approximately 2 hours by car.

We recommend checking out the individual pool villas at   Origin Ubud .  We loved having breakfast served poolside each morning and the spacious, brightly-lit rooms.  Click here to check availability and rates at Origin Ubud  or head over here to  see more hotel options in Ubud .

Want to explore more Ubud hotel options?  We also considered staying at  11 on Kajeng  (a small boutique hotel within walking distance of the Ubud Palace and Saraswati Temple),  The Sankara Resort  (beautiful hotel with an excellent on-site spa, provides a shuttle service into town) and  Sapodilla Ubud  (one of the top-rated boutique hotels in Ubud).

If you are keen to stay in East Bali itself, here are some popular options:

Sidemen : Nestled in sprawling rice terraces, Sidemen is an off-the-beaten-track destination in Bali where you’ll find most of the boutique bamboo villas and cottages. Much like Munduk in north Bali , you will need access to some form of transportation to get around as tourism and infrastructure is still developing in this area. Click here to check highly-rated accommodation options in Sidemen.

Amed : A favorite among divers, Amed is located on the far eastern end of Bali. It is popular for white sand beaches, quiet fishing village life and volcano views. Click here to check highly-rated accommodation options in Amed.

Candidasa : Candidasa (or Candi Dasa) is located on the east coast, about two thirds of the way between Sanur and Amed. It is a popular alternative for visitors to Bali who are looking for a quieter beach getaway, but also offers easy access to Pura Lempuyang, the Besakih Mother Temple and more. Click here to explore highly-rated accommodation options in Candidasa.

How to visit and get to East Bali

Ready to plan your visit to the temples and palaces of East Bali? Here are some basics to help you prepare for your trip.

What’s the best way to explore East Bali? If you only have 1 day in East Bali, then the monuments and landmarks of East Bali are best explored by car – with or without a guide. You can also join a group tour or book a private East Bali tour like this one or this one via Klook.

The full day trip from Sanur or Ubud should take you 10-12 hours at the very minimum (if you don’t queue for a photo in front of the Insta-famous Gates of Heaven – you could be waiting for up to 4 hours!) and you can charter a car and driver for approximately 750,000-850,000 IDR (~50 US$/Euros) for the day. I recommend contacting Sudewa/Ani (Whatsapp at  +62 819 9845 3366 ) or Wayan (Whatsapp at  +62 813 3837 4919 ) if you are looking for a reliable driver and clean vehicle.

How much time to spend in East Bali: To make the most of your time in East Bali you will want to depart early in the morning by 7 or 8 AM, at the very latest. You should be able to visit at least 4-5 places in East Bali and get back to your hotel in Ubud or Sanur by dinner time. This means you will need to be prepared for a nearly 12-hour day of sightseeing!

Can you visit East Bali with kids? Yes, you can…but I would advise against planning an East Bali day trip with very young children – it is a big travel day with lots of sun and heat. I chose to leave my toddler at the hotel with my husband as there were more toddler and child-friendly activities to keep him entertained.

What to wear to East Bali: The majority of the population on the island are Hindu, and as a top tourism destination the dress code in Bali is typically fairly relaxed. However, if you plan on visiting any temple (which you will likely do on this day trip to East Bali) then both men and women will need to have your legs covered with a sarong, which is available to rent at most temples. You will also need to make sure that your shoulders are covered.

Places like Taman Ujung and Tirta Gangga may not have a specific dress code, but in general, you will also notice that most Balinese dress on the conservative side – it is worth bearing this in mind and being respectful of cultural norms.

East Bali day trip itinerary

Ready for your very action-packed day trip to East Bali? Here are some of the top places to visit in East Bali and important information so that you can plan ahead.

1. Visit Pura Lempuyang and the Gates of Heaven

Start bright and early by heading on the 2-hour journey and making a beeline over to  Pura Lempuyang and the Gates of Heaven  with Mount Agung dramatically looming in the background.

Pura Lempuyang, or “God that shines a bright light”, is perhaps one of the most iconic destinations in Bali, with tens of thousands of tourists venturing to the complex for the famous “Gates of Heaven” Balinese doorway.

There is usually a lengthy queue to take a photo at the gateway, and once your number is called a guide can take 4-5 photos for you in a series of poses (there are rules for what poses are not allowed including kissing, yoga poses or any pose where you leg is held up high), before you rush off and it’s the next person’s turn. On the day I visited, the wait was 4 hours long.

You are likely to have seen thousands upon thousands of photos of the famous “Bali gates of heaven” where the gates are reflected as if they sit on a lake – this clever illusion is created with a mirror that the guide holds just below the phone’s camera lens.

You have to take a shuttle bus which costs 45,000 IDR for the return journey, and entry costs 55,000 IDR. Visitors have to wear a sarong (which the temple provides), shoulders must be covered, and holy water is sprinkled on your head at the temple entrance.

Female visitors to Pura Lempuyang should also be aware that you cannot visit if you have your period, and the ticket officers will actually ask you whether you are currently menstruating. The upper levels of the temples are accessible only to devotees who are visiting for prayers and offerings.

Unless you are planning on touring the entire Pura Lempuyang complex which encompasses many different temples or queuing for a photo, 30-45 minutes should be sufficient here.

Ready to plan your East Bali day trip? I recommend staying in Sanur or Ubud as these two places offer fairly easy access by car to East Bali. We loved Tandjung Sari , a family-owned boutique hotel in Sanur with a private beach area.  Check the rates and availability at Tandjung Sari or explore more Sanur hotel options here . If you are staying in Ubud, check out the individual pool villas at   Origin Ubud .  We loved the privacy of the villas and being able to walk into Ubud town.  Click here to check availability and rates at Origin Ubud  or head over here to  see more hotel options in Ubud . Alternatively, you can also stay in East Bali itself if you have enough time : Sidemen (surrounded by rice paddies with some stunning boutique hotels and bamboo houses on offer), Amed (popular with divers on the far eastern corner of Bali) and Candidasa (a quiet coastal village with several pristine beaches nearby) are some options for where to stay in East Bali.

2. Stop at Lahangan Sweet

You can then slowly make your way back by stopping at the stunning  Lahangan Sweet viewpoint  and taking a photo at one of their tree platforms. The drive from Lempuyang Temple to Lahangan Sweet should take no longer than 20-30 minutes.

I actually really enjoyed my time here – the view was incredible, and there were only a handful of other people there as well. Since my visit they have also completed a set of classic Balinese gates which mimics the pair at Pura Lempuyang (albeit smaller), so if you weren’t keen on queueing hours for a photo then you can also snap away here.

Entry costs 30,000 IDR for Lahangan Sweet and 50,000 IDR if you want to take a Jeep there from the parking lot (which I highly recommend doing, as even though the distance from the car park to the viewpoint is short, it is largely unshaded and unpaved so it will be a sweaty 15-20 minute hike).

3. Explore the grounds of Tirta Gangga

Hop back in the car and drive 30 minutes from Lahangan Sweet to the koi-filled ponds of the  Tirta Gangga  water palace for the next stop on your day tour of East Bali.

Explore the lush grounds and water fountains of the former royal palace built in the 1940s, or stop for a quick coffee and bite to eat at one of the restaurants inside.

The palace’s name, Tirta Gangga, means “holy water of the Ganges”. The complex features ponds and a manmade lake as you walk in. Though it can get crowded, it is one landmark you won’t want to miss if you only have 1 day in East Bali.

There are some small boats that you can hop in (for an extra fee), as well as a swimming pool on the far right hand side. The vendors (there are many) sell fish food should you want to feed the koi.

Unless you are queuing for a photo, I recommend spending no more than 30 minutes at Tirta Gangga as the grounds are compact and it gets very, very crowded.

Entry costs 50,000 IDR. There is no specific dress code for this stop on your East Bali day tour unless you are visiting the small temple within the complex, but I still recommend keeping your shoulders and knees covered to be respectful.

Ready to book your East Bali day trip? To cut down on lengthy travel times, I recommend staying in Sanur or Ubud as these two places offer easy access to East Bali by car. We loved Tandjung Sari , a family-owned boutique hotel in Sanur with a private beach area.  Check the rates and availability at Tandjung Sari or explore more Sanur hotel options here . If you are staying in Ubud, check out the individual pool villas at   Origin Ubud .  We loved the privacy of the villas and being able to walk into Ubud town.  Click here to check availability and rates at Origin Ubud  or head over here to  see more hotel options in Ubud . Alternatively, you can also stay in East Bali itself if you have enough time : Sidemen (surrounded by rice paddies with some stunning boutique hotels and bamboo houses on offer), Amed (popular with divers on the far eastern corner of Bali) and Candidasa (a quiet coastal village with several pristine beaches nearby) are some top options for where to stay in East Bali.

4. Cool down at Taman Ujung

My personal favourite stop on the East Bali day trip itinerary was the  Taman Ujung  water palace, just a brisk 20-minute drive from Tirta Gangga. The breeze that swept over the manmade lake was welcome after a huge day out in the sun.

Built in the early 1900s by the King of Karangasem, the sprawling and perfectly uncrowded grounds at Taman Ujung are popular for couples taking wedding photos, and you can climb this stairway for a stunning view from above.

In the middle of the complex you will find a small building connected by bridges – the rooms within the building show family portraits and photos from the royal family. Entry costs 75,000 IDR – credit cards are accepted.

5. Visit the bats at Goa Lawah

Last but not least, if you have more time (and energy), pause at  Goa Lawah  as your final stop of your East Bali day trip to check out the colony of bats at this unique Hindu temple. As you approach, you’ll start to hear the fluttering of hundreds of bat wings, together with their little squeaks.

The sacred temple is one of the holiest in Bali – entry costs 30,000 IDR for adults and 20,000 IDR for children (which includes sarong rental at 5,000 IDR). Like Pura Lempuyang, if you are menstruating you are forbidden from entering the temple. The drive back to Sanur from Goa Lawah will take an hour, or just over an hour if you are headed back to Ubud.

More ideas for your East Bali day tour itinerary

The 5 stops I listed out in this itinerary for a East Bali day trip took me a full 10-11 hours to travel to and visit. However, if you have more time or are actually staying overnight in one of the towns in East Bali then you might want to add these places to your list:

Besakih Great Temple: Pura Besakih is one of, if not the most, holy Hindu pilgrimage sites in Bali. Made up of nearly two dozen temples on the slopes of Mount Agung volcano, it is sometimes also referred to as the “Mother Temple”.

Mount Batur: Hiking to the top of Mount Batur to witness the sunrise is one of the most popular things to do in Bali. Many people depart for the hike from Ubud, and the trek itself is said to be very manageable – most people complete the journey within 3-4 hours.

Bukit Cinta viewpoint: Located about midway between Taman Ujung and Tirta Gangga, this is a popular viewpoint if you want sweeping views of rice paddies and Mount Agung.

Gembleng waterfall : Famous for its natural infinity rock pools, Air Tejun Gembleng is located close to Sidemen. Over the years it has grown in popularity so you may find it to be very busy.

Tukad Cepung waterfall: Hidden within a cave-like structure is this small waterfall, best known for the ray of light that peers through from about 9 AM to mid-day. It can easily be reached from Ubud or Sidemen.

Ready to book your day trip to East Bali? To cut down on lengthy travel times and to make the most of your time, stay in Sanur or Ubud as these two places offer easy access to East Bali by car. We loved Tandjung Sari , a family-owned boutique hotel in Sanur with a private beach area and fantastic on-site restaurant.  Check the rates and availability at Tandjung Sari or explore more Sanur hotel options here . If you are staying in Ubud, check out the individual pool villas at   Origin Ubud .  We loved the privacy of the villas and being able to walk into Ubud town.  Click here to check availability and rates at Origin Ubud  or head over here to  see more hotel options in Ubud .

I hope you found this East Bali day trip itinerary helpful!

You may also enjoy these reads:

• First time to Bali? Here is a 2 week Bali itinerary with plenty of tips to get you started
• Canggu is a popular beach destination in Bali with plenty of cafes, yoga studios and boutiques.  Read this for my Canggu travel guide
• For a quieter beach getaway consider heading to Sanur on the east coast of Bali, just a 30-minute drive from the international airport.  Read my Sanur travel guide here
• Headed to Bali’s cultural capital, Ubud? Here are  the best things to do in Ubud
• If you plan on spending time in the north central mountain region of Bali  here is my guide to the best things to do in Munduk and Bedugul
• Uluwatu is often known as a surfer’s paradise, but it’s worth a visit even if you don’t surf.  Read my guide on things to do and places to visit in Uluwatu
• There are many common misconceptions about Southeast Asia.  Read this before you travel to Southeast Asia!

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13 of the Best Places to Visit in East Bali

By Author Jon Algie

Posted on Last updated: November 11, 2022

Categories Indonesia

A world away from the hectic (and not especially pretty) tourist towns of the west, East Bali is home to some of the islands most impressive views. You can visit East Bali on a day trip or stay in laid-back towns such as Sidemen and Amed.

My East Bali Trips 

I’ve been on several day trips to East Bali over the years. The first was to climb Mt Batur in 2013, then another one on my honeymoon in 2018 (plus a stay in Padang Bai), and another couple of day trips on my 2022 trip. You almost definitely won’t see everything on my list during your next trip to Bali, but hopefully it gives you some spots to add to your own East Bali adventure. I obviously haven’t been everywhere in East Bali — there are more temples, viewpoints, beaches and other attractions!

Places to See in East Bali 

The Sidemen Rice Terraces are some of the best in Bali, and it’s a good place to stop for a while on an East Bali day trip. It’s a far more local experience than Tegalalang and Jatuliweh, but if you’ve already seen them you may want to skip Sidemen.

It’s a beautiful place though, and there are some stunning villas on the hills looking down the Sidemen Valley — it could be a good place to splash out if you’re looking for a tranquil night or two.

Bukit Cinta

Mount Agung, the tallest volcano on the island, dominates East Bali, and a great viewpoint to see it from is Bukit Cinta. There’s a restaurant with awesome views, but just below it you can see it for free (you can just stop by the side of the road and walk down 20 metres or so).

Hiking to the top of Mount Batur in time for sunrise is one of the best experiences you can have in Bali. It takes a couple of hours to get up there and isn’t that difficult– and what a view from the top!

I visited Lake Batur after climbing the mountain. I was tagging along with a couple who had organised a driver and they were keen to get a boat across the lake to visit a graveyard, minus the actual graves. Bones were scattered around various parts of the tiny cemetery – an interesting spot and one I probably never would have heard about otherwise. 

Kintamani 

Kintamani is the region where Mount Batur / Lake Batur call home. It’s also famous for its viewpoints — I remember stopping at one with a nice view all those years ago — definitely somewhere I’ll return to on future Bali trips (the Trunyan Hill hike looks good).

Lahangan Sweet 

With Mount Agung being the dominant force in East Bali, you’re going to want to find the best viewpoints for it. Lahangan Sweet is a good one to seek out — it has great views of the volcano as well as a long way down the east coast of Bali. 

It’s a nice spot to visit for sunset and looks odds on to become a popular spot with the Instagram crowd — how could they resist photo opportunities like these!

Roadside Views

Driving around East Bali you’re bound to see incredible views. Whether you have room to stop so you can see them is another story though. Keep your eyes peeled and you’ll get to enjoy views like the ones below from the comfort of the side of the road. 

Tirtra Gangga

It can be hard to choose which temples in Bali to visit (hopefully my post on it helps), but if you’re travelling around Bali Tirtra Gangga is a good option. You’ve got your usual temple scenes, but there’s also a big pool with stepping stones — hang around long enough and you might see someone fall in.

Lumpayang Temple 

This infamous temple in East Bali was (maybe still is?) popular with Instagrammers and wannabe influencers, who were drawn there by a cool looking reflection photo spot with Mount Agung in the background. It turns out those photos were faked (by a guy holding a mirror up to your camera) and people were lining up for hours for the privilege. It’s a decent enough place if you ignore all that

NOTE: I seem to have misplaced my photos of Lumpayang Temple. Either that, or I never visited at all and it was just a bad dream. Or maybe I just didn’t deem it worthy of a photo. 

Virgin Beach

One of the best beaches in Bali is found in the east, and it’s kinda in the middle of nowhere. Virgin Beach is a stunning white sand beach with calm, clear water — so different to the beaches on the west coast!

Make sure to walk up (or get your driver to go that way and stop) to the viewpoint above the beach — one of the best beach views you’ll see in East Bali.

Amed is a small town strung out along a few kilometres of road. Most people are drawn here by the snorkelling and diving just off the black sand beaches, but it’s a nice place to visit even without getting in the water.

The beaches are nice enough, with views of Mount Agung from some parts. You can also see it from one of the streets, but the real highlight is the view from above town — a perfect curve of black sand backed by green trees, with Mount Agung in the distance. The viewpoint was closed for construction (maybe a new hotel going there) but you could still see the view from the road. Hopefully this area opens up properly in the near future as it’s one of the better views in Bali.

If you’re travelling to the Gili Islands on a speed boat you’ll briefly stop in Padang Bai, but it’s much more than a transit point.  Some of the best beaches in Bali are found just a short walk from town – it’s worth spending a night or two there if you can! It’s very sleepy after all the boats go too.

I only stopped in Candi Dasa very briefly, so I can’t comment too much on it. It’s another place renowned for diving, but unlike Amed there’s no real beach there.

Other Places to Visit in East Bali 

I’m sure there are heaps of other places to visit in East Bali, with more being discovered all the time. Lahangan Sweet, the viewpoint that I reckon is one of the best in Bali, only became a thing a year or two ago. I’m sure more places like it will pop up! Some reasonably popular places to visit in East Bali that I missed include Savana Tianyar, Besakih Great Temple and Jagasatru Waterfall.

Are you planning a trip to Bali? Check out my two-week itinerary !

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12 Top Things to Do in East Bali – Waterfalls, Temples, Views + More

East Bali is one of the island’s undiscovered regions. Some of the best things to do in East Bali include iconic views of Mount Agung, lush green rice fields, ancient temples, calming water palaces, and picturesque bamboo villas. 

Most opt to stay in tourist hubs such as Canggu, Seminyak, Uluwatu, or Ubud, but I highly suggest making the 1.5-hour scooter ride to this part of the island. Believe me, you won’t be disappointed. This region shows you the more authentic parts of life in Bali.

Once you’ve visited the East Bali highlights below, make sure to take some time to ride through the back roads and discover the regions on your own. There is inspiring scenery just waiting for you on the side of the road.

Look no further, here is where to stay in Sidemen Valley , East Bali

* This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my  full disclosure  for further information.

