CategoriesGianyar Area By administrator

Batu Bulan Village

All you need to know about Batubulan Village history, Barong Dance performance, Kecak Dance, Stone Carving Sculpture and local culture

Batubulan village has been known as a center for the art of sculpture and carving in Bali, whose name has been worldwide. This carving art by the artist of Batubulan village, Gianyar is so highly admired and in demand by foreign and domestic tourists. Not only being a center for producing various types of carvings and sculptures, Batubulan Village also offers other tourist attractions, which is a place for performing arts in Bali such as Barong Dance, Kecak Dance and Legong Dance at Barong Dance which are seen by many tourists.

The History
The history of Batubulan Village apparently started from a story of a Great Prince Kalesan. He was the adopted son of the King of Badung who in his adulthood was given a gift by the king to build a palace for him in the middle of the forest. Well get the mandate, then he went with his followers to a forest area in the eastern part of the Badung Kingdom. But a strange thing happened when he and his followers arrived at the border of the forest, they saw a lump of glowing stone (batu) that looked like the moon (bulan). Well from that incident, finally the Great Prince Kalesan established a palace at the location of the place and named the area as Batubulan.

About Batu Bulan
Batubulan Village stands on an area of approximately 6,422 km2 and administratively belongs to the Sukawati District, Gianyar Regency, Bali. Led by a Batubulan Village Head call Prebekel, for those of you who want to send letters to relatives or business relations, the Batubulan Postal Code is 80582. Batubulan Village itself is divided into three traditional sub villages (Desa Adat), namely Tegaltamu Traditional Village, Jero Kuta Traditional Village, and Dlod Tukad Traditional Village.

Each traditional village is further divided into several banjars which function to manage agricultural activities in their respective regions. Not only that, there are also several banjars in Batubulan, Gianyar, which function as places to stage various artistic attractions, such as Balinese dances such as the Kecak Dance and Barong Dance. Jambe Barong Dance Stage at Banjar Tegehe (in Dlod Tukad Traditional Village), Barong Dance at Puseh Temple of Banjar Denjalan (in Jero Kuta Traditional Village) and Sahadewa Barong and Kecak Dance at Pegambangan Village.


Interesting at Batu Bulan
One of the uniqueness of this village is the skill of it’s citizens in mastering the art of carving and sculpting statues from generation to generation. It’s no wonder that along the Batubulan Village road in Sukawati, Gianyar, it’s easy to find various galleries or art shops, You can go in there, see and buy a collection of statues or other artistic works of art as Balinese souvenirs to display at home.

Right in the middle of Village there is huge Banyan Tree, foot ball field, Batubulan Palace, Bale Budaya (culture hall) and local government office building. The foot field and culture hall use for sports and art events (PORSENI Pekan Olahraga dan Seni) every year around August to celebrate Indonesian Independent Day 17th August. There were 6 sports competitions and 7 art competitions. Among them, football, badminton, volleyball, tug-of-war for men and women, table tennis, barong competition, Balinese song karaoke competition, baleganjur competition at Batubulan youth level.

Batubulan Village also has famous 3 arts college school including SMK Negeri 1 Sukawati, SMK Negeri 2 Sukawati (SMIK) and SMK Negeri 3 Sukawati (KOKAR). These 3 college school learning how to play orchestra (Balinese Gambelan), learning Balinese Dance, how to be painter, wood carver, stone carver, silver smith and other product handy crafts.


Barong Dance
The Barong Dance is a type of traditional Balinese dance that is played by one to two people wearing costumes and masks of four legged animals. Then along with its development, Barong Dance is also manifested with two-legged animals. Barong dance is said to be an art that is part of the repertoire of pre-Hindu culture in Bali besides the Sanghyang dance. Both are religious and sacred in nature which were originally performed as a means of religious ceremonies. This dance depicts the battle between dharma (Virtue) and adharma (Ugliness). In this battle, the Barong dancers manifested virtue, meanwhile, the figure of Rangda, who looks creepy with two pointed fangs in his mouth, plays virtue. The famous one is Sahadewa Barong Stage located at Jalan SMKI, Pegambangan, Batubulan, the show starting from 9.00AM – 10.00AM.


kecak Dance
The Kecak Dance is typically performed by about forty to eighty men wearing only loincloths; their upper bodies are left bare. They form concentric circles, in the middle of which is a traditional Balinese coconut oil lamp. First they move their bodies rhythmically to the left and to the right, chanting the words “chak ke-chak ke-chak ke-chak” continuously, in slow rhythm. Gradually the rhythm speeds up and by turns they lift their hands, trembling, into the air. The kecak dance is performed for dance-dramas and the story presented is taken from the Ramayana Hindu epic. The Kecak Dance perform every day at Sahadewa Barong only from 6.30PM – 7.30PM.


The street of Batu Bulan
Batubulan village has been known as a center for the art of sculpture and carving in Bali, whose name has been worldwide. This carving art by the artist of local people from Batubulan village, Gianyar is so highly admired and in demand by foreign business tourists and domestic tourists. The street full with varieties stone carving located at Tegaltamu Village between Barong Dance Statue junction till up to Bali Bird Park. The stone carving made from sand stone the grey color, pualam stone the white one and lava stone the black one.

Buddha statues of various sizes are also in great demand by consumers from Japan, France, Germany and other European countries. Padas stone statues made of antique types are still entering the export market and even increased in number earlier this year. Stone statues in the form of various forms of animals such as frogs, horses, in addition to ancient humans, are widely used for decoration in gardens, guest rooms and workplaces.

Many statue perform as Dwarapala, the figure who guards the gate in the temple. Each of these statues is named Nandiswara which is located on the right (left of the gate) and Mahakala which is located on the left (right of the gate). The existence of both is associated with the power of Lord Shiva as one of the manifestations of God in Hinduism.

Interesting Place nearby
Some other places located near Batubulan Village is Bali Bird park, Bali Zoo Park, Butterfly Park, Puseh Batuan Temple, Celuk Silver Village, Sukawati Art Market, Mas Village, Traditional Balinese House, Tegenungan waterfall, Denpasar City, Denpasar Traditional Market, Sanur Beach,

To visit Batubulan Village and these places above can reach by take Full Day Tours and Half Day Tours or combine with Adventure Tours.

If you are staying in Ubud will take about 30 minutes drive by car local Ubud Driver or motor bike and from Kuta area will take about a hour drive by car local Bali Driver or motor bike. There is no entrance ticket to explore Batubulan Village, except if you would like to watch Barong Dance or Kecak Dance.

CategoriesDenpasar Area By administrator

Sanur

Sanur (Balinese: Pasih Sanur; Indonesian: Pantai Sanur, pronounced sah-noor) is a coastal stretch of beach east of Denpasar in southeast Bali (about a 30-minute drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport), which has grown into a little town in its own right. A 5.1 km (3.2 mi) area of Sanur’s coastline, from Matahari Terbit Beach to Mertasari Beach, was reclaimed in 2008.

History
In 1906 the northern part of Sanur Beach was used as the landing site for the Dutch invasion troops during the intervention in Bali. During World War II, Sanur was again the entry point through which the Japanese forces landed to occupy the island of Bali.

Tourism
As the coastal area closest to the capital Denpasar, Sanur predates Kuta, Nusa Dua, and Uluwatu as the oldest destination for beach tourism in Bali. Grand Inna Bali Beach (formerly Bali Beach InterContinental Hotel) was built in Sanur under Indonesian President Sukarno in 1963 as the first five-star luxury resort in Bali. Before its construction, only three significant hotels existed on the island. Grand Inna Bali Beach is unique for having ten floors, making it the highest hotel in Bali, which normally forbids buildings taller than the height of a coconut palm tree (it was built before the law regulating height limits was promulgated in 1971).

Aside from Grand Inna Bali Beach, Sanur contains some hotel resorts such as Maya Sanur Resort & Spa, the InterContinental Bali Sanur Resort (rebranded from Fairmont Sanur Beach Bali in 2022, which itself was rebranded from Regent Bali in 2014), the Hyatt Regency Bali (formerly Bali Hyatt, not to be confused with the Grand Hyatt in Nusa Dua), and Andaz Bali. Sanur is also home to a growing number of popular villa resorts.

