East Bali Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in East Bali with our detailed travel guide.


East Bali is a beautiful region of Bali, famous for its natural beauty, traditional charm, cultural landmarks, and temples. It is the perfect destination for those who want to escape the busy crowd of Bali and enjoy some peace and tranquility. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will share with you everything you need to know to plan your trip to East Bali.

Introduction to East Bali

East Bali is located in Bali, Indonesia, in Southeast Asia. It is known for its beautiful beaches, scenic landscapes, and traditional villages. Unlike other popular tourist destinations in Bali, East Bali offers a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for those who prefer a peaceful and tranquil vacation.

List of Places to Visit in East Bali

East Bali offers a wide range of places to visit, from traditional villages to cultural landmarks, stunning beaches, and outdoor adventures. Below are some of the must-visit places in East Bali.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Besakih Temple: Known as the Mother Temple of Bali, Besakih Temple is the largest and most important temple in Bali. It is located on the slopes of Mount Agung and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscapes.

  • Tenganan Village: Tenganan Village is a traditional Bali Aga village that still maintains its ancient traditions and customs. It is an excellent place to learn about Bali’s history and culture.

  • Goa Lawah Temple: Also known as Bat Cave Temple, Goa Lawah Temple is a unique temple built around a cave that is home to thousands of bats.

Natural Attractions of East Bali: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Agung: Mount Agung is the highest volcano in Bali and offers a challenging hike for those who are up for the adventure. The view from the top of the mountain is awe-inspiring and worth the effort of climbing.

  • Tirta Gangga: Tirta Gangga is a beautiful water palace that features ponds, fountains, and bridges amidst lush greenery. It is an ideal spot for those who love nature and peace.

  • White Sand Beach: White Sand Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Bali, known for its soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and serene atmosphere.

Hiking/Biking Routes of East Bali

East Bali offers some of the best hiking and biking routes in Bali. Here are some of the popular ones:

  • Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking: Mount Batur is an active volcano that offers a stunning sunrise view from the top. It is a popular hiking spot in Bali and attracts adventure lovers from all over the world.

  • Rice Terraces of Tegalalang: Tegalalang is a peaceful village that features beautiful rice terraces and scenic landscapes. It is an ideal spot for those who love nature walks and bike rides.

Best Things to Do in East Bali: Activities and Tours

East Bali offers a wide range of activities and tours for travelers. Here are some of the best things to do in East Bali:

  • Snorkeling and Diving: East Bali is known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful coral reefs, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

  • Rafting: The Ayung River in East Bali offers some of the best rafting experiences in Bali, with breathtaking scenery and thrilling rapids.

  • Cooking Classes: Learn to cook traditional Balinese dishes with a cooking class in East Bali. It is an excellent way to experience local cuisine and culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for East Bali

If you’re planning a week-long trip to East Bali, here is a sample itinerary for you:

Day 1: Arrive in East Bali and relax at your hotel.

Day 2: Visit Besakih Temple, Tenganan Village, and Goa Lawah Temple.

Day 3: Hike Mount Agung and relax at Tirta Gangga.

Day 4: Enjoy a day at White Sand Beach.

Day 5: Cycle through the rice terraces of Tegalalang and visit local villages.

Day 6: Go snorkeling or diving, or try rafting in the Ayung River.

Day 7: Attend a cooking class and enjoy a farewell dinner.

Food and Drink Scene of East Bali

East Bali is known for its delicious local cuisine, which is a blend of traditional Balinese and regional Indonesian flavors. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in East Bali.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Nasi Campur: A mix of steamed rice, vegetables, meat, and sambal, Nasi Campur is a popular dish in Bali.

  • Gado-Gado: A salad of boiled vegetables, tofu, and peanut sauce, Gado-Gado is a favorite dish among locals and visitors alike.

  • Sate: Skewered meat, grilled over charcoal and served with peanut sauce, Sate is a popular snack in Bali.

Local Beverages

  • Arak: A traditional Balinese drink made from palm sugar and rice, Arak is a popular drink in Bali.

