Hidden Villages in Bali You Need to Visit for a Cultural Experience

Bali is well known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and iconic temples, but beyond the tourist hotspots lies a different side of the island. Hidden among lush rice terraces and scenic mountains are traditional Balinese villages where centuries-old customs, unique art forms, and spiritual traditions are still alive.

For travelers seeking a deeper connection with Balinese culture, visiting these hidden villages offers a glimpse into authentic local life, untouched landscapes, and sacred rituals. Here are the best hidden villages in Bali that will take you off the beaten path for a truly immersive cultural experience.

1. Penglipuran Village – The Most Beautiful Traditional Village in Bali

Nestled in the highlands of Bangli, Penglipuran Village is one of Bali’s best-preserved traditional villages, known for its unique architecture, well-maintained bamboo houses, and clean environment.

Why Visit Penglipuran Village?

• Famous for its symmetrical village layout, reflecting ancient Balinese architectural traditions.
• Strict community rules keep the village pristine, making it one of the cleanest villages in the world.
• Offers a glimpse into authentic Balinese daily life, with locals practicing traditional crafts and ceremonies.

What to Do in Penglipuran?

• Walk through the beautifully preserved village streets and admire the traditional Balinese gate designs.
• Learn about ancient Balinese customs, including the village’s unique community governance system.
• Visit the Bamboo Forest, a peaceful area perfect for nature walks and photography.

Local Tip: Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the village at its most peaceful.

2. Tenganan Pegringsingan – The Home of Bali’s Ancient Bali Aga Tribe

Located in East Bali, Tenganan Pegringsingan is one of the few villages where the Bali Aga (the original Balinese people) still maintain their pre-Hindu traditions and customs.

Why Visit Tenganan Pegringsingan?

• Home to one of Bali’s oldest communities, predating Hindu influence on the island.
• Famous for Geringsing textiles, a rare double ikat weaving technique found only in this village.
• Hosts the Mekaré-kare (Perang Pandan) festival, a unique ritual combat tradition where men duel with thorny pandan leaves.

What to Do in Tenganan Pegringsingan?

• Watch artisans create intricate Geringsing textiles, believed to have spiritual protective powers.
• Visit traditional Bali Aga houses, built with unique stone walls and wooden interiors.
• If visiting in June or July, witness Perang Pandan, a one-of-a-kind Balinese warrior ritual.

Local Tip: Tenganan is less touristy than other villages, so it’s a great place to experience authentic Balinese traditions without crowds.

3. Sidemen Village – A Hidden Gem for Balinese Countryside Living

For travelers looking to escape Bali’s busy tourist areas, Sidemen Village offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the island’s lush countryside. Surrounded by rolling rice terraces, Mount Agung views, and small farming communities, Sidemen is Bali at its most serene.

Why Visit Sidemen Village?

• Often compared to Ubud before tourism boomed, offering unspoiled nature and traditional Balinese charm.
• A center for songket weaving, where artisans create handwoven fabrics using centuries-old techniques.
• Ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring Bali’s rural landscapes.

What to Do in Sidemen?

• Take a guided trekking tour through rice terraces, local farms, and jungle trails.
• Visit traditional songket weaving workshops and watch artisans create intricate textiles.
• Stay in eco-friendly bungalows and wake up to panoramic views of Mount Agung.

Local Tip: If you love quiet, nature-filled destinations, Sidemen is a great alternative to Ubud’s increasingly busy atmosphere.

4. Trunyan Village – The Mystical Village by Lake Batur

Located on the shores of Lake Batur, Trunyan Village is one of Bali’s most mystical and unique villages. Unlike most Balinese communities that practice cremation, the people of Trunyan lay their deceased on the ground beneath a sacred banyan tree, allowing nature to decompose the bodies.

Why Visit Trunyan Village?

• One of the oldest villages in Bali, with ancient funeral rites unique to the region.
• Offers stunning lake and mountain views, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
• Home to the Skull Cemetery, where visitors can learn about Trunyan’s unusual burial customs.

What to Do in Trunyan?

• Take a boat ride across Lake Batur to reach the isolated Trunyan cemetery.
• Explore the traditional village layout, which has remained unchanged for generations.
• Visit nearby hot springs for a relaxing soak after your cultural exploration.

Local Tip: As Trunyan is a sacred site, it’s important to visit with respect and follow local customs.

5. Les Village – A Hidden Paradise for Traditional Salt Farming

Located on the northeast coast of Bali, Les Village is known for its traditional sea salt farming and marine conservation projects. It is the perfect destination for travelers who want to experience a slow-paced, sustainable Balinese lifestyle.

Why Visit Les Village?

• One of the few places in Bali where traditional sea salt farming is still practiced.
• A hidden spot for diving and snorkeling, offering rich marine biodiversity.
• A great place to support eco-tourism and local conservation projects.

What to Do in Les Village?

• Join a salt farming workshop and learn the centuries-old process of harvesting sea salt.
• Go snorkeling or diving at Les Waterfall Reef, a thriving coral restoration site.
• Experience a homestay with local families to learn about Balinese rural life.

Local Tip: Les Village is less touristy than Amed, making it a peaceful escape for those looking to connect with nature and tradition.

Experience the Real Bali in These Hidden Villages

For those seeking a deeper cultural experience, these hidden villages in Bali offer an authentic look into local traditions, ancient customs, and peaceful countryside life. Whether you want to witness traditional weaving, explore sacred temples, or experience rural Balinese hospitality, each village offers a unique journey into Bali’s rich cultural heritage.

Best Hidden Villages Based on Experience:

• Best for Traditional Architecture: Penglipuran Village
• Best for Ancient Rituals: Tenganan Pegringsingan
• Best for Scenic Rice Terraces: Sidemen Village
• Best for Mystical Traditions: Trunyan Village
• Best for Sustainable Travel: Les Village

For a truly immersive Balinese cultural experience, explore these villages with a local guide from Bali Gate Tours, ensuring authentic interactions and deep cultural understanding.