Candidasa comes from words Candi meaning temple and Dasa means ten, so
literally Candi dasa means ten temples.
Candidasa is most often compared to Kuta as Kuta was some 20 years ago. The comparison has some merit - Candidasa is a small village with few inhabitants on the beach with a several - mostly inexpensive hotels that cater to more adventurous tourists looking for a more laid back atmosphere.
Being some 85 km from the airport ensures some tranquility, however as more people discover that there is quite a bit to see and do in Candidasa the area is developing rapidly with many first class hotels now sprouting up.
Besides being near many top dive spots, Candidasa is near many cultural treasures - Pura Besakih and Tenganan Village. For those looking for a holiday off the beaten track a few days in Candidasa would be a welcome respite.
Tenganan Village
Protected for centuries from the outside world by its surrounding walls, the village of Tenganan has maintained its ancient pre-Hindu customs through a strong code of non-fraternization with outsiders. Here unique rituals offering dances and gladiator-like battles between youths take place. Tenganan is famous for its "double ikat" woven material called gringseng, which is supposed to protect the wearer by magic powers.
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