East Bali Emerges As A Top Must-Visit Destination For 2025

Published on January 31, 2025

East Bali is emerging as a must-visit travel hotspot for 2025, with regional leaders setting bold tourism goals for the coming year. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and serene atmosphere, this part of the island is drawing interest from travelers, digital nomads, and long-term visitors alike. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or a unique staycation experience, East Bali promises to be an unmissable destination worth adding to any travel itinerary.

Karangasem Regency in East Bali has set its sights on attracting 1.5 million visitors in 2025—a goal that, while ambitious, is well within reach. Given that Bali is expected to host between 6.5 to 7 million international travelers alongside a significant influx of domestic tourists, East Bali is poised to benefit from this tourism boom, solidifying its place as a top destination on the island.

Kariasa announced that the regency government is actively addressing key concerns such as traffic flow, waste management, and sustainable land development to maintain East Bali’s appeal for travelers. Ongoing conservation projects at Candidasa Beach are also a priority, with completion expected within the next two years to enhance the coastal area’s natural beauty.

Bali’s leadership is placing greater emphasis on maintaining a delicate balance between protecting its cultural heritage and natural landscapes while also encouraging investment and economic growth throughout the province.

Travelers planning a visit to Karangasem Regency in 2025 will find endless opportunities for adventure, from trekking the majestic Mount Agung to unwinding at Candidasa Beach or diving into the crystal-clear waters off Amed’s coast.

For those seeking an authentic Balinese experience away from the bustling resort hubs, East Bali offers the perfect retreat. With its rich cultural heritage and unspoiled landscapes, this region is ideal for a truly immersive getaway.

Want to soak in the artistic and jungle vibes of Ubud without the heavy traffic and tourist crowds? Consider swapping it for Sidemen in Karangasem Regency. With its lush rice terraces, enchanting bamboo treehouses, and picturesque waterfalls, Sidemen delivers an unforgettable escape into nature.

Looking for pristine white sand beaches, peaceful coastlines, and elegant yet understated accommodations? Candidasa is the perfect escape. This coastal gem is home to boutique resorts like Ashyana Candidasa Resort, Puri Bagus Candidasa Dive Resort & Yoga Retreat, and Sagara Candidasa, offering a serene retreat by the ocean.

These charming three- and four-star hotels provide stunning sea views, direct beach access, and the warm hospitality Bali is known for, while also serving as gateways to some of Karangasem’s most iconic attractions.

For those eager to explore the region’s cultural heritage, Karangasem does not disappoint. At the top of the must-visit list is Penataran Agung Lempuyang Temple, more popularly recognized as the Gates of Heaven Temple, a breathtaking spiritual site that captivates visitors from around the world.

A trip to East Bali wouldn’t be complete without exploring the breathtaking Tirta Gangga Water Palace and its lush gardens. This iconic attraction has recently introduced several exciting additions, including the Asta Gangga Museum and a striking statue honoring the 14th King of Karangasem, Anak Agung Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem, who originally established Tirta Gangga Park in 1946. Visitors can now experience a deeper connection to the site’s rich history while admiring its serene beauty.

The Asta Gangga Museum has rapidly gained recognition as one of Bali’s most significant cultural institutions. Its permanent exhibits showcase a remarkable collection, including the intricately woven skordi cloth, the regal lion king’s songket fabric, and ten heirloom keris—sacred daggers that stand as a lasting tribute to the legacy of the King of Karangasem.