25 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SIDEMEN BALI
Sidemen is the undiscovered, authentic Bali. How Ubud was 20 years ago. Sidemen valley is full of rice terraces with views on Mount Agung, cultural experiences and many nature treasures. Although Sidemen is often overlooked as destination to travel to, it has so much to offer. Especially for nature lovers. You can have some of the most impressive views on Mount Agung. Whether it’s from some of the amazing accommodations in Sidemen, to some breathtaking viewpoints in and around Sidemen Bali. But also plenty of waterfalls, Hindu temples and even some of the best beaches in Bali are only 45 minutes away. Staying in Sidemen for a few days will show you the real Bali. You won’t get these experiences and views elsewhere in Bali. I hope to inspire you to visit Sidemen with this ultimate guide about the 25 best things to do in Sidemen Bali.
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About Sidemen Bali
The village of Sidemen is located in East Bali on the flanks of the holy mountain Gunung Agung, surrounded by green rice fields and rolling hills. Because you’re so close to Mount Agung you can see this majestic volcano throughout the whole area on a clear day. Sidemen is actually divided in four sub districts, known as Selat (north district), Manggis (east district), Klungkung Regency (south district) and Rendang which is the west district. In these areas are many things to do and explore. From waterfalls to beautiful beaches, epic viewpoints, green rice fields and Hindu temples. Let’s find out about the best things to do in Sidemen!
Best tours to explore Sidemen Bali
If you want to explore the best of Sidemen then make sure to book your tours in advance. Because of Bali’s popularity it is highly recommended to book your tours in advance as it is likely that tours sell out. So don’t wait with booking until you get to Bali. Choose your favorite tours here and secure your booking! All of these tours include air conditioned transport with hotel pick up and drop off, certified guides and sometimes also lunch and the entrance fees. You can reserve now and pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund.
- 2 day tour exploring East Bali, including Taman Ujung water palace, Lempuyang, beaches and more
- Sidemen Village Tour, Ujung Water Palace and Candidasa
- Firewood Cooking Class & Organic Farm Tour in Sidemen
Best time to visit Sidemen
Sidemen in general has more rain than the coastal towns in Bali. Overall the best time to visit Sidemen is from May until October. The rainiest months are December until March, April. However there is no guarantee it won’t rain during the ‘dry season’ in Bali. Because of the location in the valley and close to Mount Agung, weather circumstances can be completely different in Sidemen compared to the rest of Bali. Considering the rice terraces you have to take into account the harvest seasons. Right after harvest season the rice terraces will be muddy, which can give a completely different experience than the lush green colours you can see in the other months of the year.
How many days you need in Sidemen
If you want to discover the real Bali and get the most out of your stay in Sidemen I would recommend 2 to 3 days at least. This will give you the opportunity to explore all the highlights which you can pick from this list. Of course everyone has different preferences, but to discover the real Sidemen you should at least visit some of the hidden waterfalls, see the rice fields and go to one or more of the beautiful temples around Sidemen.
Where to stay in Sidemen
Although Sidemen isn’t a very popular tourist destination yet, there are still enough options to stay either affordable or in some of the more expensive and luxury hotels. My advice is to book at least 2 nights in Sidemen to really experience its beauty and tranquil vibe. Below some options.
Book here your accommodation in Sidemen
Budget accommodations in Sidemen
Cepik Villa
Cepik Villa is surrounded by beautiful landscapes of the mountains, rice fields and gardens of Sidemen. The Balinese-style villas have a beautiful view on green jungle or rice fields and a shared outdoor pool. Great value for your money! Highly recommended as we stayed here ourselves as well.
→ Book here your stay at Cepik Villa Sidemen
Darmada Eco Resort
Darmada Eco Resort is a lovely and homey accommodation in colonial bungalow style that offers an on-site restaurant, garden and terrace.
→ Book here your stay at Darmada Eco Resort
Mid range accommodations in Sidemen
Villa Sidemen
Villa Sidemen is a stunning standalone 2-bedroom villa with private infinity pool that boasts stunning views of Mount Agung. But as always with the volcanos, you have to be lucky with clear skies to see them! Surrounded by tropical gardens, the villa is decorated with wall art and a cozy and relaxing atmosphere.