Also catering to the tourists are many restaurants and shops spread around the coastal area. Many of these are Bali-grown brands that favor ingredients or materials original to the island. Among those, The Sandwich Bar, Flamingo Beach Club in Pantai Saba, or Italian Gelateria and restaurant Massimo is a long-standing institution, with queues to be seen on almost every night. Another Italian style in Sanur is resort wear boutique BIASA, a fashion pioneer on the island founded by art enthusiast Susanna Perini. There are plenty of other retail spots along the coastal area, which, in comparison to other destinations on the island, cater more to a mature group of Bali visitors.

Sights
Traditional fishing boats can be seen on the beach of Sanur offering a scenic view of the island Nusa Penida.
Adrien Jean Le Mayeur de Merpes (1880–1958), a Belgian painter, lived in Sanur from 1932–1958. His house was transformed into a museum, Museum Le Mayeur, where about 80 of his most important paintings are exhibited.[5] Bali Orchid Garden, a park about 3 km north of Sanur, is worth a visit as well.

Another interesting sight can be visited south of Sanur in Jalan Danau Poso Street beside Pura Blanjong, a small Hindu temple. A stone column, Belanjong pillar measuring 1.77 metres can be seen under a roof at the end of a small and short blind alley. This is the oldest human-made object in Bali. The column bears inscriptions dating from the 9th century written in Sanskrit and a very old form of Balinese. Various objects made of stone possibly dating from the same period are exhibited as well.

CategoriesGianyar Area By administrator

Ubud

Ubud is a town on the Indonesian island of Bali in Ubud District, located amongst rice paddies and steep ravines in the central foothills of the Gianyar regency. Promoted as an arts and culture centre, it has developed a large tourism industry. It forms a northern part of the Greater Denpasar metropolitan area (known as Sarbagita).

Ubud is an administrative district (kecamatan) with a population of 74,800 (as of the 2020 Census)[1] in an area of 42.38 km2. The central area of Ubud desa (village) has a population of 11,971 and an area of 6.76 km2, and receives more than three million foreign tourists each year. The area surrounding the town is made up of farms, rice paddies, agroforestry plantations, and tourist accommodations. As of 2018, more tourists visited Ubud than Denpasar to the south.

Streets
The main street is Jalan Raya Ubud (Jalan Raya means main road), which runs east–west through the center of town. Two long roads, Jalan Monkey Forest and Jalan Hanoman, extend south from Jalan Raya Ubud.

Buildings
Puri Saren Agung is a large palace located at the intersection of Monkey Forest and Raya Ubud roads. The residence of Tjokorda Gede Agung Sukawati (1910–1978), the last ruling monarch of Ubud, is still owned by the royal family. Dance performances and ceremonies are held in its courtyard. The palace was also one of Ubud’s first hotels, opening its doors back in the 1930s.
Some Hindu temples exist, such as Pura Desa Ubud, which is the main temple, Pura Taman Saraswati, and Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, the temple of death. The Gunung Kawi temple is the site of the royal tombs. Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave, is located in a steep valley just outside Ubud near the town of Bedulu.
The Moon of Pejeng, in nearby Pejeng, is the largest single-cast bronze kettle drum in the world, dating from circa 300BC. It is a popular destination for tourists interested in local culture.

Transportation
Like other towns popular with tourists in Bali, it is not permitted to order a metered taxi or ride-sharing service for pickup within Ubud. Instead, a taxi and price must be negotiated with a member of the local taxi cooperative. This protectionist system ensures the driver is from the local area, and also keeps the fares inflated to up to 10 times the rates available elsewhere.

Economy
The economy of Ubud is highly reliant on tourism which focuses on shopping, resorts, museums, yoga, and zoos. There is a strong focus on sustainable economy regarding the retail industry in Ubud, with many Bali-grown brands favoring materials and ingredients that would not cause much waste to the environment. From home and living amenities to tropical clothing brands, Ubud has quite a unique array of retail selections that have proven attractive to tourists from around the world.

One of the initiatives that have boosted Ubud as another popular tourist destination in recent years is the Ubud Food Festival (UFF). Happening in less than a week every April, this festival brings fellow restaurateurs and restaurants in Ubud together to create either special menus or particular promotions that may not be available in other months.

In contrast to the tourist area in southern Bali, the Ubud area is less densely populated by locals. However, tourists far outnumber locals, with the Gianyar regency seeing 3,842,663 tourist arrivals in 2017 – 1.3 million alone visiting Ubud Monkey Forest.

Culture
The town and area have some art museums, such as the Blanco Renaissance Museum, the Puri Lukisan Museum, the Neka Art Museum, and the Agung Rai Museum of Art. The Museum Rudana in Peliatan is nearby. Galleries promoting local and overseas crafts are abound, too, in Ubud. Some often hold exhibitions focused on stimulating a dialogue between both local and international artists, and less about selling artworks. One of the primary examples is BIASA ArtSpace, founded by art enthusiast and fashion designer Susanna Perini.

The Tek Tok is a traditional Balinese dance that is accompanied by the musical sound of mouth ‘Tek Tok’ altogether with various combinations of body movement and other sounds. The story Draupadi Parwa told in the Tek Tok Dance tells a moral message, when a woman who embodies the values of patience, sacrifice, compassion, devotion, and holy sincerity is disrespected, then disasters and calamities will befall a kingdom or state. This story also conveys the message that truth, virtue, devotion, and genuine compassion will always be protected by God. The Tek Tok dance performance is held regularly at the Bali Culture Center (BCC) in Ubud four times a week. Ubud Writers and Readers Festival (UWRF) is held every year, which is participated by writers and readers from all over the world.

Many Balinese dances are performed around Ubud including the Legong by the Peliatan Dance Group, the first troupe to travel abroad.

Nature
The Mandala Suci Wenara Wana is known to Westerners as the Ubud Monkey Forest. The grounds contain an active temple and are located near the southern end of Monkey Forest Street. This protected area houses the Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, and as of June 2017, approximately 750 crab-eating macaques (Macaca fascicularis) monkeys live there.

The Campuhan Ridge Walk is a hill in nearby Campuhan, from where one can see two rivers, Tukad Yeh Wos Kiwa, and Tukad Yeh Wos Tengen, merge. A one-meter wide paved-block track runs about two kilometers to the top of the hill which is a popular spot to watch the sunset.

Goa Gajah: Also known as the Elephant Cave, Goa Gajah is an archaeological site with intricate carvings and a tranquil meditation cave.

CategoriesDenpasar Area By administrator

Jagatnatha Temple

Jagatnatha Temple Denpasar is a beautiful Hindu temple situated in the center of Denpasar City that is the biggest Hindu temple in the capital city of Bali Province. The temple built in east of Puputan Badung square garden is a public shrine to worship for Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa.
Jagatnatha Temple Denpasar is strategically located on Major Wisnu Street that is very easy reached from any directions as well as famous temple and appointed as a tourist destination in Denpasar City. This temple many visited by the Hindu people especially during the Hindu Holiday season including full moon.

Philosophy Jagatnatha Temple Denpasar Bali
Name of Jaganatha Temple is taken from special name which is not similar with other familiar temples in Bali taken from the location where the temple is situated such as Besakih Temple, Ulundanu Batur Temple, Lempuyang Luhur Temple, Luhur Andakasa Temple, Puncak Mangu Temple, etc.

Among other famous Hindu Temple in Bali, the first ceremony held at Jagatnatha Temple is also similar with other temples by conducting small ceremony procession. The unique of this temple is not having the Pengemong (the group of people/organization/team who support, keep, maintains the temple) like other temples in Bali, but it is only own the small volunteers and people who worship at this temple.

At the beginning, this temple is managed by temple development committee of Jaganatha Temple and afterward managed by The Hindu Holiday Committee which is institutionally stipulated Badung Regency Government decree. But nowadays, this temple has been taken over by the government of Denpasar City.

When we look from the exposure of Jaganatha Temple Concept, it can be concluded the elements and structures of Jagatnatha Temple set in the main temple area (Utama Mandala) those are details as follows:

1. Padmasana
Padmasana is a main building of the temple as a symbol of a seat of Sang Hyang Widhi (god). The word of Padmasana is derived from the Sanskrit, old Javanese and laterally means a throne or a seat of god in lotus shape. In the concept of Arcanam and Citra-Lekha, lotus flower is a plant secret as a seat or throne for the god or the authority in many different forms which is famous called Istadewata of god and goodness.

