Sidemen is the kind of place you don’t stumble into by accident. You come here on purpose — to slow down, to breathe, and to see a version of Bali that still feels deeply connected to the land.
No beach clubs. No traffic chaos. No loud nightlife.
Just rice fields, small villages, temples, and the quiet presence of mountains in the distance.
A Little History of Sidemen
Sidemen is a rural valley in East Bali, long known for rice farming, weaving, and traditional village life. For generations, families here have lived from the land, following the rhythm of the rice cycle and religious ceremonies tied to nature.
Tourism arrived late — and gently. Even today, Sidemen hasn’t lost its soul. Life still revolves around farming, offerings, and community rather than schedules and screens.
This is Bali before the rush — and thankfully, still Bali without it.
The Landscape: Rice Fields & Volcano Views
What defines Sidemen most is its landscape.
Endless rice terraces ripple across the valley, glowing bright green in the sunlight. Paths wind between fields, water flows through irrigation channels, and every corner seems designed to calm your nervous system.
Look up, and you’ll often see Mount Agung rising in the distance. Bali’s highest and most sacred volcano watches over Sidemen quietly — sometimes hidden in clouds, sometimes dramatically clear at sunrise.
On very clear days, you may also glimpse Mount Batur further away, adding depth to the already cinematic scenery.
Resorts in Sidemen: Pools with a View
Sidemen is home to some of the most beautiful resorts in Bali — not because they’re flashy, but because they blend perfectly into the landscape.
Infinity pools overlook rice fields. Rooms open to misty mornings. Silence feels intentional.
These are places where you wake up with birds, drink coffee slowly, and forget what day it is — and that’s the whole point.
Walking Through the Rice Fields
One of the best things to do in Sidemen is also the simplest: walk.
You can follow narrow paths through the rice fields, passing farmers, small shrines, and occasional village homes. No entrance fee, no ticket — just awareness and respect.
Early morning or late afternoon is best, when the light is soft and the air cooler.
Temples & Spiritual Corners
Sidemen is dotted with small temples and shrines, often hidden between fields or tucked beside village roads. They may not be famous, but they feel intimate and real.
Offerings are placed daily. Incense drifts quietly through the air. Religion here isn’t something you visit — it’s something you pass by, gently, as part of daily life.
Waterfalls & Short Hikes Nearby
Yes — there are waterfalls near Sidemen, and they’re worth the effort.
Several small waterfalls are located within a short scooter ride or drive. Reaching them often involves a short hike uphill, passing jungle paths and streams.
They’re not massive, roaring waterfalls — but they’re refreshing, peaceful, and usually far less crowded than Bali’s famous ones.
Bring good shoes. And water.
Scooter Rides & Day Trips
Renting a scooter in Sidemen opens up the area beautifully. Roads wind through hills, villages, and farmland, with almost no traffic.
A slow day ride here feels more like a meditation than transport. Just take it easy — roads can be narrow, uneven, and occasionally shared with chickens.
Food in Sidemen: Warungs with Heart
Sidemen has plenty of small warungs serving simple, honest Indonesian food.
Rice dishes, vegetables, grilled chicken, sambal — nothing fancy, everything comforting. Meals here feel homemade, often cooked by the same family that owns the place.
Eating in Sidemen is less about choice and more about trust.
Relaxation & Massages
Sidemen is also a place to truly rest.
Many resorts and small spas offer massages, often with open views of the valley. No loud music, no rushing — just hands, silence, and the sound of nature.
After a day of walking or riding, this feels like a gift.
What to Be Aware Of: Street Dogs
Sidemen is peaceful — but not polished.
There are many street dogs, especially in the evenings. Most are calm, but some can become territorial, particularly after sunset.
A few tips:
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Stick to lit paths
• Don’t run or stare
• If unsure, take a scooter or ride instead
It’s not dangerous — just something to be aware of.
