Pura Bukit Tegeh & Sidemen Countryside Trekking

Sideman (pronounced si de man — not side man) is one of those hidden-away Bali retreats that really is, well, just enchanting. A hidden gem in Northeast Bali, worth to explore its jaw-dropping green rice terraces. 

It's the quintessential rural image of people doing their washing in the river, farmers working in the fields and carts slowly rolling along the dusty tracks. On the horizon the majestic volcano beckons and we've got the stamina to can climb all the way to Pura Bukit Tegeh.

I stumbled upon from one to another village, even more views — very briefly catching Gunung Agung through the clouds. Above the tree line, after passing the rice terraces the path will become quite stony, with you having to climb over large boulders and scree during the last quite demanding section of the trek. If you trek in Monsoon season, a good level of fitness and sturdy footwear might be a good advised. 

There's also a temple at the summit, Pura Bukit Tegeh,  of a very steep set of stairs (moreless 350 steps) that offers tremendous views, a scenic river flowing through the valley floor and ample opportunity for both trekking (while other spots are more convenient, you can organise an ascent of Gunung Agung from Sideman) and just more easy-going wanders through the ricefields.