Bali is the quintessential getaway for travellers looking for a quick albeit exotic beach destination out of India. This accessible and relatively affordable destination in Indonesia is a perfect mix of great beaches and delicious cuisine. However, if you are among those travellers who shy away from the more populated tourist places, here is a list of lesser-known places that you might want to check on your next Bali trip.
A beautiful coastal village, Amed is still a relatively lesser-known place located in the far east of Bali. Amed is known for its stunning black sand beaches, gorgeous views of Mount Agung and picturesque sunrises. If you are looking for a place to unwind and not be bothered by the jostling crowds of more touristy places, Amed is the place for you. Learn about the art of salt-making, go fishing with local fishermen or hike to the Mount Agung summit. But the best part about your little Amed excursion is the incredible underwater temple, truly the hidden gem of the region, which you can only discover if you go on a little swim from Pantai Jemeluk beach.
Since it is a really obscure sight, you may need to get help from the locals to find it. At the beach, you can ask the locals and the staff at restaurants for the exact location. Since Jemeluk Beach is also a good snorkelling spot, you may find others to accompany you to the temple for a unique marine experience and some truly interesting photographs.
Where to stay: Amed Harmony Cafe and Bungalows, Palm Garden Amed Beach & Spa Resort
Pinggan Village in the Kintamani region of Bali is another beautiful little escape for your offbeat adventures. Booking a tour to Pinggan is recommended just to have a hassle-free experience. With incredible views and lush landscapes, Pinggan is a delight for those seeking to immerse themselves in the lap of nature. Bali is known for its many cascades, from hidden waterfalls to well-known ones. One of them, the Gitgit waterfall, is also located near the Pinggan Village, which you could check out.
Where to stay: Villa Jempana, Pinggan Caldera
A smallish cluster of villages, Sidemen is a true blue offbeat place to visit when in Bali. Sidemen, sandwiched between two rocky hills with endless rice terraces sprawling between them, is one for the views. Here, you can stay at one of the many bamboo houses or sustainable hotels and homestays and just relax and be one with your surroundings. Take in the view of the miles and miles of rice fields as you savour the local delicacies at one of the many local restaurants. Drive around, go white water rafting, or pick a jungle trail to make the best of your stay in Sidemen.
Where to stay: Great Mountain Views Villa, Kawi Homestay Sidemen
Are you someone who secretly enjoys exploring abandoned industrial spaces? If so, the Taman Festival theme park would be a delight for you. Far removed from the overpopulated tourist places of the city, this theme park in Sanur is located just a short distance away from Bali's main harbour. Now one of the most offbeat attractions in Bali, ironically, this theme park was once Bali's most popular tourist trap, which had a brief run before being shut permanently.
Pay a small fee and explore the vast area with its old structures and overgrown natural shrubbery. Wear sturdy footwear and walk around carefully. It is a great spot for taking some truly spectacular pictures worthy of your social media feed, which will for sure make people ask you all about it.
Munduk, a less crowded, peaceful escape in Bali, is surrounded by much natural beauty. Many unique attractions in and around Munduk will surely offer you memorable experiences. Visit the breathtaking Melanting and Tanah Barak waterfalls nearby for stunning photo opportunities. Ulun Danu Bratan, situated in Tamblingan Lake, is considered one of Bali's most magnificent temples. Its unique charm is accentuated by the fluctuating water levels, influenced by the region's rainy climate. To fully appreciate its beauty, it's best to visit early in the morning. Admission is priced at 50,000 IDR (INR 265).
Where to stay: Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort, Munduk Menir Villas