→ Book here your stay at Villa Sidemen
Patal Kikian
Patal Kikian has some of the most spectacular views on Mount Agung volcano is Sidemen. The infinity pool overlooking Sidemen valley and the volcano is something you won’t see anywhere else in Bali. The rooms are either modern bungalows with stunning views or deluxe rooms.
→ Book here your stay at Patal Kikian Sidemen
Luxury accommodations in Sidemen
Samanvaya Resort & Spa
The most luxury resort in Sidemen is Samanvaya. This adults only resort offers a peaceful getaway with rooms, private villa’s and bungalows all with stunning views. Two pools overlooking the green valley with luxury sun beds are the best way to relax and enjoy the stunning Sidemen views. Besides that you can book a treatment at the Spa which is a true gem and a must try. The on site restaurant offers a selection of international and Balinese cuisine. Perfect ingredients for a luxury getaway in Sidemen. We have stayed here ourselves and can highly recommend Samanvaya!
→ Book here your stay at Samanvaya Sidemen
Wapa di Ume
Wapa di Ume is a beautiful resort with outdoor swimming pool overlooking the green mountains, a fitness centre and access to the river in Sidemen. You can choose between booking a one bedroom private villa with private swimming pool or a suite with balcony and stunning view on the green valley. We have stayed here can definitely recommend it, especially for families.
→ Book here your stay at Wapa di Ume Sidemen
Bamboo villa’s in Sidemen
Camaya
Camaya Bamboo houses is some of the most popular and unique bamboo accommodations in Bali. With incredible views of green rice terraces and Mount Agung, this stunningly designed bamboo house is famous on Instagram because of the many beautiful photo corners. With a hanging net, private plunge pool and beautiful garden you can relax and enjoy this beautiful 2 bedroom bamboo house. An unforgettable stay in Sidemen.
→ Book here your stay at Camaya Sidemen bamboo house
Veluvana
Veluvana is a unique bamboo villa in Sidemen with stunning views on Mount Agung. This instagrammable accommodation with hanging net, private swimming pool, kitchenette and private bathroom make it a once in a lifetime experience.
→ Book here your stay at Veluvana Sidemen bamboo house
25 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SIDEMEN BALI
Cool off at Gembleng waterfall
For a refreshing dip in the middle of the jungle you have to go to the hidden waterfall Gembleng. Tucked away in the jungle you will find this multi tier waterfall with natural infinity pools looking out over the Sidemen valley and rice fields. It is only a short hike up to the highest natural pool where you can dip in. There is also a little shack where you can buy a coconut to enjoy after exploring the waterfall. This is truly a place where you can connect with the authentic Bali life and see no, or only a few other tourists.
Read in our complete guide about the best waterfalls in Bali
Practical information about Gembleng waterfall
Getting there: Gembleng waterfall is pinned on Google Maps and can be easily found. From the centre of Sidemen its only a 20 minute drive to the waterfall so it’s a perfect place to explore in Sidemen. From the entrance it’s a little hike up to the natural pools and the top of the waterfall from where you’ll have the amazing views. Along the way you can see the different tiers of water flowing down.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee is based on a donation. You can give anything you feel like, but between 10 000 IDR and 20 000 IDR per person is a normal price.
Best time to go: Because Gembleng waterfall isn’t a popular tourist destination yet you can have the place for yourself at certain times. We always advice to go as early as possible for the best light. Especially in the valley of Sidemen it can get very cloudy during the afternoon when clouds come in.
Watch sunrise or sunset at Lahangan Sweet volcano viewpoint
Some of the most amazing viewpoints on Mount Agung is from Lahangan Sweet. On an hour drive from Sidemen you will get to this viewpoint which will blow you away. You will have an unobstructed view towards the majestic volcano Agung with a beautiful green valley below. There are several bamboo platforms at Lahangan Sweet from which you will have a different view and photo opportunity. The great thing about this viewpoint is that you can either come with sunrise or sunset. Both are great, however the most chance of a clear view on Mount Agung is with sunrise. With sunset the sun disappears behind the volcano resulting in the volcano as silhouette. While with sunrise the volcano gets the first light showing all its details and colours.
