Sidemen, a Quiet Side of Bali Nestled in the Hills
Looking for a peaceful Bali, far from the tourist crowds? Sidemen is a preserved village where time seems to slow down. Time to admire terraced rice fields, meet local artisans, and savor simple, delicious cuisine. Here, the gentle rhythm of Balinese life reveals itself with honesty and grace.
After our time in Munduk, we continued our journey toward Sidemen. Each path led us through lush green landscapes, and every encounter added a human dimension to the experience. There are no large resorts here—just family-run warungs, artisan workshops, and sweeping views of Mount Agung, always on the horizon.
Whether you love hiking, exploring traditional crafts, or simply enjoying the silence, Sidemen is the perfect alternative for discovering a different side of Bali. In this article, we share our discoveries, practical tips, and impressions to help you experience this destination in the most genuine way.
Getting to Sidemen
From Munduk
After our stay in Munduk, we made our way to Sidemen. The journey takes around 3 hours and crosses some of Bali’s most spectacular landscapes—mountains, valleys, traditional villages, and scenic views of Mount Batur. Traveling with a private driver is the best option to enjoy the scenery, make spontaneous stops, and arrive stress-free.
- Estimated duration: 3 hours
- Recommended route: Munduk → Kintamani → Besakih → Sidemen
- Tip: Leave in the morning to avoid the heat and take a break in Penelokan for panoramic views over the volcano and lake
From Ubud
Getting to Sidemen from Ubud is simple and relatively quick. The drive passes through rural landscapes before reaching the more remote, mountainous area of Sidemen. It can be done by car or scooter, though only experienced riders should attempt the latter.
- Estimated duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Recommended route: Ubud → Klungkung → Sidemen
- Tip: The final stretch includes tight turns and narrow roads—drive carefully as you approach the village
From Denpasar Airport (Ngurah Rai)
If you want to skip the southern crowds upon arrival, heading directly to Sidemen from the airport is a peaceful alternative. The drive can be arranged with a private driver, often offered by accommodations in the area.
- Estimated duration: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours
- Recommended option: Book a private driver in advance
- Tip: A great way to begin your trip in a serene, natural setting
Strolling Through the Village of Sidemen – Where Tradition Meets Simplicity
In Sidemen, the days flow to the rhythm of artisans at work and neighbors exchanging friendly conversations. There are no large hotels or crowded streets—just family-run workshops, quiet little shops, and scenes of authentic daily life.
As we wandered through the village lanes, we watched weavers create tenun ikat, intricately patterned fabrics made with great care. Further along, others were crafting silver jewelry or patiently carving wood. The locals, curious and kind, are always happy to share their know-how and speak about their everyday life with sincerity.
Taking our time, we stumbled upon family-run warungs—perfect for a Balinese coffee break—and peaceful temples tucked under frangipani trees. There’s no rush here. Sidemen reveals itself slowly, through small encounters and quiet details. It’s a village that invites you to slow down, observe, and find beauty in the simplest things.
Hiking Around Sidemen – Between Rice Fields and Breathtaking Views
At first light, a soft mist lingers above Sidemen’s rice fields. Birds sing as farmers, feet submerged in water, tend to each rice shoot with precise gestures. The wind rustles through the palms, and water flows gently between the terraces. Here, walks begin in silence, in rhythm with a rural, untouched Bali.
Several hiking routes, suitable for all levels, allow you to explore the area on foot. Strolling through the rice fields is perfect for a gentle, contemplative experience. These walks offer beautiful photo opportunities, wildlife observation, and—most importantly—a return to a slower pace of life.
For those looking for a challenge, climbing Mount Agung is an unforgettable adventure. This demanding trek requires strong physical fitness and a nighttime departure, but reaching the summit at sunrise is a moment like no other. For a more accessible option, Tukad Cepung Waterfall offers a refreshing setting, while Lake Taman Suci is ideal for a quiet pause, far from the world.
Balinese Craftsmanship – Create Your Own Silver Jewelry
What if you could leave Bali with a piece of jewelry you crafted yourself? In Sidemen, craftsmanship is everywhere—discreet but alive—and joining a silver jewelry workshop is a beautiful way to connect with this ancestral art.
After comparing several options, we chose Pande Silver Sidemen, a workshop known for its welcoming artisans and the quality of their guidance. From the moment we arrived, each step of the process was explained with care—from shaping the metal to the final polish, using techniques passed down through generations.
The experience was both fun and enriching, offering a deeper appreciation of Balinese silversmithing while allowing us to take home a truly unique, handmade piece. At the end of the session, we were offered tea and banana fritters in a simple, warm atmosphere.