East Bali Quick Guide

BEST TRAVEL INSURANCE Check Prices of HeyMondo Insurance

VEHICLE WITH PRIVATE DRIVER Check Price on Car or Minibus Charter

BEST EAST BALI HOTELS Top Pick | Samanvaya Luxury Resort Luxury | Camaya Bali Mid-range | Patal Kikian Villa Economy | Abian Ayu Villa

CHEAP FLIGHTS TO BALI Check Flight Prices on Skyscanner

CUSTOMIZED PRIVATE BALI TOUR Check Price on Private Bali Tour

BEST EAST BALI TOURS Instagram Highlights Tour Besakih Temple + Gates of Heaven Tour Sidemen Cooking Class + Farm Tour East Bali Highlights Tour

Short on Time? Try this East Bali Adventure Day Trip

The Best Things to Do in East Bali

#1 stay in a bamboo villa.

We’ve all seen it plastered all over Bali Instagram feeds, the iconic bamboo villa. One of the best things to do in East Bali is to book yourself a 1 or 2 night stay at one of these unique stays. 

Immerse yourself in nature, hear the sounds and smell the fresh greenery. Most of these villas have open air living and bedrooms, so do be aware that you will be exposed to the elements and critters. Bring a sweater with you because the Sidemen Valley hilltops can get a bit cooler at night. This is all a part of the charm and adventure of being in Bali. Do it once, and thank me later. 

Make sure to rise early to catch sunrise over the rice fields and do some meditation or yoga. Sunset is also lovely, all bundled up in white duvet hanging in the picture perfect nets. Food options are usually pretty limited in these areas, so bring a bottle of wine and snacks with you to thoroughly enjoy your stay.

Here are a couple of my recommendations for iconic bamboo villas in East Bali:

HIDEOUT BALI | Located in the Sidemen Valley, this bamboo eco village has 6 homes to choose from. All with the quintessential picture perfect architecture.

#2 Lahangan Sweet Viewpoint

Lahangan Sweet is a secret among locals as one of the best things to do in East Bali. The view of Mount Agung, the mighty active volcano, at sunrise is unparalleled. 

The trek up is steep and a bit muddy, but follow the directions on google maps precisely and you should lay witness to a life changing Bali moment.

READ MORE | Everything you need to know about Lahangan Sweet viewpoint

#3 Gembleng Waterfall Bali

Talk about cool East Bali attractions, and you can’t look further than Gembleng waterfall. This Bali waterfall destination is new on the scene, which means you need to get there before it blows up on social media. Gembleng waterfall comes complete with rushing water, 3 lounging pools, and amazing views of Bali’s lush landscape.

Due to it just opening up to tourism, the amenities are limited here, so come prepared with toilet paper and swimmers under your clothes. There is a small snack stand near the top of the climb offering soft drinks and chips. 

It’ll take you 5 minutes up a windy dirt path to reach the pools. Wear some water shoes or waterproof sandals to climb the pools so you don’t slip. 

COST | Gembleng Waterfall Entrance fee is 20K IDR ($1.40 USD)

WHERE | Gembleng Waterfall, Bali  

STAY | Nestled in the Sidemen Valley, Samanvaya , a luxury adult-only resort with individual bungalows is a great central location for all East Bali attractions. Don’t forget to book a spa treatment.

#4 Bukit Cinta Bali: Mount Agung Viewpoint

The Bukit Cinta viewpoint is one of the places not to miss in East Bali. Set on the side of the road this spectacular view of Mount Agung is a sunrise gem. 

READ MORE | The complete guide on Bukit Cinta, Bali – best view of Mount Agung

#5 Tukad Cepung Waterfall, Bali

Hidden within an enchanting grotto, Tukad Cepung waterfall is one of the most instagrammable places in East Bali. Go in the morning to catch the sun rays that come through the top of the waterfall and create a beautiful glow.

READ MORE | Cepung waterfall Complete Guide

#6 Taman Ujung Water Palace, Bali

Taman Ujung is a great alternative to the ever-popular Tirta Gangga water palace. Located right along the coastline of East Bali, Taman Ujung was first built in 1919 by the king of Karangasem to host important guests. 

The water palace comes complete with beautiful ponds, bridges, walkways, greenery, roman style theatre, and a grand staircase. Picture perfect on every turn. 

A great route to take here would be to start by entering over the bridge, then turn right along the lake and take the picturesque walkway to the central palace. Then keep walking through to the other side of the pond, go right up the staircase to the roman pillars. Here you will be able to see the entire grounds and coastline of East Bali.

WHERE | Taman Ujung Water Palace, Bali

COST | 50K IDR ($3.50 USD)

#7 Monkey Bar at Bella Vista

A crystal clear blue infinity pool with a giant concrete Buddha statue overlooking the lush mountainous landscape of East Bali, who can ask for more. This restaurant slash pool club is a must for an afternoon of lounging in a pool and marvelling at the view. 

The staff is super friendly, and the food here is okay/decent, but that’s definitely not the reason to come here. If you are into views, swimming, and lounging,  it’s a must-visit East Bali attraction. 

Go during the week if you can, as we were advised by the manager that weekends are the busiest.

WHERE | Monkey Bar at Bella Vista, Bali

COST | Entrance fee for Monkey Bar is 50K IDR ($3.50 USD) in which 20K goes to towel rental and pool usage and 30K goes to food.

STAY | If you fancy a stay at the villas located right at Monkey Bar, you can book a stay at Bella Kita to have full access to the pool during your visit.

#8 Tirta Gangga Water Palace, Bali

Hidden away in the flatlands of the Karangasem region is the Tirta Gangga water palace, one of the most popular things to do in East Bali. The name means “water from the Ganges” and if you know anything about Hindu religion and culture, the Ganges River in India is one of the most sacred places in the world. 

The Tirta Gangga water palace was built in 1947 by the former heir to the Karangasem kingdom and almost all but destroyed by the Mount Agung eruption in 1963. What remains today is still a delight to witness and walk amongst. The water garden consists of ponds, fountains and many stone structures. The grounds have always been considered holy.

The Tirta Gangga complex has many food options surrounding the main gate so you won’t be starved for snacks. There are also several individual washroom stalls located just to the left of the entrance for your convenience. 

If you’d like to buy a bag of fish food for the koi pond, find it outside the gate for 5,000 IDR ($0.35 USD) at many vendors

WHERE | Tirta Gangga Water Palace, Bali

COST | Tirta Gangga entrance fee is 30,000 IDR (approximately $2.10 USD) 

#9 Maha Gangga Valley National Reserve

Just around the corner from Tirta Gangga water palace, is the Maha Gangga Valley reserve. A local secret at this point, Maha Gangga is a large park that includes a campground, restaurant, multiple flower fields, a quirky bridge, and several small cone-shaped straw huts. 

What makes this reserve even more spectacular, is the beautiful backdrop of fearsome and mighty Mount Agung and the valley’s rice fields that surround the park. 

Spend an hour or two perusing and taking pictures to your heart’s content. Make sure to check when the marigolds and flower fields will be in full bloom, when we went they were a bit shrivelled. 

WHERE | Maha Gangga Valley, Bali

COST | Maha Gangga Valley entrance fee is 50K IDR ($3.50 USD)

#10 La Montagne Cafe

What can be so exciting about a cafe you ask? The view, of course! La Montagne Cafe has incredible views overlooking a deep valley of lush green rice fields. And like most places not to miss in East Bali, Mount Agung looms ahead. 

Throw ‘La Montagne Coffee’ into google maps and it will take you exactly where you need to go. Arrive around 9 AM when the cafe just opens to get the best midmorning light. They have a table specifically set up for photos (an Instagrammer’s dream), so you won’t be able to sit at it, but the tables inside are just as good. 

If you end up arriving for lunch, grab yourself some local Indonesian food, the Gado Gado is delicious.

WHERE | La Montagne Coffee, Bali

COST | Since it’s a cafe, there is no cost besides what you purchase off the menu

STAY | About a 25-minute drive away is the picturesque Bird Hills bamboo home , a quintessential East Bali experience.

#11 Virgin Beach 

Caught between the Southeast Bali mountain range and the Indian Ocean is Virgin Beach. A white sand and clear water haven notched nicely into the side of the cliff. You’ll find everything you need here to spend the morning or day frolicking in the waves, getting a tan, or sipping on a coconut.

There are a few local warungs along the beachfront, a small campground, ladies offering beach massages, and fishermen selling their catch of the day.

Typing ‘Virgin Beach parking lot’ into Google Maps is likely the most direct route, as there are a couple of different entrances. Once you’ve left the main road, it can be a little tricky to navigate through the small village before heading up and over the mountain. But, don’t worry, a friendly local will be there to guide you in the right direction.

Stop your scooter at the pinnacle of the mountain to get a spectacular view of the beach from up top.

Afternoons at Virgin Beach are quite hot, so I’d opt to spend the morning lazing around before heading home after lunch. Alternatively, sunsets can be beautiful here, and if this is your jam, arrive around 5 PM. 

WHERE | Virgin Beach, Bali

COST | Virgin Beach in Bali has an entrance fee of 10K IDR ($0.70 USD) for foreigners

#12 Penataran Lempuyang Temple (Gates of Heaven)

Penataran Lempuyang is a Hindu temple located close to the far East coast of Bali. It’s one of the longest-standing East Bali attractions. The ‘Gates of Heaven’ are located close to the top of Mount Lempuyang, which is deemed one of the holiest places in Bali. 

This spot was made popular years ago by a single image of a person standing in the middle of the reflected gate. Some people are disappointed to find out that the reflection is created by holding a piece of glass up to your lens but the end result still brings awe to many people. It remains one of the most instagrammable places in East Bali. 

Due to its fame, I’d advise arriving before the temple grounds open if you are planning to get the famous shot for sunrise. A cue here can be several people long.

WHERE | Pura Penataran Lempuyang Temple, Bali

COST | Penataran Lempuyang Temple entrance fee is 10K IDR ($0.70 USD) 

STAY | Located a 20-minute scooter ride from the temple, is Kubu Carik Bungalows . These 2 bungalows have an amazing view of the valley all to themselves.

Essentials for your East Bali Trip

With any trip, it’s always a good idea to prepare and bring a few items that will make your experience better. Here are my recommendations: 

DAY PACK | I travel with my WANDRD backpack , it comes with a compartment for your camera and tons of space for all your other goodies 

MIRRORLESS CAMERA | If you want to invest in something other than your camera phone (the newest phones have great cameras by the way), I purchased the Sony A7iii with a Sigma 24-70mm 2.8 lens . Couldn’t be happier. 

WATERPROOF SHOES | I went with a pair of trekking sandals from Teva , they are pretty multifunctional in my opinion. But a classic water shoe does the trick too. 

MICROFIBER TOWEL | For beaches and waterfalls make sure to bring a microfiber towel to dry off afterwards.

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE | Let’s help save our planet from plastic pollution and carry around a reusable water bottle instead. I love my Swell water bottle as it stays cold for 24 hours and is lightweight. A LARQ water bottle would also fit the bill and has water purifying technology built right in.

More Bali Travel Inspiration

10 COOL + UNIQUE PLACES TO STAY IN UBUD BALI   | Looking a unique place to stay in the heart of Bali’s wellness culture? This guide has you covered.

WHERE TO STAY IN SIDEMEN BALI  | Sidemen Valley is an untouched paradise in East Bali. Here are all the best places to stay in the area.

LAHANGAN SWEET, BALI | Located on top of a mountain overlooking Mount Agung on one side and the East Bali coastline on the other. Lahangan Sweet is a must-visit location.

BUKIT CINTA, BALI   | One of the best viewpoints of Mount Agung, Bali’s active volcano. Go for sunrise and you won’t be disappointed

TIBUMANA WATERFALL, BALI  | Who can resist a picture-perfect Bali waterfall? Check out this gem located a 30-minute scooter ride from the yoga centre of Ubud 

TUKAD CEPUNG WATERFALL, BALI  | A unique waterfall nestled inside a mossy cave in central Bali

SUWAT WATERFALL, BALI  | Suwat waterfall is tucked away in a grotto with natural falls and an epic cave

Click Image Below to Pin for Later!

Haley is the founder of the global travel blog, Haley Blackall Travel. She has travelled to 40+ countries across 5 continents over the last 15 years. She loves to share in-depth travel guides and recommendations to help travellers get the most out of their vacation time, including her favourite boutique hotels, things to do and travel itineraries.

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East Bali Itinerary – Your Complete 3 Day Guide

So you have heard of East Bali, and all of it’s wonderful and famous attractions, but you have no idea how to get there or where to go? Well, relax, because I have you covered. I have been all over East Bali and have put together a list of my favorite places to form this 3 day East Bali Itinerary just for you!

Before I get started, let me just say that the very best way to travel around Bali and not miss anything is to do it yourself. This may sound daunting to some, but seriously, you will not see anywhere near as much from the back of a tour bus. Rent a car or scooter and hit the road yourself, if you can. International drivers permits are not hard to get, and once you are out of the southern tourist region of Bali the traffic is a lot lighter.

This article may contain affiliate links. If you click on those links and make a purchase, at no extra cost to you I will get a small commission. This will go a long way toward keeping this website running. As always, thank you for your support! Click HERE for more information.

The other reason I recommend this is so that you can make impromptu stops along the way. If there is one thing I have learned in Bali, it’s that no matter where you are going, you WILL find other interesting places you will just WANT to visit. I have seen over 50 waterfalls on this island, and at least a third of them were unplanned visits. I see a sign on the side of the road and follow it.

With this in mind all of my itineraries are made with extra time factored in. See something you like? Stop. Want extra time somewhere you fall in love with? Take it. I do not make itineraries that mean you will be rushing and in a hurry. What’s the fun in that?

So without further ado, here is my 3 Day East Bali Itinerary.

East Bali Itinerary Day 1

Hire your scooter or car and hit the road. Ideally you will have done this the night before so you can get an early start. From the Kuta/Legian/Seminyak area, East Bali is about 2 hours drive, so the earlier you get going the better.

Head up the coast past Sanur and along the beachfront toward Candi Dasa . There are plenty of beautiful locations along here so take your time, especially if you got that nice, early start.

Set your GPS for Bukit Asah . This Bukit is a beautiful headland in Karangasem that is famous for it’s views and very popular with campers. Take the first exit you can to get up onto the headland, because the same road will also continue down the hill to your next stop, Virgin Beach.

Here are google locations for Bukit Asah and Virgin Beach .

You will love Virgin Beach . It is the idylic stop for a quick dip and a fresh coconut underneath the palm trees. This beach is unique as a white sand beach amogst all the black sand beaches throughout the rest of the region.

Have lunch here, or if you like head toward your next stop at Tirta Gangga Water Palace. These water gardens are the former Royal Palace, designed and constructed by the King himself. Keen Instagram followers will also recognize this place, as it has become very popular on social media in recent years.

If you have not had Lunch yet, then we could suggest the warung directly across the road from the main entrance to the Water Palace. The food is some of the best Warung food in town!

Find a place to stay, and settle in for the night. There will be an early start in the morning as we continue with Day 2 of our East Bali Itinerary.

If you need suggestions for accommodation, see the bottom of this post for some links we have found for you!

East Bali Itinerary Day 2

How was Day 1? Good? Excellent, because Day 2 will be even better!

Start the day nice and early. Before dawn would be perfect. Set your GPS to take you to Lempuyang Temple , or Heaven’s Gate if you follow Social Media.

This is one of the directional Temples of Bali, and sits on one of the hills that overlook the whole Karangasem region. The site has become very famous in recent years for the amazing photos that you can get standing between the gates with Mount Agung in the background. The best time of day for these photos, though, is early in the morning before the cloud moves in, or for sunset, as the cloud moves away and the setting sun behind the mountain is amazing.

I suggest early morning, though, because the crowd at Heaven’s Gate can get big. It is not uncommon to be lined up for over an hour and even longer just to get a photo. Remember, too, that there is much more to see at the Temple than just the Gates themselves. Take time to explore and when you are ready to move on, keep reading below.

Next stop for your East Bali Itinerary will be the Taman Soekasada Ujung Water Palace , also known as Taman Ujung Floating Palace. This is another water palace close to the coast in Karangasem. The pools and gardens are beautiful, and extremely popular in Bali for Pre-Wedding photos. Spend your afternoon wandering around the gardens and checking out the sights. Relax, and make certain to leave a couple of hours before sunset.

After you leave the Floating Palace, we are going to take you to Amed on the Northern coastline. Amed has always been popular among the diving community of Bali due to the wonderful marine life in the area. There are also some world class wreck diving spots along this coastline. If you have the time, do some exploring and find a place to do some late afternoon snorkeling if you like. Otherwise, we are heading to a place called Sunset Point to see one the best sunsets in Bali. Here, the sun sets over Mount Agung, and is worthy of the trip to witness it at least once!

Finally – Day 3

So, Day 3 of our East Bali Itinerary is already here!

Whether you decided to stay the night in Amed or head back to accommodation in Karangasem, this morning is another early one for you. Once you arise, we are heading to a place called Bukit Cinta . Get the cameras ready because there are more photos coming of the imposing Mount Agung again.

Bukit Cinta is basically a field of grass beside the road. What makes it amazing is the view down across the rice paddies, and Mount Agung in the distance. Coming in the early morning is best, once again so that Agung is clear of cloud, but also because photos are best in the morning light.

Once you are done at Bukit Cinta, take your time, because basically this last day is an easy one. Head off to Candi Dasa and find a nice spot along the waterfront for a well deserved brunch. Then, we have one more surprise for you, this time on the road home.

Set your GPS for this location , which is called Bukit Belong . This small hill is covered in the greenest of long grass, and boasts sweeping views out across the ocean toward Nusa Penida in the distance, as well as all the way down toward Nusa Dua and Kuta in the south. Break out the camera again and enjoy this unique location for as long as you like. It’s also a great place for a picnic, so bring some snacks along with you.

Well, that’s it for my 3 Day East Bali Itinerary. After Bukit Belong you can head home, or if you still have time you can stop by in Ubud and check out a couple of the sights up there. There are plenty of waterfalls on offer, and Hidden Canyon is also on the way home if you have a few hours to spare!

One more epic location that I have discovered only recently is Lahangan Sweet . This is one of the best views in East Bali, but is hard to get to unless you are on a scooter and feeling very confident. Give it a go and check it out if you have the time!

Don’t forget to follow me for more Bali Itineraries and places to see! As promised, below you will find a list of links for accommodation in the East Bali region.

Cabe Bali – For a really nice place to stay very close to Tirta Gangga. This is also in a great spot to head off early for Heaven’s Gate.

Villa Di Bias – if you really want to spoil yourself, this place has great views across rice paddies and is fairly central to everything you will want to do in East Bali.

