East Bali

East Bali offers a distinct experience from the island's more famous western parts, featuring a mix of sacred mountains, serene beaches, and cultural landmarks. This travel guide highlights key destinations and activities to help you plan a memorable visit to this less trodden region.

Getting There

East Bali is accessible by road from Denpasar and the Ngurah Rai International Airport. The drive can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours depending on your destination in East Bali. Renting a scooter or hiring a private car with a driver are popular options for flexibility and convenience.

Top Attractions and Activities East Bali

Amed

Amed is a charming coastal town located in northeastern Bali, known for its beautiful black sand beaches, clear waters, stunning coral reefs, and world-class snorkeling and diving sites. Visitors can also relax on its quieter beaches, explore local shops and restaurants, and use Amed as a base to explore nearby villages, rice paddies, and temples. It's a perfect destination for those looking for a more laid-back and less crowded experience in Bali.

Candidasa

Candidasa is a laid-back beach town located in East Bali that offers visitors stunning beaches with clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. It's a great destination for those looking to escape the busier towns of Kuta and Seminyak and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere. Candidasa has a range of accommodation options and excellent restaurants serving fresh seafood and local and international cuisine. Visitors can also witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the ocean.

Tenganan Pegringsingan

Tenganan is a traditional village in Bali, known for its unique culture, customs, and ancient traditions that have remained unchanged for centuries. The village is home to the Bali Aga people, who have their own distinct language, religion, and way of life. Visitors can explore the village's narrow streets and traditional architecture, witness traditional weaving demonstrations, and experience the village's unique style of dance and music during special ceremonies and festivals. One of the most fascinating aspects of Tenganan is its strict adherence to ancient traditions and customs, offering visitors a glimpse into a world that has remained largely unchanged over time. It's a must-visit destination for those interested in learning about Bali's rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life.

Mount Agung

Mount Agung is Bali's highest and most sacred volcano, offering a challenging but rewarding trek to the summit. The ascent is steep and rocky, taking between 4-7 hours, but the views from the top are breathtaking. Visitors can also explore the temple and shrine at the summit, which is an important religious site for the Balinese people. However, hiking Mount Agung comes with risks, and visitors should take appropriate precautions and be weather-dependent. It's a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique adventure and a deeper understanding of Bali's culture and natural beauty.

Water Palace Tirta Gangga

Tirta Gangga is a water palace in East Bali with stunning architecture, ornate stone carvings, statues, and bridges that are inspired by traditional Balinese design. Visitors can stroll through the tranquil gardens, relax on the stone benches or pavilions, and take in the stunning scenery of crystal-clear pools and fountains. It's a perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon or evening away from the city, with several small restaurants and cafes available to enjoy a drink or meal.

Goa Lawah Temple

Goa Lawah Temple, also known as Bat Cave Temple, is a unique and fascinating temple located in southeastern Bali. The temple is built around a cave that is home to thousands of bats, and visitors can witness the daily offerings and rituals performed by the local Balinese. The cave and its bats are considered sacred by the Balinese, and visitors can watch as the bats fly in and out of the cave at sunset.

Mother Temple of Besakih

The Mother Temple of Besakih, also known as "Pura Besakih," is the largest and most important Hindu temple in Bali. It is located on the slopes of Mount Agung, the highest mountain on the island. The temple complex consists of more than 80 separate temples and shrines, each dedicated to a different aspect of the Hindu religion. The most important and largest temple is Pura Penataran Agung, which is dedicated to Shiva, the destroyer god in the Hindu pantheon. Other important temples include Pura Kiduling Kreteg, which is dedicated to Brahma, and Pura Batu Madeg, which is dedicated to Vishnu. Visitors to the Mother Temple can expect to see a magnificent and ornate complex of temples, pavilions, and courtyards, all surrounded by beautiful scenery. The temple is open to visitors of all faiths, but visitors are required to dress modestly and behave respectfully. It is recommended to hire a local guide to help navigate the complex and learn more about the history and significance of each temple.

Lempuyang Temple

Lempuyang Temple, also known as Pura Lempuyang Luhur, is a Hindu temple complex located in East Bali on the slopes of Mount Lempuyang. It is considered to be one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bali, and it attracts visitors from all over the world due to its stunning scenery and unique architecture. To reach the temple complex, visitors must climb a series of steep staircases, passing several other smaller temples along the way. The main temple features a towering gateway known as the "Gateway to Heaven," which frames the majestic Mount Agung in the background. The temple is also known for its peaceful and serene atmosphere, offering visitors a chance to relax and connect with nature.

