Sidemen: what to do & tips

Why Sidemen? Unspoiled rice valleys below Mount Agung — Bali the way it used to be, without the crowds.

Rice terraces in Sidemen, Bali — Rice terraces

Spa & wellness in Sidemen, Bali — Spa & wellness

Sidemen is a green valley in East Bali full of unspoiled rice terraces below the sacred Mount Agung — Bali as it looked before mass tourism. Quiet, authentic and photogenic, with traditional weaving workshops and village life.

It's the place to do little but enjoy: walking through the fields, gazing out over the volcano and seeking out the silence. No beach, no crowds.

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What to do in Sidemen?

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NatureGuided rice-field trekWalk through unspoiled terraces below Mount Agung.
AuthenticVisit a songket weaving workshopTraditional hand-weaving of gold brocade.
AdventureRafting on the Telaga WajaRapids through the jungle.
NatureViews of Mount AgungAn impressive panorama on clear mornings.
WellnessYoga & retreat in the valleyCalm and wellness away from the crowds.
AuthenticArak & palm-sugar tastingA local distillery and village visit.
AdventureE-bike or scooter through the fieldsQuiet country lanes among the rice fields.

Getting around

Sidemen lies some two hours from South Bali and is mountainous; the narrow lanes are beautiful but slow. A scooter or driver is handy, as amenities are spread out. Many guests spend most of their time at and around their (often view-blessed) accommodation.

What to do

Walk through the rice fields with a local guide, visit a songket weaving workshop, or raft the Telaga Waja river. On clear mornings the view of Mount Agung is impressive. Otherwise it's mostly about slowing down, reading and drinking in the calm.

Who for

Peace seekers, couples and photographers who want authentic, green Bali. Anyone after beach, nightlife or lots of restaurants is best combining Sidemen with the coast.

Where to stay in Sidemen?

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Recommended: 1–2 nights

1-2 nights for rice-field walks, weaving workshops and pure peace and quiet.

Region

East Bali

Ideal for

peace seekers, couples, photographers

Vibe

Nature, Authentic, Quiet

Nearby

Frequently asked questions

What can you do in Sidemen?

Among others: Guided rice-field trek, Visit a songket weaving workshop, Rafting on the Telaga Waja, Views of Mount Agung. See the full list above and add the place to your trip plan.

Why is Sidemen famous?

Unspoiled rice valleys below Mount Agung — Bali the way it used to be, without the crowds.

How many days should you stay in Sidemen?

We recommend 1–2 nights. 1-2 nights for rice-field walks, weaving workshops and pure peace and quiet.

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