Jasri Bay Hideaway – for a really great place on the beach. Quiet, and right near the best surf break in the area!

DON’T FORGET to leave a comment below. I promise to reply!

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10 Must-Visit Places in East Bali

10 Must-Visit Places in East Bali – Most people never see the real Bali. They think Bali is just beaches and parties. Be different; explore the untouched East Bali. Between the serenity of ancient temples and the unrest of modern tourism, East Bali stands as a region pulling at the seams of tradition and change.

East Bali is a gem filled with cultural richness, spiritual landmarks, and natural beauty that remains somewhat untouched by the usual tourist crowds. From majestic temples to serene landscapes, here’s your guide to the top 10 must-visit places in East Bali.

1. Lempuyang Temple

Known as the ‘Gateway to Heaven,’ Lempuyang Temple offers one of the most iconic views in Bali. Snap that perfect shot with Mount Agung in the background and feel the spiritual vibe of this sacred place.

What makes it unique

Lempuyang Temple is not just celebrated for its stunning panoramic views but also for its spiritual significance in Balinese culture. It is one of Bali’s nine directional temples and protects the island from evil spirits.

Opening Hours

Lempuyang Temple, a revered site in Bali, opens its doors to visitors every day from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to witness the spectacular sunrise views over Mount Agung, which is a highlight for many who trek to this sacred temple. Additionally, adhering to the respectful dress code, which includes wearing a sarong and sash, is required for all visitors entering the temple grounds.

Lempuyang Temple is situated in eastern Bali, within the highlands of Mount Lempuyang in Karangasem Regency.

How to get there

The temple is accessible by car from most tourist hubs in Bali. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Denpasar and roughly 90 minutes from Ubud. Due to the mountainous roads and remote location, it’s advisable to hire a driver or join a guided tour for convenience and safety.

Ticket price

As of March 2024, the entrance fees to Lempuyang Temple in Karangasem, Bali, are IDR 40,000 per person for domestic tourists and IDR 70,000 per person for international tourists. The shuttle bus service is available for IDR 40,000. Each ticket price includes a sarong and a flute for ceremonial use. Additionally, professional photography services can be accessed for an additional fee.

• Arrive early to avoid the crowds and the midday heat, especially if you’re aiming to take photographs.
• Dress appropriately as Lempuyang Temple is a place of worship. Cover your shoulders and legs; sarongs and sashes are available for rent at the entrance.
• Be prepared for a steep climb; the temple is at the top of 1,700 steps, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to ascend.
• Remember to bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and carry sun protection.
• Respect the local customs and the sanctity of the temple. It’s not just a tourist attraction but a place of religious importance to the Balinese people.

2. Ujung Water Palace

Explore the historic Ujung Water Palace, where water gardens and beautiful architecture blend seamlessly with the surrounding nature. It’s a peaceful spot perfect for a leisurely stroll and some fantastic photos.

Ujung Water Palace is a former palace of the King of Karangasem, featuring a combination of Balinese and European architecture. It’s known for its picturesque water features, including vast pools and fountains, set against the backdrop of Mount Agung and the eastern shoreline.

Ujung Water Palace welcomes visitors from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, offering ample time to explore its expansive gardens and historical structures. The palace, often referred to as Taman Ujung, features a blend of Balinese and European architecture set against a dramatic backdrop of lush green hills and clear blue skies. Visitors can stroll along its many pathways, admire the reflective pools, and discover ornate bridges and pavilions that provide perfect spots for relaxation and photography. This serene environment is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of one of Bali’s most picturesque historical sites.

The palace is located in the village of Tumbu, Karangasem Regency, in the southeastern part of Bali.

Ujung Water Palace is about a 2-hour drive from Denpasar or around 90 minutes from Amed. The best way to visit is by car, and many choose to hire a driver for a day trip, often combined with a visit to nearby attractions such as Tirta Gangga.

Admission to Ujung Water Palace is approximately IDR 75,000 per person for international tourists, which helps with the maintenance and preservation of this historical site.

• Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and softer lighting for photography.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes as the grounds are extensive, with many areas to explore.
• Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and lush landscapes.
• Consider hiring a local guide at the entrance to learn more about the history and significance of the palace.
• Stay hydrated and bring sun protection, as much of the area is exposed to direct sunlight.
• Check local listings for cultural events or ceremonies that may be taking place during your visit, as these can enhance your experience.

3. Tirta Gangga

Step into the royal gardens of Tirta Gangga, where stone sculptures and flowing fountains meet large pools filled with koi. It’s an ideal place to immerse yourself in Bali’s royal past and connect with nature.

Tirta Gangga is a former royal water garden built in 1948 by the Raja of Karangasem. The complex is famous for its unique blend of Balinese and Chinese architecture, featuring ornate water fountains, stone carvings, and lush gardens. The centerpiece is a maze of pools and ponds, which are home to a vibrant collection of koi fish that visitors can feed.

Tirta Gangga, open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, invites visitors to experience its enchanting water gardens early in the morning, which is ideal for avoiding the midday heat and crowds. This royal water garden is famed for its crystal-clear pools, fountains, and stone carvings of mythical creatures, all set within a lush landscape

Tirta Gangga is located in the northeast of Bali, near the town of Ababi, about 10 kilometers north of Amlapura, the capital of Karangasem Regency.

Tirta Gangga can be reached by car from Denpasar in about two and a half hours, making it a popular day trip. The roads are scenic but winding, and it’s advisable to hire a local driver for convenience and safety, especially if combining the trip with visits to other nearby attractions like Lempuyang Temple or Ujung Water Palace.

Entry to Tirta Gangga is approximately IDR 40,000 for international tourists. This fee contributes to the maintenance and preservation of this historical site.

• Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and to capture the best light for photography.
• Wear comfortable footwear as the gardens involve some walking and steps.
• Bring small change to buy fish food; feeding the koi fish is a popular and fun activity for visitors of all ages.
• Be prepared for occasional rain showers by bringing an umbrella or raincoat, especially if visiting during the rainy season.
• Make use of the on-site restaurants and cafes to sample some local cuisine with a view of the gardens.
• Respect the cultural and spiritual significance of the site; although it is a tourist attraction, it remains a place of historical and religious importance to the local community.

4. Taman Edelweis Bali

Taman Edelweis is a unique attraction offering fields of edelweiss flowers against the backdrop of Bali’s mountainous landscape. It’s perfect for a quiet afternoon away from the beach crowds.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Taman Edelweis Bali (@tamanedelweis_bali)

Taman Edelweis is distinctive for its cultivation of the rare edelweiss flower, typically found in higher alpine regions. The park provides a cool, serene escape with its sprawling fields of these resilient blooms, which are often referred to as “flowers of immortality.”

Opening hours

The garden is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the flowers during the cooler parts of the day.

Taman Edelweis is located in the central highlands of Bali, near the village of Bedugul.

The easiest way to reach Taman Edelweis is by car or motorbike, as it is approximately a 90-minute drive from Denpasar. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a vehicle or hiring a driver for the day is recommended, especially if planning to visit other nearby attractions such as the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple.

Social Media

Capture and share your experience! Taman Edelweis has its own Instagram account. Follow and tag @tamanedelweis_bali, and use the hashtag #TamanEdelweisBali to post and view photos of the gardens.

Entrance to Taman Edelweis is approximately IDR 50,000 per person, which contributes to the maintenance and preservation of the gardens.

• Dress warmly, as the higher altitude can make the area cooler than other parts of Bali, especially in the mornings and late afternoons.
• Bring a camera to capture the scenic views and the unique floral displays.
• Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the highlands can be foggy or rainy, which might affect visibility.
• Consider packing a picnic to enjoy among the flowers, as there are designated areas where visitors can relax and take in the serene environment.
• Be respectful of the natural surroundings; while the flowers are sturdy, they are also rare and should not be picked or damaged.

5. Sunset Point Amed Bali

Catch a breathtaking sunset at Sunset Point Amed. With its laid-back vibe and stunning coastal views, it’s the perfect spot to end your day in East Bali.

Sunset Point Amed offers some of the most spectacular sunset views on the island, overlooking the vast Indian Ocean. Its unique location on a rocky outcrop provides unobstructed views of the horizon, making it an ideal place for photography enthusiasts and romantic outings.

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The Sunset Point Amed is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The point is accessible throughout the day, but the best time to visit is in the late afternoon, around an hour before sunset, to secure a good spot.

Sunset Point Amed is located on the eastern tip of Bali, in the Amed area known for its traditional salt farming and excellent snorkeling spots.

The most convenient way to reach Sunset Point Amed is by car or motorbike from central Bali. The drive can take approximately 2.5 hours from Ubud or Denpasar, offering scenic views along the way.

Follow and share your experiences on Instagram at @sunsetpointamed. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #SunsetPointAmed for a chance to be featured and to see how others captured their moments.

There is no entry fee to visit Sunset Point Amed, but some areas might charge for parking.

• Arrive early to explore the surrounding area and find the perfect spot for sunset viewing.
• Bring a camera and a tripod for stunning sunset photos.
• Pack a light jacket as it can get breezy and cooler in the evenings.
• Consider staying in Amed for a night to enjoy its relaxed atmosphere and to explore nearby attractions without rushing.
• Respect the natural environment; keep it clean and dispose of trash responsibly.

Spending at Sunset Point Amed Bali

While visiting Sunset Point Amed is free of charge, you might want to budget for other expenses to enhance your experience. Many visitors choose to dine at one of the nearby cafes or restaurants, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink with a view of the sunset.

Menu Prices

• Average cost for a meal: IDR 50,000 – 150,000 per person
• Beverages (coffee, tea, soft drinks): IDR 20,000 – 50,000
• Alcoholic drinks (beer, cocktails): IDR 30,000 – 100,000

These prices are approximate and can vary depending on the establishment and its location relative to the sunset view. Some places might charge a premium for the best seating areas during sunset hours, especially if they offer unobstructed views of the horizon.

More Information: https://menu.sunsetpointamedbali.com

Tips for Budgeting

If you’re looking to save money, consider bringing your own snacks and drinks to enjoy while watching the sunset. Check if the restaurant or cafe has a minimum spend requirement, especially in prime viewing spots. Some venues may offer happy hour specials or discounts during sunset hours, so it’s worth asking or checking their promotions ahead of your visit.

6. Lamontage Coffee

Take a break at Lamontage Coffee, where you can enjoy a fresh brew with views of lush greenery. It’s a great spot to relax and plan your next moves.

Lamontage Coffee is celebrated for its excellent selection of locally sourced coffee and its serene setting amidst sprawling green landscapes. The cafe provides a cozy, artistic environment that encourages relaxation and creativity, making it a favorite among both locals and travelers.

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Lamontage Coffee is open daily from 0:00 AM to 6:00 PM, providing ample time for morning coffee lovers as well as those looking to unwind in the evening.

Lamontage Coffee is nestled in the tranquil hills of East Bali, offering a peaceful escape from the more tourist-centric areas.

The cafe is accessible by car or scooter from nearby areas like Amed or Denpasar. The journey offers a scenic drive through Bali’s less urbanized regions, adding to the overall experience of visiting Lamontage Coffee.

Stay connected and share your moments at Lamontage Coffee on Instagram by following @lamontagecoffee and using the hashtag #LamontageCoffee. The cafe often features customer posts, showcasing the unique experiences of visitors.

There is no entry fee to visit Lamontage Coffee, but guests typically spend between IDR 50,000 to IDR 100,000 per person for coffee and snacks.

• Try their signature blend or ask for the barista’s recommendation to enjoy some of the best coffee in Bali.
• The outdoor seating area offers the best views; grab a spot there if you can.
• Bring a book or a notebook—Lamontage Coffee’s tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal place for reading or journaling.
• Check out their special events and live music sessions, which they host regularly to entertain guests.
• If you’re visiting during peak hours, be patient as the service can be a bit slow, reflective of the laid-back Bali lifestyle.

Spending at Lamontage Coffee

While there’s no entry fee to enjoy the ambiance at Lamontage Coffee, guests can expect to spend on their menu offerings. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs for a visit:

• Coffee and Espresso Drinks: IDR 30,000 – 50,000
• Specialty Coffees (like cappuccinos, lattes, or seasonal specials): IDR 35,000 – 60,000
• Fresh Juices and Smoothies: IDR 25,000 – 45,000
• Light Bites and Pastries: IDR 20,000 – 50,000
• Heavier Meals (like sandwiches or salads): IDR 50,000 – 100,000

For more information: Click here

These prices are approximate and depend on what you order. Lamontage Coffee prides itself on using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, which is reflected in their pricing but still offers good value considering the quality and setting.

• Consider visiting during off-peak hours; sometimes cafes offer discounts or special pricing to attract more customers.
• Look out for combo deals or set menus which might offer a combination of a drink and a snack at a reduced price.
• If you’re on a tight budget, sticking to coffee and avoiding more expensive specialty drinks can keep costs down.
• Sharing larger dishes or platters with a friend can also be a more economical choice.

Lamontage Coffee provides a tranquil spot to enjoy superb coffee and tasty treats, all while surrounded by the natural beauty of East Bali’s landscapes. Whether you’re there for a quick coffee or a leisurely meal, it’s a delightful place to relax and recharge.

7. Mother Temple of Besakih

Visit the Mother Temple of Besakih, the largest and holiest temple in Bali. This sprawling complex is a significant spiritual and cultural site set on the slopes of Mount Agung.

Besakih Temple, known as Bali’s ‘Mother Temple,’ covers six levels of terraced landscape and comprises twenty-three separate but related temples. The largest and most important is Pura Penataran Agung. The entire complex embodies a unique majesty and mystique, especially during religious ceremonies with Mount Agung, an active volcano, providing a dramatic backdrop.

The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM for visitors, although the prayer areas remain accessible for worship 24/7.

Besakih Temple is located on the southwestern slopes of Mount Agung in eastern Bali in the village of Besakih.

The temple is about a 90-minute drive from Ubud and can take up to 2 hours from Denpasar depending on traffic. It is recommended to hire a private car with a driver for convenience, as public transport options are limited and do not go directly to the temple.

Entry to Besakih Temple typically costs IDR 100,000 for foreign tourists, which includes a sarong rental and if needed for entering the temple areas and shuttle service.

• Dress respectfully when visiting; both men and women should wear a sarong and sash, which can be rented at the entrance.
• Due to its religious importance, be prepared for local guides insisting on escorting you for a fee; it’s advisable to agree on a price before starting your tour.
• The area is known for frequent rainfall; bring a raincoat or umbrella.
• As with any major tourist site, be wary of overly persistent souvenir sellers.
• Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and to experience a more spiritual atmosphere.
• Be respectful of worshippers and ceremonies; photography may not be permitted during religious activities.

Visiting Besakih offers a profound glimpse into the spiritual life of Bali and presents an opportunity to see Balinese Hinduism’s most revered site.

8. Tenganan Ancient Village

Discover the unique culture of Bali Aga at Tenganan Ancient Village. This preserved village offers a glimpse into Bali’s pre-Hindu customs and traditional crafts.

Tenganan Ancient Village is one of the few places in Bali where you can experience the Bali Aga culture, which predates Hindu influences. The village is renowned for its well-preserved architecture, rituals, and communal lifestyle, as well as for its production of gringsing, a double ikat cloth that cannot be found anywhere else in the island.

The village is open to visitors daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Tenganan Ancient Village is located in the Karangasem Regency in East Bali, nestled in the hills just northwest of Candidasa.

Tenganan is most easily accessed by car or motorbike from nearby areas such as Candidasa, approximately a 15-minute drive away. From Denpasar or Ubud, expect a journey of about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.

There is typically a small entrance fee to enter the village, usually around IDR 30,000 per person, which goes towards the maintenance of the village and supports the local community.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes as you will be exploring mostly on foot.
• Be respectful of the villagers and their customs, especially when photographing; always ask for permission.
• Try to visit during a village ceremony or festival to see the community in full cultural display.
• Purchase local handicrafts directly from artisans as a way to support the local economy.
• Bring cash, as many sellers do not accept credit cards.

Visiting Tenganan Ancient Village is a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience a way of life preserved for centuries.

9. Pantai Nyuh Gading

For a day at the beach, head to Pantai Nyuh Gading. Known for its golden sands and clear waters, it’s ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

What makes it unique:

Pantai Nyuh Gading is renowned for its exceptionally fine, golden sand and tranquil, crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing day at the beach. Its less crowded nature provides a serene escape from more tourist-heavy beaches.

Opening hours:

The beach is accessible all day, but visiting hours are recommended from sunrise to sunset for the best experience.

Pantai Nyuh Gading is located in the southern part of Bali, near the popular areas of Seminyak and Legian.

How to get there:

The beach is easily accessible by car or scooter from nearby tourist areas. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Denpasar and can also be reached by local buses or taxis.

Ticket price:

There is no entry fee to visit Pantai Nyuh Gading, making it a great free activity in Bali. Please prepare cash for parking.

• Bring sunscreen and a hat as shade is limited.
• Arrive early to enjoy the quietest times and pick the best spot.
• Consider bringing a picnic, as there are limited facilities nearby.
• Be sure to clean up after yourself to help preserve the beach’s natural beauty.

10. Bukit Asah

For adventurers, Bukit Asah offers stunning clifftop views and is a fantastic spot for camping under the stars.

Bukit Asah is a true gem with its stunning panoramic views from the cliff top, where you can gaze out over the expansive ocean. It’s the perfect place to catch both the sunrise and sunset, making it a beloved spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Plus, if you’re up for an adventure, it’s a popular camping site where you can enjoy a night under the stars against an absolutely breathtaking backdrop. Come and discover this idyllic retreat for yourself!

Open 24 hours, but it’s best visited at sunrise or sunset for the most impressive views.

Bukit Asah is located in the Karangasem Regency in East Bali.

It’s most accessible by car or motorbike from the main areas of Bali. From Denpasar, it’s approximately a 1.5-hour drive. Local transport options are available but less frequent.

There is no entrance fee to access the cliff view, but camping might require a small fee to set up a tent.

• Bring camping gear if you plan to stay overnight.
• Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
• Bring your camera to capture the stunning views.
• Check the weather beforehand, especially if you plan to camp.
• Be mindful of the environment and take all trash back with you.

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6 Best Things To Do In East Bali

Posted on Last updated: 17 March 2024

Categories Bali , Indonesia

Most tourists visiting Bali head to the south of the country. Therefore, east Bali is still very much undiscovered and should not be overlooked when planning your trip.

In fact, it’s home to some of Bali’s most iconic landmarks including temples, water palaces, canyons, viewpoints and more. Perfect for experiencing the culture and nature of this beautiful island.

