How to get there?
Get your Bus or Private Car tickets here:
By Bus
Local Buses: There are no regular bus services from Amed to other parts of Bali. If you wish to catch a local bus, you'll need to reach Culik on the main island ring road and flag down a passing bus from there. This option might not be reliable or readily available.
Perama Shuttle Bus: This service operates from the Perama office in Amed. It's advisable to book a ticket in advance to ensure a seat and confirm the bus schedule. Sample destinations and prices include:
Airport: 175,000 rupiah (Departs 11:00)
Candi Dasa: 100,000 rupiah (Departs 08:45)
Kuta: 175,000 rupiah (Departs 11:00)
Padang Bai: 100,000 rupiah (Departs 08:45)
Ubud: 175,000 rupiah (Departs 11:00)
Other Shuttle Buses/Minivans/Private Cars: These vary in terms of vehicle type and prices, often contingent on the number of passengers. Prices listed are per person and include various destinations across Bali. It's essential to shop around for rates and departure times that suit your preferences.
Hire a private car
The distance from Denpasar Airport to Amed is a significant journey of approximately 98.5 km, situated on Bali's east coast. The travel time typically ranges from about 3 to 3.5 hours, subject to variations influenced by traffic conditions in a private car
What to do?
1. Visit Rice Terraces
While Amed, located in the eastern part of Bali, Indonesia, is known for its beautiful beaches and diving spots, rice terraces are more prevalent in other parts of Bali, particularly in the central and northern regions.
However, if you're staying in Amed and wish to visit rice terraces, you have a few options:
Sidemen: Sidemen is a picturesque village about an hour's drive from Amed. It's renowned for its stunning rice terraces and scenic landscapes. You can hire a local guide or explore the area on your own to discover the lush greenery and traditional Balinese farming.
Tirta Gangga: While not primarily known for its rice terraces, Tirta Gangga is famous for its water palace and has some beautiful rice paddies in the surrounding area. It's relatively closer to Amed and can be visited as part of a day trip.
Jatiluwih: If you're up for a longer journey, Jatiluwih is among the most famous rice terrace landscapes in Bali. It's located quite far from Amed (approximately 3-4 hours drive), but it offers expansive terraced rice fields and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visiting Jatiluwih might require an early start to make the most of your day trip.
Remember, while visiting these areas, it's a good idea to respect local customs, stay on designated paths, and ask for permission before entering private rice fields. Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience by providing insights into Balinese culture, traditions, and agriculture.
2. Visit Lempuyang Temple
Lempuyang Temple, known locally as Pura Lempuyang Luhur, stands as one of Bali's most revered and iconic Hindu temples, perched atop the slopes of Mount Lempuyang in East Bali. Renowned for its majestic "Gateway to Heaven" or "Gates of Heaven" (Pura Penataran Agung), this temple complex offers a spiritual sanctuary amidst breathtaking natural beauty. The primary temple is one of Bali's nine directional temples, revered for its significance in the island's spiritual and cultural fabric. Visitors embarking on the journey to Lempuyang Temple encounter a steep climb consisting of around 1,700 steps, leading through verdant forests and offering glimpses of the surrounding landscape.
The famed Gates of Heaven, a set of ornate Balinese split gates, serves as the threshold to the temple complex and offers a mesmerizing frame for Mount Agung's majestic peak when viewed from a certain angle. The iconic image, often captured in photographs, symbolizes a passage to spiritual enlightenment and serenity. Beyond the Gates of Heaven, visitors can explore the temple's various structures, including smaller shrines and pavilions that offer tranquility and spiritual introspection amidst the stunning mountainous backdrop.
A visit to Lempuyang Temple is not merely a physical journey but also a spiritual and cultural experience, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Bali's religious heritage. The serene and mystical ambiance coupled with the panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes makes it a sought-after destination for travelers seeking both spiritual solace and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Visitors are encouraged to dress respectfully and embrace the tranquil atmosphere while paying homage to the spiritual significance of this revered Balinese temple.