2. Fish Pond surrounding of Padmasana
If we look the physical structure of the ancient temples in Bali, usually set a Titi Ugal-agil (bridge made from wooden rods) with the pond under it at the entrance gate. Please see and compare the Titi Ugal-Agil at Agung Taro Temple located in Taro Village and Taman Sari Temple located in Klungkung town. The function of Titi Ugal-Agil is to purify every Hindu people who entering the main temple area.

3. Twin Canopies
Jagatnatha Temple, Denpasar City, Bali IslandThe twin canopies are set in front of Padmasana and the canopies building at temples in Bali Island generally has function to put the embodiment of god or Gagaluh on the procession of ceremony (Pawedalan). However, the Pawedalan at Jagatnatha Temple has function as an altar to put the offerings especially on praying procession of Balinese Hindu Holyday such as full moon, dark moon, Galungan and Kuningan Days, Saraswati Day, Siwaratri Day and other important days.

4. Altar of Sang Hyang Anantaboga
This altar is located in north part of main temple complex.
The well for taking Holy Water or Tirtha
The well is set in north part of main temple complex.

5. Bale Paselang
If there is not specific big ceremony held in this temple, Bale Paselang is usually used to keep the offerings and sometimes used as a place for Mesanti (reading and singing the holy bible which is famous called Geguritan or Kekawin). If there are plenty of Hindu people do for praying, then this Bale Paselang is used as a resting place.

6. Perantenan/Kitchen
It is a building has multi functions where the context of kitchen activities, it is not has function on ceremony but it is also accordance with other religious activities at this temple.

7. Gudang/Store
This store is functioning to keep the gamelan and others temple belonging items.

8. Bale Gong
Bale Gong is a building to beat the gamelan during the ceremony procession and it is sometime also used as a rest place for Hindu people.

9. Apit Surang / Entrance Gate

In the west part of the main temple complex area from north to the south, it had been built some of the buildings as follows:
* Bale Kulkul is a beautiful tower building to hang the wooden bell
* Apit Surang Kiwe is left entrance gate
* Gelung Kuri is a center entrance gate
* Apit Surang Tengen is right entrance gate
* Dakam Karang Althar (Tugu)
* Bale Bengong is a canopy of rest
* Bale Pawedan is a canopy for Hindu Priest reciting the mantra.

Location Jagatnatha Temple Denpasar Bali
Jagatnatha Temple Denpasar is a beautiful Hindu temple stratecially located in the center of Denpasar City and it has been appointed as a Bali tourist destination which is many visited by tourist. Other places of interest that you can discover in Denpasar City such as Badung Traditional Market, Bali Museum, Bali Art Center and Banjra Sandhi Monument are just close with this temple. See the map below to find out Jagatnatha Temple location

CategoriesTabanan Area By administrator

Jati Luwih Rice Terrace

Jatiluwih Rice Terrace, an iconic destination in Bali, enchants visitors with its mesmerizing blend of nature and culture. The vast rice fields, meticulously cultivated in terraced patterns, create a stunning panorama that reflects the harmony between human ingenuity and the untouched beauty of the environment. The cool mountain air and the rhythmic life of local farmers add an authentic touch to the experience, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and cultural admirers.

Central to Jatiluwih’s charm is the Subak, a Balinese social organization dedicated to preserving nature and regulating the local community’s social life. Recognizing the profound significance of this synergy, UNESCO has bestowed World Cultural Heritage status upon Jatiluwih Rice Terrace. As visitors explore the terraced landscapes, they witness a living canvas where tradition, nature, and culture converge in timeless splendour, making Jatiluwih a scenic spot and a cultural sanctuary in the heart of Bali.

ABOUT JATILUWIH RICE TERRACE.

General Information
Nestled in the enchanting landscape of Tabanan, Bali, Jatiluwih Rice Terrace unfolds over 600 hectares, showcasing the marvels of Bali’s Subak irrigation system. Recognized as a UNESCO Cultural Landscape, Jatiluwih is a testament to the profound intertwining of cultural and natural elements.

The name “Jatiluwih” derives from the words “Jati” and “Luwih,” signifying “true” and “good.” This aptly captures the essence of Jatiluwih as a place of undeniable beauty. The expansive rice fields, extending from the foothills of Mount Batukaru to the ocean’s edge, create a unique allure. Beyond its scenic charm, Jatiluwih produces three distinct types of rice—white, brown, and black. White rice serves as a staple for Indonesians, while brown rice, with its low carbohydrate content, is valued for its health benefits in preventing diabetes. Additionally, black rice finds its place in culinary creations, notably in pudding. Jatiluwih’s rice, recognized for its quality, holds global appeal, being exported abroad as a testament to Bali’s agricultural excellence.

The History
Dating back to the 9th century, Jatiluwih has been shaped by traditional Balinese farming practices. The Subak system, an ancient water management system, has sustained the terraced fields, showcasing the island’s agricultural ingenuity.

The Highlights
*.Wide Expanse of Rice Fields: Marvel at the breathtaking terraced landscapes, symbolizing Bali’s sustainable and harmonious relationship with nature.
*.UNESCO Heritage Site: Acknowledged for its cultural and natural value, Jatiluwih holds the prestigious title of a UNESCO Cultural Landscape.
*.Rice Field Trekking Track: Explore the intricate network of trekking paths, offering an immersive journey through the terraced fields and Subak irrigation channels.
*.Subak Irrigation: Witness the ancient Subak irrigation system, a UNESCO-recognized cooperative water management system unique to Bali.
*.Panoramic Landscape View: Admire sweeping vistas of terraced rice fields against rolling hills, creating a mesmerizing scenic landscape.
*.Cool Temperature: Enjoy the cool climate of the highlands, making Jatiluwih a refreshing escape from Bali’s tropical heat.
*.Restaurants: Indulge in local cuisine at restaurants overlooking the rice terraces, offering a scenic dining experience.
*.Public Facilities and Parking Space: Convenient facilities ensure a comfortable visit, with tourist parking spaces available.

Nearby Attractions
Explore nearby wonders such as White Tree Temple, Taman Ayun Temple, Alas Kedaton Monkey Forest, Tanah Lot, Butterfly Park, Bloom Garden, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Beratan Lake, Bali Botanical Garden, Buyan Lake, Tamblingan Lake, Batukaru Temple, Penatahan Hot Spring.

Nature’s Symphony Awaits
Jatiluwih Rice Terrace invites you to step into a world where the rhythm of nature harmonizes with centuries-old traditions. Explore the green tapestry, breathe in the fresh air, and let the beauty of Bali’s cultural and natural heritage captivate your senses.

CategoriesDenpasar Area By administrator

Bajra Sandhi Monument

Bajra Sandhi Monument is a monument to the struggles of the Balinese people throughout history. The monument is located in front of the Bali Governor’s Office in Denpasar, Indonesia, on the island of Bali. The monument was built in 1987, and inaugurated by President Megawati Sukarnoputri on June 14, 2003.

Structure
The monument is rectangular, and follows the architectural principles of the “Tri Mandala.” It consists of three parts:

Utama Mandala, the main building in the center of the monument
Madya Mandala, the inner courtyard surrounding the Utama Mandala
Nista Mandala, the outer courtyard surrounding the Madya Mandala
The main building, the Utama Mandala, has three floors. The ground floor, Nistaning Utama Mandala, contains administrative rooms, a library, and exhibition halls. In the center of the ground floor is a lake called the Puser Tasik. The first floor, Madyaning Utama Mandala, contains 33 dioramas, similar to those in the National Monument in Jakarta, but with a focus on the struggles of the Balinese people. The dioramas cover various incidents in the history of the Balinese, including the Balinese kingdom, the introduction of Hinduism, the Majapahit era, Dutch colonialism, and the struggle for independence. The second floor is a meditative space which provides a panoramic view of Denpasar.



History
The monument was originally built in 1987 and opened to the public in 2004. It stands to represent a long history of struggle of the Balinese people, namely the invasion of the Dutch in 1906 and 1908. The invasions saw the deaths of over 1,000 Balinese people, many of whom were civilians, including the Balinese rulers of Badung and Tabanan. These were some of the 6 Dutch involvements in Bali, being the most recent and catastrophic in statistical proportions.[3] The statue now represents the struggle surrounding Dutch colonialism, which was criticized down the line for its policies especially in the eastern islands, along with religious historical references predating Dutch colonialism such as the introduction of Hinduism.

