Bali is world-renowned for its jungles, culture, and Instagrammable places like the rice terraces of Ubud and beach clubs of Seminyak. But Bali is also home to undiscovered waterfalls, untouched beaches, and mystical temples away from the tourist track.
If you want to uncover the true, phenomenal gem that is Bali, I offer these 10 hidden gems that most adventurers (and influencers) don't know about yet.
1. Sidemen Valley: Bali’s Most Serene Rice Terraces
Sidemen is Bali's secret in plain site - a peaceful place where time doesn't move. Do you remember when Ubud's rice terraces weren't surrounded by tea-houses, hotels, and tourist distractions inhibiting any chance for experiencing those original childlike experiences? Think of that endless green journey of rice maturity in fields! Think of that essence of traditional farmers laboring on family land! Think about the view of Mount Agung from Ubud! Sidemen is a TRUE rural {and urban} Balinese village! You will be in a family homestay farm, rise awake to fresh roosters welcoming each day, view misty hills from your patio, and fall into a calming slumber lulled by the sounds of the night frogs and crickets. 📌 Pro Tip: An early morning hike to Bukit Cinta {Hill of Love} was an experience of a lifetime; especially, the view of the terraces surrounding with daylight golden light cascading around the rice paddies was AMAZING and may even make your phone photo look like a professional!
2. Tukad Cepung Waterfall: A Cave of Light
Tukad Cepung Waterfall in Bangli is famous for its spectacular, almost unreal scenery, as it flows out of and deep inside a cave, and sunlight shines through small openings in the rocks around it, creating a stunning aesthetic light below the water. The waterfall is often missed by most tourists to Bali and is a great quiet escape from busier locations such as Tegenungan. To fully enjoy the magical location - and to avoid being surrounded by too many visitors - it is wise to arrive before 10 AM.
3. Bias Tugel Beach: Secret White Sand Paradise
Nestled away close to Padangbai, this isolated beach is hidden away, and is accessed by a quick jungle hike with beautiful turquoise water, soft white sand, and a peaceful ambience to snorkel or take a calming picnic. This untouched oasis allows visitors to escape to paradise. Your Instagram feed will flourish when you visit this hidden spot! There is also a small cliffside viewpoint nearby that is worth the trip as well as an added bonus for those who love taking pictures.
4. Jatiluwih Green Land: UNESCO Rice Terraces Without the Crowds
Jatiluwih Green Land is a stunning area of UNESCO-listed rice terraces in Tabanan, Bali that can be a nice escape from the busy Tegallalang. Generally, it has a nice view of surrounded hills but the views are truly breathtaking at sunset when you can capture sweeping panoramic views of the beautiful area. It's also a great spot to just walk through the countryside or cycle through the open, tropical landscape, especially with a group. The atmosphere here is so relaxing, and there is enough local culture to be considered experience-authentic. Also, be sure to try Nasi Jinggo, which is a delicious Balinese street food that is commonly sold by friendly. local vendors along the roadways.
5. Pura Lempuyang Luhur: The Real ‘Gates of Heaven’
Located in East Bali, this lesser-travelled temple is a great option for those looking for a quieter alternative to the famed Pura Besakih, while getting some majestic “Gates of Heaven” shots without too many crowds. It has mountain views, and there's a spiritual feeling about this temple giving it a peaceful feeling for quiet reflection and wonderful photos. As with all sacred places in Bali, please be respectful in your dress (saron is required here) and in keeping with local customs and traditions.
6. Melasti Beach: Uluwatu’s Best-Kept Secret
This hidden beach is located in Ungasan, a little slice of paradise with powder-like white sand and crystal clear turquoise waves framed by dramatic limestone cliffs. This is a fantastic beach for surfers and also a great spot to hang out for sunset and if you enjoy a casual drink, The Manja beach bar has stunning cocktails and amazing panoramic ocean views. The ride to get there is also part of the experience. You can rent a scooter and enjoy the amazing winding coastal roads, making the journey just as memorable as the final destination.
7. Banyumala Twin Waterfalls: Jungle Paradise
Nestled deep within the jungle of Wanagiri, Banyumala Twin Waterfalls is a serene retreat where two streams flow side by side into a cool, refreshing pool—it’s a perfect place to take a swim and immerse yourself in nature. Unlike Bali’s more crowded waterfalls, this site is a quiet, less disturbed and much more genuine jungle experience. If you’d like a little side trip, you can take a quick detour to Wanagiri Hidden Hills and check out the beautiful views over the twin lakes and the photo-op swings that overlook the stunning landscape.
8. Penglipuran Village: Bali’s Most Authentic Traditional Town
Located in Bangli, Penglipuran Village is an authentic glimpse into Bali’s cultural heart, with its pristine, bamboo-laid streets and carefully kept traditional homes. One of the island’s most traditional villages, Penglipuran feels like stepping into a museum, where customary and community values are still alive. In order to experience the culture in real time, we recommend staying into the evening to view their Kecak fire dance performed under the stars in conjunction with their cultural heritage.
9. Tirta Gangga’s Hidden Water Palace
Nestled in the lesser-known area of Karangasem, a hidden water palace in Tirta Gangga sits, away from the crowds, an ephemeral escape of tranquility. It is a peaceful retreat, with lily ponds, moss-covered stone statues and vegetation galore, that offers a piece of Bali's royalistic heritage without the crowds of the main site. If you want to spend a day fully immersed in the regality of Bali, combine your trip to Tirta Gangga with nearby Taman Ujung, another beautiful palace with magnificent vistas and beautiful gardens.
10. Nyang Nyang Beach: Bali’s Most Secluded Shore
Hidden beneath the cliffs of Uluwatu, Nyang Nyang Beach rewards adventurous souls with a 500-step journey down to one of Bali’s most secluded and unspoiled shores. Stretching with soft golden sand and framed by rolling waves, it’s the perfect escape for those craving solitude and raw natural beauty. The powerful surf here also makes it a favorite among seasoned surfers looking for a challenge away from the crowded breaks.
Final Thoughts: Bali Beyond the Crowds
While Instagram flocks to Kuta and Ubud, these 10 hidden gems offer a truer, quieter Bali. Whether you seek waterfalls, secret beaches, or cultural havens, this island still has untouched magic.
Which spot will you explore first? Let us know in the comments!
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