25/10/2023 By Ross

Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path in Denpasar, Bali

While Bali boasts many tourist attractions, there are still some hidden gems off the beaten path that provide stunning scenic views, adventure activities and provide an escape from crowds.

Candidasa Lotus Lagoon stands out as an incredible road trip stop, filled with blooming lotus flowers for an incredible sight. Cathay Pacific gives access to several routes to consider for access purposes, including Johannesburg to Denpasar Bali.

1. Bajra Sandhi Monument

Bajra Sandhi Monument stands as a powerful reminder of Balinese peoples’ struggles throughout history. This grand structure boasts a museum housing diagrams and dioramas as well as breathtaking views from its top floor of Denpasar city skyline.

The building has been innovatively designed in the shape of a Bajra or Genta bell – an emblematic representation of Balinese resistance against Dutch colonial powers – making it a beloved landmark and photo op for both locals and visitors.

The monument can be found at Renon Square Park, also known as Niti Mandala Renon and used by locals for daily exercise. Surrounded by lush gardens, it’s easy to locate in front of Governor’s Office.

2. Kehen Temple

Kehen Temple stands in the foothills of Bangli and is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Brahma. This stunning structure boasts beautifully-carved sandstone statues depicting mythical animals and Balinese folklore figures along its stairs and vestibule. Additionally, this place of worship hosts various festivals according to its Balinese Hindu calendar.

This temple stands out as a hidden gem due to its generally lower crowds, beautiful stonework facades, and massive ancient banyan trees that encase it. Additionally, this temple hosts an eye-catching candi called Candi Kurung that usually acts as an entry gate into other temples but stands out due to its delightful design.

This beach is west-facing, making for spectacular sunset views. Additionally, its breathtaking cliffs and rock pools act as natural jacuzzis; in addition to this being home to several abandoned airplanes that provide wonderful photo ops.

3. Penglipuran Village

Penglipuran Village is an exceptional experience, ideal for anyone who longs to experience life without modern influences. Here, visitors can wander through a magical bamboo forest while gazing upon breathtaking landscapes.

Villagers take great pride in their community and have worked to preserve its environment. You will notice that houses follow traditional Balinese spatial and architectural rules, creating an enjoyable living environment.

Penglipuran Village is famous for its cleanliness; in 2016, Green Destinations Foundation named it as one of three cleanest villages worldwide. Entry fees to Penglipuran Village are extremely affordable, making this destination accessible even to travelers on tight budgets. Make sure to sample local cuisine like tipat cantok and loloh cemcem made with Indonesian rice cakes cut into pieces combined with various vegetables in boiling water and served up with peanut sauce as your mainstays!

4. Subak Juwuk Manis Rice Fields

Bali would not be complete without its stunning rice fields, and Bedugul village provides the perfect spot for viewing them off-the-beaten-path. A tranquil retreat located centrally, Bedugul offers magnificent views of lush terraces.

Rice fields are cultivated using an intricate irrigation system called subak that transports water from mountains to lowlands, ensuring their fields remain well watered even during dry season.

Subak Juwuk Manis should be visited first thing in the morning when farmers are working and there’s less traffic. Plus, its closeness to Ubud Art Market and Saraswati Temple makes it convenient to combine it with other popular walks in the area. Wear comfortable shoes as paths may become uneven. Be sure to bring water for optimal hydration!

5. Amed

Amed is one of Bali’s greatest hidden treasures, offering stunning beaches, world-class diving, and an intriguing East Bali culture. Nestled between seven villages on an idyllic coastline teeming with secluded coves and rich marine life. Additionally, Amed provides the ideal starting point for hikers wanting to discover Mount Batur trails.

This serene and laidback region is famous for its world-class diving, but also offers great opportunities for relaxation. Visit the Bali Bird Park or simply unwind on its beaches while admiring stunning sunsets.

Accommodation options in Amed include the Bunutan Village’s Apneista Bali and Ocean Prana freediving and yoga school as well as its lovely organic Blue Earth Village Restaurant. Furthermore, Amed Beach features stunning villas and hotels offering breathtaking seaside views – these accommodations provide the best places to stay when visiting Amed.

6. Gitgit Waterfall

Gitgit Waterfall in Bali is an idyllic tourist spot for those who appreciate nature and adventure, offering a relaxing yet thrilling experience as its cascading waterfall cascades gracefully downward. Additionally, this waterfall makes a wonderful place for taking photos or creating lasting memories; taking a dip in its natural pool at its base may even tempt you! As always, just ensure to exercise caution and follow any instructions or guidelines provided.

The waterfall is nestled into lush jungle and giant boulders, creating a spectacular scene. The path leading up to it is paved, lined with souvenir shops selling handmade merchandise, and best visited early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Gitgit waterfall forms part of Jatiluwih Green Land, an expansive area of terraced rice paddies nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. This breathtaking sight should not be missed when visiting Bali on your next journey!

7. Twin Lakes

On Bali’s western coast, this exquisite beach remains one of the island’s best-kept secrets. Only accessible via a 330-step stairway from its main road, its stunning natural beauty encompasses rocks, waters and tropical jungles – offering visitors a relaxing beach day experience.

As one of Bali’s many amazing attractions, this is definitely worth your while. With crystal-clear waters and natural pools and waterfalls to swim in as well as opportunities for cliff jumping and kayaking. Don’t forget a picnic lunch and comfortable hiking shoes; it will definitely make the hike worth your while and you may even witness an unforgettable sunset!

8. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

This UNESCO Cultural Site showcases stunning and exotic landscapes. The terraced rice paddies that characterize this cultural landscape pay homage to local farmers who continue shaping it like their forebearers have for centuries.

Jatiluwih can be easily explored independently or on a tour like Green Bike Bali that takes visitors through rice paddies and jungle terrain.

Jatiluwih rice terraces are much less tourist-oriented than those at Tegalalang, providing you with an opportunity to appreciate their breathtaking scenery without jostling for space among fellow visitors. Finding a peaceful spot to sit and relax during sunrise will also be easier; photographers and drone pilots especially will love this area! Just keep in mind the drone fee charged separately which can be found clearly displayed near payment stands.

9. Sidemen Valley

Un hidden treasure that offers breathtaking landscapes, tranquil surroundings, and more authentic experience than Tegalalang rice terraces; an absolute must for visitors of Bali!

Discover breathtaking natural beauty as you traverse rice fields, wade through placid rivers, spot cows grazing outside rustic wooden huts and take in all that nature has to offer. If possible, hire a local guide as they know all of the hidden trails and best places to visit on this tour.

Sidemen is well known for its traditional palm toddy production and cottage industries that specialize in producing this drink, while Mount Agung towers over it, creating a spectacular backdrop. Many hotels and tour operators can arrange treks up Mt Agung from Sidemen; many hotels can help arrange hiking adventures from Sidemen up to its summit.

10. Pantai Jemeluk

If you’re seeking a peaceful beach with minimal visitors during the day, look no further than Jemeluk Beach. With green cliffs lining its coast and calm blue waters that reach far into the distance, Jemeluk Beach exudes natural charm that won’t disappoint.

Locate just off of Bali, this stunning beach offers visitors an idyllic environment for snorkelling and scuba diving, not to mention its striking black sand shore that creates a magnificent setting for sunset viewing.

At Denpasar’s Museum of Arts & Culture is home to an impressive collection of artifacts and artwork that tell the tale of Bali’s culture and history, along with interactive exhibits that make for an excellent learning experience about this tropical island nation. Be sure not to miss this hidden gem during your stay on Bali; visiting this museum will surely be one of the highlights of your trip!