Exploring Specific Locations In Bali

Various attractions in Bali, Indonesia, including Lahangan Sweet in Karangasem, the entry fee for Handara Gate, Pinggan Village, the rice fields in Canggu, and Sideman Valley. Here’s a brief overview of each location

Lahangan Sweet, Karangasem

Lahangan Sweet is a relatively new tourist destination in East Bali, located in Karangasem Regency. It’s known for its breathtaking panoramic views, especially at sunrise. Visitors can enjoy a wide vista that includes Mount Agung, Bali’s largest and most sacred volcano. The area is also popular for its lush greenery and cool climate.

Lahangan Sweet in Karangasem, Bali, is a breathtaking viewpoint that offers expansive views of the surrounding landscapes, including the majestic Mount Agung. The area is accessible for a small entrance fee of 20,000 IDR, which allows you to enjoy the panoramic views and utilize the facilities available at the site​​.

The site is open daily from 6 AM to 8 PM, making it an ideal spot for both sunrise and sunset viewings. To fully experience the beauty of Lahangan Sweet, arriving before 5:30 AM for sunrise or by 5 PM for sunset is recommended to catch the stunning natural light displays over the mountains and valleys​​.

For those interested in camping, Lahangan Sweet offers a camping ground where you can either bring your own tent or rent one on-site. Renting a tent for two people costs 185,000 IDR, while bringing your own tent incurs a fee of 20,000 IDR. This option is perfect for those wanting to experience the serene beauty of the area from dusk till dawn​​.

To reach Lahangan Sweet, be prepared for a steep and potentially muddy hike. Proper footwear is advised for the climb. For those less inclined to make the hike, local scooter services are available to ferry visitors up the hill for a fee. This service can be particularly helpful for navigating the challenging terrain, especially during wet conditions​​.

Given its relatively new status as a tourist spot and its challenging access route, Lahangan Sweet remains a hidden gem in Bali that promises an unforgettable experience for those who venture there. Remember to carry water and snacks since there are limited vendors in the area, and dress warmly as it can get cold at the top

Handara Gate:

The iconic Handara Gate is actually the entrance to the Handara Golf Resort in Bali. It has become a famous Instagram spot due to its stunning traditional Balinese gate and the picturesque background of lush green mountains. As it’s a popular photography spot, there might be an entry fee for visitors wanting to take photos, which can vary.

Handara Gate, located in north-central Bali near the Munduk region, is renowned for its picturesque traditional Hindu gate that serves as the entrance to the Handara Golf Resort. This iconic spot has gained fame as an Instagram-worthy location, drawing visitors who wish to capture its beauty​​​​.

To visit Handara Gate, there’s an entrance fee of 30,000 IDR (approximately $2 USD), which is payable in cash at the booth located at the front of the gate. The area doesn’t have official opening hours since it’s an open gate by the roadside, but it’s generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, it’s recommended to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best photos​​​​.

When planning your visit, consider that the gate can get quite crowded, especially in the late morning when tour vans arrive. To get the perfect shot, you might have to wait in line, and each person is typically allowed around 5 minutes for their photo session​​​​.

For getting there, renting a scooter or hiring a driver is a popular choice. If you’re coming from Ubud, the drive can take 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic, while from Munduk, it’s a shorter 30-minute journey​​​​.

Despite its popularity, some visitors feel that the Handara Gate has become too crowded and overhyped, detracting from the experience. If you’re looking for alternative scenic spots in Bali, consider visiting Tegalallang Rice Terrace Gate in Ubud, Heaven’s Gate at Lempuyang Temple, or Pura Luhur Uluwatu Gate, each offering its unique charm and potentially fewer crowds

Pinggan Village

Located in Kintamani, Pinggan Village is known for its incredible sunrise views over Mount Batur and the surrounding caldera. It’s a less touristy destination compared to other sunrise spots in Bali, offering a more peaceful experience. Visitors come early in the morning to catch the breathtaking scenery.

Pinggan Village in Bali is renowned for its breathtaking sunrise views. Situated on the slopes of Mount Batur in Kintamani, Bangli, reaching Pinggan Village requires a bit more than a two-hour drive from popular areas like Denpasar, Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu. To catch the sunrise, it’s recommended to start your journey very early, around 3:15 AM. The viewpoint is a simple roadside spot without any facilities, so it’s essential to come prepared for the cold temperatures, especially in the mountainous regions of North Bali. Warm clothing and possibly long pants are advised due to the significantly colder climate in this area​​.