CategoriesDenpasar Area By administrator

Bali Museum

Bali Museum is strategically located in Major Wisnu Street in Denpasar Bali and it is find it due to the location is in the heart town. In the north side there are glorious temple of Jagatnatha, meanwhile in front of it the Puputan Badung (Badung Courtyard) and four face statue (Catur Muka Statue) are located. The development of Bali Museum is begun by the existence of initiative how to vitally the heritage of Balinese culture and taking care of, preserve and maintaining. The initiative is based on the existence of feeling to worry, that there is symptom a kind of culture erosion, so that the cultural heritage become totally disappeared, lose, what omit only photograph and documentations. An extraordinary experience in knowing about the life and culture of the Balinese people in the past here, enjoy information about Bali from the past to the present at the Bali Museum

Bali Museum Location
The location of the Bali Museum is located in the center of Denpasar city with all the hustle and bustle of social activities in the city center and next to the Jagatnatha Temple which is a public temple for the people of Bali and also close to the Puputan Badung field which is a place of recreation for residents of the city of Denpasar. It’s not so difficult to find this place, by relying on google maps and being able to reach the location of the Bali Museum, it has become one of the museum tours in Denpasar. If you are confused about finding the location of this bali museum, you can use Hire Car and Driver services that offer Bali Tour to get around Denpasar city and visit the Bali Museum and also other tourist destinations that are no less interesting. With a very cheap price and also satisfying service, it will make the trip to the Bali Museum very enjoyable. An opportunity that rarely exists where you know the uniqueness and beauty of this tourist destination in the city of Denpasar.

Bali Museum History
The fall of the Kingdom of Klungkung into the hands of the Dutch colonialists on April 28, 1908 has signaled the change of power in Bali into the territory of the Dutch colonial government. This situation made a change in governance in Bali from being somewhat closed to outsiders to becoming more open to Europeans, especially the Dutch during the European colonial period in Indonesia. All other foreign nations became more and more free to come to Bali. They consist of various layers of society who often bring Balinese souvenirs as souvenirs when they return to their country. This condition made the existence of Balinese cultural heritage threatened, thus causing Dutch scientists and culturalists as well as artists to try to prevent this and to preserve Balinese cultural heritage.

The initial idea for the establishment of the Bali Museum was initiated by architect W.FJ Kroon (1909-1913) who was also an assistant resident of southern Bali in Denpasar. The idea was realized with the establishment of a building called Gedung Arca in 1910, while the architects who built the Bali Museum were I Gusti Gede Putu Kandel from Banjar Abasan and I Gusti Ketut Rai from Banjar Belong together with a German architect, Curt Grundler. for funds and materials provided by the Kings of Buleleng, Tabanan, Badung and Karangasem. The chairman of the antiquities service at that time was W.F Stturterhim who continued efforts to complete the ethnographic treasury in 1930 and to facilitate the management of the museum, a foundation was formed, chaired by H.R Ha’ak with its members and the foundation’s personnel. 1932 and at the same time the Bali Museum was opened to the public which became a museum for storing relics of the human past and ethnography. The museum collection consists of ethnographic objects including tools and equipment for life, art, religion, written language, and others that reflect the life and development of Balinese culture in the past.

Noble Purpose of Bali Museum
The purpose of building the Bali Museum is to maintain and preserve the history of Balinese culture in the past, because times are increasingly advanced and it is hoped that the history and discoveries of past relics that tell the history of Bali will not go extinct, and can be remembered and studied by future generations of Balinese people.. The construction of Bali Museum is begun from the idea how does the important to keep, maintain and sustainable the Balinese culture heritages. This initiative was based on sense of worry that there are symptoms such culture erosion, hence the culture heritages have become extinct, lose and leave the photos only. To save the Balinese culture heritages, come the plan to establish a museum which is now ell know as Bali Museum. This is a very noble goal, so that even though times are advancing, we must not forget our identity as Balinese people and at least maintain and preserve the results of our ancestral heritage which is one of the characteristics of the island of Bali which is famous for its local wisdom, customs and variety traditions.

Bali Museum Geography
The museum building is designed in a typical puri or royal style in Denpasar, which has a museum complex pavilion representing various regencies on the island of Bali. So you can visit the Bali museum and see various historical relics of each district with the uniqueness and beauty of each district will make your insight increase, So in one place you can find out the history of the island of Bali as a whole, a museum place that is very suitable for tourists. students who want to know more about the island of Bali, the geography of the Bali Museum is as follows

1.Tabanan Pavilion: Located in the north and stores collections – keloksi such as dance equipment, dance costumes, all kinds of masks for dance, wayang kulit, keris (traditional Balinese sword) for Calonarang as well as some ancient statues from ancient times in tabanan district.

2.Buleleng Pavilion: Located in the center of the building has a typical temple style in North Bali and stores various kinds of collections such as Balinese clothing from Buleleng and also traditional fans made in Buleleng long ago and also some other important relics found

3.Badung Pavilion: Located at the entrance with a high bale kulkul and stores various kinds of prehistoric collections used by humans during hunting and farming, cultivation and metallic periods in antiquity and also displays a collection of fine arts in Bali

4.Karangasem Pavilion: Located in the eastern part and holds a depiction of traditional building art from the eastern part of Bali. This building contains several exhibitions of paintings, fine arts, archeology and several objects from pre-historic times which are very full of history.

The building area of ​​​​the Bali Museum is 2600 square meters with three pages, namely the outer courtyard (jaba), the middle courtyard (jaba Tengah) and the inner courtyard (offal) which are bordered by walls and gates. The gate here is named Candi Bentar and Candi Kurung serves as the entrance, and there is a Kulkul Hall (wooden bell) which is located to the south of Central Jaba. Meanwhile, in the northwest corner stands the Bengong Hall which was used during the royal era as a place for the King’s family to rest if they want to observe the atmosphere outside the palace. In addition, there is also a beji, which is a bath for the royal family placed in front of the Tabanan Building. The roof of the fibers is only used for the roof of the temple building.

What You Can See at Bali Museum
As one of the museums in Denpasar which is very complete with historical stories from culture in Bali which has several collections of ancient civilizations found in Bali, which will add to your full insight about this beloved and very unique island of Bali. The object collections or ancient tools kept at Bali Museum can be classified into prehistoric object collections such as tomb stone (sarkopag), the object collection from the historical era such as Stupika clay containing mantra ‘Ye te’, bronze statues (Arca Perunggu), and ethnographic objects such as the collection of Kris, Endek material, religious ceremony equipment and Sidakarya Mask. can be classified become the prehistoric object collection like: the Grave Petrify (sarkopag), the object collection coming from history era like: stupika clay containing superstitious formula Ye Te, the bronze statues (Hindu andBudha statues) and ethnography object collection like Keris, Endek Cloth, and religious ceremony equipments (Sangku, Cecepan and Sidakarya mask) and also some unique collections that are no less interesting. Those are some pre-historic collections that you can see here, very suitable for those of you who like history and want to know about the history of the development of Bali from the past to the present and know the developments from era to era to the present day.

Facilities at Bali Museum
The facilities at the Bali Museum are very complete so that it will make you feel at home for a long time at the museum location, with a very good layout that will make the atmosphere of visiting very pleasant. There is a parking lot located around the Puputan Badung field which is quite spacious, so you don’t have to worry about finding a parking space, there are people selling drinks and snacks that you can buy if you are thirsty and take a rest in the Puputan field and see the social activities of the community here. often used as a place for jogging and recreation, there are clean toilets in the Bali museum that you can use, so you don’t have to worry about this toilet problem. A very capable supporting facility that will make tourists feel very comfortable visiting the Bali Museum while adding insight into the history of traditional culture in Bali which is very full of uniqueness and diversity of customs and customs.What You Can See at Bali Museum
As one of the museums in Denpasar which is very complete with historical stories from culture in Bali which has several collections of ancient civilizations found in Bali, which will add to your full insight about this beloved and very unique island of Bali. The object collections or ancient tools kept at Bali Museum can be classified into prehistoric object collections such as tomb stone (sarkopag), the object collection from the historical era such as Stupika clay containing mantra ‘Ye te’, bronze statues (Arca Perunggu), and ethnographic objects such as the collection of Kris, Endek material, religious ceremony equipment and Sidakarya Mask. can be classified become the prehistoric object collection like: the Grave Petrify (sarkopag), the object collection coming from history era like: stupika clay containing superstitious formula Ye Te, the bronze statues (Hindu andBudha statues) and ethnography object collection like Keris, Endek Cloth, and religious ceremony equipments (Sangku, Cecepan and Sidakarya mask) and also some unique collections that are no less interesting. Those are some pre-historic collections that you can see here, very suitable for those of you who like history and want to know about the history of the development of Bali from the past to the present and know the developments from era to era to the present day.

