Sidemen Travel Guide- A Glimpse of Old Bali
If you’re looking to escape the typical Bali tourist traps, venture off to Sidemen, a hidden gem located deep in the lush jungles of East Bali. Here, in the shadows of Mount Agung, lies a village that feels worlds away from Bali’s busier areas. With panoramic rice terraces stretching as far as the eye can see, mystical tropical waterfalls, and eco-friendly bamboo villas designed to blend seamlessly into the environment, Sidemen offers a true retreat into untouched Bali. It’s a destination where you’ll find peace and genuine Balinese culture. Spend a few extra nights here soaking in the tranquility—you’ll be grateful for every moment in this authentic corner of East Bali.
How to get to Sidemen
Ubud to Sidemen
Sidemen is about a 1.5-hour drive east of Ubud. Hiring a local driver allows you to relax and take in scenic rice terraces and traditional villages along the way. For those comfortable with scooters, it’s also a beautiful ride, though best suited for experienced riders due to the winding roads.
Canggu or Uluwatu to Sidemen
The journey from Canggu or Uluwatu to Sidemen takes around 2–2.5 hours. A private driver is ideal to navigate busy coastal roads, leading you through lush countryside as you approach East Bali.
Denpasar Airport to Sidemen
Sidemen is roughly a 2-hour drive from Bali’s main airport. Book a private driver in advance for a seamless transfer, allowing you to relax and even make scenic stops as you head to this tranquil East Bali haven.
Contact my driver Ngakan & tell him Bela sent you
Book a driver to Sidemen
Where to Stay in Sidemen
I’ve spent extensive time in Sidemen, staying in a variety of unique accommodations. Sidemen offers something for every traveler—from budget-friendly local homestays starting at just $20 per night to luxury boutique resorts and eco-friendly villas nestled in nature.
$$ Patal Kikian Villas - Book Here
Patal Kikkian Villas is a charming boutique hotel that boasts one of the best pool views in all of Bali. Our room was spacious, featuring a large terrace that overlooked the lush jungle with breathtaking, unobstructed views of Mount Agung. For its price, Patal Kikkian Villas is easily one of the top places to stay in Sidemen. They also offer room service, which was a true lifesaver when I came down with Bali Belly after visiting Ubud.
7 Boutique Hotels in Bali
A guide to the best unique & boutique hotels on the Island of Gods
$$$ Samanvaya- Book Here
Samanvaya is a luxury boutique resort in Sidemen, offering a perfect blend of wellness and adventure. Nestled along a charming street with local warungs, Samanvaya features a full-service spa, an on-site restaurant, a yoga center, and a beautiful pool. Guests can enjoy an array of exclusive activities, and the exceptional service includes a dedicated phone in each room to connect directly with the concierge. Start your day with a complimentary breakfast at Sidemen’s top-rated restaurant, and unwind with an espresso martini served late into the evening—pure paradise! This lush property is ideal for those seeking relaxation and a quiet retreat in Sidemen’s serene landscapes.
$-$$$ Hideout Bali - Book Here
Hideout Bali is home to some of the world’s most famous Airbnbs. While Sidemen now boasts other stunning eco-friendly bamboo homes like Camaya, Velanueva, and Magic Hills, Hideout was the original. Once ranked the 4th most “wished for” Airbnb worldwide, securing a stay here often meant booking months in advance. I’ve had the pleasure of staying here twice, in both the Falcon and Beehive Villas, and after living in Bali for over 1.5 years and staying at more than 55 hotels, this remains tied as my #1 favorite. Plus, they’re dog-friendly, which was a treat for our dog, Lilikoi! Hideout has since expanded with a variety of options, from a budget-friendly rice field villa at $80/night to a grand treehouse at $500/night.
