If you think you’ve seen everything Bali has to offer the beaches, the rice terraces, the cafes, think again. Head east, away from the usual tourist trails, and you’ll find Karangasem, a region that feels like stepping into a slower, more soulful version of the island.
Here, life flows at a gentler pace. Nestled between the sea and the mighty Mount Agung, Karangasem offers a magical mix of nature, history, and authentic Balinese culture.
- Royal Heritage and Water Palaces
Karangasem was once home to Bali’s royal kingdom, and you can still feel its regal charm in places like Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung. These stunning water palaces — full of fountains, ponds, and manicured gardens — are like scenes from a dream. Walk across steppingstones surrounded by koi fish or simply sit and let the calm water reflect the peacefulness of the moment.
- Mount Agung: The Spiritual Heart of Bali
Towering over the landscape is Mount Agung, Bali’s highest and most sacred volcano. It’s not just a hiker’s challenge, but also a deeply spiritual place. At its base lies Pura Besakih, the Mother Temple of Bali a must-visit, whether you’re religious or just curious. The temple complex is vast, atmospheric, and full of local rituals and ceremonies.
- Hidden Beaches and Quiet Coastal Villages
The beaches here aren’t packed with crowds or beach clubs. Instead, they’re quiet, raw, and real. Amed and Tulamben are coastal villages that offer some of Bali’s best snorkeling and diving. Explore vibrant coral reefs just steps from shore, or dive to the famous USAT Liberty shipwreck, a hauntingly beautiful World War II relic now home to sea turtles and schools of tropical fish.
- A Taste of the Traditional
If you want to see the “real” Bali, Karangasem is it. Wander through villages like Sidemen, where locals still weave songket by hand, farmers tend to terrace rice fields, and traditional ceremonies are part of daily life. It’s a place where tourists are guests, not just customers.
Karangasem doesn’t shout for attention — and that’s exactly its charm. It’s the kind of place where you’ll hear roosters in the morning, be greeted by smiles from strangers, and feel like you’ve stumbled onto something special that most people never discover.
So, if you’re looking for a different kind of Bali, Quiet, authentic, and deeply beautiful, make your way to Karangasem. It’s not just a destination. It’s a feeling.
