Maggie Tulliver
As one of Bali's best known beach hubs Candidasa is an activity base like no other in the island. Here are some of the area's must-experience activities to discover Candidasa's best corners.
Dubbed the Mother Temple of Bali the iconic Besakih Temple is no ordinary Hindu temple in the holiday island. As a religious institution with a global reputation the venue is also the most sacred and largest temple complex in all of Bali. Occupying the Gunung Agung mountain slopes this revered edifice has served as a place of worship since 1007 A.D. With scenic views all around the temple is located at an elevation of s 900m on the Gunung Agung Mountain and makes for a pleasant hiking experience as well as a spiritual encounter. Visitors based in a Candidasa hotel such as the Alila Manggis can book a tour of the temple through the hotel.
Revered as a water sports hub for the masses hitting the oceans is another way to uncover the natural attributes of Candidasa. Angling enthusiasts on the one hand can head out to sea in the early hours of the morning with local fishing folk in tow while marine life enthusiasts and coral fanatics can explore the underwater gardens off the coast of Candidasa on a diving expedition. Diving lessons are instructors are also available through many resort in the area while the best dive spots are also easily accessible on a diving tour. Snorkellers can also experience the colourful marine life beneath the surface in Candidasa thanks to the clarity of Bali's waters.
Often described as one of the most popular activities in Candidasa island hopping tours allows visitors to uncover the golden beaches and hidden treasures of the tiny islands located off the coast of Candidasa. Perfect for beach fanatics and those in search of privacy in paradise some of the highlights of an island hopping tour in Candidasa include Padangbay harbour's Blue Lagoon and other powdery beachfronts dotting the surrounding islets.
Culture buffs on the other hand should not miss out on an opportunity to discover the traditional and tribal communities of Candidasa on a trip to Tenganan Village. As the centuries old base of the Bali Aga tribe and communities visitors can witness the conventional lifestyles of the village's inhabitants and witness local craftsmen engaged in geringsing double ikat and other weaving techniques which are prized all across Indonesia.
Another must-experience activities for adventurists and roamers alike a traditional boat safari along the waters off the coast of Candidasa can be one of the most rewarding and eye opening activities available to visitors.
As an ancient network of fountains, pools and pongs the Tirtagangga Water Palace is a one of a kind landmark in Bali let alone Candidasa. Littered with sculptures of mythical figures these picturesque bodies of water are believed to have been constructed by Anak Agung Anglurah, the final monarch of Karangasem. As a tranquil palace complex the venue serves as a relic of the opulence of Balinese Rajahs as well as the local beliefs of the local residents as a dip in the waters is credited with healing diseases.
Trekking enthusiasts can unearth the natural beauty of Candidasa on a trekking tour of its breathtaking hills and pastoral countryside. Tours are organized between key hiking hotspots which includes Tenganan village and Kastala while treks up Gumang hill and Tirtagangga are equally exhilarating.
