5 Hidden Places In Bali That You Can't Miss

While the southern beaches of Bali draw the crowds, the true magic of the island in 2026 lies in its quiet corners. If you're looking to swap tourist traps for authentic tranquillity, here are five hidden places in Bali that remain beautifully under the radar. These secluded destinations offer a rare glimpse into the soul of Indonesia, far from the bustling hubs of Canggu and Ubud. By venturing off the beaten path, you can discover pristine landscapes that feel entirely your own. It is in these untouched spaces where the most profound and lasting travel memories are truly made.

5 Hidden Places In Bali That You Can't Miss

1. Sidemen Valley: The Old Ubud

If you’ve ever felt disappointed by the crowds at Tegalalang, Sidemen is your answer. Nestled in East Bali, this valley offers rolling rice terraces and misty mountain views without a single tour bus in sight.

• The Highlight: It’s a ‘slow travel’ paradise where you can walk through emerald fields for hours, visit local weaving villages known for Songket textiles, or take a dip in the natural infinity pools of Gembleng Waterfall.

2. Savana Tianyar: The Balinese Serengeti

Located at the foot of Mount Agung, Savana Tianyar offers a landscape unlike anything else on the island. During the dry season (April–October), the grass turns a golden brown, creating a surreal ‘African Safari’ aesthetic with a massive volcano as your backdrop.

• The Highlight: It’s one of the most photogenic spots in Bali for 2026. Visit at sunrise to see wild horses grazing against the silhouette of Mount Agung.

3. Pinggan Village: The Low-Effort Sunrise

According to TripAdvisor, “While trekking Mount Batur is a bucket-list staple, it requires a gruelling 2:00 AM hike. Pinggan Village offers an equally breathtaking sunrise view of the volcanic valley with zero hiking required.”

• The Highlight: You can drive straight to the ridge overlooking the village. At dawn, a thick blanket of mist covers the valley floor, making the houses look like they are floating in the clouds.

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4. Blue Lagoon, Sambangan: The Secret Garden

Not to be confused with the beach of the same name in Padang Bai, the Sambangan ‘Secret Garden’ in North Bali is a series of crystal-clear turquoise pools and hidden waterfalls.

• The Highlight: This is the ultimate spot for adventure seekers. You can go cliff jumping, natural water sliding, and trekking through a banana plantation to reach the ‘Fairy-tale’ waterfall of Banyu Wana Amertha.

5. Menjangan Island: The Untouched Reef

Part of the West Bali National Park, Menjangan Island is often skipped due to its remote location. However, it offers arguably the best snorkelling and diving in all of Indonesia, with pristine coral walls and remarkably clear water.

• The Highlight: The island is uninhabited by humans but is home to the Javan Rusa Deer. It is a surreal experience to see wild deer swimming in the ocean or lounging on the white sand beaches while you prep your snorkelling gear.

Image credits: Freepik

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