$$$ Hideout Beehive - Book here
Hideout Beehive is one of the more luxurious villas, featuring two bedrooms and a heated pool overlooking the river. Mornings here offer a view of Mount Agung from your bedroom, while nights are alive with the sounds of frogs, lizards, and the jungle’s natural symphony. It’s ultra-peaceful, and the weak Wi-Fi is a welcome disconnect. This is the place to go barefoot, slow down, and fully unplug (I even forgot my hairbrush—no regrets).
$$ Hideout Falcon - Book Here
Hideout Falcon is a cozy one-bedroom villa with a private hot tub, net lounge, outdoor bathroom, and a serene koi pond. The villa itself is stunningly intimate, and we were lucky enough to experience Bali’s rainy season here, which only added to the cozy, magical atmosphere.
What to do in Sidemen
Make Your Own Rings at Agung Silver
Bali is renowned for its silver craftsmanship, and Sidemen offers a unique way to experience it firsthand. Head to Agung Silver, nestled among the scenic rice terraces, where local artisans guide you through the entire process of creating your own silver jewelry—from melting the silver to shaping and polishing your piece. This immersive experience not only results in a beautiful, personalized souvenir but also gives you access to high-quality silver at an unbeatable price.
Visit Gembleng Waterfall
Gembleng Waterfall is a must-see natural wonder in Sidemen, featuring three cascading pools that flow into one another. Located about a 20-minute ride from the main road, this stunning waterfall rewards visitors with panoramic views of the lush Sidemen Valley, making it a perfect spot to relax and connect with Bali's natural beauty.
Catch Sunrise at Bukit Cinta Viewpoint
For an awe-inspiring view of Mount Agung, set your alarm early and make the 30-minute scooter ride to Bukit Cinta. On a clear morning, you’ll witness the sun rising over the majestic peak—an unforgettable sight that captures the essence of Bali’s beauty. Be sure to check out my Sidemen Map for the exact location.
Lahangan Sweet
Just a short distance from Bukit Cinta, Lahangan Sweet is another must-visit viewpoint offering panoramic views over Karangasem and East Bali. For a small entry fee of 20,000 IDR (about $1.30), you can explore multiple treehouses overlooking Amed, making it the perfect spot to soak in the natural beauty of Bali’s eastern coast.
Visit East Bali’s Temples
Sidemen is the perfect base for exploring some of East Bali's most iconic temples, all within a 45-minute journey.
Tirta Gangga Water Temple
Known for its beautiful water gardens, koi ponds, and stepping stones, this temple offers a serene atmosphere perfect for a morning visit.
Taman Ujung Water Palace
Once a royal palace, this architectural gem is set among pools and lush gardens, with views of the ocean and Mount Agung in the background.
Lempuyang Temple
If you’ve been planning your Bali trip, chances are you’ve come across the famous "Gates of Heaven" photo at Lempuyang Temple, with Mount Agung framed between two towering gates. While it may look enticing, expect long, slow-moving queues, sometimes taking hours, just for a quick 15-second photo. The crowds and wait times can detract from the experience, making it feel more like a tourist trap than a spiritual visit. Instead, Sidemen offers untouched, authentic beauty with lesser-known temples that let you experience Bali’s tranquility without the rush and crowds.
Bali Transport Guide
Bela’s guide for getting around the Island of God’s
Where to Eat in Sidemen
Asri Dining at Samanvaya
Asri at Samanvaya is a lush, green oasis with low lighting and panoramic views of the Sidemen valley—a must-visit destination in East Bali. Known for serving the best food in the region, Asri also ranks high for cocktails, with their espresso martini claiming #2 out of 24 in all of Bali! Reservations are highly recommended, as this popular spot fills up quickly.
Joglo D’Uma
Just a short walk from Samanvaya on Jalan Raya Tebola, Joglo D’Uma is a small warung boasting some of the most breathtaking views in Bali. Savor a classic mie goreng paired with local wine as you take in the stunning Sidemen rice terraces—a true hidden gem.
