| Bali Off the Beaten Track
Discover Authentic Bali with This Ultimate Travel Guide
When you think of Bali, you immediately picture idyllic sunsets, warm-hearted people, spiritual temples, and picturesque green rice fields. But with the island’s allure comes the inevitable question: ‘Is Bali still the paradise it once was?’ Fortunately, the answer is a resounding ‘yes’, provided you know where to find this hidden paradise.
To experience the authentic Bali, you must leave the busy tourist paths and immerse yourself in the undiscovered charm and secret gems of the island. Our ultimate travel guide, “Bali Off the Beaten Track,” takes you on an unforgettable journey to the heart and soul of this enchanting island. Leave behind the crowded beaches and commercial resorts; we will show you the real Bali, a place full of secrets known only to the locals and adventurous travellers like you!
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About Bali: Hidden Gems and Authentic Experiences
Bali hardly needs an introduction. Known for its breathtaking nature, rich cultural heritage, and extraordinarily friendly population, it remains a magnetic destination for travellers from all over the world. And there are good reasons for this!
Bali offers a unique mix of enchanting landscapes, from majestic green rice fields to serene beaches with rich underwater life, and accommodations that range from affordable luxury to fairy-tale retreats.
However, Bali’s popularity has led to some of its most famous places losing their original charm under the pressure of mass tourism. This has led many travellers to wonder: is authentic Bali still to be found? The answer lies hidden on the less-travelled paths, far from the crowds, where the island retains its true soul.
This undiscovered Bali is a world unto itself, full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here, you’ll find villages where traditional Balinese ceremonies are a daily sight, and where you can truly experience the warmth and hospitality of the local people. These are places where time seems to slow down and where you can feel the essence of the island.
In our guide, we take you to these special locations, from the serene East where the morning sun sets the rice fields aglow, to the pristine North where nature still reigns with lush forests and hidden waterfalls. We explore the lesser-known parts of Central and West Bali, rich in cultural treasures and natural beauty. And we reveal the rugged beauty of Nusa Penida, an island that seems a world apart with its rugged coastlines and spectacular views.
Despite the tourist hustle and bustle, Bali remains a place of unparalleled beauty and culture. It is our favourite destination for travel and photography adventures, and with this guide, we hope to inspire you to discover authentic Bali.
We’ve written it so that you can use it to plan a 3- or 4-week trip yourself, but this setup also offers possibilities for those who travel to Bali for a shorter or longer duration.
Week 1 – The Undiscovered East of Bali: Sidemen and Amed
We start our first week in the beautiful East of Bali, a region where majestic rice fields and the sacred Mount Agung not only dominate the landscape but also the everyday lives of the local residents. In addition to these iconic scenes, this part of Bali also harbours hidden beaches and pristine coastal towns waiting to be discovered.
To fully experience the diversity of this region, we recommend visiting two unique locations: Sidemen, an oasis of peace and natural beauty, and Amed, a paradise for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts.
Sidemen
Nestled in the shadow of the majestic Mount Agung, Sidemen is a jewel of serenity and pristine natural beauty. This place is an oasis of tranquillity, far from the bustling tourist centre. Here you can enjoy the picturesque rice fields that stretch like a green carpet to the horizon.
However, the charm of Sidemen lies not only in its breathtaking landscapes but also in the authentic Balinese culture that still flourishes here. Visitors can participate in local activities such as rice planting or traditional weaving, gaining deeper insight into the lifestyle of the local people.
A unique feature of Sidemen is the bamboo houses that are common in this area, offering a perfect harmony of ecological architecture and traditional design. These houses provide a unique opportunity to stay in an environment that is both rustic and luxurious, where you can experience Balinese nature up close.
The most iconic bamboo houses to stay in the Sidemen area can be found at Hideout Bali, Camaya, and Veluvana, but the beautifully centrally located Samanvaya Resort also offers (more affordable) options for this unique Balinese experience.
If you want to know more about everything Sidemen has to offer adventurous travellers, check out our special Sidemen travel guide.
Amed
Known for its authentic charm and spectacular coastline, Amed is a paradise for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters are home to a vibrant underwater world, including the graceful sea turtles often seen at Amed Beach.
This region offers some of the best snorkelling spots in Bali, such as Lipah Beach and Jemeluk Bay. Both locations are known for their colourful coral reefs and diversity of marine life. At Jemeluk Bay, adventurous snorkelers can even explore an underwater statue of a Buddhist temple, providing a unique experience.
