Discover the most beautiful Sidemen sights in this ultimate Sidemen guide
Far away from the hustle and bustle of Ubud and Canggu you will find Sidemen, a relatively unknown destination in the east of Bali. It is surrounded by beautiful rice fields, traditional Balinese villages, swaying palm trees, powerful waterfalls, and of course Mount Agung, the most active volcano in Bali. Sidemen should certainly not be missed during your tour of Bali.
You come to Sidemen (the village and the region) to discover the real Bali and enjoy the peace and nature. Everything moves a bit slower here, so take your time to follow the rhythm of the locals. Eat something in a local warung, visit the morning market, walk through the rice fields, and immerse yourself in this authentic part of Bali.
But there is also a lot to do in the Sidemen region, with waterfalls, temples, and beautiful views of the volcano. The village of Sidemen itself is in the center of this area, and that is where you will find most of the restaurants and hotels.
Together with Nusa Lembogan and Amed, Sidemen is one of our favorite destinations in Bali. Many people come here just for a day trip to visit some of Bali’s most famous waterfalls. However, we recommend that you definitely stay here for 1 or 2 nights!
Do you want to know what to do in Sidemen? Then read on because we share the best things to do in Sidemen and our best Sidemen tips so that you have a wonderful trip to this beautiful spot in Bali!
How to visit Sidemen
Sidemen is located in the east of Bali, halfway towards Amed, hidden between the hills and rice fields. If you are wondering how to get to Sidemen, you can easily reach Sidemen by taxi from Sanur or from Ubud. You can choose to either go to Sidemen by private transport or drive there yourself by scooter.
If you choose private transport, you can simply arrive in Sidemen and from there explore a lot of things on foot. Most hotels and restaurants are located in the center of Sidemen. Several walks through the rice fields also start from Sidemen itself.
However, if you also want to visit the surrounding waterfalls and temples, we recommend that you hire a driver to take you around the region so that you can easily get to all the sights in Sidemen. And this driver can then also take you to your next destination.
But if you ask us, the ideal way to explore Sidemen and the surrounding area is by scooter. The traffic is calm (so ideal for beginners) plus the roads are quite narrow anyway and not ideal for cars. Make sure you take the small roads and not the main roads, because there are trucks loaded with stone. You can drive to Sidemen by scooter, either rent a scooter in the village (at Scooter Bali) or at your accommodation.
What to do in Sidemen
Sidemen is not one of the most famous hotspots in Bali, it is more of a hidden gem among the rice fields. You come here first and foremost to enjoy authentic Bali.
And maybe you think that there is not much to do in Sidemen. But nothing could be further from the truth! There are several sights both in the village and in the surrounding area that you don’t want to miss! Here we give you a list of the best activities and things to do in Sidemen, including some of our best tips.
Walk through the rice fields with a local
Sidemen is surrounded by rice fields where you can take beautiful walks. There are not many tourists here yet, so you usually walk all alone. The best way to do this is this walk with a local guide from Sidemen because it takes you to places you would never visit yourself.
We also went with a guide and our walk lasted about 2.5 hours. You follow the winding paths through the rice fields and along the way, you have beautiful views of Mount Agung. The guide will explain the local crops, customs, temples, and the village of Sidemen. The local farmers are friendly and certainly don’t mind you coming to enjoy the beautiful landscape. At the end of the walk, you can also visit the morning market.
TIP: We recommend that you go out early in the morning. Not only will you avoid the heat, but you will also have a better chance of seeing Mount Agung in all its glory. The later in the day, the more likely this mighty volcano is to be covered in clouds. Make sure you also have mosquito repellent and walking shoes with you.
Although we recommend taking a guide (this way you also support the local population), you can also go out through the rice fields yourself. There are many options, but this is a fun and popular place to discover the Sidemen rice fields.
TIP: On the way to Amed you will encounter some beautiful viewpoints on Mount Agung and temples (Tirta Gangga Taman Ujung). Read more about it in our article for a trip to Amed, with its fantastic black beaches and beautiful snorkeling.
Visit the Gembleng Waterfall
One of the best things to do in Sidemen is to visit the Gembleng waterfall, which is only 7 km from Sidemen. Just the scooter ride to this hidden gem is breathtaking.
This waterfall is less known than the other waterfalls in Bali and is therefore a lot quieter, even during the day. However, we recommend that you come here in the morning or at sunset to avoid most visitors. This place is also used by locals for cleansing ceremonies, so it may be temporarily closed.
The Gembleng Waterfall consists of several levels where the water cascades down. This has created several natural, small pools where you can swim (or cool down after climbing the stairs to the top of the waterfall). Definitely worth a visit! Be sure to bring a towel!