Facilities at Bali Museum
The facilities at the Bali Museum are very complete so that it will make you feel at home for a long time at the museum location, with a very good layout that will make the atmosphere of visiting very pleasant. There is a parking lot located around the Puputan Badung field which is quite spacious, so you don’t have to worry about finding a parking space, there are people selling drinks and snacks that you can buy if you are thirsty and take a rest in the Puputan field and see the social activities of the community here. often used as a place for jogging and recreation, there are clean toilets in the Bali museum that you can use, so you don’t have to worry about this toilet problem. A very capable supporting facility that will make tourists feel very comfortable visiting the Bali Museum while adding insight into the history of traditional culture in Bali which is very full of uniqueness and diversity of customs and customs.

CategoriesBuleleng Area By administrator

Denpasar City

Denpasar (Indonesian pronunciation: [denˈpasar]; Balinese: Dénpasar) is the capital city of the province of Bali, Indonesia. Denpasar is the main gateway to the Bali island, the city is also a hub for other cities in the Lesser Sunda Islands.

With the rapid growth of the tourism industry in Bali, Denpasar has encouraged and promoted business activities and ventures, contributing to it having the highest growth rate in Bali Province. The population of Denpasar was 725,314 at the 2020 Census, down from 788,445 at the 2010 Census due to pandemic outflow; the official estimate as at mid 2022 was 726,808. The metropolitan area centred on Denpasar (called Sarbagita) had 1,785,800 residents in mid 2022. Pandemic and travel related closures has further exacerbated the population loss.

Etymology
The name Denpasar – from the Balinese words “den”, meaning north, and “pasar”, meaning market – indicates the city’s origins as a market-town, on the site of what is now Kumbasari Market (formerly “Peken Payuk”), in the northern part of the modern city.
Colonial era
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Denpasar functioned as the capital of the Hindu Majapahit Kingdom of Badung, thus the city’s former name being Badung. The royal palace was looted and razed during the Dutch intervention in 1906. A statue in Taman Puputan (Denpasar’s central square) commemorates the 1906 Puputan, in which as many as a thousand Balinese, including the King and his court, committed mass suicide in front of invading Dutch troops, rather than surrender to them.


Independence era
In 1958, Denpasar became the seat of government for the Province of Bali. It remained the administrative centre of both Badung Regency and the City of Denpasar.

Both Denpasar and Badung Regency have experienced rapid physical, economic, social, and cultural growth.Denpasar has become not only the seat of government, but also the centre of commerce, education, industry, and tourism.

With an average population growth of 4.05% per annum, accompanied by rapid development, came a variety of urban problems. It was later resolved[when?] that meeting the needs and demands of the burgeoning urban community would be best addressed by giving Denpasar administrative independence from Badung Regency.

An agreement was reached to raise the status of Denpasar to that of an autonomous city and on 15 January 1992, Act No. 1 of 1992 officially established the City of Denpasar. It was inaugurated by the Minister of Home Affairs on 27 February 1992.

On 16 November 2009, in a further administrative realignment, Regulation Number 67 shifted the capital of Badung Regency from Denpasar to Mangupura.
Geography
Denpasar is located at an elevation of 4 m (13 ft) above sea level. While the total area of 125.98 km2 or 2.18% of the total area of Bali Province. From the use of land, 2,768 hectares of land are paddy, 10,001 hectares are dry land, while the remaining land area is 9 hectares.

Badung River divides Denpasar, after which the river empties into the Gulf of Benoa.

Climate
Denpasar, located just south of the equator, has a tropical savanna climate (Köppen climate classification: Aw), with hot and humid weather year-round. Due to this, there is little temperature change throughout the year, with temperatures averaging about 28 degrees Celsius. The year is divided into two seasons: wet and dry. The wet season lasts roughly from November to May, while the dry season lasts from June to October.

CategoriesBadung Area Denpasar Area By administrator

Badung Market

Badung Market, or ‘Pasar Badung’ in the local tongue, is the largest traditional market in Denpasar, Bali. The market functions as the main source of fresh produce among Denpasar residents. Regular stalls open well before the break of dawn, with a daily flow of fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers from suppliers in farming regions in the central highlands and elsewhere.

This central landmark in Denpasar is located on the eastern bank of the namesake Badung River, with the Kumbasari Art Market on the other side. The negotiable prices here can usually be a whole lot cheaper than in other markets in Bali, and the mandatory hard bargaining always adds to the shopping experience..

Badung Market features
Badung Market was rebuilt and modernised following a fire in 2016. The floors are linked by escalators and elevators. The multi-storey building now houses many vendors selling both fresh and non-perishable goods.

Stalls on the upper floors sell batiks and other fabrics, household items, kitchen utensils and farming tools. The lower levels are the most frequently visited, with vibrant rows of stalls selling fresh tropical fruits, flowers, meats and poultry, and other groceries.

Badung Market in Bali
Lokasi: Jalan Sulawesi No.1, Dauh Puri Kangin, Denpasar, Bali 80233, Indonesia

Open: Daily from 5am to 5pm.

CategoriesBuleleng Area By administrator

Munduk Village

Munduk is a mountain village located in the highlands of northern part Bali, Indonesia. It is approximately 80 kilometers or two an half hours by car from Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar. Munduk is located in the north of Bali and is relatively easy to get to by car or motorbike from both Ubud or Canggu, which is about a 2-3 hour drive up into the mountains.

Munduk is a charming mountain village in the highlands of northern Bali, tucked away in the lush jungle of Bali and surrounded by the best waterfalls of the island. Munduk is located in northern Bali and is truly one of the most underrated places on the island.

Munduk is a village nestled in the mountains in Northern Bali set about 800 meters above sea level and at least a few degrees cooler than its hot and humid surroundings. We can list a lot of thing of what to do in Munduk.

Munduk offers a plethora of activities that cater to various interests. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature enthusiast, or a culture buff, there’s something here for everyone. Here’s what to do in Munduk:

1. Explore Waterfalls
The first thing of What to do in Munduk is to explore waterfalls. Munduk is home to several stunning waterfalls, including Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, Gitgit Waterfall, and Sekumpul Waterfall. These waterfalls are surrounded by lush greenery and are perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.

2. Wanagiri Hidden Hills
Wanagiri Hidden Hills is a popular Instagram spot in Munduk. It offers stunning views of Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan, as well as several photo opportunities, including a giant bird’s nest and a swing overlooking the lakes.

3. Handara Gate
Handara Gate is a famous landmark in Bali and is located in Munduk. It is a beautiful entrance gate to a golf course and is surrounded by lush greenery and mountains.

4. Ulun Danu Temple
Ulun Danu Temple is a beautiful temple located on the shores of Lake Bratan. It is one of the most photographed temples in Bali and is a must-visit attraction in Munduk.

5. Munduk Rice Terraces
Munduk is home to several rice terraces, including the Munduk Rice Terraces. These terraces offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and are a great place to take a leisurely walk.

6. Visit a Coffee Plantation
Munduk is known for its coffee plantations, and a visit to one of these plantations is a must-do activity. One of the most popular coffee plantations in Munduk is the Munduk Moding Plantation, which offers tours and tastings of their famous Kopi Luwak coffee.

7. Trekking
Munduk is a great place for trekking, with several trails available for all levels of hikers. Some of the most popular trekking routes in Munduk include the Munduk Waterfall Trek and the Tamblingan Lake Trek.

8. Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
Banyumala Twin Waterfalls is a beautiful waterfall located in Munduk. It is surrounded by lush greenery and is a great place for a refreshing swim.

