Discover more about East Bali...

Despite having a lot to see and to do, East Bali is not as packed with travelers compared to other areas of the island. Surprisingly though, because this region has so much to offer...

It has the most sacred volcano on the island, one of the two villages where the original Balinese descendent live, spectacular rice field views, great diving sights and so much more.

Let me list them more specifically so you'll realize too how rich this part of this island is.

Gunung Agung Gunung Agung is an impressive volcano and dominates the landscape in East Bali. On a cloudless day you will see it's summit everywhere you go.

This mountain is deeply respected by the Balinese and is considered as the most holy mountain on the island. However it has caused a lot of suffering as well for the Balinese people as it killed thousands during an eruption in 1963.

Besides being the most holy mountain on the island, today it is also popular among climbers. It is a tough hike so you should be a bit trained and fit. But once you have endured the climb you'll be rewarded with a spectacular view on the summit, especially at sunrise. The best time to climb is from July till September.

Temples; Pura Besakih and Pura Kehen Pura Besakih is considered the mother temple for all the Balinese people. It is the most important and with the big Gunung Agung on the background the setting is pretty mystical. Compared to other temples, the areas of Pura Besakih are very limited though.

But if you hear about a ceremony taking place there then you should definitely visit this temple. It is a unforgettable sight to see all the beautifully dressed Balinese placing offerings.

Another important and more accessible temple complex in East Bali is Pura Kehen, Bangli. It resembles Pura Besakih however it is much smaller. I do recommend visiting it though because of it's many nice statues and carvings. It's location amid a palm tree plantation makes it nice to walk around.

Tenganan Tenganan is a village where the original descendants of Bali prior to the Majahapit's arrival still live. It is located near Candidasa within a valley surrounded by mountains.

The villagers, the Bali Aga people are a secluded community with many strict social rules who live in a basic looking village set within a wall. When you walk around they do not seem to be the richest people on the island, but here appearance is deceiving.

The Bali Aga are prosperous due to the fertile land surrounding their village. Until today they divide the yields evenly among each other.

Many tourists visit Tenganan daily to admire their famous double waving 'ikat' cloths. It is worth visiting when you are in the area and it is nice to chat with the people there about their history and daily life.

Water palaces; Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung In East Bali there are two popular water palaces. My favorite is the Tirta Gangga as the trip to this palace is beautiful plus you can actually dive into one of the pools and enjoy the fresh water coming from the spring.

The water palace was built by the raja of Amplapura in 1947, just as the other water palace Taman Ujung located nearby.

The garden and the pools of Tirta Gangga are beautifully maintained and there are many statues throughout the area. The big pools are decorated with fountains and flowers and as I mentioned before you can enjoy a refreshing swim in one of the royal pools. Don't forget your swim wear and towel if you plan to visit this palace...!

Diving spots Many resorts in East Bali offer great diving packages as this is one of the best regions in Bali to do some diving. Popular starting points are Padangbai, Candidasa, Amed and Tulamben.

It is possible to hire boats at dive operators who will take you to the best dive sights. Traditional fishermen are a perfect option if you plan to do some snorkeling only.

If you are lucky expect to see white tip sharks, manta rays, barracudas, turtles and the rare Oceanic Sunfish.

Beaches If you know where to find them, you will be treated with real white sandy beaches in East Bali. The majority of the beaches in East Bali are of black volcanic sand. And in Candidasa the beach has even disappeared to wrong planning.

However we managed to find two beaches that are really like the pictures you often see of a tropical white beach. The first one is right next to Padangbai and is called Bias Tugal. The other is a bit more difficult to find and is located between Candidasa and Jasri. It's called Pasir Putih, meaning White Sand. Well...that says enough.

Both beaches are very quiet and secluded. Don't expect any bars or restaurants at the beach. Just locals selling canned soft drinks. But if you love these quiet beaches then you should definitely check them out.

Day trips Last but definitely not the least....day trips. East Bali has truly a spectacular landscape of mountains, valleys, rice fields and ocean. Our favorite route is passing Sideman and Rendang.

The area is ideal for hiking as well ofcourse.

Sideman is located in a mountainous area which is covered with fresh green vegetation and rice terraces. In Rendang the road twists and turns around the terrific rice fields giving you great views of this complicated man-made creation.

Another great route, passing villages where time seems to have stood still, is from Candidasa to Ubud via Manggis, Selat and Besakih

East Bali offers a wonderful opportunity to discover a Bali that is, compared to South Bali still pretty much untouched. It is perfect if you are looking for a less crowded place to enjoy your holiday at the beach or in the nature while experiencing the rich Balinese culture.

by Matt Verbaan