14 Best Things to Do in Sidemen & East Bali in 2026

Last Updated on January 22, 2026

Are you planning a trip to Sidemen and East Bali in 2026? In this blog post, I’ll share the best things to do in Sidemen (and around) to help you plan a getaway in the heart of nature.

I’ve been dreaming about visiting Sidemen ever since I traveled around Bali for the first time (and actually wished it had been part of that first itinerary).

Everyone says Sidemen is what Ubud was 20 years ago, when mass tourism wasn’t a thing yet. And even if I wasn’t in Ubud 20 years ago, I can tell you that spending a couple of days in Sidemen definitely feels like stepping into the past.

Driving along the roads is so peaceful, with infinite rice fields and farms stretching as far as the eye can see. And no traffic in sight.

If you’re looking to discover the best of Sidemen, as well as some tips on how to get there, where to stay, and locations to explore around, keep reading to discover what awaits you.

Sidemen & East Bali Map

Best 14 Things to Do in & Around Sidemen in 2026

1. Take a Dip at Gembleng Waterfall

Heading to Gembleng Waterfall was the very first thing I did in Sidemen, right after leaving my bags at the homestay.

The best way to get to Gembleng Waterfall is to rent a scooter and drive yourself. You can get there in around 30 minutes, and the roads leading there are not difficult to navigate at all: well-paved and mostly flat, so no need to worry about that.

Once you’re there, after climbing the stairs to reach the waterfall, the view of the tiny waterfall cascading into two picture-perfect pools, surrounded by lush jungle greenery, is what immediately catches your eye

The waterfall is definitely not huge or majestic, but the natural rock pools make it one of the cutest and most picture-perfect spots. To me, that’s a must-see when in Sidemen.

If I can suggest a time to be there, it’s definitely before 9:30 am. As mentioned, the waterfall and surrounding area are quite small, and from that time on, it starts to feel packed with people queuing to take photos in the pools. Trust me: the earlier you go, the better.

2. Trek Through The Sidemen Rice Fields

The scenery of the Sidemen rice fields is the prettiest in the entire village; there’s nothing quite like it on the whole island (and coming from someone who lives in Ubud, that’s a lot to say). The main difference is that, in Sidemen, the scenery is not interrupted by villas or other constructions.

Your eye first rests on the endless green carpet right in front of you, then moves to the palm trees stretching into the distance, and finally lands on the green hills surrounding the valley.

As you can imagine, these are authentic rice fields, where local farmers work to earn a living. And as you’ll see, the paths used to explore them are not always human-friendly, with tiny stone walls and narrow ways.

The easiest rice field to explore on your own is the Sidemen trek, which you can easily reach on foot from the main village.

The entrance fee is IDR 25,000, and the trek takes you along a 3–4 km trail through the rice fields. Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to stop at panoramic cafés like Panorama Sidemen, the perfect place to sit and enjoy the view.

Besides the official Sidemen trek, there are many more non-official rice fields to explore in the area. These are sometimes hidden from tourists and require more time to be discovered.

For this reason, another great way to enjoy the Sidemen rice fields and learn more about local rural life in this simple, traditional village is by exploring them with a local guide.

If you’re looking for a real local experience, you should check out this rice field exploration with a local. I’ve booked many activities with this provider, including my silversmithing experience in Sidemen and the Mount Batur sunrise hike, and they’re one of the best providers to truly experience Bali like a local.

3. Spend The Afternoon at Koli Koli Bali

If you’re looking for a spot to relax after your rice field trek, or you want to enjoy lunch with a stunning view, Koli Koli is a recently opened day club in Sidemen. It’s honestly the only place that reminded me of a more touristy spot in Ubud, and the prices and guests reflect that.

That said, the view from the restaurant, located at the top of the hill, is absolutely gorgeous and one of the main reasons why you should check this spot out. Here again, you can enjoy sweeping views over the entire lush Sidemen valley.

You can plan to have lunch here (the restaurant tables have no minimum spend), or you can book a daybed for the day (with some kind of minimum spend). Koli Koli also features small, refreshing pools, where you can take a dip between tanning sessions.

Koli opens at 7 am, making it a perfect place to enjoy breakfast with a sunrise view over the rice fields. To find more information or book your daybed, you can check out their website.