9. Gitgit Waterfall
Gitgit Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located in Munduk. It is surrounded by lush greenery and is a great place for a refreshing swim.

10. Sekumpul Waterfall
Sekumpul Waterfall is a stunning waterfall located in Munduk. It is surrounded by lush greenery and is a great place for a refreshing swim.

11. Buyan Lake
Buyan Lake is a beautiful lake located in Munduk. It is surrounded by lush greenery and is a great place for a leisurely walk.

12. Tamblingan Lake
Tamblingan Lake is a beautiful lake located in Munduk. It is surrounded by lush greenery and is a great place for a leisurely walk.

13. Munduk Moding Plantation
The last thing of what to do in Munduk is coffee plantations. Munduk Moding Plantation is a beautiful resort located in Munduk. It is known for its coffee plantations and offers tours and tastings of its famous Kopi Luwak coffee.
Munduk, with its natural wonders and cultural richness, offers a unique travel experience that will leave you enchanted. You don’t have to worry about what to do in Munduk. From exploring enchanting waterfalls to immersing yourself in the local culture, Munduk has it all. So, pack your bags, embark on this adventure, and create memories that will last a lifetime in this hidden paradise.

CategoriesBuleleng Area By administrator

Sekumpul Waterfal

Sekumpul waterfall is some of the most beautiful Bali waterfalls located in North Bali. Secluded deep in the jungle and with 80 meters height, Sekumpul waterfall is one of the tallest and most impressive waterfalls in Bali. The jungle surroundings and beautiful form of Sekumpul waterfall really gives you the Jurassic Park jungle vibes. We’ve been a few times to Sekumpul waterfall, and the power, height and beauty of this Bali waterfall is so impressive and will amaze you every time again. For adventure lovers and photographers this is a great spot as you have so many angles to shoot Sekumpul waterfall. Read for more photography tips at the bottom of this blog post. In this complete guide about Sekumpul waterfall you will find all the information you need about how to get there, entrance fee, difficulty of the hike and photography tips for Sekumpul waterfall Bali!

How to get to Sekumpul waterfall Bali
There are two different ways to get to Sekumpul waterfall. One way is via the main Sekumpul waterfall entrance and the other way is via Lemukih village. The difference between these two entrances is that from Lemukih village you will hike through the rice fields and via the top of Sekumpul waterfall down to Fiji and Sekumpul waterfall.
But via the ‘main’ entrance of Sekumpul you will walk along the viewpoint where you can admire Sekumpul from above before making your way down the steps. For both ways you will need a guide. You can either arrange a guide before coming to Sekumpul, or pay for a guide once you get to Sekumpul.
During the hike you will have to cross a little river, so make sure to bring shoes that can get wet or bring watershoes or sturdy sandals. The rocks here can be slippery, so walk with full attention! Coming from the Sekumpul main entrance, the first waterfall you will see is hidden in a small cave. This one if definitely worth a visit before or after you make your way to Sekumpul waterfall. On the way back to the parking lot it’s a bit of a climb because the stairs are pretty steep.

Sekumpul & Fiji waterfall entrance fee
There are three options for entrance fees to Sekumpul waterfall. It all depends how much time you have and which waterfalls you want to see.
If you only want to view Sekumpul waterfall from the viewpoint, you only pay 20.000 IDR per person and you don’t need a guide. This is a great option if you are short in time or don’t want to view the waterfall from the bottom and hike all the way down.

In case you want to hike down to Sekumpul waterfall you will need a guide which is 130.000 IDR per person. This is called the medium trekking which takes about 30 minutes of hiking. You will also visit the hidden waterfall during this hike.

But besides Sekumpul and the hidden waterfall there is another beautiful waterfall around the corner of Sekumpul which is absolutely worth a visit. This collection of three waterfalls is called Fiji waterfall. If you want to go for this trek you have to pay 200.000 IDR per person. This package includes a visit to the hidden waterfall, Sekumpul waterfall and Fiji waterfall.

CategoriesBuleleng Area By administrator

Lovina Beach Singaraja

Lovina is a relatively new name coined in the 1950s by the late king of Buleleng (Buleleng Regency) Anak Agung Panji Tisna, with a good eye for future tourism-based development. It started with small lodge built on his own land and named Lovina. After going through struggle of ups and downs, finally the community accepted the presence of Lovina. Nowadays the name Lovina is used for the stretch of seven traditional villages, which all slightly merge into one over ten kilometersof the main road which hugs the north coast to the west of Singaraja: Temukus, Kalibukbuk, Anturan, Pemaron, Tukad Mungga, Banyualit and Kaliasem. Kalibukuk is the main hub of this area and is often thought of “Lovina town centre”.

If traveling along the main coast road from Singaraja, you turn towards the Lovina coast at the only set of traffic lights on the entire north road. Impressive Balinese gates frame the entrances to the two roads where most of the restaurants and hotels are. Western style minimarts and ATMs are located on the busy main road. Lovina offers very reasonably priced accommodation from no star home stays to about three star resorts with pools. Posh private villas are tucked away all along the coast too. Food is cheaper than Ubud or the south coast by about a third.

The whole stretch of coastline in the north is fringed by quite narrow black sand beaches, which are accessed by a multitude of small lanes which run perpendicular to the east-west coast road. The beaches are generally safe for swimming, and the waters of Bali’s north coast, in direct contrast to the crashing surf of the south, are relatively calm. From a distance, the water does not look too clean due to the colour of the sand but it is in fact almost always crystal clear. The locals do make an attempt to clear away plastic flotsam too.

Diving, snorkelling fishing dolphin watching, diving on coral reefs are the main activities, but perhaps above all else, this is an area in which to relax and take in a very slow, traditional pace of life. Lovina is ideal for family groups with young children or older adventurers who want to kick back and quickly become part of the community. It can get a little crowded in July and August, but outside that peak season, this is a quiet part of the island.

Lovina also has a large number of tourist stalls which are limited to the area of beach between the dolphin statue and the main restaurant road. The stall holders are not as aggresive as those in other parts of Bali. Open air bars often provide loud, live music in which patrons can participate and it’s not unusual to see foreigners jamming with locals. Many foreigners have made this locality home and the place gets busy at sundown when both locals and foreigners come down to the beach for ‘happy hour’ and a good meal. There is a nightly game of beach volleyball happening in the car park in front of the main bars too.

Get around
This is a good area for walking as the roads are relatively quiet and the beaches long and easily passable.
Renting a bicycle is popular and again, easy to find. Many hotels have their own. You should be aware though that away from the coast road, there are a lot of steep hills.

The easiest way to visit the surroundings of Lovina is by renting a motorbike. There are many roadside outlets and expect to pay between Rp 50,000-90,000 per day. (Caveat emptor: carefully read any agreement you sign and never surrender your passport in exchange for a rental. Sovina Shop on Jalan Mawar/Rambutan is not recommended due to substandard motos and an owner desperate to find imaginary fault with returning rentals. Take your own pictures to document the moto condition ahead of time.) The roads are quite good here and nothing like as crowded as in south Bali.

Local bemos ply the north coast road between Singaraja and West Bali, stopping at all points on the Lovina stretch. You will need some patience and they can be very crowded indeed. As there is only one main road it is though hard to get lost.

If you’re walking around some people on motorbikes will offer to bring you to places against a payment. This is generally more expensive than using the Gojek / Grab apps, which are very suitable motorbike ride sharing applications to get to places.
Lovina is a quiet coastal town on the North Bali coastline west of the city of Singaraja.


Understand
Lovina is a relatively new name coined in the 1950s by the late king of Buleleng (Buleleng Regency) Anak Agung Panji Tisna, with a good eye for future tourism-based development. It started with small lodge built on his own land and named Lovina. After going through struggle of ups and downs, finally the community accepted the presence of Lovina. Nowadays the name Lovina is used for the stretch of seven traditional villages, which all slightly merge into one over ten kilometersof the main road which hugs the north coast to the west of Singaraja: Temukus, Kalibukbuk, Anturan, Pemaron, Tukad Mungga, Banyualit and Kaliasem. Kalibukuk is the main hub of this area and is often thought of “Lovina town centre”.