Lihat Sawah Restaurant
Adjacent to Joglo D’Uma, Lihat Sawah is a cozy café serving up ginger tea and happy hour pizzas. The staff is incredibly friendly, the food is delightful, and the views over Sidemen’s lush landscapes make this a perfect spot to unwind.
La Montagne Coffee
Located directly under the majestic Mount Agung, La Montagne Coffee is a charming café with spectacular scenery and authentic local Bali coffee. This quaint spot is perfect for a peaceful coffee break with a view.
Book Your Sidemen Stay
Sidemen’s best resorts, ecostays, homestays, and hostels.
Sidmen Frequently Asked Questions
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Sidemen, Bali is an absolute must-visit destination that deserves a spot on your travel itinerary! This serene village offers an authentic slice of Bali, showcasing the island's beauty as it was 20 years ago.
Sidemen is most conveniently added to your itinerary from either Ubud, about 1.5 hours away, or the Gili Islands, with a quick 45-60 minute journey from Padang Bai Harbor.
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Sidemen, located in East Bali, offers a tranquil escape with its lush rice terraces and traditional villages. Here's how you can reach this serene destination:
From Ubud:
Distance: Approximately 35 kilometers.
Travel Time: Around 1.5 hours by car.
Transportation Options:
Private Car with Driver: Hiring a private driver is a comfortable and convenient choice, allowing you to enjoy the scenic journey without navigating Bali's roads yourself.
Self-Drive: If you're comfortable driving, renting a car or scooter is an option. However, be prepared for winding roads and local traffic conditions.
From the Gili Islands:
Route:
Fast Boat to Padang Bai Harbor: Fast boats operate regularly between the Gili Islands and Padang Bai, with a travel time of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Transfer to Sidemen: From Padang Bai, Sidemen is about a 45-60 minute drive.
From Canggu:
Distance: Approximately 55 kilometers.
Travel Time: Around 2-2.5 hours by car, depending on traffic conditions.
Transportation Options:
Private Car with Driver: Hiring a private driver is the most comfortable and convenient option, especially with the longer travel time and Bali's traffic.
Self-Drive: Renting a car or scooter is possible if you’re comfortable navigating Bali’s roads. However, be prepared for a challenging drive as the route can be busy and includes winding rural roads.
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No, Sidemen is not in Ubud, but it’s relatively close. Sidemen is a small village located in East Bali, while Ubud is in Central Bali. The two areas are about 35 kilometers (around 1.5 hours) apart by car. While Ubud is well-known as a cultural and arts hub, Sidemen offers a quieter, more rural experience with lush rice terraces, traditional villages, and scenic landscapes reminiscent of Bali’s past. Many travelers add Sidemen as a peaceful stopover after visiting Ubud.
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While you can do a day trip to Sidemen, I recommend staying for 1-3 nights if you have the time. This allows you to fully experience the area’s tranquility, explore the beautiful rice terraces, take part in traditional Balinese activities, and enjoy hiking or riverside walks without rushing. A few days in Sidemen also give you a chance to visit local temples, relax at nearby waterfalls, and enjoy the slower pace that makes this region so special.
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While you can use ride-hailing services like Grab to travel to Sidemen, availability within the village is limited. Once in Sidemen, it's advisable to arrange transportation in advance or rent a scooter for local travel. The village's rural setting means that on-demand services are less accessible, so planning ahead ensures a smoother experience.
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Sidemen, nestled in the heart of East Bali, offers a serene escape from the island's bustling tourist hubs. This hidden gem provides a glimpse into Bali's past, with its expansive rice terraces, cascading waterfalls, and eco-friendly bamboo accommodations. The village's tranquil ambiance and authentic Balinese hospitality make it a must-visit for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
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Sidemen in Bali is pronounced as SEE-duh-men. The emphasis is on the first syllable, making it sound like SEE-de-men, with a soft “d” sound.
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Discover Sidemen, Bali’s hidden gem, with our travel guide to the best eco-stays, scenic viewpoints, temples, and unique activities in East Bali.