There’s currently no official entrance fee for enjoying the sunrise at Pinggan Village. However, you might encounter locals asking for donations. It’s important to note that they are not the landowners, and contributions are not mandatory. For photography enthusiasts, Pinggan Village offers numerous angles to capture stunning shots, especially with a drone. The aerial view of the two large Bali volcanoes lined up is particularly impressive. It’s advisable to experiment with different focal lengths to capture the volcanoes at varying distances in your shots​​.

Exploring Pinggan Village offers more than just a picturesque sunrise. The village’s highland location provides a refreshing atmosphere, especially in the morning. The lush landscape and the pristine view of the mountains make it a perfect spot for sightseeing, photography, and trekking. The best time to visit is during the clear mornings of September to November when the sunrise is at its most spectacular. Visitors to Pinggan Village can enjoy this mesmerizing view and the serene environment without any entrance fee. It’s a place where one can truly appreciate the beauty of nature in Bali​​.

For a more detailed exploration of Pinggan Village and its surroundings, consider incorporating other attractions in North Bali into your itinerary. The region is home to impressive waterfalls, temples, and the scenic Lake Batur, offering a full day’s worth of activities and sights to explore​​.

Canggu Rice Fields:

Canggu is a coastal village in Bali that has become popular with tourists and expats. While it’s known for its vibrant cafe scene, beaches, and surf spots, Canggu still boasts beautiful rice fields, especially in the more undeveloped areas. Walking or cycling through these rice paddies can be a serene experience.

Exploring Canggu Rice Fields

The rice fields in Canggu, Bali, provide a tranquil and picturesque setting that contrasts with the area’s more well-known surf and café culture. These fields offer a glimpse into the traditional Balinese way of life and agriculture, making them a must-visit for those seeking a more authentic experience.

Getting to Canggu Rice Fields

Option 1: Renting a Scooter

Riding a scooter is a popular and convenient way to explore the rice fields, offering flexibility and the ability to navigate Canggu’s busy streets more easily. Scooter rentals in Bali typically range from IDR 25,000 to IDR 100,000 per day, with prices varying based on the rental duration and the scooter’s engine capacity. It’s important to only ride a scooter if you are experienced and confident in handling the busy traffic, and always wear a helmet for safety​​.

Option 2: Walking or Cycling

For those who prefer not to ride a scooter, walking or cycling can be great alternatives. Cycling through the rice fields offers a serene and immersive experience, allowing you to take in the beautiful landscapes at a leisurely pace. Bicycle rentals are available in Canggu, and it’s advisable to have lights on your bicycle if you plan to ride during early morning or evening hours​​.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal times to visit the rice fields in Canggu are during sunrise or early evening when the temperatures are cooler and the light is softer. These times of day provide the most magical views of the fields, with the morning offering a chance to see the fields bathed in the soft morning light and the evening presenting a tranquil atmosphere as the sun sets. It’s important to be mindful of the time to avoid being caught in the dark, as many parts of the rice fields may not be well-lit​​​​.

Visiting Tips

• Respect the Fields: Remember that the rice fields are part of the local farmers’ livelihoods. Visitors should be respectful and careful not to damage the crops while exploring and taking photos.
• Authentic Experience: Unlike the more famous and touristy rice terraces in Bali, such as Tegalalang or Jatiluwih, the rice fields in Canggu offer a more authentic and easily accessible experience. They may not be as dramatic, but their authenticity and proximity to Canggu make them a worthwhile visit for those seeking a genuine Balinese experience​​.

Sideman Valley

Sidemen Valley in East Bali is often compared to Ubud for its traditional Balinese culture and stunning landscapes, but without the crowds. The valley is surrounded by rice paddies, rural villages, and Mount Agung. It’s an excellent place for trekking, cultural tours, and enjoying the slower pace of rural Bali

Exploring Sidemen Valley in Bali

Sidemen Valley, located in East Bali, offers a serene and culturally rich experience, making it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the more crowded areas of the island.

