East Bali
East Bali is dominated by Gunung Agung (“Holy Mountain”), a central focus of Bali’s religion and culture. The Besakih Temple is located on its foothills. Along the sea, the dark volcanic sands offer excellent diving, sunbathing, and snorkeling opportunities.
AmedA visit to Amed is like traveling back in time. Macadam roads and electricity are a recent development in the area, so tourist facilities here are still rather basic. There’s no nightlife, but that’s more than compensated by the long stretch of black sand beach.
Amed is great for first-time divers, who can explore the friendly currents and abundant marine life. One bay, Banyuning, even has a sunken World War II patrol boat under the surface!
Candi DasaThis village is named after a nearby temple complex at the foot of Mount Agung. Once a sleepy town far from civilization, growing tourist demand has ensured the growth of a wide variety of accommodations. Candidasa is a few minutes away from the Besakih Temple and some of the best diving spots on Bali as well.
West Bali
The westernmost part of Bali is the first part of the island seen by ferry passengers getting off at Gilimanluk… apart from that, there’s nothing much for the tourist to see here. Some attractions off the beaten path do exist – the tomb of the doomed lover Jayaprana can be found here, as well as the wildlife of Bali Barat National Park.
(Photo of Pura Besakih above provided by Sean McGrath)