Karangasem regency is a large region in Bali covering half of the East coast and home to majestic Mount Agung, diving paradise Amed, charming Candidasa, and green Sidemen.
Being one of the oldest royal dynasties in Bali, this regency truly holds some of the best historical artefacts, as well as fantastic palaces, sacred temples, and natural beauties.
After living in Bali for many years and exploring the best sites here, we are happy to share our Karangasem Guide with you.
Summary – Editors’ Tips For First Timers In Karangasem, Bali
- Karangasem is praised for its authenticity, real Bali vibes and stunning natural beauty of volcanoes and hills. It has black sand beaches and a few quiet white sand beaches, too.
- Top highlights: visit Sidemen, water palaces (Tirta gangga and Taman Ujung), ancient temples (Besakih, Lempuyang temple, and others), rafting and trekking.
- It is best for cultural tourists, people interested in diving and snorkelling, palaces and temples. It is an amazing destination to avoid tourist crowds.
- Karangasem is affordable and family-friendly, but there are amazing resorts for honeymooners with an adult-only format. like Samanvaya.
- If going to Karangasem straight from the airport, secure cash, a SIM card and any other necessities at the airport, Kuta, or Denpasar. East Bali doesn’t have as many shops.
Where Is Karangasem, Bali?
Karangasem is a hilly and mountainous region of East Bali covering a bit shy of 1000 sq km.
It covers the whole area around the Agung mountain and more than 70 villages between Sidemen, Candidasa, and Amed.
If you look at the map, Karangasem is east of Kintamani and northeast of Ubud.
How To Get To Karangasem?
Depending on where in Karangasem you go, it can be quite a long drive, especially if you start from Uluwatu, the international airport, or Canggu. In peak season, a ride from Canggu to Amed can easily be 3.5-4 hours on a bike.
- Hire a local driver. This is the best option if you want to sit back and relax, if you need to take luggage with you or if you’re travelling with a family. The driver can make a few stops, take you on day trips, and always be within arm’s reach.
- Rent a scooter or a car. The most affordable and common practice is to drive yourself. Riding a scooter in Bali gives you lots of freedom and independence, and it will be much cheaper than hiring a local driver by the day. However, this option is only reserved for people with an international driving license and experience in navigating traffic in Asia.
- Taxi (Gojek or Grab) will be the least preferred (and feasible) option as it is a long drive. Plus, East Bali doesn’t really use taxi apps, so you won’t be able to rely on them and get around Amed or between tourist attractions.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Karangasem?
Karangasem regency is stunning no matter the season.
It is warmer during the rainy season (November to April) and a bit cooler during the dry season (May to October).
How Many Days In Karangasem, Bali?
Karangasem is a large region, so you can have a themed day trip (temples/waterfalls/rafting) or spend 3-4 days in one of the hubs like Amed or Sidemen and explore more.
About Karangasem Regency Of East Bali
The Kingdom of Karangasem, now known as Karangasem regency, was one of the 9 ruling kingdoms in Bali, dominating the island since the 17th century.
The name Karangasem comes from two Indonesian words, Karang and Semadi, which mean coral and meditate, as Mount Lempuyang in Karangasem was chosen by the gods as a place for meditation, while the coast is rich in coral reefs.
In the 19th century, the Karangasem kingdom managed to expand its territories to Jembrana (West) and Buleleng (North) and even ventured towards Lombok on their warships.
In the 20th century, Karangasem was one of the two kingdoms in Bali representing the Dutch government, but during WWII, East Bali was occupied by Japanese forces.
Finally, after the war, Bali became independent and joined the Republic of Indonesia.
In the middle of the 20th century, Karangasem officially became one of the regencies in Bali with its capital in Amlapura town.
This regency had it worst when Mount Agung erupted in 1963, losing countless people and buildings.
Things To Do In Karangasem, Bali
There are so many activities to do in Karangasem regency, you won’t be able to squeeze it all in the same trip, so we invite you to come again!
Here are the must-do and see highlights of Karangasem.
Karangasem Palace
Puri Agung Karangasem, or the Karangasem royal palace, is located right in the centre of Amlapura city, 3 hrs away from the airport.