3. Diving and Snorkeling
Diving in Amed is a popular activity due to its stunning underwater scenery and diverse marine life. Here are some details about diving in Amed:
Dive Sites:
Japanese Shipwreck (Amed Wreck): This WWII wreck is a highlight, lying in shallow waters, perfect for both snorkelers and divers. It hosts a variety of marine species and colorful corals.
Jemeluk Bay: Known for its vibrant coral gardens and an array of marine life, including reef sharks, turtles, and anemonefish.
Pyramids: Artificial reef structures created to encourage coral growth and attract marine creatures. It's an excellent site for macro photography enthusiasts.
Bunutan: Offers a mix of coral gardens and small critters like nudibranchs, shrimps, and various species of fish.
Marine Life:
Amed's dive sites boast a diverse marine ecosystem. You may encounter various species of fish, including angelfish, parrotfish, clownfish, and occasional larger species like reef sharks and turtles. Macro enthusiasts will also enjoy the abundance of smaller critters such as nudibranchs, shrimps, and other colorful creatures hiding in the reefs.
Diving Facilities:
There are several dive shops and centers in Amed offering equipment rental, guided dives, and diving courses suitable for beginners through to advanced divers. Some also offer diving packages that include multiple dives at different sites.
Best Time to Dive:
The diving conditions in Amed are generally good year-round. However, the dry season from April to November is considered the best time for diving due to calmer seas and better visibility underwater.
Safety Considerations:
Ensure you are diving with a reputable dive operator, follow safety protocols, and dive within your skill level. Be mindful of the currents and pay attention to the guidance of experienced local dive guides.
Certification and Training:
For beginners, most dive shops offer introductory courses such as Discover Scuba Diving. If you're not certified, you can take the Open Water Diver course to become a certified diver.
Diving in Amed offers a memorable experience with its rich marine biodiversity and captivating underwater landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for diving enthusiasts.
4. Enjoy an Scenic Drive
Embarking on scenic drives in Amed presents a captivating journey through Bali's eastern coast, unveiling breathtaking vistas and cultural richness. The coastal roads meander along the rugged coastline, offering panoramic views of the cerulean sea juxtaposed against lush hillsides and traditional fishing villages. Travelers can rent scooters or cars to traverse these winding routes, immersing themselves in the tranquil ambiance and raw beauty of Amed's landscapes. Along the way, intermittent stops at various viewpoints reveal the stunning contrasts between the azure ocean and the verdant scenery, providing ample opportunities for awe-inspiring photographs and moments of serene contemplation.
As the coastal roads wind through Amed's picturesque villages, visitors can witness the unhurried pace of local life and the authentic charm of traditional Balinese communities. Passing by terraced rice fields, coconut groves, and vibrant roadside markets, these drives offer glimpses into daily rituals and the vibrant culture that permeates this coastal region. Whether stopping to admire the sunrise painting the sky with vibrant hues or simply reveling in the unhurried rhythm of life along the coast, scenic drives in Amed promise an immersive and soul-soothing experience amidst nature's grandeur and local authenticity.
5. Explore Tirta Gangga
Tirta Gangga, an enchanting water palace nestled in the heart of Bali's Karangasem regency, stands as a timeless testament to the island's rich cultural heritage. Built in the early 20th century by the royal family of Karangasem, this exquisite complex exudes traditional Balinese architectural elegance. The name "Tirta Gangga" translates to "Water of the Ganges," honoring the significance of its sacred springs and serene pools. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by meticulously landscaped gardens adorned with stone statues, ponds brimming with lotus flowers, and a series of ornate pools filled with crystal-clear water. The intricate carvings, depicting Hindu deities and Balinese mythology, add a mystical charm to the palace grounds, inviting exploration and reverence.
Tirta Gangga's allure extends beyond its aesthetic beauty, serving as a spiritual sanctuary and cultural cornerstone for the Balinese people. Believed to hold sacred waters renowned for their healing and purifying properties, the palace remains a revered site for rituals and religious ceremonies. Visitors can immerse themselves in the cultural richness by partaking in the ritual bathing at the natural spring pools, experiencing a profound sense of tranquility and spiritual rejuvenation. Embracing both serenity and cultural significance, Tirta Gangga stands as a testament to Bali's spiritual legacy, captivating travelers with its mesmerizing beauty and spiritual resonance.
