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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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