Private East Bali Day Tour: Water Palaces & Villages

Summary

East Bali Private Tour: Temples, Water Gardens & Culture

If you want to see a quieter side of Bali—temples full of stories, peaceful water gardens, and villages where time moves slow—this private tour is for you. You’ll travel with a local guide, eat fresh food, and get real glimpses into daily life in East Bali.

What’s the experience like?

Early morning, the air in Ubud still felt cool when our driver, Wayan, pulled up right on time. We set off through winding roads, passing sleepy villages and the odd rooster crowing. First stop: Kertha Gosa in Klungkung. The old court’s ceiling is covered in these wild, colorful paintings—Wayan explained they tell stories of karma and justice. I could smell incense drifting from a nearby offering, and the sound of scooters buzzed in the background. It’s not crowded here, just a few locals chatting under the banyan trees.

Next, we headed east to Goa Lawah Temple. The name means “Bat Cave”—and you’ll see why as soon as you get close. Hundreds of bats hang above the shrines, and there’s this earthy, slightly sweet smell from the guano mixed with sea breeze. Our guide told us the temple’s been here since the 11th century. Locals believe the cave connects all the way to Besakih Temple, miles away. I watched a woman in bright sarong leave an offering at the entrance, her hands moving in a practiced rhythm.

By midday, we rolled into Candidasa for lunch. There’s a little warung called Warung Bintang right by the water—simple food, but the grilled fish was fresh and the sambal had a real kick. After lunch, we drove to Tenganan Village. The place feels frozen in time. The houses are lined up neatly, and you can hear the clack of looms as women weave double ikat cloth. A local elder showed us how they make lontar leaf calendars—he even let me try scratching a date onto one. The village is quiet, except for the occasional rooster or laughter from kids playing with tops made from coconut shells.

Later in the afternoon, we reached Tirta Gangga Water Garden. The sun was out, making the water shimmer around all those stone statues and stepping stones. I tried hopping across them—careful not to slip!—while koi swam below. Our guide shared that the last king of Karangasem actually helped build these gardens himself, digging alongside workers back in 1948. You can still see locals coming to collect holy water here.

Final stop: Taman Ujung Sukasada. The park’s huge pools reflect Mount Agung in the distance—on clear days, anyway. There’s a faded elegance to the old Dutch-style bridges and pavilions. Wayan pointed out spots that were rebuilt after Mount Agung erupted in ‘63. We wandered through, listening to frogs croak and watching a couple take wedding photos by the lotus pond. By the time we headed back, the sky was turning gold. It’s a long day, but you really get a sense of East Bali’s slower pace and deep traditions.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — East Bali Full-Day Tour

• Visit Kertha Gosa Court of Justice
• Explore Goa Lawah Temple
• Tour Tenganan Traditional Village
• Visit Tirta Gangga Water Garden
• Explore Taman Ujung Sukasada Park

Top questions

Is lunch included in the tour?

Yes, lunch is included if you choose the all-inclusive option. There are vegetarian choices—just let us know when booking.

Can I be picked up from Seminyak?

Absolutely! We offer pickup and drop-off from hotels or villas in Seminyak and many other areas like Ubud, Sanur, Kuta, and Canggu.

Are entrance tickets covered?

If you book the all-inclusive package, entrance tickets are included. If you prefer car charter only, tickets and lunch are not included.

Is this tour suitable for kids or elderly travelers?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels. Just wear comfortable clothes and bring sunscreen. Infants under 2 join free.

What’s included

Your private tour comes with hotel pickup and drop-off (from most areas), an English-speaking local driver-guide, air-conditioned vehicle, parking fees, and all taxes. Choose between car charter only or all-inclusive (with entrance tickets and lunch). Vegetarian meals are available—just mention your preference when booking.