4. Create Your Own Silver Jewellery

Bali has a long-standing silversmithing tradition. Yet, before Sidemen, I had never joined this kind of activity. During a silversmithing experience, you’ll be guided through the process of creating your own silver jewellery (usually a ring) by a local expert.

The experience usually lasts around two hours. It’s fun, but also quite tiring, and it definitely gets warm, considering how hot and humid Bali already is, and the fact that you work with fire throughout the experience doesn’t help.

It’s an amazing activity whether you’re traveling with a group of friends, as a couple, or solo, and it’s the perfect way to fill an afternoon, especially if it’s raining or if you simply want to try something new.

I booked this exact silversmithing experience with Sidemen Silver, and I loved the location (even though the road to get there is a bit bumpy). It’s hidden in the Sidemen valley, right beside the famous Sidemen Yellow Bridge, with a lovely café area overlooking the jungle.

Plus, all the locals running the workshop were incredibly kind and, above all, patient in guiding us through the entire silversmithing process.

It’s one of the best things to do in Sidemen, and I highly recommend it if you want to learn more about traditional Balinese crafts. If you’re interested in learning more about this activity, here’s all about my silver workshop with Sidemen Silver.

5. Dinner With Volcano Views

All around the Sidemen Valley, you’ll find restaurants, warungs, and small eateries with gorgeous views of Mount Agung rising in the distance. You really can’t go wrong.

You’ll usually need to head to dinner quite early (as early as 5:30 p.m.) to witness the sky turning pink and see Mount Agung in the best light.

One of the best places to plan for dinner is Sundari Restaurant. I randomly stumbled upon this charming warung-style restaurant while walking uphill to the main road from my homestay.

The food is amazing (as it usually is in Bali), and the prices are those of an upscale warung, with mains around IDR 70,000. But the real reason to visit is the view.

Being located on the second floor, the restaurant offers the best point to watch Mount Agung slowly disappear behind the clouds as the sky darkens.

If you’re looking for a great restaurant with a chilled atmosphere to have dinner, and the kindest staff, Sundari is definitely recommended.

6. Stop by Blue Paradise for The Best Breakfast in Sidemen

The food scene in Sidemen is not as developed as in other areas of Bali (and that’s totally normal). You’ll mainly find local warungs and more upscale restaurants, all still serving Indonesian dishes.

However, if you’re looking for something a bit “healthier,” more international, and a truly great cappuccino, you should stop by Blue Paradise.

Located on the main road in the main tourist area, it offers all kinds of salads, avocado toast, a huge fruit platter, and the best cappuccino I’ve had in Sidemen. It’s definitely my top breakfast spot.

The following things to do in Sidemen are actually located outside the village, further east. The best way to explore some of these spots is to plan a day trip from Sidemen and include them in your itinerary.

7. Visit Jagasatru Waterfall

I was genuinely curious about exploring other off-the-beaten-path waterfalls in East Bali, and Jagasatru Waterfall was the first stop on my day trip from Sidemen.

Jagasatru Waterfall is located about 30–40 minutes from Sidemen Village. If you’re heading there by scooter, you’ll be happy to know that the road is easy to navigate, even though you’ll encounter a few ups and downs toward the end before reaching the waterfall.

If you have your own scooter, make sure to stop at the Selat morning market, which is right along the road to Jagasatru. You’ll need to be there around 7 am, but it’s absolutely worth it. You’ll get to witness authentic Balinese village life in its simplest form.

As for the waterfall itself, it’s a true hidden gem (unlike Gembleng). It’s literally in the middle of the jungle, with the deafening sound of what must be Balinese cicadas as the soundtrack to your visit.

There’s no entrance ticket, but you’re welcome to leave a small donation at the entrance. I arrived around 7:30 am, and there was absolutely no one there. The main office was closed, but you can still climb down to reach the waterfall. There’s also a parking lot right in front if you’re arriving by scooter.

As usual, most beautiful views in Bali come with a bit of physical effort, and this one is no exception. You’ll climb down a series of stairs that you’ll be much less excited to climb back up on the way out.

The waterfall itself is small: a single cascade flowing into a shallow natural pool where, if you want, you can take a dip (which I didn’t do, as it was still early in the morning).

The surrounding natural scenery, combined with the feeling of having discovered a small, untouched, and completely non-touristy waterfall, makes it absolutely worth the stop.