  • Brem: A sweet, fermented rice wine, Brem is a popular drink that is usually served during special occasions.

Where to Stay in East Bali: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

East Bali offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and cozy guesthouses. Following are some of our top picks for every budget.

  • Luxury Hotels: Alila Manggis and Amankila are two of the best luxury hotels in East Bali, known for their exceptional services and stunning views.

  • Mid-Range Hotels: Puri Bagus Candidasa and Anda Amed Resort are two of the best mid-range hotels in East Bali, offering excellent value for money.

  • Budget Hostels: Bali Harmony Hostel and Salagona Homestay are two of the best budget hostels in East Bali, offering clean and comfortable accommodation at an affordable price.

What to Buy in East Bali: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

East Bali is known for its traditional handicrafts and souvenirs, which make excellent gifts and souvenirs to bring home. Here are some of the top things to buy in East Bali:

  • Handicrafts: Batik textiles, woodcarvings, and silver jewelry are some of the traditional handicrafts that East Bali is famous for.

  • Spices: Bali is known for its exquisite spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.

Local Culture and Customs of East Bali

East Bali is home to people who belong to the Bali Aga ethnicity, who have their unique cultural traditions and customs. Here are some of the customs and traditions of East Bali:

  • Tenganan Village: Tenganan Village is known for its ancient customs and traditions, such as the ritual of Mekare-kare, which is a mock battle using thorny pandanus leaves.

  • Festivals: East Bali is known for its colorful and vibrant festivals, such as the Bali Kite Festival and Nyepi, the Day of Silence.

Best Time to Visit East Bali

The best time to visit East Bali is during the dry season, which lasts from May to September. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of East Bali

Here are some of the do’s and don’ts of East Bali:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and other cultural landmarks.

  • Bargain when shopping in local markets.

Don’t:

  • Show public displays of affection.

  • Disrespect sacred places or objects.

  • Take pictures without asking for permission.

Safety and Health

Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy during your trip to East Bali.

Safety in East Bali

  • Be cautious when swimming in the sea, as the currents can be strong.

  • Watch out for traffic on the roads, as the traffic can be chaotic.

  • Don’t leave valuables unattended in public places.

Health in East Bali

  • Drink only bottled or boiled water.

  • Use mosquito repellent to avoid mosquito bites.

  • Be careful when eating street food, as it may cause stomach issues.

Getting to East Bali: Transportation Options and Logistics

East Bali can be reached by air, bus, or private car. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near East Bali

  • Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar is the closest airport to East Bali, located about 80 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near East Bali

  • The main bus terminal in East Bali is in Candidasa, which connects to various destinations in Bali.

Other Options

  • Private cars and taxis are readily available for hire in Bali.

How to Get Around in East Bali

Here are some transportation options for getting around in East Bali:

  • Rent a scooter: Renting a scooter is a popular and affordable way to get around in East Bali.

  • Private car: Private cars can be rented with a driver for those who want more comfort and convenience.

Where to Go Next from East Bali: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

East Bali is surrounded by many beautiful destinations that are worth exploring, such as Amed, Candidasa, and Ubud. Here are some recommended excursions:

  • Amed: Amed is a small fishing village known for excellent snorkeling and diving spots.

  • Candidasa: Candidasa is a laid-back town with lovely beaches, excellent restaurants, and a thriving arts scene.

  • Ubud: Ubud is known as the cultural heart of Bali and is famous for its art galleries, museums, and traditional dances.

Conclusion

East Bali is a hidden gem in Bali, offering unique experiences, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. We hope this guide has given you all the information you need to plan a wonderful vacation to East Bali. So pack your bags and head to East Bali for an unforgettable adventure!

Mount Agung dominates the landscape of East Bali Mount Agung dominates the landscape of East Bali Map of the East Bali region Map of the East Bali region Prayers at Pura Besakih Prayers at Pura Besakih Part of the Pura Besakih complex Part of the Pura Besakih complex


    Amed
    Candidasa
    Klungkung
    Padang Bai
    Tirta Gangga