While international visitor numbers hit record highs, much of South Bali’s tourist hotspots are experiencing high levels of overtourism, including Canggu, Seminyak and the central part of Ubud. The tranquil Island of the Gods can sometimes seem like it’s enclosed by a sea of scooters and a crowd of selfie takers. But a strong slow travel movement is pushing out the curious travelers seeking the unspoiled side of the island.
Even if you’re looking for pure nature, cultural immersion and absolute quiet, you can still find easy ways to get away from the crowds. Top three less crowded tourist destinations in Bali with exact information on how to get to them, what the overall spending should be and some Bali tips and tricks.
1. Sidemen Valley: The Spiritual Soul of East Bali
Sidemen Valley is an exhilarating step back in time to Bali before the commercialization, and under the shadow of Mount Agung. Among the anti-tourism destinations for nature-loving people, it is one of the best!
[Infographic: Sidemen Valley Highlights – Rice Terrace Walks, Traditional Weaving, and Mount Agung Views]How to Reach Sidemen
Sidemen is part of the Karangasem Regency. The time required from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is about 2 hours (60 km) by car and it takes around 90 minutes from Ubud. The best route is to follow the coastal route through Goa Lawah. The most convenient way to get around is by hiring a private car and driver, since the roads are hilly and may be hard for most GPS to navigate around the winding valleys.
Total Budget & Details
- Daily Spent: IDR 750,000 to IDR 1,500,000 (approx. $50 to $100 USD / ₹4,000 to ₹8,000 INR) per day for a mid-range experience.
- Stay & Food: Budget-friendly hostels and local homestays start at just $15 USD per night, while stunning bamboo villas like Samanvaya or Camaya cost more. A traditional Balinese meal (Nasi Goreng or Nasi Campur) at a local warung costs a meager IDR 30,000 ($2 USD).
- Top Activity: Take a guided trek through the emerald-green terraced rice fields or visit a traditional Endek weaving village.
2. Munduk Highlands: Waterfalls and Misty Peaks
For those looking for the ultimate escape from the sticky beaches and hot weather, the quiet town of Munduk in North Bali offers a cool and refreshing alternative, with its pristine jungle landscape and fresh mountain breezes.
How to Reach Munduk
Munduk is located up on a volcanic ridge, roughly a 2.5 hour drive north of Ubud and 3-3.5 hours from the southern beach towns. Renting a scooter (155cc or more for the hills) or a full day private driver is strongly advised – ride hailing apps do not function in this remote mountainous area.
Total Budget & Details
- Daily Spent: IDR 600,000 to IDR 1,200,000 (approx. $40 to $80 USD / ₹3,200 to ₹6,500 INR).
- Stay & Food: Charming mountain eco-lodges and guesthouses range from IDR 300,000 to IDR 750,000 ($20 to $50 USD) per night.
- Top Activity: Hike the multi-tiered Munduk Waterfall trail. Entry fees are incredibly low, typically hovering around IDR 20,000 ($1.30 USD) per waterfall. Don’t miss a peaceful canoe ride across the mystical, fog-covered Tamblingan Lake.
3. Amed Coast: Volcanic Black Sands & Ocean Secrets
Amed is a quiet chain of traditional fishing villages in the extreme northeast part of the island with a laid back coastal lifestyle.
How to Reach Amed
From the airport, it takes about 3 hours to reach Amed. Air conditioned shuttle bus or private transfer available. After getting there, you can hire a basic scooter to get from one quiet bay to another for IDR80 000 ($5 USD) a day.
Total Budget & Details
- Daily Spent: IDR 550,000 to IDR 1,100,000 (approx. $35 to $75 USD / ₹2,800 to ₹6,000 INR).
- Stay & Food: Oceanfront bungalows are an absolute steal here, costing anywhere from $15 to $30 USD per night. Freshly caught seafood dinners at local beachfront grills are highly affordable.
- Top Activity: Amed is a premier, world-class diving and snorkeling oasis. You can swim directly off the black volcanic sand at Lipah Beach or Jemeluk Bay to explore thriving coral reefs and the historical USAT Liberty shipwreck just a short drive north in Tulamben.
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Important Bali Entry Rules and Budget Checklist
As well as this, be sure to factor in the mandatory tourist fee in Indonesia which is IDR 150,000 (around $10 USD) for every visitor from abroad. When you want to avoid the long lines at the terminal of the Denpasar airport, pay for it in advance through the officialLove Bali governmental website.
Also, remember to include the regular 30-Day Visa on Arrival (VoA) fee, costing IDR 500,000 (about $32 USD).
FAQs
1. Are these uncrowded tourist spots in Bali safe for solo travelers?
Yes, absolutely. Because these regions are less commercialized, the local communities are exceptionally warm, welcoming, and safe. However, standard travel safety practices—like avoiding dark, unlit rural roads alone at night—apply.
2. Is vegetarian and vegan food easily available in these remote areas?
Yes. Balinese cuisine relies heavily on plant-based staples like tofu (tahu) and tempeh. Even small, rural warungs can easily whip up delicious vegetarian dishes; simply ask for your food to be made tanpa terasi (without shrimp paste).
3. Do Grab and Gojek apps work in Sidemen, Munduk, and Amed?
While drivers can easily drop you off in these regions from South Bali, local community regulations restrict ride-hailing apps from conducting pickups. To support the local economy and ensure a smooth trip, coordinate your onward transport directly through your guesthouse or homestay hosts.
