Beyond Kuta’s crowded beaches and Canggu’s sleek coffee shops lies another side of Bali, where incense smoke still curls through ancient temple courtyards and dawn breaks over endless rice terraces.
The Island of the Gods has transformed since the 1970s, when the first surfers discovered its perfect waves. Now, luxury resorts line the Bukit Peninsula, co-working spaces fill former rice fields, and beach clubs dot the coast from Uluwatu to Seminyak. That we need a guide to find tranquility in Bali – an island once synonymous with serenity – speaks volumes about how tourism has reshaped this Hindu sanctuary.
Yet in the island’s quieter corners, daily life continues much as it has for generations. Temple priests still prepare offerings before sunrise, farmers tend their rice fields using ancient irrigation systems, and craftsmen carve stone statues using techniques passed down through centuries. While tour buses crowd the parking lots of southern beaches, and central Ubud’s narrow streets fill with tourists seeking yoga retreats (often missing the very peace they came to find), much of Bali – particularly in the north and east – remains largely unexplored by visitors.
For those seeking to experience the island’s deeper soul – whether escaping the crowds, seeking respite from Canggu’s busy beach bars, or simply yearning for authentic encounters – Bali offers countless peaceful sanctuaries. Here are 10 secluded locations that reveal the island’s more tranquil side.
Sidemen Valley
Far from the coastal crowds, Sidemen Valley unfolds like a verdant tapestry of rice terraces and traditional villages. This peaceful region in East Bali remains wonderfully untouched by mass tourism, offering visitors a glimpse into authentic Balinese rural life. Here, you can wander through rice fields, watch local weavers at work, or simply soak in views of Mount Agung from a traditional guesthouse.
Ideal tip: The village is known for its high-quality songket weaving – visit between 8am and 2pm to see the weavers at work and potentially participate in a weaving demonstration.
Petitenget Temple, Seminyak
Between rows of Seminyak villas and oceanfront beach clubs stands Pura Petitenget, a centuries-old reminder of the area’s sacred heritage. This sea temple, built in the 16th century, creates an unexpected sanctuary in Bali’s most stylish district. During morning prayers, the sound of gamelan music drifts over garden walls, drawing visitors away from boutique cafes to witness daily ceremonies that have continued uninterrupted for generations.
Ideal tip: The temple’s most significant ceremony occurs every 210 days on the Balinese calendar. Check with local wardens about upcoming ceremonies – visitors are welcome to observe if dressed respectfully in traditional attire (sarongs and sashes are available for rent at the entrance).
Nyang Nyang Beach
Hidden behind towering cliffs in Uluwatu, Nyang Nyang Beach requires effort to reach – a steep descent down hundreds of steps – but rewards visitors with pristine white sand and virtual solitude. The lengthy access path has kept this beach delightfully undeveloped, with only the occasional local vendor selling fresh coconuts breaking the peaceful atmosphere.
You can visit a derelict Boeing 737 aircraft on the cliff overlooking Nyang Nyang Beach – however, despite the appearance of it landing there, it was actually purchased from a scrapyard in China and reassembled – attraction or distraction? You decide. We’re in the latter camp. That said, the view is pretty incredible.
Ideal tip: There’s no shade on the beach – bring an umbrella if you plan to stay long. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, and remember to check tide times as the beach almost disappears during high tide.
Pura Lempuyang Luhur
Known as the “Gateway to Heaven,” this ancient temple complex sits atop Mount Lempuyang in East Bali. While its iconic gates have gained Instagram fame, the temple’s upper reaches – accessible via a challenging climb of 1,700 steps – remain peaceful and relatively untouristed. The morning mist and silence create an atmosphere of deep contemplation, especially during misty mornings when clouds roll through the temple grounds.
Ideal tip: Start your ascent before 7am to avoid both the heat and crowds. The full climb to all seven temples takes 3-4 hours – bring water and small offerings (available for purchase at the base) for each temple.
Tamblingan Lake
The lesser-known sister to Lake Beratan, Lake Tamblingan offers tranquility in spades. This mist-shrouded lake, surrounded by dense forest and ancient temples, feels frozen in time. Early morning canoe rides reveal fishermen in traditional wooden boats and the occasional glimpse of local wildlife. The surrounding hiking trails provide peaceful forest bathing opportunities.
Ideal tip: Contact the local community center at the lake entrance to arrange a guided trek – local guides can show you submerged temples visible only during dry season and explain the lake’s rich mythology.
Tegal Bunder Rice Terraces
While Tegalalang draws crowds, the nearby Tegal Bunder rice terraces remain wonderfully peaceful. These stepped emerald fields in central Bali offer equally stunning views but without the commercial development. Local farmers still work these ancient terraces using traditional methods, creating a living museum of Balinese agricultural heritage. After witnessing the hard work that goes into growing rice, you’ll appreciate every single grain that ever passes your lips.
Ideal tip: Visit between 6-7am to watch farmers beginning their day’s work and learn about the subak irrigation system – a UNESCO-recognised water management method that’s over 1,000 years old.
Gili Meno Bird Park
On the tiny island of Gili Meno, just off Bali’s coast, this hidden sanctuary provides refuge for both birds and humans seeking peace. The park’s walking trails wind through native vegetation, where you might spot rare native species. The only sounds are bird calls and the distant surf, creating a meditation-like atmosphere.
Ideal tip: The best bird watching occurs between 7-9am when the resident birds are most active. Look for the endangered Yellow-crested Cockatoo, part of the park’s conservation program.
Banjar Hot Springs
Hidden in North Bali’s jungle, these ancient hot springs offer more than just warm mineral waters. The traditional stone-carved pools, surrounded by lush gardens and dragon statues, create an atmosphere of timeless serenity. Intrepid travellers should visit in the early morning to have these healing waters almost to themselves.
Ideal tip: The uppermost pool contains the hottest water and is believed by locals to have the strongest healing properties. Visit on weekdays before 9am to avoid local crowds.
Read: What are some of the absolute essentials you should pack for a holiday to Bali?
Bias Tugel Beach
Near Padangbai but overshadowed by the more famous Blue Lagoon, Bias Tugel is a small white sand paradise accessed via a short but steep trail. The reward is a pristine beach with excellent snorkeling and few visitors. A single warung serves fresh catch of the day, adding to the beach’s rustic charm.
Ideal tip: The best snorkelling is found around the rocky outcrop on the beach’s eastern end – bring your own gear as there are no rental facilities available.
Muntigunung Village
In Bali’s arid north, the remote village of Muntigunung offers insight into a very different side of the island. Here, a community tourism initiative allows visitors to trek through dramatic landscapes, learn traditional crafts, and experience authentic village life far from the island’s tourist centers.
Ideal tip: Book through the official Muntigunung Community Social Enterprise to ensure your visit benefits the local community. The trek requires moderate fitness – start early to avoid the midday heat.
The Bottom Line
There’s a certain irony in needing to search for peace in a place that was once a byword for tranquility. Yet while Bali’s popularity continues to grow, these quiet corners remind us why the island first captured the world’s imagination. Whether seeking meditation spots, cultural insights, or simply a beach without a DJ booth or 5-star resort overlooking it, these locations offer glimpses of the island’s enduring soul.
For those willing to venture beyond the smoothie bowls and sunset sessions, Bali still holds its ancient magic. You just might need to wake up a little earlier to find it.