In addition to snorkelling, Amed is also an excellent place for diving, with famous dive sites such as the wreck of the USS Liberty near Tulamben.
Beyond the vibrant underwater world, Amed also offers a series of beautiful viewpoints, such as Lahangan Sweet, where you can admire panoramic views of the coast and Mount Agung. Also, one of the most photographed places in Bali, the Lempuyang Temple, better known as the ‘Gateway to Heaven’, is most easily accessible from this northeastern coastal town.
Week 2 – Exploring North Bali: Munduk and Surroundings
In week two, we travel from Amed to the north of Bali, where, among other places, you find Singaraja, the former capital of Bali when the island was under Dutch colonial rule. This is close to the well-known coastal town of Lovina, where you can spot dolphins in the morning.
Both places can be interesting additions to your travel itinerary, but we especially recommend the lesser-known Munduk and its surroundings as a must-visit in this Bali “off the beaten track” guide.
Munduk
Munduk, an enchanting mountain village in North Bali, is known for its fresh climate, breathtaking natural beauty, and a tranquil atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the busy southern coastal areas of Bali. Here, you can have a deeper, more introspective experience of Bali.
The area around Munduk is rich in lush forests, hidden waterfalls, and picturesque lakes. Walks in this area offer panoramic views over the hills and valleys, often with the opportunity to see local flora and fauna, which has a completely different character than in the rest of Bali.
Sekumpul Waterfalls
Pro-tip! Don’t forget to make a stop at the enchanting Sekumpul waterfalls on the way from Amed to Munduk; in our opinion, these are the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali, and a must-visit for adventurers and photographers. The journey to the waterfalls is an adventure in itself, passing through small villages and along rice fields.
At these waterfalls, you can swim in natural pools, a welcome refreshment after a trek through the rainforest.
Other Activities in North Bali
In the immediate vicinity of Munduk, you will find the Tamblingan and Buyan lakes. These two adjacent lakes provide a tranquil environment for kayaking or a relaxing walk. The Tamblingan Lake also houses the photogenic Ulun Danu Tamblingan temple, which is especially beautiful when there has been a lot of rain and it appears as if the temple is floating in the lake.
Munduk is also rich in waterfalls, such as the Munduk waterfall and the Banyumala (or ‘Twin’) waterfall.
Consider staying at Munduk Moding Plantation: This resort is an experience in itself. Known for its spectacular infinity pool with views of the vast surroundings, the resort also offers (free) activities such as tours of the coffee plantation, where you can learn more about local coffee production, a cooking course, and transport to Munduk waterfall.
Week 3 - The Hidden Treasures of Central and West Bali
From Munduk, strategically located in the north of Bali, a multitude of options unfold. For those yearning for a true ‘off the beaten track’ experience, a journey to the unspoiled Pemuteran is highly recommended. This remote gem is known as one of the most secluded and undiscovered locations in Bali.
For those who prefer to stay closer to Munduk, the region around Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, offers numerous hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. These areas promise a rich mix of culture, nature, and unexpected discoveries.
Pemuteran
Pemuteran, located in the northwest of Bali, is a true oasis of peace and natural beauty. This secluded coastal town is known for its tranquil atmosphere and is an ideal destination for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle and visit a truly unique spot in Bali.
During our first trip to Bali, this was the first place we visited and it certainly did not disappoint!
Pemuteran offers one of the best snorkelling and diving destinations in Bali. Menjangan Island, part of the West Bali National Park, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. The West Bali National Park is also the only remaining primary rainforest in Bali, where you can explore rich biodiversity and pristine natural landscapes.
There is a unique opportunity to stay in this park and wake up to a true cacophony of singing birds and monkeys climbing over your hut. Options for this include: The Menjangan by LifestyleRetreats and NusaBay Menjangan. However, in Pemuteran, you will also find many affordable homestays, where you can experience the local culture.
Ubud and Surroundings
While Ubud itself is quite well-known for its yoga and wellness centres, where you can participate in yoga classes or enjoy traditional Balinese spa treatments, the surrounding area harbours many undiscovered treasures. Moreover, Ubud remains the beating heart of Bali and one of our absolute favourite places in the world, which is why we wrote this special blog about it.
Those who travel a bit off the beaten path here will find beautiful waterfalls yet to be discovered by the masses. For example, the Tibumana Waterfall: A hidden gem in the jungle, perfect for a refreshing dip and taking stunning photos.