Read in our complete guide everything about Lahangan Sweet viewpoint
Practical information about Lahangan Sweet viewpoint
Getting there: In anhour drive you can get to Lahangan Sweet viewpoint from Sidemen. Along the way you pass Tirta Gangga water palace and you can also easily combine it with a visit to Bukit Cinta, Taman Ujung and Virgin beach.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee is 20.000 Rupiah per person.
Best time to go: As said before, Lahangan Sweet is a great sunrise and sunset spot. But with more chances of a clear view on the volcano with sunrise, I would recommend going early in the morning and then continue exploring to the other nearby places and mentioned in the ‘getting there’ section.
Visit Tirta Gangga water palace
If you want to explore a former royal palace then you have to go to Tirta Gangga water palace in Karangasem. This palace is built in 1946 and is still owned by the royal Karangasem family. It features 1.2 hectare of ponds and fountains surrounded by tropical gardens and stone sculptures of mythical creatures. You can feed the Koi fish in some of the fish ponds and walk around the gardens to admire its beauty and the history.
Read in our complete guide everything about Tirta Gangga water palace
Practical information about Tirta Gangga water palace
Getting there: From Sidemen it is a 45 minute drive to Tirta Gangga water palace. You can perfectly combine it with a day trip to Virgin beach and Taman Ujung which is in the same area.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee for the Tirta Gangga Bali water gardens is 50.000 IDR per person for adults and 15.000 IDR for a child in 2022. Parking fee is 2000 IDR per vehicle.
Best time to go: Because there is little shadow around the gardens of the water palace it is highly recommended to go in the early morning. Otherwise it can get really hot in midday. If you combine a visit to the water place with a beach midday, such as Virgin beach, you can perfectly combine both.
Relax at Virgin beach
Virgin beach along the East coast is one of the best white sand beaches with crystal clear waters in Bali. Tucked away in a gorgeous bay surrounded by green cliffs and waving palm trees, Virgin beach is pure treasure. The soft white sand and calm turquoise waters make it the perfect beach for swimming and relaxing. With warungs along the shore and enough options to rent sunbeds you can plan a full day of relaxing at Virgin beach if you want to be near the ocean instead of in the Sidemen valley. It can also be a great option if the weather doesn’t cooperate in Sidemen as it can be completely different along the coast. But that’s not guaranteed of course.
Read in our complete guide everything about Virgin beach Bali
Do a rice fields trekking
To explore the real Bali and learn more about the culture of rice growing you should do a rice field trekking. During a morning hike through the rice fields you will not only see the beautiful landscapes that Sidemen has to offer, but your guide can also tell you more about the rice production, history of Sidemen and more. You will walk through local villages, cross rivers and see the stunning rice paddies of Sidemen. Make sure to do this walk when the rice is actually growing. Right after harvest season the rice fields are gone and turn into mud pools.
Check out Jagasatru waterfall
Jagasatru waterfall is another hidden gem in Sidemen. This 40 meter high waterfall is flanked by two high cliffs and can be accessed by going down steep stairs for about 5 minutes. Because it isn’t a popular tourist destination you can expect to be here alone. There is even a small purification area where locals pray and purify themselves. There isn’t a possibility to swim at the waterfall as there isn’t a pool which is deep enough. But nevertheless it’s a great opportunity to discover the nature in Sidemen area.
Visit Besakih temple
The Besakih temple is one of the six most holiest places of worship in Bali and also the biggest Hindu temple in Bali. Therefore it is also known as Bali’s mother temple. The complex has more than 86 clan temples and shrines and yearly more than 70 ceremonies take place at Besakih as each shrine has its own anniversary. Located on the slopes of Mount Agung you can have incredible views when visiting the temple. Make sure to arrive early to have the highest chance of clear volcano views. Don’t expect that you can just explore the complete complex of Besakih as some of the temples are more than 3 kilometre apart from each other.
