Located in Karangasem Regency, Sidemen Village is a serene destination that’s only 30km away from Ubud. Visitors can immerse themselves in Balinese culture and discover breathtaking natural landscapes during a day trip to Sidemen.
While many opt for a private driver or tour guide for their Sidemen day trip, some tourists prefer to rent a moped and explore the area independently. It’s important to note that if you choose to rent a moped in Bali, you must possess an international driving license, wear a helmet, and follow local traffic regulations.
Sidemen is a peaceful and safe destination that is gradually welcoming more tourists. The area offers a variety of experiences, including visits to locally owned warungs serving Balinese coffee, waterfalls, rice terraces, and artisanal craft shops.
For many visitors, a visit to Warung Cepik is a must. This cafe is owned and operated by locals and offers delicious organic meals and excellent coffee. It’s a great spot to pause and get your bearings in the new surroundings before continuing your day trip.
Tourists often return to Warung Cepik for lunch and dinner due to its exceptional food and service, all while enjoying views of heritage rice terraces and local vegetable gardens.
For a more upscale dining experience, Sleeping Gajah Kitchen & Lounge is a great choice. In addition to delicious Balinese and Indonesian cuisine such as udang jerungga (grilled grass with citrus fruits, salad, and sweet and sour dressing) and bebek goreng (crispy fried duck), guests can also use the swimming pool and take in the breathtaking views of the Karangasem hills.
To start your Sidemen day trip adventure, the first must-see spot is the famous Gembleng Waterfall, which has gained widespread attention on social media.
Although it can get crowded on peak days, visitors patiently wait for their turn to take a dip in the natural water pool and capture stunning photos of the mesmerizing view.
Gembleng Waterfall is easily accessible as there is plenty of space in the car park, and visitors can reach the waterfall with a pleasant 5-minute walk from the parking area.
Although there is no official ticketing system, visitors usually donate between IDR 30,000-50,000 to support the maintenance of the beautiful jungle sanctuary.
The highlight of a trip to Gembleng Waterfall is not only the stunning waterfall but also the natural and clear water pools that make the experience even more extraordinary.
For those looking to do some shopping, there are several local arts and crafts stalls and shops to explore around Sidemen.
One of the well-known stores is Pelangi Traditional Weaving, situated at Jalan Sidemen, where visitors can browse and purchase traditionally woven fabrics such as sarongs. Local women do much of the weaving on-site, making it an excellent opportunity to witness their skill in action.
To spend a leisurely afternoon in Sidemen, taking a stroll around the rice terraces is highly recommended.
Whether you prefer a packed or relaxed itinerary, a day trip to Sidemen has something for everyone. For those seeking an active day, Agung Silver offers silver-making workshops, while Telaga Waja River is perfect for white water rafting or tubing.