So here’s a guide to things to do in East Bali.

Table of Contents

1. Pura Lempuyang Temple

Top of the things to do in East Bali tour for a reason!

Pura Lempuyang Temple is a Balinese Hindu temple located in the slope of Mount Lempuyang, 600 metres above sea level.

Known on the island as one of the most highly regarded temples in Bali , it has become more popular in recent years amongst tourists as a Bali Instagram spot .

The Bali gateway to heaven is quite far from a lot of other typical holiday destinations in Bali.

Although that doesn’t stop people flocking out East to witness the view amongst the clouds and capture some beautiful photos.

Most choose to tie in a couple of eastern activities by booking a Mother Temple of Bali and Lempuyang’s Gates of Heaven Tour that ticks off Besakih Temple, Pura Lempuyang Temple and Tirta Gangga all in one day.

2. Tirta Gangga Water Palace

Another spot made even more popular by social media, Tirta Gangga Water Palace has always been a tourist destination to those visiting the island.

The name Tirta Gangga literally means ‘water from the Ganges’. Hence Tirta Gangga Water Palace is a maze of pools and fountains. Surrounded by beautifully kept gardens and many stone carvings and statues.

It’s not a huge complex and you won’t want to spend hours there but it is a nice spot to take a walk and cool off in the local pool if you fancy it.

You can also feed the fish within the grounds and capture a memorable photo at Tirta Gangga to end your visit.

3. Bukit Cinta

Bukit Cinta , also known as the Mount Agung viewpoint, is one of the most epic spots to watch sunrise on the island!

It’s a pretty straight forward journey, but you’ll have to get up early. We arrived at Bukit Cinta a little after 6.15am just in time to catch the sun waking up and sending rays of light onto the peak of the mountain.

Mount Agung stands at 3031 metres tall, making it the highest point in Bali. And although we were standing miles away from it, the sheer size of it was still daunting.

There’s not much more to say about the location or the Mount Agung sunrise viewpoint, it’s pretty self explanatory. We’ll let the photos do the talking.

4. Hidden Canyon

The Hidden Canyon in Bali is no joke when it comes to climbing, jumping and clambering.

With chest high water from the get go, be prepared to get wet and for your feet to go through the trenches on this adventure.

If you book a Hidden Canyon Tour , a local guide will advise you on where to walk, stand and hold on to.

Although please be careful as there are a lot of rocks in the water and it can get very slipper. He will also carry a dry bag for phones and cameras if you wish to take them with you.

The trek takes 1-2 hours depending on speed and we recommend taking some wet shoes with you if you have some.

An additional spot for adventurers to add to their things to do in East Bali tour.

5. Blue Lagoon Beach

The Blue Lagoon Beach is known for being a great spot for snorkelling and diving. Plus it’s rarely crowded day to day!

A few metres out from shore there are beautiful coral reef and tropical fish that will swim around your feet. So if you’re heading out East definitely pack a snorkel. Otherwise all equipment is rentable from the locals.

If you’re looking for an easy ride and a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle then Blue Lagoon Beach is perfect to add to your things to do in East Bali tour.

6. Stay At Hideout Bali

Hideout Bali is the original and most incredible bamboo treehouse in Bali.

Set up as a picture perfect destination, these wild bamboo Airbnb accommodations are the most sought after on the island.

Each with it’s own individual style, Hideout Bali, Hideout Lightroom and Hideout Beehive are ridiculously cool.

All of the bamboo houses are situated alongside a beautiful river and amongst typical Balinese rice fields.

So if you’re looking to get off the grid for a few days and experience authentic Balinese life then Hideout is your place!

Where To Stay In Amed

The Griya Villas and Spa

Set amidst lush tropical gardens, The Griya Villas and Spa is a 2-minute drive from Lipah Bay Beach in Amed.

It offers villas with a private swimming pool overlooking the sea, a fitness centre and spa. Free Wi-Fi and parking are also available.

Spacious air-conditioned villas feature modern Balinese architecture and furnishings. They come with a large living area with sofa, flat-screen TV with DVD player and a dining area.

The fully equipped kitchen offers cooking facilities, a microwave, kettle and refrigerator. The villas open out directly to the pool deck.

Blue Moon Villas Resort

Located above Selang Beach, on the picturesque coastline of Amed, Blue Moon Villas Resort features 4 swimming pools, 4 sun terraces and great views of the ocean.

Free WiFi is accessible throughout the property and free private parking is available on site.

The restaurant serves local and international delicacies and guests can enjoy a drink at the bar.

Rooms at Blue Moon Villas Resort come with air conditioning, a safety deposit box, and mosquito nets. Guests are also provided with a kettle and a fridge.

Each room comes with a terrace or a balcony and an en suite bathroom.

Bali Yogi has a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, a garden and bar in Amed.

This 3-star guest house offers room service and ticket service.

The air-conditioned rooms provide a garden view and come with a desk and free WiFi.

All rooms at the guest house come with a seating area. At Bali Yogi, the rooms include a private bathroom with a shower.

A continental breakfast is available each morning at the accommodation.

For more places to stay in Amed, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.

Planning Your Trip

Book your flight.

Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight.

They search websites and airlines around the globe to find you the best possible routes and prices.

Book Your Accommodation

Use Booking.com to find the best accommodation deals.

They consistently return the cheapest rates on everything from guesthouses to hotels for all of your budget needs.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Use SafetyWing to find the best travel insurance for you.

They provide travel and medical incident insurance built specifically for digital nomads.

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.

Book Your Tours & Activities

Use GetYourGuide to book your activities in advance.

They sell the best tours, excursions and activities to attractions around the world.

Conveniently book, download and access your tickets on the move all from your mobile.

Book Your Rental Car

Use RentalCars.com to find the best deals on rental cars in the area.

They compare all major car rental companies and allow you to easily book the perfect vehicle for your trip.

Buy Those Last Minute Bits

Use Amazon to buy everything you need for your adventure.

They offer next day delivery and you can use my travel packing checklist to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything.

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Bali: The Best Places to Visit in East Bali

Table of Content

Welcome to East Bali

Welcome to East Bali, a region blessed with natural wonders, cultural treasures, and serene landscapes. If you’re seeking a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, East Bali is the perfect destination for your next adventure. In this blog post, we will uncover the top places to visit in East Bali, along with the best time to explore them. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of this remarkable region.

Where to Stay in East Bali

As you would expect from a major travel destination in Southeast Asia, Malaysia has no shortage of options when it comes to accommodation. As always, I’d suggest you stay somewhere central, to make accessing all the attractions as easy as possible.

Best Luxury Hotels in East Bali:

• Wapa di Ume Sidemen is a hidden gem nestled in the serene landscapes of Sidemen, East Bali. This boutique resort offers a unique and authentic Balinese experience for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The resort features traditional Balinese-style villas surrounded by lush rice terraces and scenic views of the Agung and Batur mountains.
• Bali Diamond Estates: Bali Diamond Estates offers a collection of luxurious private villas set amidst the picturesque landscapes of East Bali. Each villa is beautifully designed with Balinese elements, providing a serene and intimate setting for guests. Enjoy the privacy of your own villa with a private pool, lush gardens, and modern amenities. The attentive staff caters to your every need, ensuring a personalized and luxurious stay in East Bali.
• Bidadari Private Villas & Retreat : Bidadari Private Villas & Retreat offers a secluded sanctuary nestled in the rice terraces of Sidemen, East Bali. The villas feature traditional Balinese architecture and modern comforts, providing a peaceful and romantic escape. Take in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, indulge in spa treatments, and savor delicious meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Bidadari Private Villas & Retreat offers a tranquil and intimate experience in the heart of East Bali.

Best Middle-Class Hotels in East Bali:

• Puri Bagus Candidasa : Puri Bagus Candidasa is a charming beachfront resort that captures the essence of traditional Balinese hospitality. The resort features spacious rooms and villas, some with private pools, offering comfort and relaxation. Enjoy the resort’s infinity pool overlooking the ocean, dine at the beachfront restaurant, or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment. Puri Bagus Candidasa provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for a memorable stay in East Bali.
• Candi Beach Resort & Spa : Nestled amidst lush gardens and overlooking the ocean, Candi Beach Resort & Spa offers a peaceful retreat in East Bali. The resort showcases traditional Balinese architecture and provides comfortable rooms and cottages with modern amenities. Relax by the pool, unwind with a spa treatment, or take part in yoga classes overlooking the sea. Candi Beach Resort & Spa offers a serene ambiance and friendly service, making it a popular choice for middle-class travelers.

Explore a wide range of hotels in Bali here (Booking.com)

Explore a wide range of hotels in Bali here (Tripadvisor)

Explore a wide range of hotels in Bali here (Agoda)

Discover affordable hostels in Bali here (Hostelworld)

Easily compare prices and book hotels in Sri Lanka here (Hotellook)

Best Places to Visit in East Bali

Tirta gangga.

Nestled along the picturesque coast, Candidasa offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Explore the pristine beaches, visit ancient temples, or embark on a trek to the nearby hills. The best time to visit Candidasa is during the dry season when you can enjoy sunny weather and calm waters.

Mount Agung

For adventure enthusiasts, a trek to the summit of Mount Agung, Bali’s highest volcano, is a must. Witness the breathtaking sunrise views from the peak and be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the island. It is essential to check the weather conditions and consult with local guides before attempting the trek.

Tenganan Village

Step back in time and visit Tenganan Village, a traditional Bali Aga village known for its preserved customs and culture. Explore the unique architecture, intricate weaving techniques, and traditional ceremonies. The village is best visited during the annual Mekare-Kare festival held in June or July, offering a glimpse into the local traditions and rituals.

Besakih Temple

Known as the “Mother Temple of Bali,” Besakih Temple is the largest and most important temple on the island. Perched on the slopes of Mount Agung, this temple complex is a spiritual and cultural center for the Balinese people. Explore the various shrines and pavilions, and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Taman Ujung Water Palace

Also known as the “Water Palace of Karangasem,” Taman Ujung offers a unique blend of Balinese and European architectural styles. The palace features expansive pools, intricate sculptures, and beautiful gardens. Take a leisurely stroll through the grounds and admire the stunning vistas of the surrounding hills and coastline.

You Might Be Interested In

Pemuteran: 8 reasons to visit the mezmerizing coastal village in north bali, nusa penida travel guide: unveiling the hidden gem of bali, tanah lot temple: sunset perfection ~ bali, my very first volcano hike: mount batur sunrise trekking, bali, is nusa dua still worth visiting ~ bali, a simple guide to visiting tegalalang rice terrace, bali, planning a trip to bali, bali accommodation.

Begin your search for the perfect accommodation now while the excitement is still fresh in your mind. Discover stylish and affordable options, and find the best accommodations at the lowest prices:

• Explore a wide range of hotels in Bali by clicking here (Booking.com)
• Explore a wide range of hotels in Bali by clicking here (Tripadvisor)
• Explore a wide range of hotels in Bali by clicking here (Agoda)
• Discover affordable hostels in Bali by clicking here (Hostelworld)
• Easily compare prices and book hotels in Bali by clicking here (Hotellook).

Explore Asia

As a trusted platform, 12Go Asia offers convenient booking services for trains, buses, ferries, and flights across multiple Asian countries. 12Go Asia has a user-friendly interface and reliable connections, you can easily plan and book your transportation, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey throughout your Asian adventure .

Bali Flights

Make the most of your trip by finding the most affordable flights. We highly recommend using Kiwi.com , a reliable flight comparison site. Click here to compare and book cheap flights to Bali.

Private Airport Transfers

Kiwitaxi is a popular online platform that specializes in providing private airport transfers and transportation services worldwide. It offers convenient and reliable door-to-door transfers between airports, hotels, and other destinations. With Kiwitaxi , you can pre-book private taxis or minivans with professional drivers, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey.

Rental Car in Bali

Looking to rent a car in Bali? Rentalcars.com has you covered! We search through all the major car rental companies in Bali to find you the best price possible.

If you enjoy guided tours, here you can find a wide variety of options to suit every preference. Discover and join fascinating guided tours across Bali.

Travel Insurance

When it comes to travel insurance , we understand the importance of finding reliable coverage that suits your needs. That’s why we highly recommend Safety Wing – a trusted provider offering comprehensive travel insurance plans even for digital nomads. Safeguard your travels and gain peace of mind by exploring the excellent coverage options provided by Safety Wing .

Enjoy the day!

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Rest assured, we only recommend products and services that meet our high standards and that we genuinely believe in. The opinions expressed are solely our own and are based on our personal experience.

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7 Awesome Things to Do in East Bali, Indonesia

Headed to Bali and need some ideas on what to do for your Bali itinerary ? Consider spending time in East Bali!

Most people tend to stay in South Bali, such as Kuta and Canggu, yet there are some amazing and beautiful places to visit in the quieter areas of North Bali and East Bali. We’ve been to East Bali on two separate times and would recommend that you stay for at least two days overnight. 

Here is our list of the 7 awesome things to do in East Bali, Indonesia. We’re including helpful information on the admission cost, helpful tips, and also how to get to East Bali. From gorgeous temples and water palaces to hiking opportunities , you’ll love discovering this underrated area. We can’t wait to go back to explore more on a return trip. 

Check out our post on essential Bali travel tips to prepare for your future trip!

Disclaimer: Visiting East Bali attractions? This post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase for your Indonesia travels, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.

Map of the Places in Visit in East Bali  

Click on the image to see a map of the location of the East Bali attractions. Credit: Map data: Google

7 Best Things to Do in East Bali, Indonesia

1. pura lempuyang.

If you love visiting temples, Pura Lempuyang needs to be on your Bali bucket list . Located on the slopes of the quiet Mount Lempuyang, this Hindu temple is one of the best temples in Bali.

Most people visit Pura Lempuyang for the “Gateway to Heaven” gate as it overlooks Mount Agung, the highest mountain on the island, on a clear day. Be prepared for a long line, yet the photo with the photo magic is worth it!

Besides the first gate, take the opportunity to visit the other 6 temples on the mountain. You’ll need at least three hours to finish the route. Along the way, you’ll see other locals making the trek up and meet monkeys who are very shy towards people. You won’t see other tourists so it’s a peaceful journey to the temples.

As a heads up, the walk up is a bit challenging with the altitude and humidity so prepare water in advance. To reach the top temple, Lempuyang Luhur Temple, you’ll climb an astounding 1440+ stairs which is a good workout for the day.

Check out our Pura Lempuyang guide for helpful tips and learn more about our experience. 

Tip: Please wear appropriate clothing when entering the temple grounds. Sarong rentals are available. It used to be 10,000 IDR on our visit, but not sure how much they are now. 

Address: Jl. Pura Telaga Mas Lempuyang, Tri Buana, Kec. Karangasem, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80852, Indonesia

Admission Cost : 100,000 IDR ($6.25 USD) 

Tour Options: 

• Full Day Instagram Shots Tour, including Pura Lempuyang  
• Private Temples Tour of Lempuyang, Besakih, and Tirta Gangga
• Private Tour of Lempuyang and Tirta Gangga 

Pura Lempuyang is one of the best things to do in East Bali.

2. Tirta Gangga Water Palace 

Tirta Gangga Water Palace is a picturesque place to visit in Bali . The small water palace is stunning with luscious gardens and water fountains everywhere.

As you enter the water palace, the left side has a bridge and walking path, while the right side has a pool with guardian statues and stepping stones. The right side is more crowded as you follow a stone path maze that leads to the center of a multi-tiered water fountain. As you walk along the path, check out the giant golden orange koi fish swimming in the water.

Address: Ababi, Abang, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80852, Indonesia

Admission Cost: 30,000 IDR ($2.10 USD)

Tour Option: 

• Full Day Tour of East Bali

Tirta Gangga Water Palace is lovely water garden to explore when you’re in East Bali.

3. Bukit Lemped (Houses Tree Hill Lemped)

Bukit Lemped (also known as the “Houses Tree Hill Lemped”) is a hidden gem in East Bali. We’re surprised that it hasn’t been mentioned in other Bali itineraries before.

If you love walking along suspension bridges or going through treehouses , then this is the perfect place for you. You’ll feel like a kid again as you walk from one side of the treehouses to the other side over the bridges. 

Our favorite spot at Bukit Lemped is the long suspension bridge that extends over the rushing river underneath. Walking on this bridge tests your fear of heights as there is a huge distance between yourself and the river. While it’s super bouncy, it’s sturdy enough for a couple of people to walk on it at the same time. Plus, you’re rewarded with jaw-dropping views of the nearby rice fields. 

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos in the courtyard area with various bird nest swings. This place is open from 8:00am to 8:00pm.

Tip: While you walk between the treehouses, some of the stairways and entrances are narrow. Watch your head for low ceilings. 

If you go when it rains, please be careful. We went during a rainstorm and the bamboo walkways were very slippery. However, we enjoyed having the whole place to ourselves. 

Admission Cost: 50,000 IDR ($3.50 USD)

The rain didn’t stop us from walking on the suspension bridge at Bukit Lemped.

4. Taman Ujung Water Palace

Taman Ujung Water Palace, also known as Taman Soeka Sada Ujung, is another water palace to visit in the area. From the gorgeous Balinese-European architecture to the immaculate gardens, it’s a great place to walk around and relax. Compared to the Tirta Gangga Water Palace, this one is a larger complex to walk through.

An incredible view from Taman Ujung is from the top of the hill. You’ll see the panoramic views of the water palace and also the ocean . You’ll need to take a set of stairs to see the stunning views. You can also check out the house in the center of the lake which has photos of the king and the family. 

Address: Br. Dinas, Tumbu, Kec. Karangasem, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80811, Indonesia

  Admission Cost: 75 ,000 IDR ($4.80 USD)

Tour Option:

• Full day tour of Ujung Water Palace, Candidasa, and Sideman

Taman Ujung Water Palace is great place to see the stunning gardens.

5. Pura Agung Besakih

Pura Agung Besakih, also known as the Mother Temple, is the largest and most sacred temple in Bali.  What is amazing about this place is that there are 80 temples in this complex and most of them are used for prayers, celebrations, or burial celebrations.

During your 30 minute tour, your guide will show you to various vantage points along the mountainside. Stair climbing is required, so it’s not accessible friendly for those with knee or leg issues.

If you have a clear day, you’ll see Mount Agung at a staggering 3,031 meters (9,944 feet) high behind the temple grounds. 

Tip: As you enter Besakih Temple, you’ll have several hawker sellers swarm around you to buy a canarg sari kit which is used for praying. You’ll recognize them with the colorful flowers inside a palm leaf basket that is placed on the ground or next to a praying area. You can kindly decline the offer to purchase one. 