8. Admire The Sibetan Rice Terraces

Most visitors traveling to Bali usually look for the dreamiest rice terrace views, often ending up in Tegallalang or Jatiluwih.

While these are definitely among the most popular spots (and for good reason), Bali, and East Bali in particular, is still covered in real, authentic, and hidden rice fields that haven’t made it onto most itineraries yet. That’s the case with the Sibetan Rice Terraces.

They’re located along the road that connects Sidemen to Tirta Gangga Palace, about 30 minutes from Sidemen. I actually didn’t know they existed until I was there and asked my driver to stop along the way.

Here, you won’t find crowds, ticket booths, or photo props. People don’t usually plan a trip specifically to Sibetan; instead, like me, they end up stopping while driving through the area, because you really have to.

This isn’t a tourist stop. You won’t find signs for walking routes, tourist facilities, or an official entrance. It’s a real and authentic corner of East Bali, where farmers work the land and daily life is still extremely simple and deeply rooted in agriculture.

Since there’s no official entrance, you’ll experience the fields simply by driving around Sibetan Village or while heading further east, or on your way back.

You can park your scooter wherever it feels appropriate and explore as much as you’re comfortable with, just remembering to respect the local farmers going about their work.

9. Explore Tirta Gangga Water Palace

I’m usually not into touristy, crowded places. However, since I was already in the area, I decided that a stop at Tirta Gangga was a must.

I usually realize how much I like a place by how many pictures I take, and I took a lot there.

Tirta Gangga is a historical water palace, built in 1946 by the last king of Karangasem. It was conceived as a royal retreat and spiritual sanctuary, and for this reason, it’s absolutely beautiful.

The palace features pools filled with koi fish, elegant statues rising from the water, fountains filling the air with the sound of flowing water, colorful flowers, and lush greenery all around.

It’s definitely a sight to behold, and every corner is so beautifully maintained that you won’t be able to stop taking pictures.

The entrance fee is IDR 90,000, and since it’s very popular with tour groups, I highly recommend visiting early in the morning, before 9:30 am, when most tours arrive. This is the best way to experience the palace’s beauty without the crowds.

Toward the back of the gardens, you’ll also find a small museum that tells the story of the Karangasem kings and displays historical photographs.

10. Stop at Bukit Cinta for The Best View of East Bali

One thing I absolutely wanted to see was the view from what’s known as Bukit Cinta, one of the best sunrise viewpoints on Mount Agung.

Unfortunately, I didn’t make it for sunrise, as it’s located about an hour from Sidemen, and I had other spots to visit beforehand.

Even if you don’t make it for sunrise, the view over the valley with Mount Agung in the background is still well worth it. The sky wasn’t the clearest during my visit, and the majestic volcano ended up being covered in thick white clouds, but I still enjoyed the stop.

I wouldn’t say it’s a place you go to just for the sake of it, but if you’re already in the area, especially if you’re visiting spots like Tirta Gangga, Pura Lempuyang, or heading to Lahangan Sweet as I did, it’s an easy stop to add along the way.

They’ve recently opened a café called Paborito right on the edge, where you can enjoy the view, and there’s also a large parking lot if you’re arriving by scooter.

It almost feels like you’re encouraged to sit down and take it all in, but if you don’t feel like stopping, you can simply walk to the right side of the café and enjoy the view from there.

11. Climb a Tree at Lahangan Sweet

The final stop of my day trip from Sidemen was also the very first thing I added to my itinerary. Lahangan Sweet, located over an hour from Sidemen, is likely the most incredible viewpoint I’ve ever seen in Bali.

If you have to choose between Bukit Cinta and Lahangan Sweet, pick the latter without a doubt.

It’s the best spot to enjoy a closer look at Mount Agung. From here, you can truly witness its majesty as it towers over the valley right in front of you. You can clearly see its slopes covered in green, with a few buildings dangerously located at its feet.

Lahangan Sweet isn’t overly crowded yet, but I’m sure it will be very soon. They’re already building multiple photo props, and you already find queues forming at the main one, the small tree house (which isn’t actually a tree house, but a platform built on a tree where you can stand to take photos).

What I had read about the road leading here is actually what convinced me to hire a driver, and after being there, I can confirm that the drive is honestly a challenge.