The water is clear and fresh, and the view of the surrounding hills full of palm trees makes it an enchanting place. For us, this was one of the most beautiful views in Bali. A natural infinity pool that you rarely encounter…
TIP: At the very top there is a small restaurant where you can eat or drink something. You get the beautiful view from the terrace ‘for free’! If you eat a little before or after noon, you can also visit the waterfalls during noon and it will be less busy then.
Discover the region with a scooter
Our favorite way to discover Bali is by scooter, especially in the area around Sidemen. You can rent a scooter at your accommodation in Sidemen or in the village (at Scooter Bali) and easily reach all the sights in Sidemen that we discuss here.
We did some of our favorite stretches by scooter in all of Asia here (for example from Sidemen to Selat or from Gembleng Waterfall to Sidemen). The region itself is comparable to the region around Ubud, but here it is a lot less touristy (and even more beautiful in our opinion).
The views over the rice fields with Mount Agung in the distance are simply fantastic! But also when you drive through the local villages and children enthusiastically shout hello as you drive past, you remember why riding a scooter here is so much fun!
Experience a cooking workshop in Sidemen
The beautiful surroundings alone create a unique atmosphere. Imagine being able to prepare a delicious Balinese meal with a view of the beautiful rice fields. Sidemen might also be the place to follow such a cooking workshop.
During this cooking class, you will first go shopping at the local market with the chef in the morning. Then you prepare everything yourself (often on a traditional wood fire) and then eat everything together. During such a cooking workshop you will gain better insight into traditional cooking techniques and customs of Balinese cuisine, as well as local products. Tasty!
Admire Bali’s mother temple in Besakih
This temple is the most important and holiest temple in Bali and is located on the slope of Mount Agung. The views are beautiful. During the last major eruptions of Mount Agung, this temple was always spared. Something that only adds to his divine status.
Besakih consists of more than 80 temples dedicated to various gods and goddesses, and it is the largest temple on the island. It plays a crucial role in many important ceremonies and festivities and attracts thousands of local pilgrims and tourists every year.
The temple complexes are decorated with detailed carvings and colorful offerings. During your visit, you can also attend a ceremony or make an offering.
The temple is quite easy to reach from Sidemen. Transport to the top (1 km), a sarong and a guide are also included at the entrance. You don’t have to use this guide, but we recommend it. The complex is gigantic and the guide will show you the most beautiful places.
If you want to go back down with the van you have to pay extra. There is a large parking lot for cars and scooters on site. Be careful when you get off at the top because you will be accosted by pushy saleswomen who claim that you have to buy an offering. That is not necessary at all.
TIP: If you want to get even closer to Mount Agung and the home of the Balinese gods, you can also climb Mount Agung. At the top you have an amazing view of Bali and the surrounding islands. However, this is a physically very demanding walk, so only suitable for experienced walkers. Book a tour with a guide for a safe trip!
Visit the morning market in Sidemen
Every morning there is a market in the center of Sidemen where locals come to buy their products. This market is not aimed at tourists, and here you can see what real life is like in Bali. The women buy everything they need and carry their groceries back home on their heads.
The friendly market vendors sell fruit, vegetables, herbs, meat, and much more. Take your time to walk around and see everything. All your senses will undoubtedly be stimulated!
TIP: Come here early in the morning, because the market ends around 9 am and all the sellers go home.
Go rafting on the Telaga Waja River
This is really something for the adventurers among us. During your visit to beautiful Sidemen in Bali you can go rafting on the Telaga Waja River. In addition to the challenging rapids (from level II to level IV), you have a breathtaking view of nature. The river meanders past dense forests, rice fields, and beautiful cliffs.
Most rafting companies (such as the experienced Bali Tubing Rafting) in the area offer professional guides who are well-trained in safe rafting and will accompany you during the trip. Not only will they give you instructions, but they will also ensure your safety so you can focus on enjoying the experience. They are also knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna and can provide you with interesting information along the way.
Discover local life in Sidemen
The village of Sidemen itself is worth wandering around for a while. There are no specific sights, but here you walk straight into rural Balinese life, with Mount Agung everywhere in the background.
As we mentioned earlier, you can visit the market early in the morning (before 9 am). Buy some fruit for the rest of the day or see all the Balinese scenes that take place in and around the market. With a bit of luck, you will also hear the priest ringing the bell in the temple.
Sidemen is also known for its local, high-quality sarongs, which are made on traditional wooden looms. You pay quite a bit for it, but you also get a hand-woven souvenir (which a local often worked on for weeks).
If you are hungry, you can eat something in the local warungs together with the other residents of Sidemen. Our favorite was Warung Tirta Unda. Also take a walk to the yellow Jembatan Kuning suspension bridge, where locals like to swim in the river.
TIP: Do you want to learn more about Balinese culture and local customs? Then definitely go to the Samsara Living World Museum (about 30 minutes from Sidemen), where a local guide will explain everything to you, but in a very interactive way. From Balinese dances and ceremonies to local food and music, you can experience everything here. They even have workshops and all proceeds go to local people and charities.
Make your own silver jewelry
Another fun activity that Sidemen is known for is making your own jewelry during a silver workshop. With the help of a local silversmith, you use traditional methods to process the silver and you can make your own ring, necklace, or bracelet.
The price of the workshop depends on the design you want (how much silver you need) and whether you also want to add gemstones. Very fun to do and what could be a better souvenir than something that you designed and made yourself?
Explore one of the many other waterfalls
In addition to the Gembleng Waterfall that we have already discussed above, there are many beautiful waterfalls to discover around Sidemen. Here is an overview of the most beautiful or famous:
- Tukad Cepung Waterfall: this waterfall is a bit hidden and ends in a cave. To get there you have to do a fairly adventurous walk of 700 meters (keep in mind that your feet will get wet). The best time of the day to visit is again early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Then you also have beautiful light in the cave. Although swimming is not possible due to the shallow water, you can still refresh yourself.
- Goa Giri Campuhan Waterfall: Here you descend down the 400-500 steps carved out of the rock. The waterfall is no less than 25 meters high.
- Goa Raja Waterfall: about a 30-minute drive from Sidemen (near the Tukad Cepung waterfall) you will find the Goa Raja Waterfall, which consists of several parts where you can also swim. When you arrive at the parking lot you have to take a small but beautiful walk along the river. The first waterfall you encounter is beautiful but not spectacular. If you continue along the bamboo bridge you will arrive at the second and most beautiful part.
- Jagasatru Waterfall: a waterfall hidden high in the mountains, which is also used by the locals for cleansing ceremonies. After the steep climb to the top, the view alone is worth it!
- The Secret Waterfall: This waterfall was only discovered in 2018 by the Kadek after it descended via a long rope on a tree. For years, waste was dumped into this ravine by local residents. Kadek and a few other family members ensured that everything was cleaned up and that there was access to the waterfall via the ravine. The waterfall can be less impressive in the dry season, but even then it is worth coming here. The fact that there is no one there and the adventurous walk through the ravine is already worth the visit. After your hike, you can drink tea or bake your own cake in the small cafe.
Our favorite restaurants in Sidemen
Sidemen is in full development. And the further you travel from the real center, the more restaurants you come across. Most of them have a fantastic view of the surroundings and the beautiful rice fields of Sidemen.
You will find something for everyone in Sidemen, from local warungs to more luxurious restaurants with refined cuisine. Here are some of our favorites:
- Warung Ida: in Warung Ida, you will find delicious food with both traditional Balinese dishes, such as Nasi Campur and Babi Guling, as well as some Western dishes.
- Lihat Sawah Restaurant: Overlooking the rice fields, this restaurant serves delicious Balinese dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
- Warung Tirta Unda: a nice local restaurant with delicious Balinese dishes for a little money. Be sure to try the Gado Gado or Nasi Campur!
- D’padi: here we had something to eat in the evening in a very romantic and beautiful setting. You will find a mix of local dishes (such as the delicious vegan katsu curry or the chicken satays) and Western dishes. There is often also traditional music present.
- Asri Dining: if you want a more upscale dinner, then you’ve come to the right place. You pay a little more, but the view, the setting, the service, and of course the food are more than worth it!
Where to stay in Sidemen
Sidemen has recently become known for its many unique overnight stays, especially the luxurious eco bamboo stays, where you wake up in the morning with a view over the rice fields or Mount Agung.
One of the best known are the bamboo houses of Veluvana (they have 6 different accommodations). Here you can expect every luxury, with beautiful bathtubs, hammocks, magnificent views, breakfast in your pool, and so much more. Of course, there is also a price to pay for this, but it is completely worth it. Two other beautiful bamboo properties are Camaya Bali (with 8 different bamboo houses) and Magic Hills Bali.
But in addition to these unique bamboo accommodations, there are also a lot of very affordable or more luxurious hotels or homestays. Here are some of our favorites:
- Amrita Villa Sidemen: we stayed in the small bungalow behind the pool. From their terrace you have a beautiful view of Mount Agung. You can drink coffee there and breakfast is included. Very friendly people and a nice, affordable place to stay in Sidemen.
- Sawah Indah Villa: a beautiful place to stay, surrounded by rice fields. Ideal also for families with a family bungalow and the beautiful swimming pool. Slightly more expensive, but you get a lot in return! You can also take a fun Balinese cooking class here.
- Wapa di Ume Sidemen: your entire stay at this incredible hotel will be a unique experience, from the location and the rooms to the staff and the food!
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