Located at the eastern tip of Bali Island, Karangasem Regency is a hidden paradise untouched by mainstream tourism. This region offers a unique combination of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and a sense of Bali’s royal history that still lingers today.
Compared to the modern and bustling southern Bali, Karangasem offers a more peaceful, authentic, and exotic atmosphere. From sacred mountains, water palaces, hidden beaches to traditional villages—Karangasem is the ideal destination for those seeking to explore Bali’s more spiritual, natural, and captivating side.
1. Mount Agung: The Sacred Roof of Bali
Mount Agung is the highest peak in Bali and is considered a sacred mountain by the Balinese Hindus. Climbing to its summit is both a spiritual and physical adventure.
Activities:
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Sunrise trekking to the summit with the help of a local guide.
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Watching the sunrise above the clouds.
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Pilgrimage to Besakih Temple, the largest and most important temple in Bali, located on the slopes of Mount Agung.
Trekking Mount Agung is ideal for travelers who love a challenge and want to experience the island’s spiritual core up close.
2. Besakih Temple: The Mother Temple of Bali
Besakih Temple is the spiritual center of Hinduism in Bali. This temple complex consists of over 80 majestic structures built on the slopes of Mount Agung.
Highlights:
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Stunning views of rice fields and the ocean from above.
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Impressive ancient temple architecture.
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Large religious ceremonies often held here.
A visit to Besakih Temple offers a profound spiritual and cultural experience.
3. Tirta Gangga: The Enchanting Royal Water Garden
Tirta Gangga is a royal water garden from the Karangasem Kingdom era. Its clear fish ponds, tiered fountains, and lush greenery make it an incredibly Instagram-worthy spot.
Things to do:
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Walk across stepping stones in the middle of the pond.
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Feed the large koi fish.
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Relax and take photos in the beautiful garden setting.
Tirta Gangga is a perfect place to unwind while enjoying Bali’s artistic beauty.
4. Taman Ujung (Soekasada Ujung Water Palace): Romantic and Photogenic
Taman Ujung is a royal water palace near the coast. It features large ponds, manicured gardens, and architecture that blends European and Balinese styles.
Popular activities:
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Pre-wedding and Instagram photo sessions.
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Afternoon walks in the garden.
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Climb the small hill for panoramic ocean views.
The sunset views here are also spectacular!
5. Tenganan Traditional Village: Traces of the Bali Aga
Tenganan is a Bali Aga (original Balinese) village that still preserves its ancient traditions and customs. Its people live very differently from modern Balinese society.
Highlights:
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Gringsing weaving, the only double-ikat textile in Indonesia.
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Unique and orderly traditional house architecture.
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The sacred and exciting Perang Pandan (Pandanus War) festival.
A visit to Tenganan takes you back to a very traditional and well-preserved Bali.
6. Beautiful Beaches in Karangasem
Although located on Bali’s eastern side, Karangasem boasts many exotic beaches that are still relatively quiet and unspoiled.
a. Virgin Beach (Perasi Beach)
A hidden gem with white sand and clear water. Perfect for relaxing, swimming, or lounging.
b. Amed Beach
A paradise for snorkeling and diving lovers. Coral reefs and a Japanese shipwreck can be easily spotted just meters from the shore.
c. Tulamben Beach
A famous diving site with the USAT Liberty shipwreck from World War II.
d. Bias Tugel & Jasri Beaches
Small, beautiful beaches with a peaceful, local vibe.
7. Fun Activities in Karangasem
Besides nature and culture, Karangasem also offers a variety of engaging activities:
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Snorkeling and diving in Amed and Tulamben.
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Biking through village roads and rice fields.
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Learning weaving or crafting in local tourist villages.
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Bathing in holy spring waters at temples like Tirta Telaga Waja.
For adventurers, Karangasem is rich with trekking, rafting, and camping spots.
8. Karangasem’s Culinary Delights
Karangasem’s cuisine delivers strong, spicy flavors with a uniquely Balinese aroma.
Must-try dishes:
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Ayam Betutu Karangasem: the local version of Bali’s signature spicy dish.
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Tipat Cantok and Lawar Kuwir: traditional dishes commonly sold at local warungs.
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Grilled Fish from Amed: fresh from the sea, grilled right on the beach.
You can also find many international cafes and warungs in Amed.
9. Accommodation in Karangasem
Karangasem offers plenty of lodging options for all types of travelers:
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Beachfront villas in Amed with sunrise views.
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Star-rated resorts near Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung.
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Local homestays in cultural villages like Tenganan or Sibetan.
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Eco-lodges and glamping sites in the highlands like Selat or Sidemen.
The Sidemen area, for example, is perfect for those seeking a quiet “Ubud-like” experience.
10. Travel Tips for Visiting Karangasem
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Use private transport or hire a local driver, as public transportation is very limited.
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The best time to visit is in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
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Bring your own snorkeling gear if you plan to explore the sea.
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Respect local culture, especially when entering temples or traditional villages.
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Stay in more than one area, as Karangasem is quite vast.
Conclusion: Karangasem, Bali’s Exotic and Serene Side
Karangasem is the untouched side of Bali—natural, spiritual, and breathtaking. Here, you’ll find balance between mountains and sea, ancient culture and modern comfort, tranquility and adventure.
From sunrise in Amed, the grandeur of Besakih Temple, to the romantic royal water gardens—Karangasem offers a vacation experience that is not only beautiful to photograph but also nourishing to the soul.
If you want to explore a more “secret” and pure side of Bali, Karangasem is the place to be.
