While in Candidasa, I was immediately drawn to its relaxed atmosphere. The mix of calm beaches and snorkeling spots.
However, I wanted to explore the rural area, so I decided to visit Sidemen, a lesser-known valley celebrated for its tranquil landscapes and ancient farming traditions—a serene contrast to Bali’s bustling tourist spots.
About Sidemen
Sidemen is in the eastern part of Bali, in the Karangasem Regency. It is approximately 30 km from Ubud and around 20 km from Candidasa. This peaceful region offers a glimpse into traditional Balinese farming and village life, far from the tourist crowds.
We stayed at the Sea Breeze Candidasa and asked our hotel to arrange a half-day taxi. That seemed the best way to explore the region. Getting there took around 35 minutes. The path to Sidemen is not for the faint-hearted. It’s narrow, bordering a cliff, and often interrupted by road works. However, with a knowledgeable driver who knows the route well and has a reliable car, you can feel secure and enjoy the breathtaking views without worry. For a stress-free journey, I highly recommend private transportation when visiting Sidemen. You can even ask the driver to wait until you finish your walk. This 2 km walk lasts 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on whether you want to take a break. There is a lovely cafe with views of the crops. Download the map and use it in Google MyMaps (not to be confused with Google Maps) or apps such as Outdoors Active or Maps Me.How to get there?
About Sidemen hike in Bali
Map
The start of the hike
As we step into this enchanting landscape, we are greeted by the vibrant hues of the marigold fields, a sight that instantly captivates us.
Marigolds, with their golden-yellow petals, are not just flowers in Bali. They symbolize the rich Balinese Hindu culture, widely cultivated and deeply embedded in the local customs.
These flowers, grown mainly during the dry season in Bali’s mountainous regions, are brought to markets daily, where they are used in garlands for statues and as a warm welcome for visitors, a tradition passed down through generations.
Challenges and Traditions
One of the challenges for farmers is managing the timing of planting to avoid crop failures.
The Balinese calendar reduces risks by synchronizing planting with weather conditions. Sidemen Rice Terrace, has been converted into a tourist attraction which adds an alternative source of income for farmers in the region.
Fast-growing crops
Farmers mix chili with fast-growing crops like peanuts and vegetables to maintain a steady income and cash flow.
Chili has become an essential crop in the region and, in some cases, is as valuable as rice, helping farmers diversify their sources of income.
Main Crops
Farmers primarily grow rice, chili, and yard-long beans. Rice is the most significant crop, deeply tied to Balinese culture, and its cultivation follows a cycle that has been maintained for over 1000 years.
The farming schedule is based on the traditional Balinese calendar, which helps harmonize the planting and harvesting with essential festivals and weather conditions.
Numa Hotel
The luxury villas of Numa Hotel are nestled amidst greenery, offering beautiful views of Mount Agung and the surrounding rice terraces.
The architecture blends modern design with eco-friendly features.
In the farming region of Sidemen Valley, there are also unique hotels, such as Samanvaya Resort, owned by New Zealanders. Other unique accommodations are Hideout Bamboo Homes and the eco-friendly Camaya.
The End of the hike
As we made our way to the exit, we were surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the cultivation fields. The vibrant colors and the meticulous arrangement of the crops were a sight to behold.
We even stumbled upon a small fish farm and spotted a few animals, such as cows and ducks, adding to the picturesque scene.
Final thoughts
Our Sidemen hike in Bali was not just about the scenery but also about the people. We were fortunate to meet a local farmer who warmly shared his life in Sidemen and the secrets of cultivating the fields. This cultural exchange was the most memorable part of our journey!
I recommend this hike to anyone who wants to learn more about the agriculture practices in Bali. Sidemen hike in Bali is short, but it is absolutely worth the trip.
Attractions nearby
The most popular thing to do near Sidemen is to Hike Mount Batur at sunrise. You can hike to the top of Mount Batur in as little as one hour.
In Sidemen, you can visit the Pelangi Workshop to watch the historical art of weaving traditional Endek cloth by hand-on-foot looms, a craft once reserved for Balinese nobles.
Nearby, you’ll also find a shop showcasing traditional Lontar leaf paintings, a unique art form in which intricate designs are painted onto the leaves of the Lontar palm tree, which is native to Indonesia.