Activities in Sidemen Valley

1. White Water Rafting at Telaga Waja River: This half-day rafting tour is a thrilling activity suitable for the whole family, featuring class III-IV rapids and a stunning 4m drop. The journey passes through lush forests, rice paddies, and waterfalls, offering a unique way to experience Bali’s natural beauty.
2. Sidemen Cooking Class: Participate in a Balinese cooking class, which includes a tour of an organic vegetable garden to pick fresh ingredients. This hands-on experience allows you to learn about Balinese cuisine and indulge in the dishes you prepare.
3. Stay in a Bamboo House: Sidemen Valley is known for its incredible bamboo houses, offering a unique and romantic accommodation experience. These houses provide breathtaking views of the surrounding rice paddies and are a great way to immerse yourself in nature.
4. Explore the Sidemen Rice Terraces: The lush green rice terraces surrounding Sidemen Valley can be explored by taking a short drive from the main village. To take photos in the rice fields, it’s advisable to ask permission first and offer a donation to the staff working there.
5. Visit Mount Agung Viewpoints: Among the popular viewpoints is Bukit Cinta, which offers stunning views of Mount Agung. The best time to visit is at sunrise before the clouds set in.
6. Trekking in Sidemen Bali: The region is ideal for trekking, covering diverse landscapes from rice terraces to forests. Organizing a tour with a local guide enhances the experience, providing insights into the local culture and unexplored areas of the valley.
7. Discover Gembleng Waterfall: This recently discovered waterfall is just a short drive from Sidemen Village. It features rock pools and offers a refreshing swim with views of nearby rice fields.

Cultural and Historical Sites

1. Taman Ujung Water Palace: This historical palace boasts beautiful gardens, ponds, and floating buildings. The site offers stunning views of the sea, mountains, and Mount Agung. It’s best visited in the morning when it’s cooler.
2. Tirta Gangga Water Temple: A sacred site surrounded by beautiful pools, fountains, and water gardens. It’s a tranquil place to spend time exploring the complex and its religious and cultural significance.

General Tips for Visiting Sidemen Valley

• Renting a Scooter: Renting a scooter is a great way to explore Sidemen Valley, giving you the freedom to visit various attractions at your own pace.
• Experience Local Life: Sidemen offers a glimpse into the local Balinese life. Interacting with the locals and participating in daily activities can provide a deeper understanding of their culture.
• Accommodation: There are various accommodation options available, from luxurious bamboo houses to more budget-friendly choices.
• Weather Considerations: Sidemen has a tropical climate. Planning your activities according to the weather, especially during the wet season, is advisable.

Activities and Entry Fees

• Gembleng Waterfall: This hidden waterfall is a gem in the jungle with a natural infinity pool. There’s no fixed entry fee, but a donation to the village community fund is appreciated (10-20K IDR suggested). The best light for photography is at sunrise, and it’s often deserted at this time​​.
• Lahangan Sweet Volcano Viewpoint: For breathtaking views of Mount Agung, Lahangan Sweet is a must-visit. It’s about an hour’s drive from Sidemen Village. An entry fee of 20K IDR per person is required​​.
• Tirta Gangga Water Palace: A former royal palace with stunning gardens, ponds, and statues. It’s advisable to visit in the early morning to avoid the midday heat. The entry fee is 50K IDR for adults and 15K for children, with a 2K IDR parking fee​​.
• Taman Ujung Water Palace: Another royal palace with a mix of architectural styles. The entry fee is 75,000 IDR per person, with a discount available for KITAS holders. Early morning visits are recommended​​.

Travel Tips

• Trekking: The lush green rice terraces and fields are best explored on foot. Hiring a local guide is recommended to avoid damaging the crops and to learn more about the area’s agriculture​​.
• Accommodation: Sidemen is known for its bamboo houses, offering incredible views of the rice paddies. These accommodations range from luxurious to budget-friendly, allowing for a unique and immersive stay​​.
• Local Culture: Taking a cooking class is a great way to immerse yourself in Balinese culture. Classes often include a tour of organic gardens to pick fresh ingredients​​​​.
• Adventure Activities: White water rafting on the Telaga Waja River offers a thrilling experience with views of the jungle and rice paddies. The course includes a mix of calm waters and exciting rapids​​​​.

Sidemen Valley is a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of Bali. Whether you’re trekking through the rice fields, exploring waterfalls, or simply enjoying the view from a bamboo house, Sidemen offers a peaceful retreat from the more touristy areas of the island. Remember to respect the local customs and environment as you enjoy all that Sidemen has to offer.