Address: Besakih, Rendang, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80863, Indonesia

Admission Cost: 60,000 IDR ($4 USD), includes a guide, motorbike ride to the entrance, and sarong rental

Pura Besakih is a beautiful temple to visit in East Bali. We had a clear day to see Mount Agung.

6. Mount Batur Sunrise Trek

Are you an early morning riser? Consider taking the Mount Batur sunrise trek. It’s one of the best outdoor adventures in Indonesia to experience. Located in northeast Bali, you’ll join hundreds of hikers up the inactive volcano at 1,717 meters (5,633 feet).

If you’re staying in Ubud , you’ll get picked up from your Ubud hotel around 2:00am and start trekking with your group and guides at 4:00am.

We made it to the top of the mountain before 6:30am to see the stunning sunrise. It’s quite an accomplishment as you’ve completed a good workout in the morning and then you can rest and take a nap for the rest of the day or go on another day trip .

Read more about our Mount Batur trekking experience here.

Tip: Beware of the food that you bring up to the summit. Monkeys appear once the sunrises and will eye your breakfast. The summit is also cold and windy so wear a jacket and long pants. 

Address: South Batur, Kintamani, Bangli Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Admission: Various depending on your program such as hike only, visit the coffee plantation, and/or visit the hot springs. Walk around the Ubud downtown area to get quotes for the sunrise hike. We received quotes for 300,000 IDR – 400,000 IDR ($21-$28 USD) per person for the hike and coffee plantation visit.

Tour Options: If you prefer to pre-book your sunrise hike in advance, here are some options:

• Mount Batur sunrise trek with luwak coffee plantation visit
• Small group Mount Batur sunrise trek  
• Private Mount Batur sunrise trek with a hidden waterfall
• 2 Days Sunset & Sunrise Camping on Mount Batur

We’re a bit sleepy yet the Mount Batur sunrise trek is a healthy way to start out the day.

7. Pura Goa Lawah 

If you want to channel your inner Batman, check out Pura Goa Lawah to see the “Bat Cave” temple. It’s a small temple complex with hundreds of bats in the main cave /temple area.

It’s quite a sight to see so many insect-eating bats flying around in the morning . The cave entrance is also used as a praying area, so visitors can’t go inside. Supposedly the cave leads to the three locations in Bali – Besakih, Talibeng, and Tangki.

There is a walking path to the side of the parking lot which leads to another small temple at the top of the mountain. We thought there was going to be an awesome view from the peak, but the overgrown trees blocked all views. Regardless, it’s a quiet place to visit as there weren’t other visitors. 

Tip: Please dress appropriately when visiting the temple. If you need a sarong, the rental fee is 5,000 IDR ($.35 USD). 

Another thing to note is that there are hawkers selling jewelry and postcards as you enter and leave the area. Older women will greet you at the entrance and give you a bead necklace that you can “have” but it’s expected to give an equivalent of $1 USD for it or buy something of the same value. We thanked them for their offer and returned the necklace as we didn’t need it. 

Address: Jl. Raya Goa Lawah, Pesinggahan, Dawan, Kabupaten Klungkung, Bali 80761, Indonesia

Admission Cost: 25,000 IDR ($1.80 USD) for adults and 15,000 IDR ($1 USD) for children

Check out the hundreds of bats at the Pura Goa Lawah. No wonder it’s called the Bat Cave.

How to Get to East Bali

Depending on where you’re based, it can take 2-3 hours to get to East Bali. From Ubud to Pura Besakih, it’ll take at least 1.5 hours to get there. Here are some options on how to get to East Bali.

1. Ride your motorbike.

This is the easiest way to have full control over your schedule. Renting a motorbike is affordable so expect to pay between 60,000 IDR – 300,000 IDR ($4.20–$21 USD). Book a motorbike and check out the options here.  

Please follow the driving rules and pay attention to your surroundings. Do not use this opportunity to learn how to ride a motorbike as the traffic and the road quality are not the greatest. 

2. Hire a driver.

We prefer to hire a driver since navigating the roads is challenging. Drivers can range from 500,000 IDR – 650,000 IDR ($35-$46 USD) per day, depending on your schedule. Book a driver here . 

Or, you can use the driver that we used. Contact us and send us a note. We used the same driver during our two trips to Bali and always felt safe on the road. Plus, he gave us tips at several of the attractions so we wouldn’t get ripped off. 

3. Take an East Bali tour.

It’s much easier to take a tour to visit the various East Bali attractions. You can choose from a group or a private tour depending on your budget and preference. The tours provide pick up to/from your Bali accommodations and may also include lunch. We provided tour options under each of the East Bali places to visit above. 

Here are a couple of general East Bal tours to consider:

• Choose your own East Bali Private Tour

We loved our time in East Bali and wouldn’t hesitate to go back again to explore it further. While we didn’t get a chance to check out the East Bali beaches or stay at any of the resorts, these are good reasons for us to come back to visit. East Bali would be a great addition to any Bali travel schedule, even if you have two weeks on the island !

Here are our other Indonesia guides to help with your planning:

• Day trip at Komodo National Park
• Visit these best waterfalls in Bali
• How to spend the day at Sekumpul Waterfall
• Take a cooking class
• Best restaurants in Bali to experience

Which East Bali attractions do you want to visit? If you have more questions on what to do in East Bali, write a comment below.

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Featured photo & pin #1 photo credit: agal13 via Depositphotos.com

Pin #2 photo credit: Madhu Sri via Scopio Photos

I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.

10 Best Things to Do in North Bali, Indonesia

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Nice post! I have been to Bali once and I didn’t like it because it was so touristy. With these advice here, I might have a different experience once I go back, so I might check some of them out. 🙂

Hi Chris. Thanks for checking out our East Bali post! We hope you get a chance to return to experience a less touristy part of Bali.

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Nusa Penida Island In Bali: Travel Guide & How To Visit

The beautiful, exotic Nusa Penida island lies just 25 kilometers from Bali, the most famous tourist destination in Indonesia.

Nusa Penida is a much smaller island than Bali, but it has some of the most amazing scenery in the entire Bali province (which it’s part of).

We’ve visited Penida more than a dozen times over the years, but it never gets old. This island is definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Indonesia .

The island can be visited on a day trip from Bali (same day return), but I think it’s better to stay and spend at least a few days sightseeing. There are so many good photo spots, hikes, and other things to do in Nusa Penida!

This travel blog will explain what to do in Nusa Penida, how to get there, where to stay, best transport options and tour packages, and some of the top sights to see. I’ve also included a handy Nusa Penida island map for trip planning!

Table of Contents show 1) Where To Stay In Nusa Penida 2) Nusa Penida Day Tour Packages 3) Where Is Nusa Penida? 4) How To Get To Nusa Penida 5) Visiting Nusa Penida Island – Tourist Fee 6) Transport: How To Get Around On Nusa Penida 7) What To Do In Nusa Penida 8) Best Nusa Penida Photo Spot 9) Best Nusa Penida Beaches 10) Nusa Penida Hike List 11) Nusa Penida Island Map 12) More Things To Do In Nusa Penida 13) Best Sunset Spot In Nusa Penida 14) Water Sports In Nusa Penida 15) Scuba Diving & Snorkeling In Nusa Penida 16) What To Bring 17) Nusa Penida Restaurants 18) Nusa Penida Massage & Spa 19) Other Nusa Penida Tips 20) Is Nusa Penida Safe? 21) Nusa Penida Wildlife 22) Best Time To Visit 23) Is Nusa Penida Worth It? 24) How Long To Stay 25) Nusa Penida Itinerary 26) Nusa Penida Hotels 27) Nusa Lembongan & Ceningan 28) Where We Stayed

Where To Stay In Nusa Penida

Akusara Jungle

Villa Ume Tenang

Unicorn Bungalow

Nusa Penida Day Tour Packages

First of all, if you’re on a tight schedule or want to skip the extra steps involved in arranging your own trip to Nusa Penida, GetYourGuide has prearranged day trips to Penida , complete with hotel transfer, fast boat tickets, island tour, and same day return to Bali.

These tours visit some of the top sights in Nusa Penida island, including Kelingking Beach, Broken Bay, and more. We’ve used GetYourGuide for lots of day tours and activities around the world, and they’re great! Highly recommended.

Book Now: Nusa Penida Day Trip

The snorkeling at Nusa Penida is some of the best in Bali

Where Is Nusa Penida?

Nusa Penida is a small island located southeast of Bali, Indonesia. The distance from Bali is about 25 kilometers (15 miles).

Penida has two small neighboring islands sitting right next to it called Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, and together these are known as the Nusa islands, but Nusa Penida has become the most famous of the three because of its scenic cliff views and stunning beaches.  

How To Get To Nusa Penida

From Bali, the only way to reach Nusa Penida is by speedboat or ferry, with the speedboat journey taking about 45 minutes or so. There’s no airport in Nusa Penida, so the closest place to fly is the international airport in Bali (DPS). You can shop for flights to Bali at Skyscanner.

There are a bunch of speedboat companies in Bali making the trip to Penida daily, and they all depart from Sanur Beach at various times. If you’re staying in Ubud, Canggu, Seminyak, Kuta, or elsewhere in south Bali, you can also drive over to Sanur and catch a boat. Some boat companies include a shuttle service from these areas in their total price.

I wrote a complete guide on how to get to Nusa Penida with one of these speedboat companies if you want to go there independently and arrange everything yourself. It’s more economical than booking a tour package, but also a bit more complicated.

The other option is booking a day tour to Nusa Penida with a Bali-based tour company. This can be a good option if you’re on a tight schedule or want to skip the hassle.

Read More: How To Get To Nusa Penida

The beautiful blue salt water and limestone coastline of Nusa Penida

Visiting Nusa Penida Island – Tourist Fee

Since 2023, there’s now an entrance fee for tourists arriving by boat at Nusa Penida, and it’s intended to pay for better infrastructure on the island.

You’ll pay this in cash when you first get off the boat in Penida, and the fee is 25k Rupiah for adults and 15k for children. It gives you entry to all three of the Nusa islands: Penida, Lembongan, and Ceningan.

This ticket also gives you entrance to all of the main attractions and beaches on Nusa Penida, so you don’t have to pay a second fee at Kelingking Beach anymore, for example.

Overall, it’s a positive change, because in the past you had to whip out your wallet and pay a small entrance fee at every tourist spot in Nusa Penida. That was a bit tiresome. Nowadays, you pay once at the harbor and you’re done.  

Transport: How To Get Around On Nusa Penida

Even though Nusa Penida is a much smaller island than Bali (with about 4 percent of Bali’s land mass), it’s still not exactly tiny. You can expect to spend hours driving around if you want to see the best sights on each corner of the island.

Just like in Bali, you have two main transport options for exploring Nusa Penida: motorbike rental (self drive), or hire a car and private driver.

Many of the roads in Nusa Penida are still very rough and narrow, so I don’t think motorbikes are a good idea here, although lots of people seem to do it with no issues. Remember to wear a helmet, honk your horn before hills and blind turns, and be prepared to pull over to the side to let cars pass. There’s not a lot of room on the road.

When I visit Nusa Penida I’ve always rented a car with driver (you can book here ) because it’s safer and more comfortable, and the prices are only a bit higher than what you’d pay in Bali for a full day of driving.

Scooters are also easy to rent from your accommodation (or other places) in Penida, and you can expect to pay about 75k Rupiah (~$5 USD) per day with a full tank of gas.

For short taxi trips (like hotel transfers to/from the dock) you can usually arrange those on the spot or with your hotel, although they’re not very cost effective.

Unfortunately the Grab and Go-Jek ride hailing apps are not yet available in Nusa Penida (only Bali), but maybe that will change eventually.

Book Now: Nusa Penida Driver With Car

What To Do In Nusa Penida

• kelingking beach.

The Kelingking Cliff is the most famous view in Nusa Penida, and probably one of the most iconic views anywhere in Bali.

This is an incredible ‘T-Rex’ shaped rock sticking out over the ocean, with perfect turquoise water splashing around it. The first time you look over the edge of the cliff and see this view, it really is breathtaking!

After you’re done admiring the scenery at the Kelingking Cliff, there’s also a path to go down to the beach at the bottom.

The hike down to the beach is a major workout, a bit scary, and takes at least two hours roundtrip, but you’re rewarded with one of the best white sand beaches in Nusa Penida Bali.

Read More: Kelingking Beach Nusa Penida

The T-Rex shaped Kelingking Cliff .

• Paluang Cliff Viewpoint

Everyone goes to Kelingking Cliff, but there’s another spot located very close to it with its own amazing scenery, called Paluang Cliff. It’s just a 5 minute drive from Kelingking.

Paluang may not be as well known as Kelingking, but that’s part of the appeal. It’s a great alternative spot that gives you views of the Kelingking T-rex from the other side, without the crowds.

There are swings and photo platforms at the Paluang Cliff, plus a Balinese temple with a quirky car shrine, called the ‘car temple’ of Nusa Penida.

Read More: Paluang Cliff Nusa Penida

Paluang Cliff Viewpoint

• Broken Beach

For most visitors to Nusa Penida island, one of the first stops will be Broken Beach. This is a cool circular cove formed in the rocks, complete with a leftover arch.

This area is also one of the popular hangout spots for the manta rays, so you’ll most likely get to see some rays floating around in the sea nearby.

The bottom is filled with turquoise water from the waves coming in, and there’s even a small white sand beach. You can’t actually go down to the beach, just admire from above, but what a cool view it is!

There’s a few old local legends associated with this place that say it was created either by a giant’s footsteps or by an angry sorcerer.

It’s definitely a very unique kind of formation that I don’t think I’ve seen anywhere else in the world.

Read More: Broken Beach Nusa Penida

Aerial view of the circle shaped bay at Broken Beach .

• Crystal Bay

One of the popular spots on the west side of Penida is Crystal Bay. This is a good hangout or suntanning spot, and it has plenty of food and drink shacks for refreshments. Snorkeling gear can be rented here, or you can just sit around and chill out while eating some chicken satay.

The great thing about Crystal Bay is that it’s one of the best spots to catch the sunset in Penida. Last July, I went back here with a buddy and we sipped Bintangs with our toes in the sand while the sunset came down over the rocks on the coast.

Read More: Crystal Bay & Beach

Crystal Bay is a popular sunset spot in Nusa Penida.

• Banah Cliff Point

The great thing about Banah Cliff Point is that it actually has half a dozen different view points along the cliffs, and at each view point you can walk right up to the edge of the cliff and look down at the waves crashing on the rocks.

From these cliffs you can usually see a bunch of tiny manta rays and speedboats floating around on the ocean below. You can also see the Banah rock, a doughnut shaped rock sticking out of the ocean. Great stuff!

Read More: Banah Cliff Point

The Banah Cliff Point has multiple panoramic views.

• Tembeling Cave & Beach

The Tembeling beach and forest is a hidden spot tucked away in the cliffs on Nusa Penida’s west coast, with a natural pool and small waterfall to enjoy.

My favorite feature of this beach is the awesome sea cave that opens up to a view of the huge cliffs on the coast, but this place is also becoming popular for the Tembeling natural pool, which you can take a dip in and relax.

The access to this beach is a bit tricky, but it’s one of our favorite spots in Bali!

Read More: Tembeling Beach And Forest

Tembeling Beach And Forest

• Atuh Beach

This is one of the nicest beaches on the south end of Penida island. Unlike Suwehan Beach, Atuh is not a secret and there are sunbeds, beanbags, and a couple of nice food and drink shacks here.

The highlight of Atuh Beach is probably the big elephant shaped rock in the ocean (locals say it looks like a stiletto), and the big variety of sea life that can be seen trapped in the rocks at low tide.

Read More: Atuh Beach Nusa Penida

The locals say the rock at Atuh Beach looks like a high heel shoe.

• Nusa Penida Treehouse (Rumah Pohon)

Have you ever wanted to sleep in a wooden tree house and wake up to the sounds of the ocean? Here’s where you can do it. The room and bed are very basic, but the views and location are out of this world.

You’ll fall asleep to the sound of geckos chirping in the trees, and wake up to an incredible sunrise over the Raja Lima islands, with dolphins and manta rays swimming and jumping in the distance.

Read More: Nusa Penida Treehouse

The famous Nusa Penida treehouse (aka Rumah Pohon Molenteng)

• Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach, named after the pointy diamond shaped rock on the beach, is another utterly incredible “cliff beach” on the southeastern coast of Nusa Penida island.

It’s accessible since late 2018, when a path down to the beach was carved into the side of the cliffs. I’ve even seen some wildlife occasionally, from monitor lizards to dolphins and manta rays.

This place is also becoming popular thanks to the scenic swing, where you can take pictures while swinging between two palm trees over the beach.

Read More: Diamond Beach Nusa Penida

Diamond Beach gets its name from this unique pointy rock.

• Teletubbies Hill

The center of Penida island has these big round hills named after the background scenery from the Teletubbies kids show.

They look kind of like the Chocolate Hills in Bohol Philippines , and using a drone here gives you some unique perspectives.

If you come here during or just after the rainy season (roughly December to April), then the hills are a perfect green color.

Between April and May, the hills are a more yellow color, but still neat to see. During the summer however, the hills will turn dry and brown, so they won’t look as nice.

Read More: Teletubbies Hill

Teletubbies Hill in Nusa Penida

• Suwehan Beach

Looking for a hidden beach with perfect white sand and turquoise waves? Suwehan is one of the best hidden beaches in Penida.

The hike down to the beach takes about 30 minutes and it’s exhausting, but very worthwhile. This is one of my favorite places in Penida. There’s even a cool pointy rock that looks like a Christmas tree.

This beach is a hidden gem that still isn’t included in most Nusa Penida island tour packages, but you can get there with a scooter or car charter. Careful, because the road is quite rough.

Read More: Suwehan Beach Nusa Penida

• Suwehan Tree House

In 2018, the locals built some tree houses at the top of Suwehan cliff. There’s four of these tree houses now, and you can stay the night in them!

Don’t expect luxury, but there’s an outside shower/bathroom and a small food shack for ordering meals, and the beds look comfy.

The best part is that you have a stunning view of the ocean and cliffs, and it’s just a short distance from Suwehan Beach!

Book Now: Suwehan Tree House

Suwehan Tree House (you can book here )!

Suwehan treehouse

Suwehan beach

• Goa Giri Putri Temple

This is a Hindu temple inside of a big limestone cave, located on the east side of Penida. To reach it, you have to climb more than one hundred steps to the top of the hill.

After crawling through a tiny hole in the side of the mountain, the inside opens up to a huge cave about 300 meters long, with high rock ceilings!