If traveling along the main coast road from Singaraja, you turn towards the Lovina coast at the only set of traffic lights on the entire north road. Impressive Balinese gates frame the entrances to the two roads where most of the restaurants and hotels are. Western style minimarts and ATMs are located on the busy main road. Lovina offers very reasonably priced accommodation from no star home stays to about three star resorts with pools. Posh private villas are tucked away all along the coast too. Food is cheaper than Ubud or the south coast by about a third.

The whole stretch of coastline in the north is fringed by quite narrow black sand beaches, which are accessed by a multitude of small lanes which run perpendicular to the east-west coast road. The beaches are generally safe for swimming, and the waters of Bali’s north coast, in direct contrast to the crashing surf of the south, are relatively calm. From a distance, the water does not look too clean due to the colour of the sand but it is in fact almost always crystal clear. The locals do make an attempt to clear away plastic flotsam too.

Diving, snorkelling fishing dolphin watching, diving on coral reefs are the main activities, but perhaps above all else, this is an area in which to relax and take in a very slow, traditional pace of life. Lovina is ideal for family groups with young children or older adventurers who want to kick back and quickly become part of the community. It can get a little crowded in July and August, but outside that peak season, this is a quiet part of the island.

Lovina also has a large number of tourist stalls which are limited to the area of beach between the dolphin statue and the main restaurant road. The stall holders are not as aggresive as those in other parts of Bali. Open air bars often provide loud, live music in which patrons can participate and it’s not unusual to see foreigners jamming with locals. Many foreigners have made this locality home and the place gets busy at sundown when both locals and foreigners come down to the beach for ‘happy hour’ and a good meal. There is a nightly game of beach volleyball happening in the car park in front of the main bars too.

Get around
This is a good area for walking as the roads are relatively quiet and the beaches long and easily passable.

Renting a bicycle is popular and again, easy to find. Many hotels have their own. You should be aware though that away from the coast road, there are a lot of steep hills.

The easiest way to visit the surroundings of Lovina is by renting a motorbike. There are many roadside outlets and expect to pay between Rp 50,000-90,000 per day. (Caveat emptor: carefully read any agreement you sign and never surrender your passport in exchange for a rental. Sovina Shop on Jalan Mawar/Rambutan is not recommended due to substandard motos and an owner desperate to find imaginary fault with returning rentals. Take your own pictures to document the moto condition ahead of time.) The roads are quite good here and nothing like as crowded as in south Bali.

Local bemos ply the north coast road between Singaraja and West Bali, stopping at all points on the Lovina stretch. You will need some patience and they can be very crowded indeed. As there is only one main road it is though hard to get lost.

If you’re walking around some people on motorbikes will offer to bring you to places against a payment. This is generally more expensive than using the Gojek / Grab apps, which are very suitable motorbike ride sharing applications to get to places.

See
Lovina’s black sand beaches are quite lovely and lend themselves well to exploration on foot at a leisurely pace. The sea is very calm here and is safe for swimming. The feeling on the beaches is one of laid-back tranquility with small, colourfully decorated traditional outriggers called perahu dotted along the shoreline. These are a reminder that you are in a traditional fishing community. There are a few hawkers, but nothing like as many as on the southern beaches, and this is as good a place as any in Bali to explore quiet beaches at your own pace. At the highest of tides the beaches can get a little difficult to traverse in places, so it is best to time your walks for a falling tide. Be aware that many of the ‘black sand’ beaches (particularly in the central area) are an unappealing dirty brown with significant amounts of plastic rubbish

The small road that runs down to the beach-front from the main east-west coast route at Kalibukuk is called Jalan Bina Ria. Turn to the coast just past the only set of traffic lights on the north road. At the beach end of this road is a rather wonderful dolphin statue (complete with slightly horrific one-jawed rusting dolphins). Apart from being a notable piece of kitsch, this is a reminder of the reason for the initial drive beind tourist development at Lovina (dolphins, obviously). Mini wooden and stone replicas of this statue are for sale widely in the area.

Brahma Vihara Arama
Brahma Vihara Arama, Dencarik. Bali’s largest Buddhist monastery located near the village of Dencarik. The monastery is absolutely charming and commands lovely views. Whilst obviously Buddhist with its orange roof, numerous gold Buddhas and stupas recalling those at Borobudur, the carvings and ornamentation are very Balinese. The combination works well and if it were in a location easier to reach, this attraction would recieve far more visitors than it does. A visit here combines well with Banjar Hot Springs. Donation.
Air Terjun Singsing (Singsing Waterfall), Jalan Air Terjun Singsing (About five kilometres west of the main beach, south off the main Seririt-Singaraja road near the Deutches Eck restaurant). There are two waterfalls. From the carpark, follow the track indicated by the sign until you reach the lower waterfall (about a kilometre). To reach the upper waterfall, cross the stream and follow another (steep) track up the hill. If the water is not too deep, you can cross the stream again and continue up a set of stairs to the Sing Sing Resort from which there are excellent views over Lovina and the Bali Sea.
Your hotel can (and will offer repeatedly to) arrange day tours to the nearby sights including the beautiful highland scenery of Bedugul or Munduk to the south, the beaches of Pemuteran to the west, and the city of Singaraja to the east. All are within easy reach.

You can arrange a half day trip to the Les village waterfall, bat cave and coral protection project, which is around 40 km to the East.
You will be offered dolphin sighting trips every other minute. These leave the main beaches each morning at dawn, and have mixed reviews as the boats tend to outnumber the dolphins. It can still be an enjoyable ride, and if you do find a lot of dolphins it is of course very worthwhile. The price is fixed by the local boatmen’s association, and is currently Rp 100,000 per person, allthough you occassionally find a boatman who might give you a better price. The boats are numbered by this organization for easy recognition. Two boats are especially good choices: ‘Beautiful Fish’ is a speedboat, which dolphins tend to like and to play in the waves it creates (250.000 Rp). Popeye (boat number 1, since the drivers’ father set up the organization) provides very good trips. At dawn, there are at least twenty boats looking for dolphins and when found, chasing them like a hide-and-seek for adults. Some boat drivers look around for an own group of dolphins, averting from the ‘crowds’. The Popeye boat takes his time and waits patiently until it can follow the dolphins gently for as long as possible

CategoriesBuleleng Area By administrator

Menjangan Island

Menjangan Island is a tiny island off the northwest coast of Bali. The island sits in Bali Barat National Park, which is a protected marine reserve. Menjangan’s beautiful and unspoilt marine landscapes make it a popular spot among divers and snorkelers. Creatures which inhabit the waters around the island include hawksbill turtles, garden eels and manta rays. On dry land, the island is home to a herd of deer – the island’s name translates as ‘Deer Island’. Menjangan is easily accessible from the northwest coast of Bali – a journey of around 40 minutes by speedboat from Pemutaran/Labuhan Lalang.

Getting to Menjangan Island
Once you’re on Menjagan Island, it can feel secluded and like a world away from anywhere else. In actual fact, it’s very easy to reach the island from the northwest of Bali, from Labuhan Lalang, a port near Pemutaran.

Permits and guides
Strictly speaking, it is not possible to visit Menjangan Island completely independently. Rather, you need a permit and to be in the company of a park guide. These restrictions relate to the protected status of Bali Barat National Park. There is a park office in Labuhan Lalang where you can pick up a permit for Rp 20,000. Fees for a guide start at around Rp 350,000. Alternatively, both these things can be organised for you by most hotels in the area.

Getting to Menjangan Island by boat
The jumping-off point for trips to Menjangan Island is Labuhan Lalang, a harbour near Pemutaran Beach. It’s also possible to get a boat from Banyuwangi, which lies on the coast in between Menjangan and Labuhan Lalang. However, there’s no particular reason to do this and most travellers will depart from Labuhan Lalang. The boat trip from the mainland takes around 30 minutes. The return boat trip (on top of park and guide fees) costs around Rp 600,000 per person.

What to do in Menjangan Island
Diving in Menjangan Island
Menjangan Island is considered by many to be the best place in Bali to dive, and that’s saying something. It sits in the only national park in Bali, Bali Barat National Park. It’s also popular because it is suitable for divers and snorkelers of all experience levels. However, you should be aware that some dive sites are very deep and have strong current in places.

There are numerous beautiful creatures to spot in the waters around Menjangan Islands. At the Garden Eels dive site, you’ll spot eels sticking their heads up from the seabed and swaying hypnotically like seaweed. You can also dive the wreck of an old boat at Kapal Budak, and spot manta rays and barracuda at Bat Cave.

