Welcome to Sidemen, where lush green rice terraces, roaring waterfalls, and beautiful temples unite in this beautiful corner of Bali. Spend a few days enjoying this truly authentic spot, relaxing in bamboo houses, and lazily exploring the gorgeous jungle valleys on foot or by scooter. Experience life as the locals do; bathe in rivers and hidden pools, buy produce at the early morning market, and discover remote villages with friendly passersby. See the most natural side of the island with all the top things to do in Sidemen, Bali.
Things to do in Sidemen
Sidemen (pronounced ‘see-da-men’) is the name for the main village as well as the surrounding area, including Selat. The locality is nestled between the valleys of central east Bali, with the majestic Mount Agung always present in the distance.
1. Explore the Rice Paddies of Sidemen, Bali
The area is covered in spectacular tiered rice fields and paddies, and exploring them is one of the top things to do in Sidemen! Make the most of cooler mornings to walk through fields of beautiful bright green and yellow, wade through calm rivers, spot cows grazing outside rustic wooden huts, and take in the most spectacular countryside views. The lush green valleys appear endless, and Mount Agung volcano creates a stunning natural backdrop.
You might be surprised to hear that, unlike Jatiluwih, the Sidemen rice terraces are not a UNESCO world heritage site. However, we think they should be! This stunning natural landscape is arguably more beautiful than the Jatiluwih terraces and is an incredibly peaceful place to relax, unwind, and spend some time in nature.
Walking Trails
If you just want a relaxed wander, there are many trails to choose from. The most popular starts from here. Please note that this place asks for a donation to walk through their fields. Alternatively, hire a motorbike and drive to the area around Telabah Lantang Desa Muncan.
Tip: Wear shoes if you have them (not flip-flops!). Also, bring water, as it can get much hotter after midday. Remember, this is private working land, so be respectful of the environment.
2. Gembleng Waterfall
Gembleng Waterfall is a stunning swimming spot surrounded by lush green jungle. Plus, it’s just a 20-minute drive from Sidemen village through beautiful farmland.
Take the short five-minute hike up the stairs to the top, where you will be met by incredible vistas. At the top of the waterfall, there are many small rocky basins that have created natural infinity pools! Swim in the refreshing water with gorgeous views through the jungle tree tops to the valley below.
Did you know? Gembleng is a holy place and was originally used for ‘Melukat’, a traditional Balinese cleansing ceremony. It is still sometimes used for religious ceremonies (when it is closed to the public), and many locals still use it for bathing. Because of this, please always be respectful and allow them their space. However, the people of Sidemen are very friendly, so expect warm smiles and waves.
3. Jagasatru Waterfall
If you are here for more than a few days, consider visiting Air Terjun Jagasatru (Jagasatru Waterfall). This staggeringly tall waterfall in the middle of the jungle is high in the mountains, so it has incredible scenery. Although it’s a steep climb to reach it, it’s well worth it for the incredible views.
The waterfall is another holy site, with a natural holy pool used by many locals for bathing. The hidden spot is also home to a beautiful golden Hindu statue of Brahma.
Getting there: It can be a tricky road to navigate on a scooter or motorbike, as it is very windy and particularly slippery in wet weather. Because of this, avoid driving yourself if you are less confident. There is no entry fee, but donations are welcomed.
4. Sidemen Village in Bali
Sidemen village is small, with a few hotels, restaurants, and tour companies. However, you will get a real feel for rural Balinese life here and are bound to meet some locals!
Afterward, visit some traditional weaving workshops where you can buy locally handcrafted textiles made on wooden looms. The traditional sarongs that the local people make by hand are of exceptionally high quality.
After some shopping, wander through the village to the Jembatan Kuning bridge: a small yellow suspension bridge with gorgeous views of the river and jungle. This is a popular local spot for bathing, so why not cool off before lunch? You can also cross this tiny narrow bridge by scooter if you’re looking for a little adrenaline!
5. Stay in a Bamboo House
Sidemen gained a lot of its recent popularity due to the bamboo houses in Bali that started popping up in the area some years ago. Spend a few days in these natural wooden structures, gazing out at the incredible views of the rice paddies. Often, the houses are open to the elements or have expansive windows, so you have unimpeded views of the surrounding landscape.
6. Telaga Waja River Rafting
If you are after some adventure, why not try white water rafting on the Telaga Waja River? Hop on a raft near Mount Agung and let the Telaga Waja River float you through the jungle and rice paddies. It also passes Telaga Waja Waterfall.
The three-hour route is an alternative way to see the area with fantastic views you wouldn’t see otherwise. Check the weather conditions when booking – sometimes the river is much lower or higher depending on the weather.
7. Taman Ujung Water Palace
This historic palace on the Eastern coast of Bali has beautiful gardens, ponds, and floating buildings. Built in 1909, the gorgeous site is filled with history, culture, and a stunning variety of architecture, including Balinese, Chinese, and European.
You can spend a whole morning or afternoon exploring this huge complex, climbing up its many stone steps for stunning views of the sea and mountains. There’s also an incredible backdrop of Mount Agung.
The site is close enough to the volcano that it suffered significant damage during the 1963 eruption. However, since then, it’s been heavily restored. Visit in the morning when it is cooler and clearer, and maybe bring a picnic and lounge in the idyllic gardens for a few hours.
8. Tirta Gangga Water Temple
Tirta Gangga, which translates to ‘blessed water of the Ganges’, is a sacred site surrounded by beautiful pools, fountains, and water gardens. Formerly a royal palace, it was designed and built by the King of Karangasem in 1946.
The complex has many different levels to explore, with beautiful sculptures, tropical plants, and the sacred temple. It is a very peaceful place with a lot of religious and cultural significance and is a tranquil way to spend an hour or two in the early morning or late afternoon when it is not too hot. Slowly stroll around the gardens and take a refreshing dip in the bathing pools!
Tirta Gangga Water Temple is 45 minutes from Sidemen, Bali. However, you can combine it with a trip to Taman Ujung.