The same applies to the temples in the area. Of these, the Tirta Empul is by far the most famous, but the early bird visiting the Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) will find themselves almost alone in a gigantic and mysterious complex with fascinating archaeological remains and a meditative atmosphere.
The same is true for the Gunung Kawi Tampaksiring. Known as the king’s graves temple, this historic complex offers a glimpse into ancient Bali with its impressive rock sculptures and serene surroundings.
Another hidden treasure that requires further travel is the Jatiluwih rice fields. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its vast and well-preserved terraced rice fields. A walk through these fields is a must for nature lovers and photographers! We did this and were almost alone in an incredibly vast environment (see also the video we made here).
Another hidden gem in Ubud is cycling through the countryside. This is an authentic way to experience the daily life of the local people and beautiful landscapes; highly recommended!
Optional Week 4 – Discover rugged Nusa Penida and the beaches of Uluwatu
For those who have time left, or want to shuffle their schedule, for a truly breathtakingly beautiful and rugged piece of Bali, the island of Nusa Penida is a perfect addition. Below we explain why, but we can already emphasize that travelling around this island is not as easy as the mainland of Bali. Therefore, we recommend taking some time to relax at one of the beautiful beaches in the south of Bali after visiting Nusa Penida. These are plentiful around Uluwatu.
Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida, an island located southeast of Bali, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and pristine landscapes. This rugged island offers a spectacular adventure for those who want to experience the true, untamed face of Bali (curious to discover more? See our Complete Guide to Nusa Penida).
Some highlights of this island are Kelingking Beach, famous for its T-Rex-shaped cliff and crystal-clear waters, Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach, with their unique rock formations and clear water, and Atuh Beach, the more relaxed sister of Diamond Beach.
Additionally, Nusa Penida offers visitors the unique chance to snorkel with manta rays, an experience you won’t soon forget! Often, you can see these giant creatures swimming from the cliffs of Broken Beach, sometimes in combination with dolphins.
For those who want to experience this but don’t have the time to stay multiple days on the island, there are various day tours where you can experience the highlights of Nusa Penida. This applies to both the spectacular coastline and snorkelling with the manta rays.
Uluwatu
Uluwatu, located in the southern part of Bali, is famous for its breathtaking beaches and great surf spots. It is the perfect destination to conclude your trip to Bali in style.
Uluwatu is a true surfing paradise, known for its impressive waves and beautiful beaches such as Padang Padang and Bingin Beach. But there are also hidden beaches to discover, like Thomas Beach and Nyang Nyang, where you can enjoy peace and privacy.
Additionally, this area is known for the Uluwatu Temple. This majestic temple, located on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, is one of the six key temples of Bali and offers a spectacular view, especially during sunset.
A unique way to witness this sunset is by attending the famous Kecak dance. This dance, also known as the “Kecak fire dance,” is one of the most iconic and dramatic cultural performances in Bali and is performed against the backdrop of the beautiful sunset at the Uluwatu Temple.
Characteristic of the Kecak dance is that no musical instruments are used. Instead, the musical background is formed by a choir of dozens of men, who sit in a circle, making rhythmic “chak-chak” sounds. These sounds mimic the sound of a troop of monkeys. These can also be found around the Uluwatu Temple and can be quite aggressive. So, make sure to stay a bit away from them and don’t carry any food or loose items, like sunglasses, that they can easily steal.
For a perfect relaxed conclusion to your Bali “off the beaten track” trip, Sundays should not be missed from your to-do list.
Practical Tips for Travelling in Bali
Transport: In general, Bali is easy to travel around. This can be done in various ways: with your own car, private driver (which is very affordable), or by scooter.
Renting a scooter is a popular and flexible way to explore Bali, but make sure you have an international driving licence and always wear a helmet. Additionally, it’s not advisable to ride a scooter if you’re inexperienced.
Keep in mind that traffic in certain parts of Bali can be very chaotic and busy.
Currency: The Indonesian Rupiah is the currency in Bali. ATMs are widespread, but it’s always handy to have some cash on you, especially in remote areas. Also, make sure you have set up your debit card for payments in this part of the world.
Language: Bahasa Indonesia is the official language, but English is often spoken in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic words in Bahasa can be greatly appreciated by the locals.