Culture on Menjangan Island
The main activity on Menjangan Island is undoubtedly diving and snorkelling. However, on the island itself there are several beautiful shrines. Most notably, there is a Ganesha temple, with a white statue of the god gazing out over the sea.

Hotel choices if you want to visit Menjangan Island
Although Menjangan Island is a very popular destination with visitors, there are no hotels on the island itself. This helps to preserve the island’s beauty, ecosystems, and unspoilt nature. However, there are lots of hotels to suit all budgets on the coast of the mainland nearby.

Budget hotels near Menjangan Island
If you’re on a tight budget, there are a couple of options when it comes to hotels near Menjangan Island. One is Menjangan View Homestay, which sits inland a couple of kilometres east of Labuhan Lalang. Rooms are in comfortable bungalows set in beautiful gardens, with a lovely outdoor pool. Room prices start at around Rp 350,000.

Midrange hotels near Menjangan Island
A great midrange option for exploring Menjangan is Naya Gawana Resort and Spa. This lovely hotel sits in sprawling grounds on the coast of Menjangan Bay. Accommodation is in beautiful wooden bungalows. Prices start at around Rp 1,000,000. Another mid-range option is Taman Sari in Pemutaran. This hotel has a similar feel, with lovely thatched bungalows, but also has its own beach. Prices start from around Rp 750,000. Another option is Bangsring Breeze. This is actually on the east coast of Java, but is within easy reach of Menjangan. Prices start at Rp 1,300,000.

Luxury hotels near Menjangan Island
There are also a few choices when it comes to luxury hotels near Menjangan. Plataran Menjangan sees you staying in luxurious villas in the traditional Joglo style. Prices begin at Rp 3,800,000. The Menjangan, meanwhile, is the biggest resort in the region, in 382 hectares of the national park. Again, you stay in traditional yet luxurious bungalows. Prices start from Rp 2,5000,000.

Final thoughts
Menjangan Island is one of the best and most popular places in Bali to snorkel and dive. The island is reachable by boat from Labuhan Lalang on the northwest coast of mainland Bali. There are no hotels on the island itself, but several on the mainland nearby.

Have you ever been to Menjangan Island? Have you got any suggestions about how to get there and what to do, other than those mentioned above? Please let us know in the comments below.

CategoriesBuleleng Area By administrator

Pemuteran Beach

Pemuteran Beach is located in the North West part of Bali, approximately 3,5 hours drive from the Airport in Denpasar. This route is one of the most interesting and scenic tours in Bali. Lovina is 45 minutes and it is about 20 minutes drive to Bali Barat National Park and Menjangan island diving site. The ferry to Java at Gilimanuk is 30 minutes.

Pemuteran Bay is one of the hidden gems of Bali. A place with beautiful scenery, award winning coral reefs and a serene beach far away from the hustle and bustle of South Bali. The perfect place to see a still unspoiled Bali that offers many unique experiences.

This is a small laid-back village which has become increasingly popular with visitors in recent years. There are a number of waterfront resorts and its proximity to Lovina and West Bali National Park together with the extreme natural beauty of the area, has fuelled quite rapid growth in tourism infrastructure in the area. Pemuteran is home to the largest artificial Biorock reef project in the world and there is a real spirit of marine conservation effort in this area.

How to get into pemuteran.
Visitors usually arrive in Pemuteran on the north coast road from Lovina or Singaraja or from the west at Gilimanuk. It is the nearest beach from the ferry terminal, with a 45-minute to an hour’s worth of a ride. Regular bemos and really old, rattletrap busses ply the north coast road but they can be slow and get extremely crowded. Hail them from the side of the main road and haggle over the price if you are a foreigner. You will see a lot of the locals pay just pennies. Tell the driver you want to get off at Pemuteran since there is little in the way of a ‘town centre’ or landmarks. Then walk down any ‘gang’ through the fields and past posh resorts to the coast.
You will have no problem renting a car with driver to take you from Lovina to Pemuteran – fix the price in advance and make sure petrol is included.

A direct ride to Pemuteran from tourist centres in the south will take about four hours depending on traffic. On the way through the mountains in the central Bali you can stop by at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan and observe the natural al beauty of the area.


Get around
This is a great place to walk or get around by bicycle. Your hotel will be able to help if you decide you need to rent a motorbike. Cycling around the village can be organize by hotel.

See
Biorock and Coral Reef right on the main beach is rare anywhere in the world. Here it is also free! Just make your way to the beach, hire your goggles and snorkel then enter the water at the marked locations along the beach. Do make sure you put on sunscreen or at least a t-shirt as you will be burned to a crisp within 30 minutes. The reef and bio rock is extensive so you can easily spend a day here. There are no touts or other hassles at all. It is very Wheelchair friendly too.

There is a lonely peak around 100 meters high just next to the western side of the main beach. You can see perfectly the whole coastal area from the top and if weather permits mount Ijen in eastern Jawa will appear on the horizon. On your way up you will see two temples set beautifully in the hill’s landscape. Use your natural sense of orientation or find the Gecko homestay to reach the feet of the peak. Go up by the concrete path starting with some steep run of stairs. (15 min walk).

Just a couple of kilometers east from Pemuteran is a Monkey Temple right beside the road (Pura Pulakih). The dozens of monkeys here are better behaved than those in Ubud. They make a great photo opportunity, particularly with the ocean and beach background. Locals feed them fruit but its not a good idea to put down your bag or leave windows open in parked cars.

The beaches are especially nice in this area and consist of a particularly fine grained black sand.

Menjangan Island and West Bali National Park are easily reached from here. The dive center boats to Menjangan Island depart directly from Pemuteran at in the morning and the ride will take about 40 minutes, but most use small buses (or pickups! Sunburn!) and take you to Banyuwedang, the nearest Harbour.. Expect the price of the trip around 700 000 rp. which includes the national park entry permit (200 000 rp) and usually all necessary equipment for snorkelling and lunch at the island. If you dont want to go with a Pemuteran operation, other options are from Banyuwedang (Near Mimpi hotel, Gawana hotel, or Batu Ampar) 15 minutes from Pemuteran (or Labuhan Lalang which is a 45 minute ride west). Obligatory permits can be purchased from the national park office at the back of the Labuhan Lalang car park or in the ranger office in Banyuwedang and you can also arrange a guide here. It is quite common for groups of visitors to congregate in this car park and join together to charter a boat – but then you have no Operation to ensure good quality service…. Most local hotels will make any arrangements you need for activities related to the national park.

Pemuteran is ideal for nature excursions, trekking at the National Park, swimming, snorkelling & diving or exploring the sacred temples in the area. The Ijen crater on Java can be visited on a day trip and offers one of the most impressive sights in Indonesia.
BEACH & CORAL
The sea is calm and free of strong currents and waves, which affect most other parts of the island. The bay has the largest area of shallow coral reefs in Bali. Pemuteran community declared that the reefs are protected no-fishing zones, for eco-tourism use only. The Biorock project is the largest reef restoration in the world and won a special United Nations Award in 2012.

CategoriesBuleleng Area By administrator

Pulaki Temple

Pura Pulaki is a Balinese Hindu temple or a pura located to the west of Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia. The temple is set on flat land with rocky outcrops as the backdrop. Pura Pulaki is a pura segara or Balinese sea temples, set around the island to form a chain of temples which protect the island.
History
The area of Pulaki has been inhabited since the prehistoric age. Several stone tools shaped like axe were discovered in Pura Melanting, a temple near Pura Pulaki, in 1987. The area of Pura Pulaki may have been a center of a pre-Hindu religion which makes use of a religious building in the form of a staged pyramid. Geographically, Pulaki forms a safe haven which provides a resting place for sea traders between Java ana Maluku. In the 14th-century, Pulaki was recorded as the center for the development of Vaishnavism, a sect in Hinduism.
In late 15th-century, Dang Hyang Nirartha, a Hindu priest or Brahmin from the Majapahit kingdom of Java, arrived in Bali to introduce the Shaivite priesthood in Bali. Nirartha built several temples on Bali including the Pura Pulaki in 1489, the year considered to be the establishment of Pura Pulaki.[2][failed verification] Local legend mentioned that upon his arrival, