Best Indonesia Tour Packages: Uncover Traditional Bali in 14 Days

Highlights of the Trip

Bali is a beautiful island located in the Indonesian archipelago known for its serene beaches, lush green landscapes, and unique culture. While the island has become a popular tourist destination, there is still a way to discover the authentic and traditional side of Bali. This 14-Day classic exploration through Bali offers the perfect glimpse into culture and tradition. Embrace early morning yoga against the tranquil surroundings of Sidemen, uncover hidden traditional Balinese Villages untouched by time, and settle into the rhythm of Bali with local fishing life in Amed. This captivating and classic best of Bali tour is a truly special tour to take on your holiday in Bali Indonesia, guaranteed to immerse you in the Balinese way of life and leave you with a true sense of the culture and beauty of this destination.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Sidemen

• Puri Agung Karangasem: Built in the 19th century by the ruling Rajas of Karangasem and is considered one of Bali’s most historic and cultural landmarks.
• Taman Ujung Palace: This majestic palace was built in the early 20th century by the king of Karangasem, Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem.

Tirta Gangga

• Lempuyang Temple: Considered one of the most sacred temples on the island, it is situated on the slopes of Mount Lempuyang and is believed to be one of the six most important temples in Bali.

Amed

• Sekumpul Waterfall: Often referred to as the most beautiful waterfall on the island. This magnificent waterfall consists of seven different cascades.
• Puri Beji Temple: This ancient Hindu temple, dating back to the 15th century, is known for its unique architecture and intricate stone carvings.

Lovina

• Gedong Kirtya: The history of Gedong Kirtya dates back to the 1920s when the royal family of Karangasem decided to build a library to preserve the valuable manuscripts and lontar scriptures that were in their possession.
• Git Git Waterfall: Nestled in the dense foliage of the island’s tropical rainforest, this majestic waterfall cascades down rocky cliffs in a series of tiered levels, creating a mesmerizing display of rushing water.

Munduk

• Munduk Waterfall: The waterfall is easily accessible, with a short hike through a scenic trail that winds through rice fields and plantations.
• Ulun Danu Temple: Located on the peaceful shores of Lake Bratan in the mountains of Bedugul, this temple is dedicated to the goddess of water.
• Jatiluwih: The landscape is like a living painting, with every shade of green imaginable and the gentle hum of farmers working in the fields.
• Tanah Lot Temple: This temple is dedicated to the Balinese sea gods, making it a significant place of worship for the locals.

Ubud

• Gunung Kawi Temple: This ancient temple complex is steeped in mystery and history, leaving visitors in awe of its grandeur and spiritual significance.
• Kehen Temple: This is one of the largest and most important temples on the island.

Sanur

A charming coastal town located on the southeast coast of the island of Bali, Indonesia. It is known for its relaxed and laid-back atmosphere.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Sidemen Trekking: Nestled in the heart of Indonesia’s mesmerising island of Bali lies a hidden gem waiting to be explored – the Sidemen Valley. This enchanting destination offers the perfect blend of authentic Balinese culture, breathtaking landscapes, and unique trekking adventures. The Sidemen Trekking Bali experience is like no other, taking you on a journey through rice fields, lush green forests, and traditional villages, all while immersing you in the local way of life.

Bali Aga Village: The Bali Aga Village is a unique destination in Bali. It is a traditional village that has been preserved to maintain its cultural and historical significance. Located in the highlands of the island, the village is known for its traditional architecture, customs, and way of life. The presence of the Bali Aga people, also known as the original Balinese, dates back to the 11th century before the arrival of Hindu Javanese.

Budakeling Village: Situated in the foothills of Mount Agung, the highest volcano on the island. The village is known for its rich cultural heritage and its unique traditions that have been carried on for centuries.

Julah Village:  A picturesque hidden gem that offers a unique cultural experience for visitors. This traditional Balinese village is untouched by modernisation and has managed to preserve its ancient charm and customs. As soon as you enter the village, you’ll be greeted by lush green rice terraces and a peaceful atmosphere, making it the perfect escape from the bustling cities.

Munduk Organic Coffee Plantation: This family-owned business has been thriving for generations, with its history dating back to the early 1900s. The plantation covers over 40 hectares of land, abundant with various species of coffee trees such as Arabica, Robusta, and Liberica.

Trunyan Village: One of the most intriguing aspects of Trunyan Village is their burial customs. Unlike most Balinese communities, the people of Trunyan do not cremate their dead. Instead, they practice a unique ritual known as the ‘Mepasah’ ceremony. The bodies of the deceased are placed in bamboo cages and left to decompose under a sacred tree called the Taru Menyan.