Our Tips to Make the Most of the Workshop:
- Book in advance, especially during high season—these workshops fill up quickly
- Expect to pay around 300,000 IDR per person, a reasonable price for a personalized piece
- Take your time: here, the process is as valuable as the result. You’ll be guided at your own pace, with no rush
A Culinary Journey Through Sidemen – Flavors and Traditions
From the moment we arrived in Sidemen, the aroma of spices and freshly cooked rice filled the air—stirring our curiosity as much as our appetite. Here, food is part of daily life, served in family-run warungs or small, open-air restaurants overlooking the rice fields.
Local specialties are simple, generous, and full of character: babi guling (slow-roasted pork with spices), nasi campur (rice served with a variety of sides like vegetables, tofu, tempeh, boiled egg or meat), and sate lilit (finely minced fish or meat wrapped around a lemongrass stick). Each recipe tells a story—of the families who prepare it, the ingredients from the village, and the ancestral gestures behind every dish.
During our stay, we discovered Sweet Warung, a charming spot with breathtaking views over the valley. The peaceful setting, warm hospitality, and beautifully prepared plates won us over. The nasi campur—served with crisp vegetables, marinated tempeh, and a perfectly balanced homemade sambal—was a definite highlight.
Whether at a modest roadside stall or on a scenic terrace, every meal in Sidemen is a true experience—a moment of simplicity, flavor, and genuine connection.
Spas and Wellness – Recharging in Sidemen
After a day of exploring rice fields, trails, and artisan workshops, nothing beats a moment of relaxation. In Sidemen, the air is filled with the scent of essential oils and tropical flowers. Spas—often nestled in nature—offer treatments inspired by Balinese traditions, designed to soothe the body and calm the mind.
Balinese Massage – A Soothing Ritual
Traditional Balinese massage is an integral part of the Bali experience. This ancient practice combines deep pressure, gentle stretching, and aromatic oils to promote both physical relaxation and inner balance.
In Sidemen, many spas offer simple yet authentic treatments in serene settings. Prices typically start around 150,000 IDR for a one-hour massage. Every movement is intentional, designed to release the tensions of daily life.
High-End Spas – Discreet Luxury and Serenity
For a more immersive experience, some establishments offer complete wellness rituals: herbal baths, coffee or volcanic clay scrubs, coconut-based facials, and more. Treatment rooms often open out onto rice fields or jungle, enhancing the feeling of absolute tranquility.
With prices starting around 1,000,000 IDR, these high-end spas focus on exclusive settings, the highest quality care, and a deep respect for Balinese healing traditions.
The Art of Wellbeing, at Sidemen’s Pace
Getting a massage in the heart of nature, soaking in a flower-filled bath with views over the hills, or simply slowing down in a peaceful environment—wellness in Sidemen goes beyond the treatments themselves. It’s about the atmosphere, the gentle rhythm of the village, and the simple beauty of its surroundings.
Sidemen – A Quiet Pause in a Journey Through Bali
What struck us most in Sidemen wasn’t just the beauty of the landscapes or the richness of the encounters—it was the rhythm. Here, time flows differently. You don’t just visit—you inhabit the place, if only for a few days.
Between a walk through the rice fields, a craft workshop, or a shared meal at a warung, each moment found its natural place. This village doesn’t try to impress—it simply offers another way of experiencing Bali: quieter, closer, more genuine.
And maybe that’s the true luxury of travel—allowing a place to move through you, without expecting anything more.
Our guides to exploring Bali
Articles by destination
Want to explore different sides of Bali? Each region has its own rhythm, scenery, and atmosphere. To help you fine-tune your itinerary, we’ve dedicated a full article to each stop on our journey:
- Ubud: A Blend of Culture, Rice Terraces, and Balinese Traditions
- Munduk: A natural haven filled with waterfalls and plantations
- Gili Trawangan: The perfect island for snorkeling and laid-back vibes
- Nusa Penida: Dramatic cliffs and unforgettable viewpoints
- Uluwatu: Surf, temples, and sunsets over the ocean
Our 2-week itinerary in Bali
Looking for an overview to help structure your trip? Check out our complete two-week itinerary, designed to balance exploration, relaxation, and cultural immersion across Bali’s most beautiful destinations.
Plan your trip: our practical guide
Need concrete tips to organize your journey? Entry requirements, local transportation, budget, weather, useful advice… you’ll find all the essential information in our practical guide to planning a trip to Bali.
No matter how you like to travel, Bali has a thousand faces to discover. Whether your stay is focused on nature, culture, or pure relaxation, you’ll find everything you need here to plan a journey that truly reflects you.
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