Beautiful 19th-century complex full of history, cultural heritage, and traditional Balinese architecture, but so overlooked by tourists! The palace grounds include floating pavilions, towering gates, living quarters, and gardens.
The members of the royal family still own the place, and it is more of a museum nowadays, with art and relics.
Where Is It? Jl. Sultan Agung, Karangasem, Kec. Karangasem, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80811, Indonesia
Blue Lagoon Beach
Located just “next door” from Padang Pai port, from where people sail to Nusa Penida and Gili islands, Blue Lagoon is a small secluded bay with easy access to good snorkelling spots right off the shore.
Go for a refreshing swim, sit down at a warung to enjoy the view, or rent the gear to enjoy the marine life.
Where Is It? FGC7+38M, Padangbai, Manggis, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80871, Indonesia
Besakih Temple
The Mother temple of all Hindu temples in Bali, the soul of Bali, Besakih temple, is a sacred site 1000 meters above sea level with 26 Hindu temples.
It is situated on the South slope of Mount Agung and is an active place of worship of the mountain’s supernatural powers and religious festivals.
The skyline of the temple towers with a volcano as a backdrop is absolutely gorgeous.
Where Is It? Besakih, Rendang, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80863, Indonesia
Tirta Gangga Water Palace
Tirta Gangga water palace is probably one of the top tourist attractions in Bali, and rightfully so.
Stunning complex of a recreational royal palace with large koi ponds, a temple, statues inspired by Hindu mythology, fountains, and a small museum.
The entrance fee varies depending on age and visa situation, but is roughly about 90,000 IDR (9 AUD).
Maha Gangga Valley near Tirta Gangga is a great spot for walking and admiring nature, too.
Where Is It? HHQQ+836, Jalan Raya Abang Desa Adat Jl. Raya Tirta Gangga, Ababi, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80852, Indonesia
Lempuyang Temple (Gates of Heaven)
Few people know, but the famous Lempuyang Luhur Temple was historically called Adri Karang or Mount Karang by locals, which means coral mountain, while Lempu means chosen mountain, as it was here where gods descended to protect the island and built a temple, according to Balinese myths.
This is a massive tourist destination, almost 1200 meters above sea level. The most visited part is the first temple with the Gates of Heaven and Agung as a backdrop, and traditional 3-peak Balinese gates on the other side.
Unfortunately, there are no reflecting pools on the grounds – this is a little trick local photographers do with a mirror to take stunning photos.
To visit this temple, dress respectfully; it is a sacred temple.
Where Is It? JJ5H+GQF, Jl. Pura Telaga Mas Lempuyang, Tri Buana, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80852, Indonesia
Taman Ujung Water Palace
architectural marvel, bringing together European and Balinese traditions, the Taman Ujung water palace is a must-see place in Karangasem, Bali.
It is off the beaten path enough, as most people visit only Tirta Gangga, but Taman Ujung is absolutely worth coming for stunning views of the ocean and surrounding mountains, as well as nice pictures.
Bale ship entrance, bridges, floating pavilions, gardens – this is a beautiful place to enjoy an afternoon walk.
Where Is It? Ujung Water Palace, Tumbu, Karangasem, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80811, Indonesia
White & Black Sand Beaches Without Crowds
East Bali is well known for shimmering black sand beaches like Amed beach or surfing spot Keramas Beach – those beaches are one of a kind!
But the East Coast also has beautiful, quiet beaches with white, golden sand, like Virgin Beach or Pasir Putih Beach, with no crowds, no shops, just endless ocean views and crystal clear waters.
Go for a swim, do yoga, or simply enjoy the beach.
Sidemen Valley
Couples and honeymooners absolutely love Sidemen Valley for its serene atmosphere, fresh air, beautiful nature, and the chance to see the real rural Bali.
And there are a lot of things to do here, too! From cycling or walking through the Sidemen rice terraces and taking pictures of the surrounding mountains, to attending traditional weaving workshops.
Amed & Japanese Shipwreck Diving
One of the most vibrant fishing villages of the East Coast, Amed, is a true paradise for snorkelling enthusiasts.
You can simply snorkel straight off the beach at Amed Beach, Jemeluk Bay, and Lipah Beach, and you will see incredible marine life, fish, and vibrant coral reefs.