The road is bumpy, full of potholes, and packed with constant ups and downs that seem to never end. It also takes quite a while to get there from Sidemen.

At the parking lot, you can purchase the entrance ticket, which costs IDR 100,000 and includes a jeep ride to the top of the hill, where you’ll find the most stunning views. The final stretch of the road has recently been paved, so you won’t have any trouble there.

12. Visit Bali’s Mother Temple, Pura Besakih

If you’re planning to visit Pura Besakih, the most sacred temple on the entire island of Bali, organizing the visit from Sidemen is actually the best idea.

Pura Besakih is located just 40 minutes from Sidemen, which is a much better deal than the 1.5-hour drive from Ubud (if only I had known).

Also known as Bali’s Mother Temple, Pura Besakih is located right at the foot of Mount Agung.

The temple’s location is not random. Mount Agung, the highest peak in Bali, represents the connection between the divine and the earthly realm.

For this reason, the temple serves as a direct link to the gods, and it’s almost a miracle that during the 1963 eruption of Mount Agung, the temple itself remained untouched while the surrounding villages were destroyed.

If you have to visit just one temple in Bali, make it Pura Besakih. Not only for its striking location and spiritual significance, but also because this complex brings together the different types of temples you’ll find across the island.

For foreign visitors, the entrance fee is IDR 150,000 (around $9), payable by cash or card. The ticket includes a wristband (which will be scanned again at the temple entrance), a sarong (you can wear your own if you have one), and a one-way shuttle ride up to the temple.

If you’re looking for more information on visiting Besakih, make sure to check out my guide to Bali’s Mother Temple (and why visiting it from Ubud may not be the best idea).

13. Hike Mount Batur at Sunrise

Another experience you can plan from Sidemen is the Mount Batur sunrise (or sunset) hike. Most visitors usually depart from Ubud, but if you’re already in Sidemen, you can easily organize the trip from there as well.

Hiking an active volcano at sunrise is one of the experiences that has stayed with me the most from my time in Bali.

And while you can choose to take a jeep or avoid the early wake-up call, there’s honestly nothing quite like the feeling of reaching the peak while it’s still dark all around you, glancing up at a clear, starry sky, and waiting for the most fiery sunrise you’ll ever witness.

I highly recommend booking a guided experience if you’re planning a sunrise hike. You won’t be able to see much while climbing up, and only local guides truly know the path by heart.

I personally planned my hike from Kintamani, but if you’re looking for a tour departing from Sidemen, this one is from the same service provider I booked with.

They offer a range of add-ons, including a great deal for pickup and drop-off in Sidemen. I honestly loved everything about my hike: the organization, the guide, and the fact that he knew hidden paths away from the main crowds. Totally recommended.

14. Hiking Mount Agung

For the bravest (and those who are actually trained for challenging hiking experiences), you can plan on hiking Mount Agung.

According to my guide, Mt. Batur is just a warm-up compared to it.

Mt. Agung is Bali’s highest peak, standing at over 3,000 meters above sea level. The hike takes around 8 hours total, four up and four down, so it’s not for the weak.

This is a true bucket list adventure. It requires stamina, strength, and a good dose of mental grit. But if you make it to the top, that’s a huge accomplishment, and the views are said to be surreal.

Of course, you’ll need a certified, experienced guide. This tour might be the best option out there: full refund if the weather doesn’t cooperate, a local guide who knows the mountain like the back of their hand, and plenty of snacks to keep your energy up while climbing.

FAQ Section

1. Is Sidemen Worth Visiting?

Sidemen is absolutely worth visiting if you’re looking to discover the most authentic side of Balinese life.

Mass tourism isn’t really a thing here yet, leaving room to fully enjoy the beautiful, untouched nature and witness a simple lifestyle still deeply rooted in agriculture and ancient traditions.

You won’t find modern facilities, but there’s everything you need to spend a couple of days feeling welcomed and restored.

2. How to Get to Sidemen?

Sidemen is located in East Bali, about 1.5 hours from Ubud (34 km), Denpasar Airport (47 km), and over 2 hours from Canggu or Seminyak (56 km).

To get there, you can easily rent a scooter and drive all the way to Sidemen. Just be aware of possible traffic and the fact that you’ll be breathing in the smog from trucks heading to East Bali along the way.