Hindu ceremonies are still performed here, but it’s also open to tourists. Exploring this cave is an interesting experience, for sure.

Read More: Pura Goa Giri Putri Cave Temple

Goa Giri Putri Temple

Spooky inside

• Nyanyad Beach

This is a mostly unknown beach on the south end of Nusa Penida, with a small temple and giant hills on both sides of the beach.

The road to Nyanyad Beach is a bit tricky to find, but well worth the effort. Google Maps will try to steer you onto a wrong road that leads to a lighthouse.

Once you reach the parking area for Nyanyad, the hike down to the beach only takes 15 minutes, with concrete steps all the way, and the beach has perfect white sand!

This spot is another hidden gem that isn’t included in most Nusa Penida island tour packages, although you can get there with a scooter or car charter.

Read More: Nyanyad Beach

Drone pic of the huge limestone hills surrounding Nyanyad Beach

Nyanyad Beach

• Peguyangan Waterfall

If you want to try a sketchy, remote Nusa Penida hike with steep paths to get your adrenaline going, this one is for you.

Peguyangan is a small waterfall and natural swimming pool at the bottom of some cliffs on Nusa Penida island, and you reach it by climbing down hundreds of steps on a bright blue stairway.

It’s not for the faint of heart, but the ocean and cliff views here are incredible, which is why I’d rate it as one of the best hikes in Nusa Penida.

There’s even a neat little ultra scenic hotel at the top of the cliffs called Waterfall Inn , with stunning views of the whole area.

Read More: Peguyangan Waterfall

The blue stairs to Peguyangan Waterfall — possibly the craziest Nusa Penida hike!

Best Nusa Penida Photo Spot

It’s hard to pick the best Nusa Penida photo spot, but I’d say it’s probably a toss-up between Kelingking Beach and Diamond Beach . Both are amazing.

Two other great photo spots in Nusa Penida would have to be Suwehan Beach and the Nusa Penida treehouse . These are stunning, and Suwehan is still pretty underrated.  

Best Nusa Penida Beaches

If white sand is the main thing you’re looking for in Bali, then you’ll want to check out my complete Nusa Penida beach guide, which has a list of all of the very best Penida island beaches .

Obviously there are the famous beaches like Kelingking , Diamond , and Atuh , but there are also quite a few others that are not so well known.

Read More: Nusa Penida Beach Guide

The famous cliff viewpoint at Kelingking Beach Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida Hike List

Probably the most epic Nusa Penida hike is the famous Kelingking Cliff , where you can climb down a steep stairway to reach a pristine white sand beach at the bottom.

Another good Nusa Penida hike is Tembeling Beach And Forest , which has a nice mix of jungle and beach scenery, plus a sea cave and natural swimming pool.

If you really want an off-the-radar Nusa Penida hike, check out Batu Siha Beach . This is a new one I explored in 2019, and it’s still untouched except for locals. The path is intense and exhausting, but there’s a white sand beach at the bottom.

The hiking trails in Nusa Penida tend to be very short and intense, because you’re usually climbing down steep cliffs to reach a secluded beach, temple, or waterfall at the bottom.

Unlike Bali, Penida island doesn’t have any mountains or volcanoes to hike. This also means waterfalls are scarce on the island, although there are a couple interesting ones like Peguyangan Waterfall .  

Nusa Penida Island Map

Here’s a Nusa Penida island map you can use to plan your trip. You can click the icons to get more info on each point of interest, but keep in mind some of the locations on this map may be approximate.

For more detailed information on how to get to each of the spots on this Nusa Penida map, you can check out my individual travel guides for each location.

More Things To Do In Nusa Penida

The sights above are just a few examples of what to do in Nusa Penida . There are many more beaches, temples, and viewpoints to see all over the island.

If you’re looking for more ideas, don’t forget to check out my complete list of 35+ awesome things to do in Nusa Penida island!

Read More: What To Do In Nusa Penida

Best Sunset Spot In Nusa Penida

There are lots of great sunset spots in Nusa Penida.

The island has a long west-facing coastline, and pretty much anywhere on the west side is good for watching the sunset.

Two favorites are Crystal Bay , which has a relaxing beach, and Amok Sunset , which is a nice restaurant with views over Nusa Ceningan. The views at Kelingking Beach or Paluang Cliff can also be pretty nice.

Sunset time in Nusa Penida Bali can be anywhere from 6:00 PM to 6:45 PM, depending on the day and month. You can check that here .

For a good sunrise spot, check out the Nusa Penida treehouse , on the southeast side of the island.

Amok Sunset

Water Sports In Nusa Penida

The main water sports in Nusa Penida are snorkeling and scuba diving, and these are exceptional! The section below talks about these activities in a bit more detail.

Unlike Bali, Nusa Penida is not really known for good surfing or waves. However, two other good water sports in Nusa Penida are jet skiing and boat charters.

A boat charter can be great for snorkeling, fishing, or just relaxing while sightseeing around the coast of the island. You can book this with Pulau Private Charters , and they have cruise options to fit every need.

I’ve been itching to try a jet ski tour around Nusa Penida, because it looks like an amazing way to see the epic coastline from a new perspective. The only company currently offering this is Jet Ski Safari Bali Wibisana , and it’s not cheap!

Traditional ‘jukung’ boats at Crystal Bay

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling In Nusa Penida

The coral reefs around Nusa Penida island are fantastic for diving and snorkeling, and you can even swim with manta rays, ocean sunfish (‘mola mola’), and all kinds of other colorful fish.

In fact, Nusa Penida is one of the best places in the world to swim with manta rays and giant mola mola fish. The latter can only be seen by scuba diving, but manta rays are easy to see while snorkeling near the surface. Take a look at Underwater Photography Guide’s handy writeup for scuba diving in Nusa Penida and Lembongan , including seasonal tips and the best diving spots.

For snorkeling, some of the best spots in Nusa Penida include Manta Bay, Crystal Bay, Gamat Bay, and Toyapakeh Wall. It’s possible to visit all of these spots in a day trip. There’s also an underwater Buddha statue , but sadly they don’t seem to be allowing access anymore.

Nusa Penida snorkeling tours can be arranged on the spot at Toyapakeh boat harbor, or it’s also possible to book them online as day tours departing from Bali, complete with hotel pickup and speed boat transfer.

Book Now: Nusa Penida Snorkeling / Manta Ray Tour

What To Bring

If you’re putting together a Nusa Penida packing list, here are a few ideas of good things to bring.

Most of the items below can probably be found on Nusa Penida island in a pinch, but the quality of stuff you buy on the street won’t be guaranteed (personally, I’m not about to use a junky knockoff bag from a street vendor to protect my expensive camera gear).

It’s best to buy vetted products online!

• Waterproof Bag: Essential for keeping your electronics safe on the boats. I brought a 30 liter bag and was able to fit my drone, tablet, camera, phone, and a bunch of other stuff inside. Everything was kept dry, even when I took the bag swimming a few times!
• Waterproof Phone Pouch: Same as above, but these are for your phone only. Great if you don’t have other electronics and just need something small to protect your phone.
• Snorkeling Gear: Many of the areas around Nusa Penida have nice corals and fish, and you won’t want to miss out on them. Snorkels and masks can be rented on the boat too, but if you plan to do multiple tours it’s more economical to bring your own gear.
• Water Shoes: Save your feet some grief and wear water shoes! We got some cuts while walking to shore from the boats.

Nusa Penida Restaurants

The flurry of tourism is bringing lots of new restaurants and cafes to Nusa Penida, so now it has a bunch of great options!

Here are just a few of our restaurant recommendations:

• Penida Colada : This was one of the first great restaurants on the island, with a big menu, beach vibes, good food and good presentation. Plus the name is cool!
• Secret Penida Cafe : Another nice beachfront cafe in north Nusa Penida with Western and Indonesian food.
• Penida Espresso : Best smoothie bowls on the island, and they’re very reasonably priced. Nice for a hot day.
• Sweet Spot : One of the first indoor cafes on the island with air-conditioning! Great breakfast here.
• The Chill : Ocean view pool with no minimum spend! Nice atmosphere with a wade-up bar and swings.
• Amok Sunset : Fancy cliffside restaurant and bar with a pool, and great sunset views over Nusa Ceningan.
• Warung Nengah Mesin : Mother’s cooking. Simply delicious. This is a local warung in the south part of the island, so it’s easy to reach from many of the major sights.

Cliffside pool at the Amok Sunset restaurant

Nusa Penida Massage & Spa

Nusa Penida doesn’t have a lot of massage places compared to Bali, but I’m sure that’ll change over time as more tourists arrive. A foot massage is the perfect way to unwind after a full day of hiking or touring.

One of the best massage places in Nusa Penida would have to be Tejas Spa Warnakali , which has ocean views and is part of the Adiwana Warnakali Resort . You don’t need to be a guest at the resort to get a massage there, it’s open to the public.

For budget spa and massage places in Nusa Penida, you can check out Little Papaya , Juara Spa , and Dhipalia Massage . However, we haven’t tried these ones yet, so I can’t vouch for the quality.  

Other Nusa Penida Tips

• Credit Cards: Almost all restaurants, hotels, and other charges in Penida are cash only. Best thing to do is bring plenty of cash with you from Bali. I also like to book my bigger purchases online (like hotels and drivers), that way I can pay for them with credit card and save my precious cash for those little roadside warungs and fresh coconuts!
• ATM: Penida still has very few ATM options. The most reliable seems to be the Bank BRI booth at Sampalan , but it only lets you pull 1 million Rupiah per try.
• Cell Service: Phone reception is strong with Telkomsel in most of the main areas of Penida, although you may lose service in some places while driving around because of the hilly terrain of the island.
• WiFi: The WiFi situation in Penida used to be very poor compared to Bali, but it has improved dramatically in the last few years, so most hotels already have good WiFi that can be used for browsing, streaming videos, and sending emails.
• Convenience Stores: There are lots of small mini marts, especially around the north shore, where you can buy cheap snacks, drinks, toiletries, sunscreen, and other such things. Sari Yoga Mart and Bagus Mart are two good options. However, their selection is much smaller than what you’ll find shopping in Bali.
• Language: The locals in Nusa Penida speak Balinese with a distinct dialect, and although many of them also understand Indonesian, they’re not schooled in English (unlike in Bali). This means most Nusa Penidans only know a little bit of English that they’ve been able to pick up from tourists, so be patient and come prepared to explain things by pointing or showing pictures.
• Mosquitoes: There is some dengue fever present in Nusa Penida, but it seems to be less common than in Bali, which is probably because of the drier climate in Penida. You won’t need bug spray for visiting the beaches or really any of the popular tourist sites, but we have seen mosquitoes at the Tembeling forest and Goa Giri Putri, as well as near some of the hotels in Nusa Penida. Thankfully there is no malaria in either Penida or Bali, so you don’t need to worry about anti-malarial medications or anything like that. The entire Bali province is certified malaria free according to this Lancet study from 2018.

Is Nusa Penida Safe?

Yes, Nusa Penida is very safe!

We live in Bali off and on. Violent crime is unheard of in Penida, and petty crime is also rare. Just take normal precautions. This is a tight knit community and the locals are very kind and hospitable.

Balinese are religious people, so please don’t disrespect the temples or local culture. And do be careful if you hike any of the steep cliffs like Kelingking Beach!

Sekartaji Cliff Point

Nusa Penida Wildlife

Just like Bali, the island of Nusa Penida is full of wonderful wildlife, and if you’re lucky you might see some during your visit.

Animals living in Penida include bats, spiders, monitor lizards, and monkeys (Balinese macaques). You can see the monkeys at Kelingking Cliff and other places on the island. At the Goa Giri Putri cave , there are even two species of endangered purplish-orange crabs that live nowhere else on Earth except Nusa Penida island.

Nusa Penida is a bird sanctuary with many endangered bird species, including the very nice Bali starlings. Not many of these are left in the wild, so sightings are rare, but it’s hoped their numbers will improve.

Snakes in Nusa Penida include pythons, vipers, spitting cobras, and sea snakes. The only one I’ve seen here personally is the island pit viper (Trimeresurus insularis).

In the main tourist spots of Nusa Penida, you aren’t likely to ever see a snake. If you do, treat it with extreme caution! Venomous snakes in Bali can be very dangerous and there’s no anti-venom available in Penida.

One time I almost stepped on a very venomous island pit viper while hiking in Nusa Penida. My foot landed within inches of the snake, which was coiled up in the center of the path, but thankfully its head was turned away from me and it didn’t see how close my foot landed.

The triangular head and bright red tail on its green body was a giveaway. This was in a less traveled part of the island with lots of foliage. It wasn’t in a tourist area.

If you go snorkeling or scuba diving at Nusa Penida, you can get up close with the gentle manta rays and gigantic ocean sunfish (‘mola mola’), and all kinds of other colorful fish and coral. We’ve also seen sea turtles and dolphins in the waters around Penida.

Best Time To Visit

Nusa Penida has a drier and more sunny climate than mainland Bali, so any month is great for visiting.

The best time to visit Nusa Penida island really just depends on what you’re looking for.

Bali’s rainy season runs from November to April. It’s less crowded during this time, and the rain is mostly at night, but the weather during the day can be hot and humid at 90-95 F (32-35 C).

From May to August, the temps are a lot cooler, and it’s more breezy and sunny. This is the high season so it’s a little more crowded.

Penida is spectacular at any time of the year, but I think the best months for photography are March to May (right after the rainy season ends), as this is when the island is covered with green foliage.

However, if you’re just looking for the nicest weather, May to August are the most comfortable months of the year.

The turquoise blue salt waters of Nusa Penida island

Is Nusa Penida Worth It?

If you’ve kept reading this far and you still aren’t sure whether you should visit Pineda, then the answer is YES, Nusa Penida is definitely worth it!

This island has some of the best natural scenery anywhere in the Bali province, and some of the best views anywhere in Indonesia for that matter. It has great photo spots, cliffs, caves, beaches, hikes, water sports, and more.

There are even lots of nice hotels and restaurants popping up, and it’s becoming easier to get around the island. Overall, it’s well worth crossing the short distance from Bali to Nusa Penida in order to see all of the things this island has to offer.

How Long To Stay

Don’t be a day tripper. There are so many good things to do in Nusa Penida island. You need to spend at least 2 days to see the best highlights, even if you don’t do any snorkeling.

I would try to spend 3 or 4 days in the Nusa islands if possible, but you could easily fill a week, especially if you plan to do snorkeling or scuba diving.  

Nusa Penida Itinerary

Here’s what a sample 4-day itinerary for Nusa Penida could look like:

• Day 1: West Nusa Penida . Visit Kelingking Beach , Paluang Cliff , Pererenan Cliff , Banah Cliff Point , and Tembeling Beach .
• Day 2: East Nusa Penida . Visit Diamond Beach , Atuh Beach , Rumah Pohon Treehouse , Teletubbies Hill , and Goa Giri Putri Cave Temple .
• Day 3: Snorkeling + West Penida . Take a half day snorkeling tour and then continue the land tour, visiting Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach , and Smoke Beach.
• Day 4: South Nusa Penida . Visit Suwehan Beach , Sekartaji Cliff (or Nyanyad Beach ), Manta Point Overlook , and Crystal Bay .

You can take a look at my full blog post about this Ultimate 4-Day Nusa Penida Itinerary for more detailed information and photos!  

Nusa Penida Hotels

Nusa lembongan & ceningan.

While you’re busy exploring Nusa Penida island, don’t forget there are also two other nice islands located next to it — Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, respectively.

The islands of Lembongan and Ceningan are connected to each other by a colorful yellow bridge, and even though they don’t have the epic cliffs and dramatic scenery of Penida, they’re still worth a visit for their nice hotels , seaside cafes, and laidback atmosphere.

It’s easy to go between the Nusa islands with a short and cheap boat ride. Some people even base themselves in Lembongan while touring Penida.  

Blue Lagoon Avia Villas in Nusa Ceningan

Ocean views at the Blue Lagoon Avia Villas in Nusa Ceningan

Where We Stayed

We stayed at Saren Villa on the north coast of Nusa Penida , and paid 240k Rupiah ($15 USD) for a private double room with cold A/C, hot shower, and good WiFi.

This is one of the cheapest options in Penida, and it's in a great location near the best restaurants! We were happy.

Prices may fluctuate from time to time, so just keep an eye out for a good deal.

Our Nusa Penida hotel

• How To Get To Nusa Penida From Bali
• 4-Day Nusa Penida Itinerary – Bali’s Blue Paradise Island
• What To Do In Nusa Penida – Caves, Beaches, Cliffs, & More
• GetYourGuide Day Tours To Nusa Penida Island
• Bali Beach Guide – The Best Beaches In Bali
• Bali Waterfalls Guide – The Best Waterfalls In Bali
• Bali Temple Guide – The Best Temples In Bali
• Most Beautiful Indonesian Islands – Best Places To Visit In Indonesia

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Great & details content, keep it up

Great article and definitely planning on a day trip to Nusa Penida during our June holiday. That company is great to deal with so will book with them again 🙂

Nice! Enjoy!

Loved it, thanks for helping 🙂

Thank you for this article, found it so helpful planning my 4 day trip for this weekend!

Great! Have an awesome trip!

This is so useful, thank you! We are going 28/29th Dec and wanted to do a private tour whilst we are there, do you have any suggestions? All I can find is day tours from Bali to Nusa Penida but we will already be there. Thank you in advance!

Hi! In that case, you could just book a private driver since you’ll already be on the island. They can take you to some of the best places on the island, or you can suggest places that you’d like to visit. Enjoy!

This looks amazing. I haven’t been here yet but definitely love to go. this is a great article thanks.

Hey David, this is byfar the best blog about Nusa Penida island and thanks a lot for taking time and explaining in brief about the island. Please continue the awesome work!

Thank you! Have a great trip.

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Bali   Travel Guide

17 Best Things to Do in Bali, Indonesia

From the white-sand beaches and surf-cool vibes of the south to the tumbling waterfalls and rolling rice fields of the north, Bali knows how to charm. And while trendy, southerly beach areas like Kuta , Seminyak , Canggu and Uluwatu draw the crowds

• All Things To Do

Kuta Kuta free

Touristy? Yes. Fun? Absolutely. Alongside neighboring coastal resorts like Seminyak , Canggu and Uluwatu, Kuta is one of Bali's most popular beach towns – and with that title comes the responsibility of feeding and entertaining flocks of visitors. Restaurants, bars, stores, spas and even a water park provide travelers with numerous diversions during the day and night. Still, the number one attraction in this town is Kuta Beach. The sandy shore is a prime playground for surfers, sunbathers, swimmers, kite-flyers and more. This isn't the isolated Balinese beach that you've dreamt about, but it has plenty going for it.

Recent visitors said the beach here is soft and the swimming conditions are great. Travelers suggest arriving at the beach early to stake your claim to some sand, as the area typically gets crowded as the day progresses. Beachgoers noted the vendors selling souvenirs and trinkets can be annoying, and said you have to be a bit forceful in declining their goods or services to get them to leave you alone. Others remarked the beach wasn't as clean as they'd hoped.

Nusa Dua Nusa Dua free

On the eastern side of the Bukit Peninsula, Nusa Dua is Bali's provincial capital and one of its main tourist hubs. With several golf courses, numerous spas and a handful of luxury resorts (including the St. Regis Bali Resort and Conrad Bali), this region competes with Jimbaran for wealthy patrons – and its beaches are some of the best on the island, with plenty of stretches of fine, soft sand lapped by cerulean sea. Don't miss Pandawa, Geger and Gunung Payung beaches for some of the most picturesque shores.

Recent visitors enjoyed relaxing in peace and quiet at the beaches (including the namesake Nusa Dua Beach), although some noted that the water gets very shallow at low tide, so it's not always the most swimmable. Several recommended coming at sunrise to see the beach in all its glory.

Kintamani Kintamani free

U.S. News Insider Tip: On the edge of Lake Batur sits Pura Ulun Danu Batur – a large temple complex that's one of the most important and famous in Bali. It's dedicated to the goddess of the lake and marked out by its striking stupas which tower above the water. – Laura French

Those who want to break up their beach time with some active adventures inland might want to venture to Kintamani. Located near the island's northeastern coast, around 40 miles north of Kuta , Kintamani is a beautiful region that boasts a towering (and active) volcano and a large lake. Both landscape features are named "Batur," and their pairing makes for dramatic scenery.

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Seminyak Seminyak free

Upscale Seminyak is one of the south's most popular beach towns, flaunting a long swathe of sand lined with bars and restaurants. You'll find plenty of luxury hotels here – including the iconic W Bali – alongside trendy restaurants, cafes, brunch spots and beach clubs (Potato Head is especially famous). Seminyak's also a popular spot for surfing, with gentle waves that make it ideal for beginners.

Recent travelers loved Seminyak Beach and the restaurants on the sand – especially at sunset – although some found the town to be a bit pretentious. Others noted that swimming isn't recommended due to the strong currents and waves.

Nusa Penida Nusa Penida

U.S. News Insider Tip: As one of the island's only swimmable beaches, Crystal Beach draws crowds. Make the short hike over the rocks (there are steps) to Padang Padang beach to find with fine-white sand, crystal-clear water and only the odd straggler to share it with. – Laura French

One of several islands scattered off the coast of mainland Bali, Nusa Penida is well worth a visit for its dramatic scenery: floury-white beaches tucked between plunging cliffs, and winding, hilly roads surrounded by carpets of green. It's authentic Bali, with few tourists around the interior of the island (although the key coastal spots do get busy). It's also fairly rustic, with local warungs (small family-owned eateries) and independent guesthouses rather than fancy restaurants and large-scale resorts – which is all part of the charm.

Nusa Lembongan Nusa Lembongan

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're hiring a scooter, cross the (slightly rickety) bridge to Ceningan Island for even quieter beaches. The aptly named Secret Beach is especially peaceful, and there are some beautiful viewpoints overlooking the Blue Lagoon (a Curaçao-blue bay surrounded by rocky cliffs). – Laura French

After a 15-minute boat ride from Nusa Penida , you'll arrive at the tiny island of Nusa Lembongan, measuring just 5 square miles. This quiet, palm-dotted paradise is exactly what you'd expect from a small tropical island – dusty roads deserted but for the odd scooter or taxi truck, local children waving as you pass by and a smattering of sugar-white beaches with only a handful of visitors on them.

Uluwatu Temple Uluwatu Temple

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Uluwatu area is famous for its surf and peppered with white-sand beaches. Head to Dreamland Beach or Balangan Beach for some of the best (both are especially magical at sunset). – Laura French

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

A protected nature reserve spanning 12.5 hectares, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary (also known as Ubud Monkey Forest) is home to more than 1,200 long-tailed macaque monkeys, considered sacred by the Balinese. Wander among the forest to see them ambling along the paths and swinging between the trees, and explore the various temple buildings that scatter the site. Come at 11 a.m. or 4 p.m. on a weekend and you'll also witness a colorful cultural dance show. As well as being one of Ubud's most popular tourist attractions, the reserve hosts various research and conservation projects, designed to maintain the region's natural and cultural heritage.

Recent visitors enjoyed exploring the monkey forest and its impressive scenery – although several warned to take care of your belongings, as the monkeys have a reputation for snatching them. While some found it to be a little crowded, many said it was well worth the trip, especially if you're traveling with kids.

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Pura Tirta Empul Pura Tirta Empul

While Bali's other temples may be larger or more jaw-dropping, the Pura Tirta Empul water temple, a holy spring, possesses a unique serenity. This active prayer site inspires both Balinese Hindus and visitors of different beliefs. While there are several shrines and other structures on the premises, the temple's tranquility is best seen in the large rectangular pool at the complex's center. You'll see worshipers enter the water to pray, so be respectful and do not disrupt them. Travelers are also welcome to enter the water. Keep in mind, though, that you're expected to enter the water fully clothed, so it's a good idea to bring a spare change of clothes along. Make sure both sets of clothes cover your shoulders and legs as a sign of respect. Sarongs are also available to borrow for free on-site.

Recent travelers loved the temple and recommended visiting for a spiritual experience – but many warned that it gets busy, so it's worth going early to avoid the crowds.

Tegallalang Rice Terrace Tegallalang Rice Terrace

The beautiful, UNESCO-listed Tegallalang Rice Terrace, located north of Ubud, is actually an ancient irrigation system, dating back to the ninth century. Its series of emerald-green, sloping rice paddies is seriously photogenic, and is one of the most popular attractions among camera-toting tourists in this region of Bali. Its elevation also gives it a cooler climate, which is a nice change of pace from other areas of the island.

Recent travelers raved about by the views, and for many it was a must-see – but some felt it was a little commercialized, with vendors touting photo opportunities for the Instagram crowd – including on its many swings – as well as sarongs and other wares. Many also recommended arriving early to avoid the hordes of other tourists, and wearing comfortable shoes and clothes when visiting, as there's a bit of a walk.

Jimbaran Jimbaran free

Once upon a time, Jimbaran was a quiet and quaint fishing village with an equally humble shoreline – but signaled by the oceanfront perch of the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, this town is now one of Bali's most luxurious destinations. Aside from the opulent resorts that reside here, the town has gained acclaim for its succulent seafood and sandy shoreline.

Recent travelers highly recommended coming for a romantic sunset dinner on the sand or to relax on the beach, and many said the seafood was excellent. A few visitors noted how crowded the beach can get.

Sanur Beach Sanur Beach free

With its soft sand and quaint boardwalk, Sanur Beach attracts both locals and tourists alike. Lacking the activity of rowdy Kuta Beach , these sands offer gentle surf that families with small children will appreciate, plus a more laid-back atmosphere. Recent travelers enjoyed the peace and quiet at Sanur as well as the calm water and beachfront promenade, lined with shops and restaurants – although some said seaweed made it tricky to swim in the sea.

You'll find the beach in the town of Sanur. Located along Bali's southeastern coastline, Sanur hosts numerous luxury hotel properties and is around 10 miles east of Kuta and I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport. The beach is free of charge.

Tanah Lot Temple Tanah Lot Temple

Most jaws drop at the sight of Tanah Lot Temple, whose stone ruins and towering stupas date to the 16th century. This stunning religious complex (and impressive architectural feat) sits on a gigantic jagged rock that rises out of the ocean on Bali's southwest coast. While you'll have to wait for low tide to reach the temple, it's well worth it, especially to see the sky turn gold above the water at sunset.

Recent visitors were highly impressed by the temple and its scenic surroundings, especially at sunset – although some warned that it does get crowded. A few felt it was a little overhyped, but worth a visit if you're staying close by.

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Canggu Canggu free

Once a small, laid-back surf town set among the rice fields just north of Seminyak , Canggu has evolved to become something of a hotspot for bohemian holidaymakers, backpackers and digital nomads. Alongside excellent surfing on its volcanic, black-sand beaches (namely Echo Beach, Batu Balong and Berawa), there's a slew of good restaurants, cafes and bars. In fact, many Seminyak-based brunch spots having opened outposts here. You'll find plenty of boho-chic boutiques too, alongside famous beach clubs like FINNS and Atlas. As with much of Bali, the sunsets are spectacular.

Recent travelers enjoyed the beach clubs, sunsets and surf-friendly atmosphere of Canggu, with plenty of surf shacks offering lessons. Some found the beach to be a little dirty and crowded, and noted there's a lot of construction happening in the town. Many loved the bars and overall atmosphere, however.

Lovina Lovina free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Twenty minutes from Lovina you'll find Aling-Aling Waterfall – a series of falls that have been turned into something of a (low-key) amusement park, with a waterfall you can slide down and various cliff jumps. You'll pay for a guide (from 125,000 rupiahs or around $8) if you wish to swim. – Laura French

If you're looking for a quieter, underrated alternative to the beach resorts of the south, Lovina is it. Set on Bali's lesser-visited northern coast, Lovina is a sleepy fishing village turned laid-back resort town on a strip of soft sand. The water here is calm and swimmable. There's a handful of beach bars where you can lounge around on beanbags, and a smattering of restaurants and bars line the main street. The town is best-known for its dolphins, with hotels and local companies offering early morning dolphin-watching tours where you can snorkel near the creatures. Lovina's also a great base for exploring the waterfalls, temples and mountain hikes that surround the region. Brahmavihara-Arama temple, located 6.5 miles southwest, is especially peaceful and not overly touristy, with several colorful structures set amid tranquil greenery.

Gunung Kawi Gunung Kawi

Gunung Kawi refers to a set of 10 shrines that are cut from a rock face in Bali's lush Tampaksiring region. The shrines are each about 25 feet tall, and thought to be memorials to Bali's 11th-century royals. According to lore, they were carved from the cliff face in just one night by Kebo Iwa, a legendary Balinese figure who supposedly had supernatural powers. Visiting the site will include some exertion: there are around 300 steps to climb.

Recent visitors recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds, and some suggest touring the memorial with a guide, who can tell the shrines' history. All agree it's a must-visit when in Bali thanks to the beautiful scenery and serene temple.

Waterbom Bali Waterbom Bali

If you're traveling with children, a trip to Waterbom Bali is a must. The water park features adrenaline-pumping slides like Boomerang, Pipeline and Smashdown 2.0 – which has you standing in a capsule before the floor drops away – offering plenty of thrills for all the family. The FlowRider surf simulator challenges kids and adults to test their surf skills. For a change of pace, ride along the Lazy River, or order a cocktail at the swim-up pool bar – there's something for every age here.

Recent visitors loved their time at the water park, noting that kids, teens and adults all enjoyed the fun slides and water features. Travelers were also very impressed with the food, cleanliness and service from the staff.

Explore More of Bali

Best Hotels

When To Visit

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Bali Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 23, 2023

Bali is a budget backpacker paradise. It’s one of the most popular destinations in Indonesia and a hub for travelers, yoga lovers, honeymooners, and digital nomads alike.

Not only does it cater to the budget-savvy vagabond, but the island offers plenty of options for the more affluent traveler as well.

While visiting Bali has become clichéd (many people visit to have an “Eat, Pray, Love” experience), I still find the island to be beautiful, budget-friendly, and full of things to do. The countryside is beautiful, the beaches ( outside of Kuta ) are picture perfect, there is great hiking, friendly locals, world-class dining, and it’s inexpensive.

I spent a month exploring the island and would happily go back and explore it again.

The trick to traveling Bali is to get away from Ubud and Kuta. Once you do so, you find a much calmer, cheaper, and less-busy island worth exploring where the touts don’t bother you and the empty beaches are yours to enjoy.

This travel guide to Bali can help you make the most of your visit, save money, get off the beaten path, and have the trip of a lifetime!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Bali

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Bali

1. Go scuba diving

While snorkeling is always an option here, Bali is best known for its phenomenal dive spots. The reefs here are beautiful and there is an amazing variety of fish to see. The wreck of a US cargo ship, Liberty, is a highly recommended spot, as is Manta Point off Nusa Penida. Mola mola (ocean sunfish) season runs from July to October and is also very popular with divers. Prices vary depending on the dive site location and where you’re staying, but expect to pay at least 1,500,000 IDR for a two-tank dive.

2. Visit a Hindu temple

The island of Bali is covered in temples. There are at least three in every city and they are considered to be the most iconic attractions. The most prominent temples are the nine directional temples (built for pilgrimages and which allow tourist entry except to the inner sanctum) and the Besakih Temple (Mother Temple) to the east of the island. Mother Temple is a huge temple complex located on the sacred Mount Agung, an active volcano. The climb takes several hours, and most people arrange this as a tour since you need a vehicle to reach the trailhead. Prices start around 320,000 IDR per person. Since it is a holy mountain, climbing can be off-limits during certain times of the year.

3. Take a trip to Nusa Lembongan

Located right off the coast of Bali, this little island is a good alternative to the craziness that is Bali. In fact, it’s where lots of residents go to escape! Nusa Penida is the most developed of the three Nusa islands and you can actually cross to Nusa Ceningan via a bright yellow footbridge. The beaches aren’t great here but the surfing is really good, with some of the best breaks in Bali. The diving is also excellent here and it’s cheaper than on the mainland.

4. Learn about Balinese Culture in Ubud

Ubud is the second most popular tourist area and it can get crazy busy, but it’s still the best place to learn about Balinese culture. There are a number of beautiful temples, numerous historical sites, dance shows, and some of the best food on the island. Head to Tegalalang Village to see the famous rice terraces as well as interact with the local farmers and artists who live there.

5. Hike Mount Batur

Many travelers hike up this 1,700-meter (5,577-foot) volcano for the sweeping vistas and stunning sunrise it offers. The climb only takes a couple of hours, and there are plenty of guides available to lead the way (you have to use a guide to be allowed to climb). Expect to pay around 400,000 IDR per person for a guide.

Other Things to See and Do in Bali

1. try some adventure sports.

There are tons of adventurous activities to do in Bali. You can go paragliding, white water rafting, hiking, mountain biking, ATVing, horseback riding, jungle trekking, and even treetop zip-lining. Prices vary, though they are all quite affordable. Paragliding, for example, costs around 650,000 IDR per person for a tandem glide while zip-lining costs around 1,300,000 IDR.

2. Visit the hot springs

There are several hot springs on the island where you can relax and pamper yourself. In the northeastern mountains, there are some on the shores of Lake Batur. Another good spot is Air Banjar, which is located on the northern coast of the island near Lovina. It is incredibly energizing to sit in these natural pools while you take in the lush, beautiful landscape all around you. Admission varies but expect to pay around 200,000 IDR.

3. Visit the spa

Bali is the perfect place to re-energize by pampering yourself and releasing bottled-up stress and tension. Balinese massage is one of the most relaxing in the world, and there are a number of Balinese spa treatments which involve the use of various herbs and spices. Prices vary depending on what you purchase but expect to pay at least 200,000 IDR for a massage (it should cost less on the beach).

4. Party in Kuta

Kuta is kind of like the Tijuana of Bali. The streets are narrow here and there are hundreds of stalls selling faux-brand ripoffs and novelty souvenirs. There are plenty of hostels and lots of bars that cater to the younger backpacker crowd. If you’re looking to party, this is the best spot on the island to do so. Personally, I hate Kuta and think there are a lot of better places on the island. But if you want to party on a budget, this is the place.

5. Watch the monkeys

Located in Ubud, the Ubud Monkey Forest is a nature reserve and sacred area with temples. It’s very touristy, and a lot of people break the rules and feed the monkeys, which teaches them bad habits so don’t do that! Still, it’s exciting to watch all of the long-tailed macaques running around and playing with each other. Admission is 80,000 IDR.

6. Watch a Buffalo Race

Chances are, after a few days in Bali, you will have seen the water buffalo working in the various fields. In Negara, locals riding chariots race buffaloes every second Sunday from July to October. Negara is a bit out of the way and the races take place at 7am, so you probably should arrange accommodation for the night before. Nevertheless, it’s a peculiar spectacle and something you won’t likely see anywhere else!

7. Stretch it out

There are tons of world-class yoga retreat centers all around Bali, offering both single classes and multi-day retreats as well as training courses. If you need to relax, destress, and stay healthy this is a great place to do it! Expect to pay around 4,750,000 IDR for a 3-day retreat and upwards of 40,000,000 IDR for a 200-hour teacher training course. Drop-in classes are usually around 150,000 IDR.

8. Take a surfing lesson

You don’t even have to leave the airport to know that Bali is a surfing destination; you’ll see tons of surfboards being picked up at baggage claim. The best thing about surfing in Bali is that there’s something on offer for all abilities and on any stretch of the coast. Bring your own board or hire one for 150,000 IDR per day. If you’re new to surfing, a one-hour lesson costs around 350,000 IDR (including a board rental).

9. Learn to cook

The food scene in Bali has developed a lot in recent years and you can easily find some really high-quality restaurants all over the island. Sometimes getting back to the basics is best, though, and nothing really beats learning how to make authentic local dishes liked nasi goreng (fried rice), satay (skewered grilled meat with a peanut sauce), or sambal (a chili sauce or paste) so you can recreate the dishes when you’re back at home. Class lengths vary between a short 2-hour class all the way up to a 9-hour full-day class including a market visit. Classes cost around 350,000 IDR.

10. Join a beach clean-up

The amount of trash that ends up on Bali’s beaches is infuriating. Use your time to give back to the local community by joining a beach clean-up. There are clean-ups all over the island so it’s easy to find one close to where you’re staying. If you’re visiting in February, One Island One Voice organizes Bali’s biggest annual clean-up, with some 70,000 people spread out over 560 locations.

  For more information on other destinations in Indonesia, check out these guides:

• Gili Islands Travel Guide

Bali Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels usually cost around 75,000-200,000 IDR per night but they can be found as low as 55,000 IDR in the shoulder-season. Most hostels don’t offer private rooms, though free WiFi and free breakfast are generally included.

If you are looking for a cheap guesthouse or a budget hotel, expect to pay around 375,000-800,000 IDR per night for a double room. This generally includes free WiFi and breakfast. For a hotel with a pool, expect to spend at least 600,000 IDR per night.

