10 Hidden Gems to Discover in Bali & Lombok

As a travel blogger and avid diver, I'm always on the lookout for new and exciting destinations to explore. And on my recent trip to Bali and Lombok, I discovered a wealth of hidden gems that truly blew me away. From stunning water palaces and rice terraces to secluded waterfalls and charming villages, these destinations offer a glimpse into the unique beauty and culture of these Indonesian islands. 

But as a diver, I was also thrilled to discover some of the best dive sites in the region, where I had the chance to see some of the biggest and most fascinating marine life in the world. So if you're looking for a truly unforgettable experience in Bali and Lombok, read on to discover 10 hidden gems that you won't want to miss, including some of the best dive sites and big marine life that the region has to offer.

Tirta Gangga Water Palace

Located in East Bali, Tirta Gangga is a serene and beautiful water palace that is surrounded by lush gardens, fountains, and ponds. This palace was built in the early 20th century by the King of Karangasem, and it served as a place of relaxation and reflection for the royal family.

Today, Tirta Gangga is open to the public, and it offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Bali's more touristy areas. Visitors can stroll through the palace's gardens, which are filled with colorful flowers and exotic plants, or relax by the palace's stunning fountains and ponds. And for those looking for a bit of adventure, there's even a swimming pool where visitors can take a refreshing dip in the cool, clear water.

Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Ubud is known for its beautiful rice terraces, but Tegalalang is one of the most stunning and unique. These terraces are located in a valley north of Ubud, and they offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The rice paddies are carved into the hillside in a series of beautiful tiers, and they are irrigated by a complex system of channels and tunnels.

Visitors can stroll through the terraces and take in the stunning scenery, or even try their hand at farming the rice themselves. And for those looking for a truly unique photo opportunity, there are even giant swings that overlook the terraces, offering an Instagram-worthy shot that you won't find anywhere else.

Nusa Penida Island

Nusa Penida is a remote and beautiful island located off the coast of Bali. While it's a bit more difficult to get to than some of Bali's more popular destinations, it's well worth the journey for those looking for a true escape.

Nusa Penida is known for its rugged landscape and pristine beaches, and it's a great destination for those looking to get away from the crowds. And for divers, Nusa Penida offers some of the best diving in the region, with the chance to see manta rays and the rare Mola Mola sunfish.

Pura Lempuyang Temple

Pura Lempuyang is a stunning temple located on the slopes of Mount Lempuyang in East Bali. This temple is known for its iconic "Gates of Heaven," which offer a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can stroll through the temple's grounds and take in the beautiful architecture and intricate carvings, or even take a dip in the temple's holy water.

But perhaps the best part of visiting Pura Lempuyang is the journey to get there. The temple is located high in the mountains, and the road to get there is winding and steep, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are a group of three beautiful islands off the coast of Lombok, and they offer a true escape from the hustle and bustle of Bali. Each of the islands has its own unique vibe, from the lively Gili Trawangan to the laid-back Gili Meno.

But no matter which island you choose to visit, you'll be treated to stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a wealth of marine life. And for divers, the Gili Islands offer some of the best diving in the region, with the chance to see turtles, sharks, and even the occasional manta ray.

Tegenungan Waterfall

Tegenungan Waterfall is a stunning waterfall located in central Bali, and it's one of the most beautiful and accessible waterfalls on the island. Visitors can walk down a series of stairs to reach the base of the waterfall, where they can swim in the cool, refreshing water.

But perhaps the best part of visiting Tegenungan Waterfall is the surrounding scenery. The waterfall is located in a lush, green valley, and visitors can take a stroll through the rice paddies and explore the local villages.

Amed

Quelle: divestar

Amed is a charming fishing village located on the east coast of Bali, and it offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life on the island. Visitors can stroll through the village and explore the local market, or even take a traditional fishing boat out to sea.

But perhaps the best part of visiting Amed is the diving. Amed is known for its beautiful coral reefs and stunning marine life, including the chance to see reef sharks, turtles, and even the occasional whale shark.

Sidemen

Sidemen is a sleepy village located in the heart of Bali's rice paddies, and it's a great destination for those looking to get away from the crowds. Visitors can stroll through the village and take in the beautiful scenery, or even take a traditional cooking class and learn to make some of the local dishes.

But perhaps the best part of visiting Sidemen is the surrounding nature. The village is located in a lush, green valley, and visitors can take a hike through the rice paddies and explore the nearby mountains.

Menjangan Island

Menjangan Island is a remote and beautiful island located off the coast of Bali, and it offers some of the best diving in the region. The island is home to a stunning coral reef, and visitors can see a wealth of marine life, including colorful fish, turtles, and even the occasional shark.

But perhaps the best part of visiting Menjangan Island is the stunning scenery. The island is covered in lush, green forest, and visitors can take a hike through the jungle and explore the island's hidden beaches and coves.

Manta Point

Manta Point is a dive site located off the coast of Nusa Penida, and it offers the chance to see some of the biggest and most fascinating marine life in the world. The site is known for its resident population of manta rays, and visitors can see these gentle giants up close as they glide through the water.

But perhaps the best part of diving at Manta Point is the stunning scenery. The site is located in a pristine and remote area of the ocean, and visitors can see a wealth of other marine life, including colorful fish and even the occasional shark.

Summary

Bali and Lombok offer a wealth of hidden gems that are just waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a culture vulture looking to explore ancient temples and traditional villages, or a diver looking to see some of the biggest and most fascinating marine life in the world, these Indonesian islands have something for everyone. So pack your bags and head to Bali and Lombok, and prepare to be amazed by the beauty and wonder of these stunning destinations