Bayung Gede Village: Visiting Bayung Gede Village is like taking a step back in time. The village is known for its beautifully preserved traditional Balinese architecture, with houses made from bamboo, thatched roofs, and intricate wood carvings. Everywhere you look, you’ll find colourful offerings, known as canang sari, placed on the ground as a tribute to the Hindu gods. The air is filled with the smell of incense and the sounds of traditional gamelan music, creating a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.

Taman Anyar Balinese Experience:  Immerse yourself in the daily life of ordinary Balinese people and discover how to live like a true local. Begin by delving into the farming process, followed by an in-depth look into Balinese architecture and temple practices. Learn the art of cooking traditional dishes, and producing coconut oil. Top off your experience with a delicious lunch accompanied by a mesmerising dance performance. Avoid crowded and touristy places and instead, embark on a journey into the heart of Balinese traditions.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Indonesia

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region, including ‘babi guling‘ or suckling pig. This dish is a staple at ceremonial and religious events. Another popular dish is ‘sate‘, which is skewered meat, typically chicken or pork, marinated in a variety of spices and served with a spicy peanut sauce. Seafood also plays a significant role in Balinese cuisine, as it is an island surrounded by the ocean .Vegetarian options are abundant in Balinese cuisine, as the Balinese people follow a mainly Hindu diet. ‘Sayur urap’ is a popular dish made with steamed vegetables and shredded coconut, usually served with rice and sambal.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Traditional Boat Fishing Trip: A 1-hour exploration of the Amed ocean.

Snorkelling: Uncover the world famous USAT Liberty shipwreck and explore Amed Beach.

Dolphin Tour: In Lovina on a traditional boat.

Accommodation of this Tour

13 Nights accommodation included.

To discover more of our best Indonesia tour packages, explore our website or contact us on +01473356000 or at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com

Itinerary

Day 1 – Denpasar Arrival 

Upon arrival at the Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel in the peaceful village of Sidemen.

Day 2 – Sidemen: A Scenic Trekking Experience

Begin your day with an invigorating one-hour yoga session led by an experienced instructor. Following breakfast, we will continue our trekking exploration of the stunning rice paddies and rivers in Sidemen. You can gain a deeper understanding of the village’s surroundings.

Along our journey, we will cross over the picturesque hanging wooden bridge that is easily accessible for both motorbikes and pedestrians. As we make our way to the rice fields, there are no specific paths, so we will simply follow the direction towards Mount Agung and the flowing irrigation channels.

You will also have the opportunity to observe the daily rituals of village life, including local prayer ceremonies at the temples along the way. Our route will take us up and down the valleys, following the natural terrain. Keep an eye out for farmers hard at work in the fields, tending to their crops.

The Sidemen Trek offers a diverse mix of plantations, people, and traditional village life, making it a must-see for those seeking an authentic Balinese experience. In addition, we will have the chance to learn about the traditional irrigation system known as Subak as we pass by the renowned Subak of Beteng.

We will then return to the hotel for a delicious Balinese lunch. In the afternoon, indulge in a one-hour Balinese massage and take part in local children’s activities organised within the hotel. This will be a memorable and immersive experience, giving you a deeper understanding of the local culture and way of life.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 – Sidemen: Discover a Traditional Balinese Village

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel, our first stop will be East Bali where we will spend 1 hour snorkelling at the stunning Blue Lagoon. Following this, we will take a detour to Tenganan, a traditional Balinese village also known as a Bali Aga village. Here, you can witness the unique design of their traditional houses and awe-inspiring landscape. Continuing our journey, we will head to Puri Agung Karangasem, the Balinese monarchy in East Bali. Lastly, we will visit Taman Ujung Palace, the former residence of the King of Karangasem. This magnificent palace boasts a fusion of Balinese, European, and Chinese architecture and features three vast pools connected by picturesque bridges and pathways.

✓ Breakfast and Dinner

Day 4 – Sidemen to Amed: Admire the Lempuyang Gate of Heaven

Set off early in the morning from the hotel in order to reach Lempuyang Temple. It is certainly a magnificent site to witness, with its awe-inspiring structure known as the Lempuyang Gate of Heaven. From this temple, you can get a bird’s eye view of Mount Batur. The temple also has a mystical quality, as a constant fog envelops the area, making it feel like a gateway to paradise. Next, we will make our way to Budakeling Village, where we will have the unique opportunity to consult a traditional priest for an astrology reading and a purification blessing. The local Balinese residents here are primarily Hindu, with some Buddhist influence. Finally, we will end our day in Amed for an overnight stay.