Diving is fantastic here, too. Without going too deep, you can explore a real Japanese shipwreck, an ancient temple ruin, and more underwater.
If you’re a big fan of diving, just a bit outside Amed, there is another diving site: Tulamben. Experienced divers can dive to see the USAT Liberty shipwreck there.
Learn Culture At Traditional Villages
There are several villages in East Bali that guard handicrafts and traditions of Balinese people and are open for tourists.
- Tenganan – a village where you can find the indigenous Bali Aga people. The women here are masters of weaving techniques and create unique double-woven ikat fabric (geringsing) and baskets.
- Tihingan – a place where almost all gamelan music instruments are made by hand. They organise workshops, and a local guide can tell you all about the history of gamelan music.
- Tumbu village is where the most authentic Balinese Hindu practices are concentrated.
Tukad Telaga Waja River Rafting
Tukad Telaga Waja is one of the two big rivers flowing across Karangasem, Bali. It is also one of the best rivers for white water rafting for all levels.
You will easily find a half or full day trip that will include rafting, often ATV adventure, and a lunch, and many of them are kid-friendly.
If you enjoy rafting, Sidemen will be the best area to be based at, as it is closest to the river/
Samsara Living Museum
If you want to learn about the real life of the Balinese countryside, tools, traditions, religious aspects and day-to-day life, come to Samsara living museum – it is a real gem.
Upgrade your museum visit with a cooking class or a fun activity like Genjek performance, dance lessons, and more.
Where Is It? Jl. Telaga Tista, Jungutan, Kec. Bebandem, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80861, Indonesia
Mount Agung
Mighty Mount Agung is Bali’s highest mountain, towering over Karangasem. You can only climb Agung with a guided tour as it is a sacred mountain, but also because, quite frankly, this climb is very challenging.
The two main hiking routes are both tough. The Besakih temple route can take 8 hours and will take you to the very top of Mount Agung (3,031 meters), while the second route – from Pura Pasar Agung is about 5 hours and takes you to the volcano crater rim (2,866 meters).
Where Is It? Jungutan, Bebandem, Karangasem Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Waterfalls In Karangasem, Bali
While Karangasem isn’t famous for waterfalls, there are at least four worth visiting: Gembleng Waterfall, Telaga Waja Waterfall, Jagasatru Waterfall, and Yeh Labuh Waterfall.
Gembleng Waterfall is perfect to visit if you are staying in Sidemen. It is a tiny hike, but there are steps leading to different natural pools (with stunning views over the valley) and small waterfalls.
Telaga Waja Waterfall is another nice waterfall near Sidemen, but you can only get to it while rafting down the Telaga Waja River.
Jagasatru Waterfall is a hidden gem, for sure. Not only will you find a nice tall waterfall, but also a giant golden statue of the Hindu God Brahma. However, the road leading to the waterfall is a bit tricky; we don’t recommend driving here during or after heavy rainfall.
Yeh Labuh Waterfall is a short ride from Candidasa. After a 15-20 minute trek through dense forest, you will find a tall waterfall surrounded by greenery. There is rarely anyone there.
Where To Stay In Karangasem Regency?
Karangasem regency includes some of the most beautiful areas to stay in Bali: Amed, Candidasa, and Sidemen.
Sidemen
Interestingly, Karangasem is mostly hills and mountains, with far fewer rice fields than other territories in Bali. One place to truly enjoy some rice paddies in Karangasem is Sidemen.
Recommended Hotels In Sidemen
- Samanvaya. In Sidemen Valley, our favourite resort is the Samanvaya Adult-Only resort with spa, gallery, restaurant, and infinity pool.
- Hideout Eco Bamboo House Bali is a close second – it is a perfect whimsical escape to connect with nature and yourself.
- Khrisna Hs and Cottages is the perfect budget accommodation in the area for under 30 AUD per night. Simple family-owned complex with a pool and nature around.
Amed
Amed is a great destination for divers, yogis, and anyone who loves a tranquil ambiance. It is also a strategic spot to explore the surrounding area: from Amed you can go diving in different locations, visit temples and cooking classes.
Recommended Hotels Near Amed Beach
- Amed Paradise is our new favourite hotel in Amed. It is a beachfront complex with amazing views from the rooftop and a big pool.