Taman Ujung Water Palace

Taman Ujung Water Palace is a beautiful historical site located in East Bali. The palace is famous for its stunning architecture and serene surroundings, including large ponds, fountains, and beautifully landscaped gardens. It's a popular spot for tourists to visit and take in the beauty of Bali's cultural heritage.

The Museum Semarajaya

The Museum Semarajaya, located in Klungkung, is a museum dedicated to Balinese art and culture. The museum houses a collection of traditional Balinese paintings, sculptures, and textiles, as well as artifacts and relics from Bali's rich cultural history. Visitors can learn about the island's unique customs and traditions and gain a deeper appreciation of Balinese art and culture.

The Banjar Hot Springs

The Banjar Hot Springs, located in the northern part of East Bali, is a natural hot spring that offers visitors a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. The hot spring water is said to have healing properties and is surrounded by lush tropical gardens. There are three hot spring pools of varying temperatures, as well as a cool pool for refreshing dips.

Rafting Telaga Waja River

Rafting down the Telaga Waja River is an exhilarating adventure that offers visitors a unique way to explore Bali's stunning natural beauty. With its Class II to Class IV rapids, the river is suitable for all levels of experience, with experienced guides ensuring safety throughout the journey. Along the way, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls, lush rice paddies, and towering cliffs, with a refreshing swim in the clear river waters halfway through the journey. Rafting down the Telaga Waja River is a must-try activity for adventure seekers and those looking for an adrenaline-fueled experience in Bali.

Diving

East Bali offers some of the best diving and snorkeling sites in Bali, including the USAT Liberty Shipwreck in Tulamben, the Japanese Wreck in Amed, and the Blue Lagoon in Padangbai. These sites are home to an incredible array of marine life, making it a top destination for underwater enthusiasts. Diving and snorkeling tours are available from various operators in the region, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced divers.

Rice Trek

Going on a rice field trek in East Bali is a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the island while learning about the local culture and traditions. During the trek, you'll get to explore the stunning rice terraces that cover the landscape, which are a testament to the ingenuity and hard work of the local farmers. You'll have the opportunity to see the traditional methods of rice cultivation that have been used for centuries, including planting, harvesting, and processing the rice. Along the way, you'll also encounter traditional villages and meet friendly locals who are happy to share their knowledge and stories with you. Trekking through the rice fields is a peaceful and relaxing activity that allows you to connect with nature and experience the true essence of Bali.

Sunrise trek to Mount Batur Mount

Batur is a popular destination for sunrise treks in Bali, offering stunning views of the sunrise over the island. The trek typically starts early in the morning, around 2 or 3 AM, and takes about two hours to reach the summit. The hike is moderate in difficulty and suitable for most fitness levels. Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Batur. On a clear day, you can even see Mount Agung in the distance. After enjoying the sunrise, you can enjoy breakfast at the summit before descending back down the mountain. It's a memorable experience that's not to be missed when visiting East Bali.

Dining and Accommodation

Candidasa shoreline

East Bali offers a delightful variety of dining and accommodation options that cater to every traveler's taste and budget, ranging from the simple to the luxurious.

Dining

In East Bali, the culinary scene is quite vibrant, featuring a mix of traditional and international flavors. Local warungs (small family-owned eateries) are widespread, where you can savor authentic Balinese dishes such as Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Satay, and Sambal (spicy chili sauce). These dishes are known for their rich flavors and use of local spices and ingredients.

For a more upscale dining experience, areas like Candidasa boast several higher-end restaurants that offer both local and international cuisine, often with a focus on fresh seafood given the coastal location. These restaurants typically feature more refined settings with views of the ocean or lush tropical gardens, providing an excellent backdrop for dining.

Accommodation

Accommodation in East Bali ranges from budget-friendly options to more luxurious retreats. In places like Amed, you can find simple guesthouses that are perfect for backpackers or those looking for a modest stay close to the beach. These accommodations often offer basic amenities and easy access to local attractions.

Candidasa, known for being a bit more developed, has a range of boutique resorts. These are ideal for travelers looking for comfort and luxury without the hustle and bustle of Bali's more tourist-heavy areas like Kuta or Seminyak. These boutique resorts often feature private beaches, spas, gourmet dining, and beautifully decorated rooms that reflect Balinese art and architecture.

Both Amed and Candidasa are excellent bases for exploring the natural beauty and cultural richness of East Bali, with accommodation options that allow for relaxation after a day of sightseeing or beach activities.