✓ Breakfast

Day 5 – Amed – Traditional Fishing

Rise and shine at 5:00am for a traditional boat fishing experience in the beautiful Amed Ocean.  Here, you will be surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the ocean, ready to start your day of fishing. Our skilled captain will guide you to the prime fishing spots where you can catch an array of deep-water game fish such as Giant Tuna, Mackerel, and Blue Marlin. For those who prefer bottom fishing, there are also opportunities to catch Snappers, Scribbled Filefish, and Blue Crevally.

As you fish in Amed Ocean, take in the stunning scenery from the comfort of the boat, as our captain leads you to sacred areas and popular sites along the southern coast of Bali. Don’t forget to snap some photos of the ancient Agung mountain and Besakih temple before we head back to your hotel for a well-deserved breakfast.

After breakfast, we will travel to Tulamben beach for some snorkelling. Our knowledgeable guide will take you to the left side of the beach, where you will be in awe of the magnificent USAT Liberty shipwreck, which has been underwater for over 50 years. The clear waters give you a perfect view of the shipwreck, and you may even spot some Jackfish swimming around it.

After a delicious lunch, we will return to Amed beach for more snorkelling with our guide. Amed is a charming village with a peaceful bay, making it the perfect spot for snorkeling. Get ready to be amazed by the diverse marine life, including Parrot Fish, Angel Fish, Bat Fish, and Moorish Idols. If you’re lucky, you may even see a Green Turtle or Small Reef Shark. 

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 – Amed – Lovina Beach: Discover Tradition at Julah Village

After indulging in a delicious breakfast at our hotel, our first stop will be at Julah Village. This charming village is one of the few Bali Mula villages that have successfully preserved their traditional customs and culture since ancient times. Adding to the uniqueness, Julah Village operates under the Hulu Apad system, a local government system that dates back to 923 AD. To fully experience the traditional Balinese Mula culture in Tua Julah Village, we highly recommend interacting and mingling with the friendly local community.

Next, we will head to Sekumpul Waterfall, a stunning natural attraction with seven cascading waterfalls nestled amidst tropical greenery. Take a peaceful hike along dirt paths that lead to elevated viewpoints and the rocky pools at the base of the falls. Here, you can take a refreshing dip and cool off from the heat.

After,  we will make a stop at Puri Beji Temple in Sangsit village. This temple, which is about 8km from Singaraja, is dedicated to the Goddess Sri, the goddess of rice. As you enter through the magnificent gate guarded by two dragon statues, you will be greeted by intricate carvings that adorn the temple’s walls, entrance, and main court. Remember to bring water, sun cream, and a hat as it can get quite hot during the day. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of this must-see temple, especially if you have an interest in art and architecture.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 – Lovina – Munduk: Explore Gedong Kirtya 

Start your day early by waking up before breakfast for a unique dolphin tour on a traditional Balinese fishing boat. After enjoying breakfast, we will make our way to Gedong Kirtya. This museum, located in Singaraja, was created by a Dutchman named L.J.J Caron who was fascinated by Bali’s literary arts (known as lontar). As part of the foundation initially named ‘Kirtya Lefrink – Van der Tuuk,’ it was established to preserve and showcase these valuable cultural treasures. 

After our museum visit, we will head to Git Git Waterfall before continuing our journey to Munduk. 

✓ Breakfast

Day 8 – Munduk: Uncover Captivating Waterfalls

Munduk village, located in Bali, is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves waterfalls. This charming village boasts three stunning waterfalls: Laangan Melanting, Red Coral, and Golden Valley/Munduk. While these waterfalls are in close proximity to each other, they are collectively known as Munduk Waterfall.

In addition, the village also offers hectares of lush clove and coffee plantations, making it an ideal spot for travellers to take in the stunning views. One particularly notable attraction is the Munduk Organic Coffee Plantation, which was started by a Balinese and European partnership with the goal of bringing high-quality coffee back to the hills of Bali. This effort not only benefits the local farmers and community, but it also helps protect the environment. 

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9 – Munduk – Ubud

Leave your hotel in Munduk and hop in the car as we make our way to Ulun Danu Temple and Bedugul market. Here, you will have the chance to shop for fresh fruit straight from the local farmers. Our next stop is the Jatiluwih rice terraces, a UNESCO heritage site, where we will also enjoy a delicious lunch. Finally, we will head to Tanah Lot temple before heading to Ubud for our overnight stay.