Book here your tour to Besakih temple and Lempuyang temple Bali
Explore Taman Ujung water palace
Another water palace in Karangasem is Taman Ujung. This former palace consists of beautiful historic buildings and various large pools. Built in 1909 and designed by a Dutch and Chinese architect the water palace is a combination of Balinese, Chinese and European architecture. It is one of the largest historical landmarks in Bali and a beautiful place to explore. In our opinion is Taman Ujung water palace even better and more beautiful than it’s sister Tirta Gangga water palace. So if you’re short in time then we recommend Taman Ujung instead of Tirta Gangga.
Read in our complete guide everything about Taman Ujung water palace
Practical information about Taman Ujung water palace
Getting there: From Sidemen it is a 45 minute drive to Taman Ujung water palace. You can perfectly combine it with a day trip to Virgin beach and Tirta Gangga which is in the same area.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee for Taman Ujung water palace is s 75.000 IDR per person. If you have KITA’s it is 50.000 IDR per person.
Best time to go: Because there is little shadow around the gardens of the water palace it is highly recommended to go in the early morning. Otherwise it can get really hot in midday. If you combine a visit to the water place with a beach midday, such as Virgin beach, you can perfectly combine both.
Admire the lightrays at Tukad Cepung waterfall
For a magical experience with light rays peeking through a cave you have to go to Tukad Cepung waterfall. In the morning between 9 – 11 AM, depending on the season and position of the sun, the sun rays peek through the gap above the falls resulting in beautiful light rays. But that’s not all.. Because when you turn around you will see more magical light rays shining through the trees on the rocks. This gives a perfect podium to take your most magical instagram picture in Bali! But you have to go on a clear day with sunshine, otherwise it is hard to have those magical light rays.
Book here your tour to Tukad Cepung waterfall
Read in our complete guide everything about Tukad Cepung waterfall
Watch sunrise at La Montagne Café Mahagiri hotel
Another hidden gem with incredible unobstructed views on Mount Agung is Mahagiri Resort in Rendang, Karangasem. From the terrace of their restaurant you will have an amazing view on Mount Agung with the rice fields as foreground. However, you have to be early to have the highest chance of clear views. Therefore we advice to come with sunrise to not only have the best light for photography, but also the best chance of clear volcano views.
Because it is a hotel and restaurant, you will have to order something at the restaurant to make use of their facility. If you come with sunrise you can ask the security guy to open the gate because you want to take a picture at the terrace and will order some drinks or food. Make sure to order something out of respect for the hotel and to keep this opportunity to enjoy the view for future outside visitors of the hotel.
Relax at the Sidemen river
The river in Sidemen is called Telaga Waja and from Jalan Raya Tebola (which is the street where Wapa Di Ume, Samanvaya and more hotels are located), you can easily access the river. It is such a serene place where you can meditate, enjoy the fresh air and stunning views on the lush mountains. You won’t find any other tourists here, at most some locals that are relaxing in or along the river. If you love to have a quiet moment for yourself, then follow the path down at the end of Jalan Raya Tebola until you get to the river.
Experience a bamboo hut with magical views
In Sidemen you can find a lot of beautiful bamboo houses which you can rent for a night or two. There is so much choice, and most of them have a beautiful view on Mount Agung or rice paddies. While the experience of sleeping in a bamboo hut is different than in a luxury hotel, it is definitely a unique stay. Some of the great options of luxury bamboo huts in Sidemen are: Veluvana, Camaya, Magic Hills, Hide Out and Laputa villa.
Watch sunrise at Bukit Cinta Mount Agung viewpoint
Bukit Cinta is located in the East of Bali and is (one of…) our favorite sunrise viewpoints in Bali. It is basically a grass land with views on the rice fields with Mount Agung as backdrop. On a clear morning, you will have stunning views on the active volcano of Bali. Mount Agung is the highest and holiest peak of the island that stands at 3,031 meters above sea level. The first rays of light shining on the top of the volcano are magical. So if you’re up for an early adventure, you have to go to this amazing Bali viewpoint! There is no entrance fee for this spot and you can easily park along the road to get to this spot.