Think of “Selamat Pagi” (good morning), “Selamat Siang” (good afternoon), “Selamat Malam” (good evening) and “Terima Kasih”/“Suksma” (thank you).
Health and Safety: Take standard precautions such as drinking bottled water and having a good travel pharmacy. Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Weather: Bali has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the rainy season (approximately November to March) and the dry season (approximately April to October).
The dry season is the best time to visit Bali, with less rain and more sunshine. During the rainy season, you can still enjoy warm temperatures, but be prepared for regular and sometimes heavy rain showers, especially in the afternoon or evening.
The rainy season does have the advantage that accommodations are often much cheaper.
Unique Day Trips in Bali
Whether you have plenty of time or only a limited number of days to explore Bali, including day tours in your travel plans can be immensely enriching. Fortunately, Bali offers a plethora of day tours that cater to every interest area discussed in this blog.
Whether you’re interested in culture, nature, adventure, or relaxation, there’s a day tour that perfectly suits your desires. These tours are not only an efficient way to experience the highlights of each area, but also offer the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge and insights from local guides, making your visit to Bali even more unforgettable.
North Bali Tours: Visit Lovina for dolphin watching and the Banjar hot springs. Discover Bali’s most beautiful waterfalls (Sekumpul) with a private guide or venture out in Munduk and its enchanting lakes and waterfalls.
East Bali Nature Exploration: Discover authentic Balinese rural life in villages like Tenganan and visit the Tirta Gangga water palace or combine the water palaces with a visit to the breathtaking Tukad Cepung waterfall.
West Bali National Park: Ideal for nature lovers, offers opportunities for trekking and bird watching and of course snorkelling and diving at Menjangan Island, one of the best snorkelling locations in the world!
Did you know this area is close to Java? From here, you can easily travel by ferry to the neighbouring island, where you can discover the “blue fire” of the Ijen volcano at night.
Central Bali Art and Culture: Take a tour through Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, with stops at local art galleries, markets, the Tegalalang rice terraces, and the Monkey Forest. Meet a shaman and experience a spiritual cleansing at the magical Tirta Empul temple. And don’t forget to visit Bali’s most beautiful rice fields at Jatiluwih.
Adventure: Whether you’re in East, Central, or North Bali, climbing Mount Batur is recommended for those with an adventurous heart and who want to witness an epic sunrise. Other adventurous trips are to Nusa Penida with its beautiful rugged coastline.
South Bali Culture and Relaxation: With the most beautiful beaches and cliffs, this is the ideal area to learn to surf. End your day with a visit to the Uluwatu Temple to attend the iconic Kecak ‘fire dance’, performed against a breathtaking sunset.
Sustainable and Respectful Travel
Bali is known for its friendly people and beautiful nature. This is why sustainable and respectful travel is of great importance! The Balinese culture is rich and diverse, but also vulnerable, and requires careful consideration from visitors.
When visiting temples, respectful clothing is required: shoulders and knees should be covered. A sarong is often necessary and can usually be borrowed or rented at the entrance of larger temples. It’s important not to stand higher than the religious symbols and not to point feet towards sacred places.
Supporting local communities is crucial. This can be done by making purchases from local artisans and eating in local warungs. These actions help preserve the local economy and culture.
Choosing environmentally friendly accommodations and avoiding the use of disposable plastic contribute to protecting Bali’s natural beauty. The use of reusable water bottles and bags is encouraged.
In Conclusion
To conclude this guide, we want to convey that Bali is not just a destination, but an experience that will touch your heart and enrich your soul. This magical island, with its hidden treasures and pristine beauty, offers more than just a vacation; it offers a path to self-discovery and a deeper connection with nature and culture.
We hope this “Bali off the beaten track” guide will inspire you to live your own unique adventures, while travelling with respect and appreciation through this wonderful piece of paradise. Let Bali lead you along its mystical paths, discover the secrets it has to offer, and take a piece of its timeless spirit back home.
Safe travels and enjoy every step on this enchanting island!
Hi! We are Samira & Maurits, two travel enthusiasts with an enormous passion for photography.
With our free travel guides, we hope to inspire you and help you plan your dream holiday. We also provide important tips and tricks for making new journeys, but also for capturing those precious memories in your own travel photos.
All the photos on this site were taken by us (unless it says otherwise underneath a picture).
Do you want to experience this too? In our blogs we link to relevant pages and our favourite travel services that make this possible. For this we (sometimes) receive a small commission, without it costing you anything extra.
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