✓ Breakfast

Day 10 – Ubud: Uncover Gunung Kawi Temple 

Our first destination after leaving the hotel will be Tegallalang, where we can admire the beautiful rice paddies. From there, we will make our way to Kintamani to see the stunning lake and mount Batur. This will be the perfect spot to stop for a delicious lunch. Continuing our tour, we will visit Penglipuran, a traditional village in Bali. Finally, our last stops will be at a coffee plantation and Gunung Kawi temple.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11 – Ubud: Experience Unique Traditions 

Our journey will commence in Trunyan, a quaint village where the inhabitants lead a traditional lifestyle, distinct from the rest of Bali. The Trunyanese have a unique funeral ritual as they do not cremate their deceased. Instead, the body is cleansed and then placed in a special bamboo cage called ancak saji, under the Taru Menyan tree.

We will then proceed to the village of Bayung Gede, believed to be the birthplace of all ancient Balinese villages. Here, we will witness an intriguing tradition of hanging newborn placentas, exclusive to Bayung Gede. Unlike Trunyan, where bodies are placed without burial, in Bayung Gede, it is the placenta that is left unburied. As the only village in Indonesia with this custom, it is a must-visit for our tour.

To complete our cultural excursion, we will make a stop at Kehen Temple, a significant Hindu temple situated on the slope of Bukit Bangli. This temple is considered the original temple of Bangli and boasts a remarkable stairway to heaven, as well as a unique wooden bell hanging from an ancient banyan tree. 

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 12 – Ubud – Sanur

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before heading off to Taman Anyar Balinese Experience, where you’ll get a true taste of daily Balinese life. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you participate in activities such as farming, visit a traditional Balinese house and temple, learn how to make offerings, join a cooking class, and even make your own coconut oil. To truly appreciate the authentic Balinese experience, this is the perfect way to avoid touristy areas and get a glimpse into their traditions. 

✓ Breakfast

Day 13 – Sanur: Relax with a Free day on the Beach

The day is your own to explore at your leisure around the beautiful pristine beaches of Sanur. There many optional tours available and we can add these into your itinerary but this will add to the cost of the tour.

✓ Breakfast

Day 14 – Sanur – Home.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out at 12:00 noon. Afterwards, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back home.

✓ Breakfast

To discover more of our best Indonesia tour packages, explore our website or contact us on +01473356000 or at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com

Price

From £2,820

– Price per person based on two-people group size.

– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing.

– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays.

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Map

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrive in Denpasar and transfer to peaceful Sidemen village.

Day 2: Begin with yoga, then trek through Sidemen’s rice paddies and villages, immersing in local life.

Day 3: Snorkel at Blue Lagoon, explore Tenganan village, visit Puri Agung Karangasem, and Taman Ujung Palace.

Day 4: Visit Lempuyang Temple, Budakeling Village for a purification blessing, then head to Amed.

Day 5: Early morning traditional fishing in Amed, followed by snorkeling at Tulamben beach.

Day 6: Explore Julah Village, Sekumpul Waterfall, and Puri Beji Temple before heading to Lovina.

Day 7: Dolphin tour, visit Gedong Kirtya museum, and Git Git Waterfall en route to Munduk.

Day 8: Discover Munduk’s waterfalls and organic coffee plantation.

Day 9: Visit Ulun Danu Temple, Bedugul market, Jatiluwih rice terraces, and Tanah Lot Temple before arriving in Ubud.

Day 10: Tour Tegallalang rice paddies, Kintamani, Penglipuran village, and a coffee plantation, ending at Gunung Kawi Temple.

Day 11: Explore Trunyan village, Bayung Gede, and Kehen Temple for unique cultural experiences.

Day 12: Engage in a Balinese cultural experience at Taman Anyar before transferring to Sanur.

Day 13: Enjoy a free day on Sanur’s beaches or opt for additional tours (optional).

Day 14: Check out and transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

FAQs

1. What should I pack for the trekking experience in Sidemen?

For the trekking experience in Sidemen, it’s recommended to pack comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing suitable for tropical climates, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and a refillable water bottle.

2. Are meals included in the tour?

Yes, breakfast and lunch are included on most days of the tour. Some dinners are also included, as indicated in the itinerary. Additionally, local snacks may be provided during activities.

3. Will there be opportunities for cultural immersion during the tour?

Absolutely! The tour is designed to provide immersive cultural experiences at various stops along the way. From visiting traditional villages to witnessing local rituals and ceremonies, you’ll have ample opportunities to engage with Balinese culture firsthand.

4. Are activities like snorkelling and fishing suitable for beginners?

Yes, both snorkelling and fishing activities are suitable for beginners. Experienced guides will provide instruction and ensure your safety throughout the activities. Snorkelling equipment will be provided, and fishing equipment and bait will be supplied for the fishing excursion.

5. How physically demanding is the tour?

The tour includes a mix of leisurely activities, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. While some activities involve walking and hiking, they are generally suitable for participants with a moderate level of fitness. However, if you have any concerns about specific activities, feel free to contact us for more information.