Read in our complete guide everything about Bukit Cinta
Do a purification at Tirta Empul
Tirta Empul is a sacred water temple with holy, fresh drinking water from the ground. Balinese Hindus go here for a purification ceremony in the holy waters, but also tourists are welcome to experience the healing ritual of a water purification and to understand to magical mysteries of Balinese spirituality. From Sidemen it is about an hour drive, but you can perfectly combine it with a visit to some of the waterfalls along the way such as Kanto Lampo Waterfall, Tibumana waterfall or Suwat waterfall. The entrance fee for Tirta Empul temple is 50,000 IDR per person.
Book here your tour to Tirta Empul temple, Tibumana waterfall and Tegalalang ricefields
Relax at Blue Lagoon beach
Blue Lagoon is a beautiful white sand beach in a green cove with crystal clear water. Located in East Bali, it is not overrun by tourists and therefore a great place to relax for the day. With some local warungs where you can order food and cold drinks, you only need to bring your towel and swimsuit for a day at Blue Lagoon beach Bali.
Also, if you love diving then Blue Lagoon is a great place to do this activity. But also snorkeling is a great thing to do here because of the reef which is just of shore. You can rent snorkels and swim fins at the warung so if you plan to do this spontaneously or don’t have them, they got you covered!
Read everything about Blue Lagoon beach in our complete guide
Treat yourself for some luxury in Sidemen
Although there aren’t endless options in Sidemen to stay, you can definitely experience a luxury getaway here. It depends if you want to have a private villa or the comfort of a hotel experience. If you choose the last one and would like to indulge yourself in luxury with the beauty of Sidemen around you, then I’d recommend Samanvaya. This Adults only luxury resort and spa boutique hotel is the most modern and high standard accommodation in Sidemen. We stayed here during my birthday in 2021 and it was outstanding! Bali in general and this resort is a great birthday trip for couples!
→ Book here your stay at Samanvaya Sidemen
Visit Lempuyang Temple
The Pura Lempuyang Luhur temple in east Bali has some of the best views on Mount Agung and is a super photogenic place with the two white gates. Also known as the ‘Gates of Heaven’, this sacred temple is a must visit in Bali. Throughout the years the Lempuyang temple has become a huge Instagram hit which makes it a very popular place to visit. Therefore you should take into account that it can be busy. An early visit to Lempuyang Temple is not only recommended to beat the crowds and be some of the first in line, but also to have the highest chance of having clear views on Mount Agung. During the day the volcano often disappears in the clouds.
Book here your Bali temple tour to Lempuyang and Besakih temple
Secure here your Bali Instagram tour including a visit to Lempuyang temple
Read in our complete guide everything about Lempuyang Luhur temple
Practical information about Lempuyang Luhur temple
Getting there: From Sidemen it is an hour drive to the temple. But after sunrise you can perfectly combine other spots in this area such as Tirta Gangga, Bukit Cinta, Taman Ujung and Virgin beach.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee for Pura Lempuyang Luhur temple is 100.000 IDR per person.
Best time to go: If you want to have clear views on Mount Agung volcano the best time to visit is early morning. Also considering it’s popularity you can expect there will be a line of people to take a picture. If you don’t like busy tourist places, then skip this place and go to Lahangan Sweet or Bukit Cinta instead. Also amazing viewpoints on Mount Agung but no temples.
Watch sunrise at Bukit Tengah
On a 45 minute drive from Sidemen you can get to Bukit Tengah which is an awesome viewpoint overlooking the layers of mountains with Mount Agung in the distance. On a clear morning you will be able to have an incredible show of colours, low hanging fog and the impressive view on Mount Agung. After visiting Bukit Tengah you can perfectly continue exploring along the coast to Blue Lagoon beach, and eventually pay a visit to some of the salt farmers to see how they make pure salt from sea water.