If, like me, you don’t enjoy riding a scooter for long distances, you can book a Grab Car directly to Sidemen. I took a Grab from Ubud at 7 am and paid around IDR 350,000.

3. How to Get Around in Sidemen?

The best way to get around Sidemen is by renting a scooter. Daily rentals start at IDR 80,000, and it’s extremely easy, as the main roads are mostly well-paved and there’s very little traffic.

To rent a scooter, you can usually ask at your accommodation. Homestays and hotels often have some available or can suggest a nearby rental service.

Grab or Gojek bike services aren’t widely available in Sidemen, so if you don’t ride a scooter, the best alternative is to hire a driver for the day and agree on an itinerary to get around.

4. Where to Stay in Sidemen?

Sidemen isn’t a large village, and most homestays and hotels are clustered along the main road, Jalan Raya Sankan Gunung–Sidemen, mainly toward the southern end.

This is the best area to stay, as most restaurants are within walking distance, along with key activities like silver workshops and some of the spas.

I personally stayed at Giri Swari Homestay, a simple but welcoming place within walking distance of the main road. The rooms are spotless, and the owners were very helpful with everything I needed, including renting a scooter and booking a massage.

5. Is Sidemen Walkable?

Sidemen is fairly walkable around the central part of the village. From the main road, you can easily reach the starting point of the Sidemen rice field trek, a few restaurants, spas, hotels, and the morning market.

However, if you plan to visit Gembleng Waterfall or Koli Koli Day Club, you’ll need a scooter, as these spots are farther from the village center.

6. How to Plan a Day Trip in East Bali from Sidemen?

To plan a day trip from Sidemen, you can rent a scooter yourself, which gives you maximum flexibility while also saving money. If you’re like me and don’t feel comfortable driving longer distances on your own, you can hire a driver for the day and agree on an itinerary together.

Personally, I randomly found a driver at Panorama Sidemen, the day before my trip, and ended up saving a bit. If you don’t feel like doing the same or prefer booking a driver in advance, here are two options you can consider:

• Bali Private Car Hire and Driver | 1-6 persons: This is honestly the most transparent service I’ve found. You agree on all the charges before booking, so you won’t have any surprises on the day of your trip (which is what usually happens with most drivers).
• Private Car Charter With English Speaking Driver: With this provider, you can choose between a 6-hour or a 10-hour private car charter, with an English-speaking driver.

No matter which provider you book with, make sure to ask about any additional charges for being and traveling around East Bali. Unfortunately, most services include pickup from more popular areas, and places like Sidemen often come with an extra fee.

7. How to Get From Sidemen to Ubud?

As mentioned, Grab or Gojek aren’t as widely available here as in other areas of Bali, so if you plan to travel back from Sidemen to places like Ubud, Canggu, or Seminyak, you’ll need to plan.

In Sidemen, you’ll find plenty of taxi advertisements, with fares around IDR 400,000 (that’s what I was quoted to go from Sidemen to Ubud).

You can also try booking a Grab Car on the spot, though you can’t actually schedule one in advance from Sidemen. I miraculously found one on the morning I had to leave and ended up saving a bit. Based on my experience, it’s much easier to find a Grab Car than a bike around Sidemen.

And there you have it…14 things to do in Sidemen and East Bali that made my two-day trip unforgettable. If you’re looking for what’s often called “the real Bali,” Sidemen won’t disappoint. It’s the perfect place to slow down and escape the crowds of southern Bali.

If you’re still planning your itinerary, make sure to check out these top places to stay for first-time visitors to Bali, and don’t miss the 30 things I wish I had known before traveling and moving there.

Feel free to send me any questions about traveling to Bali, or Sidemen in particular. This wonderful area is so worth exploring, and I’m happy to help you plan the smoothest trip possible.

Other Articles You May Find Useful

• 21 Bali Must-Haves: What to Pack for Bali Rainy & Dry Season
• Bali Travel Guide: Plan Your Short Trips & Long-Term Adventures
• Guide to Gembleng Waterfall: Bali’s Enchanting Natural Infinity Pool
• Your Guide to Lahangan Sweet in 2026: The Best Viewpoint in East Bali
• The Best Silver Class in Sidemen for Your 2026 Bali Trip

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