Sidemen is one of the areas in Bali which is undiscovered yet authentic. The village is Sidemen is located in East Bali on the flanks of Mount Agung. It is surrounded by green rice field and rolling hills. Since it is close to Mount Agung, you can enjoy the view of Mount Agung throughout the whole area during a clear day.
There are a lot of tourist attractions you can explore in Sidemen, starting from beautiful waterfalls, beaches, viewpoints, rice fields and Hindu temples.
Let’s find out the 6 best tourist attractions in Sidemen, Bali.
- Tenganan Ancient Village
One of the most wanted tourist attractions in Bali is traditional Balinese villages. One of them is located in Sidemen. It is called Tenganan Ancient Village. This village is a bit different compared to other traditional Balinese villages because it is more authentic, it is not much too touristy. The locals called this village as Bali Aga, meaning the original Balinese.
There are some strict rules applied in this village. However, there will be a guide who will take you around the village and explain about the unique traditions from this village, including the rituals of the Mekare-Kare every June. This ritual is held to honor the god of war and it is an ancient tradition that is still practiced every year.
If you like visiting traditional villages, then you should consider these tourist villages in Bali and get to know the traditions of each village.
- Tirta Gangga Water Palace
Do you like exploring royal palace? Then, you should go to Tirta Gangga Water Palace located in Karangasem. It was 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.
While you’re here, you can feed the Koi fish in some of the fish ponds and walk around the gardens to admire the beauty and history. If you wish to come here, it is highly recommended to go early in the morning.
Water palace is a sacred place for most people in Bali. If you like visiting sacred places, then you can also visit these sacred places in Bali and also understand these dos and donts in Bali sacred places.
- Virgin Beach
Virgin Beach is considered as one of the best white sand beaches with crystal clear waters in Bali. It is surrounded by green cliffs and waving palm trees. It features soft white sand and calm turquoise water which make it perfect for swimming and relaxing.
You can find some food stalls along the shore and there are some options to rent sunbeds.
- Jagasatru Waterfall
Jagasatru Waterfall is another hidden gem in Sidemen Village. This waterfall is 40 meter high and is flanked by 2 high cliffs and can be accessed by going down steep stairs for around 5 minutes. This is not a popular destination (yet), so you can enjoy your me time here.
You will find a small purification area where the locals pray and purify themselves. It’s not recommended to swim there as there isn’t a pool which is deep enough.
- Besakih Temple
The next destination is Besakih Temple, one of the six holiest places in Bali. This temple is also the biggest Hindu temple in Bali. The complex has more than 86 clan temples and shrines and more than 70 ceremonies take place here every year. This temple is located on the slopes of Mount Agung, so you will be able to enjoy the incredible views while visiting this temple.
If you wish to come here, make sure to come early in the morning as you will have the chance to see the clear volcano views. Besakih Temple is also listed as one of the famous temples in Bali.
- Tukad Cepung Waterfall
Another waterfall to explore in Sidemen, Bali is Tukad Cepung Waterfall. You’d better visit this waterfall in the morning between 9 to 11 a.m. You will be able to enjoy magical light rays shining through the trees on the rocks.
It will be a perfect spot for your most magical Instagram picture! However, make sure to go on a clear day with sunshine to get the perfect magical light rays.
- Telaga Waja
Do you like exploring the river? Then, you can visit Telaga Waja, a river located in Sidemen. It is a serene place where you can enjoy meditating, enjoying the fresh air and stunning views on the lush mountains. Since this is not a really popular attraction, you won’t find a lot of tourists here, so enjoy your me time here.