Go rafting
If you want to get an adrenaline kick and you like adventurous activities then go white water rafting in Sidemen! The rafting course of 15 km long stretches along the Telaga Waja River and will show you the wilderness of Sidemen nature between the gorgeous green hills and beautiful plantations.
Book here your rafting and jungle buddies experience in Bali
Watch the sunrise from the infinity pool of Patal Kikian
Some of the most impressive views in Sidemen Bali is from Patal Kikian. This accommodation has an infinity pool overlooking the green valley with Mount Agung as backdrop. With sunrise the views are like a painting. How the soft morning light touches the green valley and lights up the volcano. Words can’t describe the real feeling, it is something you should experience yourself! For around $40 per night you can book a room here including breakfast. Definitely some of the best views in Sidemen!
Watch the salt farmers at Kusamba beach
Something typically Bali is not only rice farming but also traditional salt harvesting. So if you want to learn more about how the Balinese make salt from sea water, then go the Kusamba Beach and witness the techniques on making salt the Bali way. This traditional salt farm dates back almost 1000 years and are still run by the local villagers who also make their living from fishing.
Salt farming is an interesting process. You can see the salt farmer repetitively fetching seawater in palm leaf buckets on carrying poles, then splashing them out onto the smoothened black sand under the scorching sun. The salt begins to crystallise after several hours of drying. The salt crystals are then scraped off, collected and brought inside huts for the filtration processes. It is absolutely worth a visit from Sidemen Bali to see this interesting process of salt farming in Bali.
Cool off at Tibumana waterfall
If you’re planning on exploring west of Sidemen Bali, then you can perfectly combine a visit to some of the amazing waterfalls located between Ubud and Sidemen. After Bukit Tengah for example it is only 45 minutes to Tibumana waterfall which is a beautiful curtain of water falling down in a straight stream into a natural pool. You can take a refreshing dip in the pool and relax in the beautiful canyon. Keep in mind that this spot is quite popular, so it can get busy during the day.
Book here your tour to Tibumana waterfall
Read in our complete guide everything about Tibumana waterfall
Visit a traditional weaver
A great cultural activity to do in Sidemen Bali is visiting a traditional weaver. This craftsmanship is often passed on from generation to generation within the female side of the family. Besides rice farming, this is one of the main authentic jobs that the locals do. It is impressive to see that it will take a full month of work to weave one sarong. These are very high quality sarongs and will be sold for around 2 million IDR.
Shower under Kanto Lampo waterfall
Kanto Lampo Waterfall is only 10 minutes from Tibumana waterfall. So if you’re down for a day of chasing waterfalls outside of Sidemen Bali, then I can definitely recommend to add Kanto Lampo and Tibumana to your itinerary. From Bukit Tengah for example it is only a 40 minute drive to Kanto Lampo which is a great way to cool off after an early morning adventure. Kanto Lampo is also definitely some of the most beautiful Bali waterfalls with it’s multi tier stream. Situated in a canyon, this waterfall seeps down the rocks into a river. It really gives you the feeling that you’re deep in the jungle.
Book here your tour to Kanto Lampo waterfall
Read in our complete guide everything about Kanto Lampo waterfall
Attend a cooking class
If you want to learn how to cook Balinese, then booking a cooking class in Sidemen is a must do! There are a few options in Sidemen Bali for a cooking class. Anandinii Organic Garden and Kitchen is our recommendation as you will get a guided tour around the garden while picking the fresh fruits & vegetables for your own cooking ingredients. In the meantime you will learn more about the unique characteristics and benefits of the spices. A passionate chef will then guide you to cook with the traditional Balinese cooking methods using ancient Balinese cooking utensils. After all this effort it is then time to taste your own cooked Balinese meal with incredible views on the green hills.
Book here your firewood cooking class & organic farm tour in Sidemen
More Bali travel inspiration
We hope you enjoyed this complete about the best things to do in Sidemen Bali.
For more Bali travel inspiration, head over to our other Bali travel guides.
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