- Mathis Lodge brings a unique experience in Amed. It is not on the beach but rather perched on the hill, offering breathtaking views. Luxe 4-star resort with infinity pool, spa, and private shuttle to Amed centre.
- BARracuda is a simple, affordable hostel-type accommodation with a warung right on the beach. Amazing vibes!
Candidasa
Candidasa is great for a honeymoon and chilling with the whole family in one of the amazing beachfront spa resorts.
Candidasa is closer to Gianyar, which means if you want to chase waterfalls and visit traditional weaving workshops or explore villages, you should base yourself here.
Recommended Hotels In Candidasa
- Candi Beach Resort & Spa Bali – modern, upscale resort with a serene atmosphere and direct access to the beach. There is a large pool, an oceanfront restaurant, yoga, and a spa.
- Ramayana Candidasa Beach Resort has an absolutely gorgeous pool and gardens dotted with private villas and the main building with suites. Their romantic dinners on the beach are perfect for couples.
- Ashyana Candidasa Beach Resort is an older and more affordable resort, yet it is super close to Candidasa Beach.
Best Restaurants & Warungs In Karangasem Regency
Karangasem is one of the best regions in Bali to enjoy local food. There aren’t many fine-dining restaurants or venues as diverse as those in Canggu or even Ubud, but there are a few secret spots we recommend.
Warungs
- Ibus Sea View, Amed – a cheap cafe with ocean views to enjoy Indonesian and Balinese staples and grilled seafood.
- Warung Tirta Unda in Sidemen is one of our favourite places to eat. Smoked chicken, sweet tempeh, fried rice – everything is delicious.
- Warung Bintang in Candidasa is mostly focused on local cuisine and grilled seafood, but they also have cheap international dishes.
Restaurants
- Samanvaya Asri Dining, Sidemen, is the closest to a fine-dining experience you can get in Karangasem. Delicious food and a very stylish venue.
- Bali Asli – the best place to try authentic Balinese cuisine, and they also have cooking classes. Stunning views from the terrace.
- Vincent’s Candidasa, located right in front of the Candidasa Lotus Lagoon, this restaurant has an amazing garden to dine in and live music nights.
- La Montagne Coffee – a cute coffee shop with views of Mount Agung and rice terraces.
FAQs
What To Do In Karangasem?
In Karangasem, Bali, you can visit the royal palace, floating water palaces, rice terraces, black and white sand beaches, snorkel or dive, as well as learn more about Bali’s history and religion at temples, museums, and traditional villages.
How Do You Get Around In Karangasem?
The best way to get around in Karangasem regency is on your own bike or with a private driver. E-hailing and taxi services are not as common here as they are in South Bali.
When you are staying in one specific area, you can easily get around on foot. Amed and Candidasa, as well as Karangasem town (Amlapura), or Sidemen centres are all walkable.
Is Karangasem Crowded With Tourists?
The eastern side of Bali, including Karangasem regency, is not crowded with tourists. Travellers seeking a peaceful escape often flock to Amed, Sidemen Valley, and Candidasa, but the areas still remain very quiet.
It is fair to say that during the opening hours, places like Tirta Gangga or Lempuyang temple get pretty busy with tourists, though. Plan to come early to avoid crowds.
Is Karangasem A Good Place To Live?
Many long-term expats in Bali settle in hubs like Amed. Being far from the hustle and bustle of South Bali, the area still offers a great, comfortable life with coffee shops, a gym, access to the ocean and outdoors and a welcoming community.
It will be great for introverts, yogis, nature lovers, and anyone who prefers serenity and doesn’t care about nightlife or shopping much.
You will still have to travel to Denpasar for paperwork or big purchases, though.
How Much Will I Spend In Karangasem?
Karangasem is very affordable. There are many cheap eats where you can grab lunch or dinner for under 5 AUD, and small hotels and guesthouses with rooms for under 40 AUD per night.
Final Thoughts On The Karangasem Guide
Karangasem offers an authentic Bali experience for anyone interested in local culture, ancient temples, and breathtaking views.
This regency is definitely worth visiting: the best sunrises, Mount Agung views, grilled seafood, and diving spots are all here waiting for you.
