In the eastern part of the island of Bali is the resort of Chandidas (Candidasa), it is also called Candidasa. This is a popular place among those tourists who want to relax away from the hustle and bustle.
general information
The settlement is located in a bay and is washed by the Indian Ocean. The resort he became about 30 years ago, and before that there was a fishing village. There are kind and friendly people living in Chandidas, they practically do not speak English.
The settlement is completely free of crime, it is quiet and peaceful. The resort has developed infrastructure with hotels , restaurants, bars and ATMs. True, club life is absent. Chandidasa is just one street that stretches from the beach to the mountain range.
There is practically no transport , so you have to walk on foot. The village is famous for its picturesque places, lush vegetation, palm and banana jungles, which replace the rice fields. Aborigines are engaged in agriculture, fishing or engaged in tourism in Chandidas.
Weather in the village
The proximity of the volcano has a strong influence on the climate. It often rains in the settlement, but there are no strong storms and rains. The average air temperature is + 28 ° C, and water - + 26 ° C. Precipitation mainly falls from November to March, and from April to October here is dry and warm weather.
What can you see in Chandidas?
The name of the settlement came from the temple of the same name, which is located in the center of the settlement. He is dedicated to Harithi and Shiva. Scientists suggest that the sanctuary was built by a king named Sri Adji Jayapangus Arkaljanchan in the 12th century.
In the center of Chandidas there is a beautiful lagoon, in which there are picturesque lotuses.
Near the village are such attractions :
- Cradle of the Balinese nationality - it is a settlement Tenganan, surrounded by majestic hills. It sells world-famous fabrics created by local craftsmen by hand.
- The Tirta Gangga Palace is a large-scale ensemble of swimming pools, fountains, decorative lakes and springs. He was raised by King Karangasem immediately after the end of World War II. The name of the complex is translated as "Holy water of the Ganges".
- The islands of Gilli Biaha, Gili Minpang and Gili-Tepikong - they are located next to Candidasa and attract tourists with picturesque and secluded places, as well as wildlife.
This area is famous for its underwater world. Tourists will be able to:
- to dive with the aqualung into the sea depths;
- to engage in underwater hunting or snorkeling;
- to fish;
- to swim on sailing trimarans.
Hotels in Candidasa
There are comfortable hotels that meet international standards. Almost all establishments are on the coast and have access to beaches. The most popular of them are:
- Rama Candidasa Resort & Spa is a four-star hotel where visitors can take advantage of the wellness center, barbecue, dry cleaning, laundry and business center. The staff speaks Indonesian and English.
- Candi Beach Resort & Spa - the hotel offers a shuttle service, a swimming pool, massage services, parking and bicycle rental. The restaurant serves a diet menu and national cuisine.
- Puri Bagus Candidasa - for guests in the institution offers a private beach area, outdoor pool, massage and Internet. There is a tour desk, car rental, gift shop.
- Discovery Candidasa Cottages and Villas - fully equipped rooms with a bathroom with bath and tea accessories. Here they provide services for people with disabilities.
- Pondok Bambu Seaside Bungalows - guest house with sun terrace, garden and parking. The price includes breakfast, internet and luggage storage.
Where to eat?
There are many small cafes in Chandidas. Both traditional cuisine of Indonesia and European dishes are cooked here. The cooks specialize in seafood and spices (leaves of pandanus and lime, cinnamon, tumeric, etc.). The most popular catering establishments are:
- LOAF Candidasa - here you can try the national cuisine of the country;
- Vincent's Restaurant - the restaurant prepares dishes according to international recipes;
- Warung Boni - serves Asian cuisine, which is suitable for vegetarians;
- Crazy Kangaroo - in the restaurant you can try seafood and sushi;
- The Hungry Crocodile is a French restaurant where live music is played. It is considered one of the most popular in the village.
Beaches of Chandidas
Almost the entire coast of the village is covered with black sand of volcanic origin, and the water here is clean and azure. Swim in Chandidas can only be during low tide.
The best beaches are White Sand Beach and Blue Lagoon. They are located 20 minutes from the center of the village and correspond to the idea of a heavenly place: a white coast and azure water. The entrance fee is $ 0.25.
Chandidas likes to come with experienced drivers, because there are excellent places to dive. They will not be suitable for beginners because of the strong currents and high waves. Here you can see underwater rocks and canyons, many varieties of fish and remains from the American ship Liberty.
Shopping
Travelers will be able to purchase unique souvenirs in the village in the form of products from corals, wood, leather. They are made by local craftsmen, that's why every thing is exclusive. Fresh seafood is better to buy from fishermen, and essential goods and products - in small shops.
How to get there?
From the airport to Chandidasa, you can get on the buses of the company Perama (tickets should be booked in advance on the Internet) or by taxi. The journey takes about 2 hours, and the cost is about $ 25 one way.