Izzati HaronGoing to Bali, Indonesia is most probably something any avid traveller would be dying to tick off their bucket list. But those who are into its best-kept secrets should know that East Bali is the place to be to find some of the most underrated destinations on the Island of the Gods.
Think a serene escape steeped in cultural immersion and breathtaking natural landscapes. From emerald rice paddy fields to idyllic traditional villages, there’s always something for every traveller looking to find the best bit of this province in their getaway. Read on to find out the hidden gems you must check out on your next East Bali tour!
Also read: 15 Affordable Airbnbs in Bali for Budget Trips & Long-Term Stays
The best off-the-beaten-path destinations for an unforgettable East Bali tour!
1. Taman Ujung Water Palace
Image credit: Ujung Water Palace Official Instagram Page
Taman Ujung Water Palace, or Ujung Park, located in Karangasem Regency of East Bali, is a great place to unwind and enjoy the scenery. This fascinating historical palace was built in the early 20th century, showcasing a blend of Balinese and European architecture. Not only is it home to a number of pools, fountains, and statues, but lush paddy fields and stunning mountain vistas also surround it!
Address: Ujung Water Palace, Tumbu, Karangasem, Karangasem Regency, Bali
2. Pura Goa Lawah
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Pura Goa Lawah is another of East Bali’s attractions you wouldn’t want to miss out on. Located in Klungkung Regency, this bat cave temple lets you witness the hordes of bats inhabiting the cave while admiring the ornate temples in the area. Plus, you might come across unique religious rituals and ceremonies during your visit. If you didn’t know yet, the ancient sanctuary is among the Sad Kahyangan Jagad or the six holiest places of worship in Bali!
Address: CFX9+9GG, Jl. Raya Goa Lawah, Pesinggahan, Kec. Dawan, Kabupaten Klungkung, Bali
3. Tirta Gangga Water Palace
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Another hidden gem of East Bali worth visiting is Tirta Gangga Water Palace, a former royal-palace-turned-gardens in Ababi Village. FYI, the Water Palace was initially built in 1946 as a retreat for the royal family of Karangasem and their guests. Today, the place is open to the public, and visitors can enjoy strolling through the lush gardens while admiring the beautiful bathing complex adorned with traditional statues.
Address: HHQQ+836, Jalan Raya Abang Desa Adat Jl. Raya Tirta Gangga, Ababi, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali
4. Pura Besakih
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Nestled on the slopes of Mount Agung is Pura Besakih, the mother temple of Bali. It is the largest Hindu temple in the province and serves as a worshipping place of Hindu Trimurti — Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. What’s more, the place offers visitors authentic experiences, such as exploring the temple grounds and observing various Hindu religious ceremonies. Talk about some of the best things to do in Eastern Bali! And while you’re there, don’t forget to take in the majestic views of Mount Agung, which serve as a grand backdrop to this place.
Address: Besakih, Rendang, Karangasem Regency, Bali
5. Sidemen Village
Image credit: Geio Tischler
Your East Bali tour is incomplete without visiting Sidemen Village, a quaint neighbourhood between the route of Klungkung and Besakih Temple. The valley is known for its quality production of Songket and Endek fabrics as well as a type of drink called Arak. This is the place to fully immerse yourself in the serene side of Bali as you traverse the lush terrace rice fields encircled by hills. Some of the fun things you should try here include picnicking, biking, hiking, and sampling its local cuisine to your heart’s content!
Address: Sidemen, Karangasem Regency, Bali
6. Amed Beach
Image credit (L-R): Thomas Dutour via Canva Pro; Spenser Sembrat
Known for its black sandy shore, Amed Beach in Bali East Coast is a haven for beach-goers looking for a less-crowded coastline. The top things to do in this breezy side of Bali include swimming and snorkelling in its turquoise, crystal-clear waters. For an unforgettable encounter with sea turtles, we recommend going to Amed Reef, a hotspot for diving featuring warm shallow waters, vibrant marine life, and unbeatable underwater scenery.
P.S. Don’t forget to check out the majestic views of Mount Agung from the beach too! That, paired with the scenic sunset views — stunning.
