Karangasem: Day Trips and Tours from Bali

Eastern Bali is revered for its rich diversity of attractions serving up some of the best beaches, most famous temples, palaces and the island's tallest mountain. Cruise on the picturesque coastal road on the east of the island and make your way to the cultural heart of Bali.

A day trips to Karangasem from Bali is the only way to truly appreciate the intricate history that has shaped this place. Here you will hop between temples and palaces suspended between lush green mountains and the big blue.

Here's all you need to know about Karangasem, one of the most exciting day trips from Bali.

How to get to Karangasem from Bali?

Karangasem is the easternmost regency in Bali and stretches roughly from Gretek in the north to Pantai Belatung in the south.

From Denpasar to Karangasem by car

The capital of the Karangasem regency is Amplapura. Take the Jl. Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra road up the coast from Denpasar and you will arrive in Amplapura after around 67 kilometers.

Most visitors choose to hire a driver or drive to Karangasem on a scooter. There are several points of interest around the east of Bali and it would be wise if you map them out ahead of your travels.

Guided tour to Karangasem from Denpasar

A guided day trip to Karangasem is the best way to see all the treasures of eastern Bali. There are several stops to make and an expert tour guide can drive you around, taking all the hassle out of planning a trip.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Karangasem from Bali?

Most day tours to Karangasem focus on the unique heritage of the region and the inspiring spiritual aura that seeps from every inch of eastern Bali. The day is off to an early start with hotel pickup, hitting the majestic coastal road eastwards.

First, stop at Karangasem Palace to marvel at the unique 19th-century home of the region’s first king. You will also visit other significant places like Ujung Water Palace and Tirta Gangga where your enthusiastic guide will enlighten you about the fascinating cultural and spiritual nuances of Bali.

Enjoy lunch along the way to savor the delicate flavors of Indonesian cuisine and take a walk in the picturesque Sebetan village, where Mount Agung triumphantly decorates the horizon. After a full day of activities, you can sit back and relax with a comfortable coach ride back to your hotel.

What kinds of tours are available?

The region of Karangasem is vast with several places to visit along the way. Choose a tour that suits your travel style and budget to enjoy everything the east of Bali has to offer.

Guided tours to Karangasem from Bali

A guided day tour to Karangasem is a stress-free and efficient way to see this significant region. Most operators offer hotel pickup and drop off or you will meet the group at a central location before departing in a comfortable couch. These tours usually last around 8-hours and are designed to showcase all the most important points of interest in Karangasem.

A group tour to Karangasem focuses on the rich heritage of the region and includes several stops at culturally significant locations. The tour price includes the entrance tickets to all the stops and you will be accompanied by an expert guide that offers invaluable insight into Bali’s heritage.

Private tour to Karangasem from Bali

A private tour to Karangasem is a unique experience for those who want professional photos to remember their holiday by. An English-speaking photographer will accompany you to a stunning destination in Karangasem of your choosing and create lasting memories. This experience is for everyone and you can choose from solo shoots, family sessions, or couple’s shoots.

How much does a tour cost?

Day trips to Karangasem cost between US$65 and US$90 per person. More expensive tours are longer and include a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.

To do a private photo shoot in Karangasem you will pay US$250 for a session of 30 minutes.

What will you see?

This deeply spiritual region has several fascinating temples and palaces on offer.

Puri Agung Karangasem

Puri Agung Karangasem is a collection of several palaces all within walking distance of Amlapura. These fascinating structures bear witness to Bali’s political history as many of the other significant buildings have been lost to time. Pay attention to the intricate amalgamation of Chinese, European and Balinese architectural influences that captures the spirit of the 19th century.

Tirta Gangga

This charming water garden lies on the dramatic eastern slope of Mount Agung. Although Tirta Gangga Temple was only built in the 1950s, you will still stand amazed at the picturesque setting and tranquility brought on by the trickling water fountains. Walk on stepping stones in the garden to see mythical sculptures up close and take unforgettable photos as you feed the gigantic koi fish that surround you.

Bat Cave Temple

Pura Goa Lawah is one of the six holiest temples in Bali. The temple is built at the entrance of a cave that is home to thousands of bats clinging to the cave ceiling. The impressive structures outside the cave are a marvel in their own right but seeing these elusive mammalian inhabitants is a special treat.

When is the best time to visit Karangasem?

The best months for a day tour to Karangasem are between June and October. These months offer the best weather but it is good to remember that it is warm all year round. January to December are generally the rainiest months but the tours will continue if it rains.

Travel tips

• Dress appropriately to visit temples. All temples require visitors to wear a sarong that covers their knees but most temples will offer them to visitors.
• Wear sensible shoes as you will be walking a lot on your day trip to Karangasem.
• The scenery and locations on these tours are breathtaking and you will be taking lots of photos. Bring a camera and remember to have it fully charged.
• Wear sunscreen. You will be spending a significant amount of time outside in the sun and it is not a drive-only tour.