The third stage gets steeper almost as soon as Karangasem is behind you. The route climbs toward the Abang area, passing villages, temple walls and the water-fed landscape around Tirta Gangga. Mount Agung is not just a distant backdrop here; it sits heavy above the eastern side of the island. After the highest section, the road drops toward Bali’s northeast coast. At sea level, the scenery changes quickly: fewer rice fields, drier slopes, black beaches, lava rock, fishing boats and dive villages such as Tulamben. From there, the route stays close to the water and runs west through Kubu and a chain of small coastal settlements. Tejakula arrives quietly, but it fits the day: mountain work first, then a long ride beside the Bali Sea.