Address: Amed Beach, Amed, Bali
7. Tukad Unda Dam
Image credit: Robert Collins
The next hidden gem that will take your breath away is Tukad Unda Dam. Some Naruto fans will agree that this splashing good sight could be a great spot to recreate the seventh Hokage wind training arc with Kakashi. Better known by the locals as Kali Unda (kali means river), the place is actually a river formed as a small waterfall-like dam. Here, you can see the locals washing their clothes, taking baths, and playing happily in the cool, fresh waters of the dam. Easily one of the best Insta-worthy spots to add to your next East Bali tour!
Address: FC86+32G, Tukad Yeh Unda, Semarapura Kelod Kangin, Kec. Klungkung, Kabupaten Klungkung, Bali
8. Kerta Gosa
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One of the best things to do in East Bali is to visit Kerta Gosa in Klungkung city. This historical landmark in Semarapura is a court hall that dates back to the early 18th century when Dewa Agung Jambe, the then-ruler of the Klungkung kingdom, built it. FYI, the storied complex has two main structures: Bale Kerta Gosa and Bale Kambang‘s “floating hall.” The former features ceilings filled with Kamasan-style paintings, while the latter is an open pavilion surrounded by a scenic pond. Definitely another site in Eastern Bali that’s worth your visit!
Address: Jl. Kenanga No.11, Semarapura Kelod, Kec. Klungkung, Kabupaten Klungkung, Bali
9. Bias Tugel Beach
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Your Bali East Coast holiday will be ten times better when you set foot on Bias Tugel Beach in Padangbai. The 130-metre white sandy shore offers a tranquil beachscape with calm blue waves and a long, narrow headland. Walk along the pristine beach, and you’ll find vendors selling local snacks and parasols to visitors. Here, you get to swim, snorkel to your heart’s desire, and find beautiful underwater rock pools and reef formations.
TripZilla Tip: If you’re planning an East Bali day trip, going to Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan can be made possible from the nearby Padangbai Beach (an eight-minute drive from Bias Tugel Beach)!
Address: Padangbai, Manggis, Karangasem Regency, Bali
10. Tenganan Village
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The next lesser-known gem in East Bali is Tenganan Village in Karangasem Regency. This village is home to the indigenous Bali Aga people. What makes this place special is the fact that you can engage in their age-old traditions while observing the unique lifestyle of these residents. Furthermore, look forward to the exquisite architecture of its traditional houses made with bamboo, clay, and thatched roofs. Also, the place allows you to have a closer look at the beautiful fabrics made by the locals using the famous ikat weaving method.
TripZilla Tip: Bring extra pennies to grab home some authentic souvenirs such as baskets, bags, textiles, and masks.
Address: Manggis, Karangasem Regency, Bali
11. Kanto Lampo Waterfall
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Kanto Lampo Waterfall should definitely be on top of your East Bali tour bucket list — take our word for it! Located in the Gianyar Regency, around half an hour’s drive from Ubud, this cascading beauty is another ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of Bali’s more touristy hotspots. Some prefer to climb up the rocky waterfall for Insta-worthy shots while others prefer to swim in the not-so-deep cove filled with chilly and refreshing waters. We say, why not do both?
Address: Jl. Kaliasem lingk.kelod kangin, Beng, Kec. Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali
12. Virgin Beach
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Your trip to East Bali is complete after visiting the spectacular Virgin Beach. It is one of the prettiest white sand beaches in Bali, featuring azure-blue waters and waving palm trees. Aside from sunbathing, you can also opt for snorkelling, as its underwater panorama is one of the best on the East Coast of Bali. You might also want to check out the warungs (food outlets) along the shore or go for a relaxing beach massage session after a long day of exploring!
Address: Jl. Raya Bukit Asah No.Desa, Adat Bugbug, Kec. Manggis, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali
Also read: 2 Weeks in Bali: Our Lazy Itinerary Through Canggu, Uluwatu & Ubud
So, did any of these hidden gems make it into the list of your next East Bali tour? We’re pretty sure most, if not all, did. All that’s left to do is ping your travel buddies and let them know it’s time to book the fondest memories in Eastern Bali together!
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