Airbnb is available here too, with prices starting at around 350,000 IDR per night for an entire home or apartment. Private rooms cost around 180,000 IDR per night. Be sure to book your Airbnb in advance, otherwise, expect these prices to double (or triple).

If you’re looking for luxury, Bali also has some of the most expensive hotels in the world, many costing over 13,000,000 IDR per night.

Food – Lots of dishes here have a rice (nasi) or noodle (mie) base and, in some cases, that’s the whole dish, such as with nasi ayam (chicken rice). Be sure to try the Balinese take on satay (where the meat is minced and wrapped on skewers) and babi guling , a delicious suckling pig that is roasted for hours. Another popular choice is oxtail soup. Be mindful that the food here can be a little spicy.

Local cuisine is extremely cheap, usually under 10,000 IDR for street food. A basic restaurant meal costs closer to 25,000 IDR. Western food is a lot more expensive but is still affordable at around 125,000 IDR for a meal and a drink.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 55,000 IDR for a combo meal deal while a beer at the bar is around 45,000 IDR. Expect to pay 17,000 IDR for a bottle of water.

If you plan on cooking your own meals, a week’s worth of groceries costs between 500,000-700,000 IDR. Be sure to stick to local food items, as imported foods like wine, cheese, chicken, and beef are super expensive. Buying them often ruins your budget.

Bali Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 425,000 IDR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat some street food, cook some meals, rent a bicycle to get around, and do a few activities like hiking or seeing a Balinese dance. It’s really easy to do Bali on a budget if you stay in cheap guesthouses, eat local, and stick to the less expensive activities.

On a mid-range budget of 1,100,000 IDR per day, you can eat out at more restaurants, stay in a budget hotel or a private hostel room, rent a scooter to get around, drink more, enjoy some massages, and take more tours.

On a “luxury” budget of 2,350,000 IDR or more per day, you can stay at a nicer hotel or villa, take taxis or private minivans around the island, eat Western food, drink more, and do any adventure activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury, however. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in IDR.

Bali Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Bali can be as cheap or as expensive as you want it to be. This is the land of cheap backpackers, honeymooners, top-of-the-line expensive resorts, and yoga retreats. It caters to every travel style. If you’re looking to save money while visiting, here are some tips and tricks that help you lower your costs:

• Eat local food – You can pick up tasty local fare for around 10,000-15,000 IDR. Stay far away from Western restaurants if you want to save money!
• Bargain – Nothing is ever at face value in Indonesia. Bargain hard and bargain often. Don’t ever pay the first price you were quoted (but don’t be a jerk either).
• Head north – The southern area of Bali (Kuta, Ubud, Seminyak) is the most popular (and most expensive) part of the island. If you head to the beaches in the north or northeast part of Bali, prices are much cheaper and you can find better deals on accommodation.
• Save money on rideshares – Uber and Grab are cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to wait for a bus or pay for a taxi. Just be aware that Ubers can be much harder to find in quieter areas.
• Drink cheap – Save money on alcohol by hitting the happy hours or just buying your drinks at a local store instead of the bar. This is the cheapest way to drink.
• Bring a filtered water bottle – Bali has a waste problem, and much of it gets burned. You’ll see (and smell) it during your visit. Bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to save money — and the environment. I like Lifestraw .

Where to Stay in Bali

Bali has tons of fun, affordable, and social hostels and guesthouses. Here are my favorites places to stay on the island:

• Tribal Bali (Canggu)
• PADI Backpackers House (Ubud)
• Kememai Hostel (Ubud)
• Warung Coco Hostel (Kuta)
• M Boutique Hostel (Seminyak)
• Capsule Hotel Bali – New Seminyak (Seminyak)

For more recommendations, check out this list of the best hostels in Bali.

How to Get Around Bali

Bemos & buses – Bemos are a minibus or a van that carries around 12 people in very tight quarters. They’re not widely used by visitors because they’re usually real time consuming. However, they’re cheap and most rides are around 5,000 IDR.

Tourist buses are a great way to get around, and they’re very affordable. They usually have air-conditioning, and some have Wi-Fi. There are signs in most areas offering these services. Kura-Kura Bus and Perama are the two biggest tourist bus operators. Kuta to Lovina costs 250,000 IDR, while Denpasar to Kuta is just 30,000 IDR. Kuta to Ubud is 100,000 IDR.

Taxis – Taxis are essential for getting around Bali, and they’re cheap. The starting rate is around 7,000 IDR and then 5,000-15,000 IDR per kilometer. You can also find drivers all over the island willing to take you wherever you want to go. A car from Ubud to Padangbai (where you get the boat to Lombok and Gili) costs around 300,000 IDR while an airport transfer to Seminyak or Canggu should cost around the same.

Bluebird Taxis are available in most places, and they’re the most dependable company for metered taxis and English-speaking drivers. There’s a smartphone app that makes ordering a taxi simple and convenient.

Grab (an Uber offspring) is a household name in Southeast Asia. It, too, is convenient, but it sometimes costs even more than a taxi. Go-Jek is a similar option and it also offers motorbike ride shares.

Bicycle – Bicycles are available for rent all around the island, usually costing 50,000 IDR per day for a basic bicycle.

Motorcycles and scooters – Motorbikes are quintessential to the Bali experience, and it’s not uncommon to see whole families riding one together! Motorbikes are so common here because they make it easier to weave in and out of congested traffic.

Scooter rentals are available around the island for as little as 90,000 IDR per day while motorbikes cost about 300,000 IDR a day. You should be an experienced driver for this option though as accidents are very common.

Ferry – Getting to and from Bali is easy via ferry. Ferries start around 15,000 IDR for a ticket from East Java to West Bali, and the rates go up from there for other routes. Bali (Padang Bai) to Lombok is about 500,000 IDR (one way) on the fast ferry or 60,000 IDR on the slow boat (which takes around 8 hours), while Bali to the Gili Islands is 300,000-350,000 IDR (one way) on a speedboat.

When to Go to Bali

Bali has a warm, tropical climate year-round with just two seasons: wet and dry. The dry season lasts from April to September while the rainy season occurs from October to the end of March. The average daily temperature year-round is 28°C (80°F). The high season is from July and August as well as through the Easter holidays and Christmas holidays (about December 11th to January 1st). Bali is busiest during this time, and prices are the highest.

In Bali’s mountainous areas, temperatures are much cooler and there is more rainfall than along the coast. If you plan on spending time in the mountains you need to pack appropriate clothing.

Overall, the best time to visit is between May and September when it’s dry and sunny. It’s still pleasant to visit during the rainy season as rainfall usually comes as fast and intense downpours that only last a few hours. In Bali, the extremes between seasons aren’t drastic.

The dry season is the best time to climb the volcanoes, participate in water sports, and the best time to dive is from April to September.

How to Stay Safe in Bali

Bali is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo — as violent crime is rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Indonesia. Theft is also very common on public transit. It’s easy for thieves to grab your wallet or purse when you’re distracted by all the chaos around you. Stay alert and always keep your valuables out of reach.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here but the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). There’s a lot of partying here so you’ll want to keep an eye out at night. There are countless solo female travel blogs out there that can give you specific information on how to stay safe.

Credit card fraud is common in Indonesia so it’s always best to pay with cash when possible. To avoid getting your information stolen at an ATM, enter a reputable bank to withdraw money from there.

When out and about, make sure you don’t keep all your cash on you. Take what you need for the day and keep the rest secure in your accommodation just to be safe.

If you take a taxi, remember that not all prices in Bali are fixed. Make sure the driver turns on the meter when you get in, or agree on the price upfront to avoid any misunderstandings.

To avoid some of the common scams on the island, read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

When in doubt, always trust your instincts. If a taxi driver seems shady, get out. If your hotel or accommodation is seedier than you thought, go somewhere else. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of an emergency.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Bali Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Bali Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Indonesia and Bali travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

A Visitor’s Guide to the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Kuta Beach: The Worst Place in Bali

How to Visit Borobudur in Indonesia

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

10 Exciting Places to See in Every Region of Bali

(SPOT.ph) Off the eastern coast of Java is a tiny island famously called Bali . Tourists associate the place with relaxing by the beach the entire day and partying in almost all of the extravagant beach clubs at night—a perfect vacation, many would argue. The surprisingly open culture on the island, as locals would say, can be attributed to the influence of Australians who frequent Bali to surf during Australian winter.

This is in stark contrast to the history this place holds: Bali is the only remaining stronghold of Hinduism over the archipelago. When Islam triumphed over Hinduism in Indonesia, Bali became the refuge of the Hindu religious people. But such blending of all the cultures gave birth to Bali’s mesmerizing and magical culture today.

In my conversations with our Bali tourist driver, he said that Bali is a special tourist destination because tourism is the main driver of their economy . Locals in Bali are trained to work for the tourist industry and their main mission is to make the travelers welcome, happy, and safe.

Plus, you can hop on a plane from Manila for a four-hour direct flight to Bali. So why not make it happen on the next long weekend ?

10 Places in Bali for the Solo Traveler

10 Places in Bali for the Artsy Traveler

Here is a rundown of Bali tourist spots in every region:

Ulun danu beratan temple.

Inside the main complex, you will marvel at this main attraction: a temple floating on water with the backdrop of the lush green mountains and the glistening sunset. It is located approximately 50 kilometers north of Denpasar and is considered one of the nine most important temples to the Balinese. The temple is also a place of worship for the Goddess of Prosperity and Fertility, Dewi Danu.

The entrance fee is 50,000 IDR (approximately 200 pesos) but if you are feeling adventurous, you can rent a boat that will take you around Lake Beratan and see the floating temple up close.

Tanah Lot means Land in the Sea, which perfectly describes the cliff where the Balinese temple is perched on. Picture the synchronization of the waves crashing against the cliff and the sunset casting the silhouette of Pura Tanah Lot— definitely, a sight to behold. The three temples in Tanah Lot were believed to have been built by Dang Hyang Nirartha and were formed to worship Bhatara Segara, the sea God. In Balinese mythology, Dang Hyang Niratha was believed to have been blessed with supernatural powers. He moves the whole rock to the sea and built a temple on it. To protect the temple from evil intruders, he created a poisonous sea snake that lives on the base of the island.

The entrance fee to the place is 60,000 (about 230 pesos).

Seminyak Beach

Bali sure is surrounded by a dozen of beaches but what makes Seminyak Beach stand among the rest is its easy access to everything. Best restaurants, luxury hotels, or world-famous beach clubs? You name it and Seminyak Beach probably has it. You can either learn how to surf or just soak in the sun by the shore while reading a book.

Some of the five-star hotels that you can find along the stretch include The Seminyak Beach Resort and Spa and Double Six Luxury Hotel. One of the most famous beach clubs you can find here and my personal favorite is the Potato Head Beach Club.

Central Bali

Ubud royal palace.

Puri Saren Agung, commonly known as the Ubud Royal Palace can be found at the center of Ubud, Bali. It is the official residence of Ubud’s royal family, with the original historical buildings dating back to 1640. Its sophisticated architecture was largely attributed to the local artists designing the palace to showcase their artistic talents. It features a statue of Dewi Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music, and art. Although the complex collapsed during the 1917 earthquake, it was rebuilt to preserve the historical site for future generations.

The entrance to the site is free and the best time to visit is in the morning when it is not as crowded yet.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

This Ubud Monkey Forest is a nature reserve and Hindu temple complex constructed at around 1350, with a philosophical goal of creating harmony among humans, nature, and The Supreme God. More than 600 Balinese long-tailed monkeys are living in the forest and are divided into groups occupying five different territories. With a lot of visitors coming to the site day by day, these monkeys have completely lost their fear of humans. So a word of warning if you plan to visit, do not bring bags that contain food or bring sunglasses because they might grab those loose items from you. But on the flip side, these monkeys are also fun because they are expert Gen Z selfie-takers.

You need 80,000 IDR (around 300 pesos) per person to get into the huge sanctuary.

Pura Taman Saraswati Temple

The Pura Taman Saraswati Temple is a homage to Saraswati, the same goddess featured in the Ubud Royal Palace. What makes the architecture of this temple complex special apart from the rest is that it is surrounded by a water garden and a lotus pond. Especially on Saraswati Holiday, the people come here to worship and admire the beautiful lotuses that bloom in the water.

The entrance to the place is free of charge.

Tirta Empul (Holy Bath)

Tirta Empul, dedicated to the Hindu God of Water Vishnu, is a water temple deemed sacred by the Balinese. Considered sacred by the Balinese, it is believed that bathing in its waters brings blessings. Visitors stand in long lines waiting to dip their heads under the waterspouts and then proceed to the inner courtyard to pray.

You only need to pay 50,000 (about 200 pesos) to enter. The dress code is a traditional Kamen wrap or sarong.

Lempuyang Temple

Lemuyang Temple, locally known as Pura Luhur Lempuyang, is one of the oldest and holiest places in Bali. This temple is known as the legendary "Gates of Heaven." Although getting to the best part requires a bit of a hike, the breathtaking views that you will see on top will be worth it. You will reach the Gate of Heaven and you will see Mount Agung from afar. What makes this place even more famous are the picture-perfect reflection shots of the temple. So before you get here, practice how to do it.

The entrance ticket is 50,000 IDR (approximately 200 pesos) and you need to wear a sarong.

Besakih Temple

Known as Bali’s Mother Temple, the Besakih Temple is the largest and holiest temple on the island of the gods. Three significant temples dedicated to the Hindu trinity can be seen here—temples of Shiva the destructive, Brahma the originator, and Vishnu the sustainer. Surprisingly, even during Mt. Agung’s series of eruptions, the lava flow spared the holy structure because it was believed that the gods want to demonstrate their power without destroying the sacred structure.

The entrance fee is 60,000 IDR (about 230 pesos) and wearing a sarong is required to preserve the sanctity of the place.

Uluwatu Temple

The pagoda dates back as early as the 11th century, established by a Hindu priest named Empu Kuturan and expanded by Dang Hyang Nirartha. It is considered one of the most important temples in Bali and is believed to be a portal to heaven. The best time to go here is during sunset when the colors of the cliff views are a stunner.

Around this time also, you can witness the famous Kecak fire dance. The dance, created in the 1930s by the Balinese dancer Wayan Limbak and German artist Walter Spies, narrates the story of Asia’s most well-known epic Ramayana.

The entrance fee to the complex is 50,000 IDR (around 200 pesos) and you’ll need to wear a sarong to enter the temple.

Also read: 10 Exciting Things to Do in Indonesia

The best times to visit Bali based on your travel goals

Oct 30, 2023 • 4 min read

In Bali, the weather is warm and the hammocks are comfortable year-round © anyaberkut / Getty Images © ©anyaberkut/Getty Images

With awe-inspiring scenery, dense layers of culture, plenty of sun, surf and sand, and balmy temperatures year-round, Bali calls out like a beacon to adventurers, sun-seekers and travelers who like to truly immerse themselves in the countries they visit. Whatever your travel tastes, you'll find rewarding things to see and do in Bali at any time of year.

The dry season, from April to September, is the most enjoyable time of the year for outdoor activities, including basking on beaches, hiking, surfing, sailing, diving and canyoning. Visit during the wet season (November to March), and you'll experience frequent downpours, but there's good surf on the east coast, and you can still enjoy the outdoors, especially in drier areas in the east and north of the island. Temperatures in Bali don’t vary much from season to season, hovering between 28°C and 32°C (82°F to 90°F) year-round, though it's often cooler in mountain areas. Whatever you're looking for in Bali, here are the best times to come.

The high season (July–August and December) is the best time for festivals and partying

The high season in Bali coincides with the traditional summer vacation season in Europe, America, and Australia in July and August. It's the height of the dry season and the peak time for surfing on the west coast at the breaks around Canggu and Seminyak . Bali's original beach hub, Kuta , can be mobbed at this time of year, as many travelers come here specifically for the party season. 

Most parts of Bali are inundated with visitors in summer, as tourists come to sample the island’s many delights and enjoy some of its most colorful festivals. Indonesia celebrates its independence from colonial powers on August 17 with plenty of pomp and fanfare. Expect entertaining parades and street parties in the bigger towns. 

The period around Christmas and New Year also sees a large influx of travelers seeking a reprieve from cold northern winters. Many hotels, restaurants and other venues organize special dinners and entertainment to mark the festive season. New Year’s Eve is particularly memorable, with spectacular fireworks at midnight to help you rock in the new year in style. Key events to look out for are the Pemuteran Bay Festival, Penglipuran Village Festival and, of course, New Year’s Eve celebrations. 

High season means high prices and pressing hordes in tightly-packed tourist areas; for a quieter experience, seek out more remote spots such as Nusa Penida and Pemuteran .

The shoulder season (April–June and September–October) is best for adventurous travelers

The shoulder season in Bali falls at either end of the dry season, when the weather is either improving after the rains or getting slowly wetter after the dry months. Things are quieter without the summertime crowds, and the weather is normally still dry enough for outdoor activities. However, the two-week Easter spring break can get very busy in tourist areas such as Kuta and Legian .

May marks the surfing season in full swing on the west and south coasts, and rafting, trekking and spelunking beckon adventure sports fans.

As rain showers in October are more frequent than in the dry summer months, plan to spend some time indoors visiting temples, museums and cultural institutions in Ubud , Denpasar , and other centers for Balinese culture. Top international events in October include the  Ubud Village Jazz Festival  and the  Ubud Writers and Readers Festival . 

The low season (January–March and November) is best for budget travelers

Bali’s low season coincides with the rainiest months of the year, and this can be an unpredictable time for outdoor activities. The crowds have decamped back home, and the island is returning to a more relaxed vibe, but there's still decent surf on the east coast at such legendary locations as Padang Padang, and the weather is still warm. Accommodation prices fall considerably, which is great news for budget travelers.

At the end of January or the start of February, Chinese New Year celebrations feature typical Balinese elements such as traditional percussion bands and dancers dressed as the mythological lion-like creature Barong. 

The festival of Nyepi, the Balinese New Year, moves with the lunar calendar but frequently falls in March. This is a culturally fascinating time to visit Bali, but after the colorful parades of ogoh-ogoh puppets the night before the festival, the Day of Silence itself can be a tricky time for visitors as everything closes, transport ceases, and nobody is allowed out on the streets.

Understanding the Balinese calendar

Note that religious festivals such as Galungan and Kuningan are scheduled according to the Balinese 210-day pawukon calendar. This means they happen roughly every seven months, according to the Western calendar. Dates for village festivals are not always set in stone either, and the timing of the Nyepi festival is dictated by the lunar saka calendar, meaning the date changes every year. If you’re planning a trip around a festival or event, check the precise dates before you book your flights.

This article was first published Dec 3, 2021 and updated Oct 30, 2023.

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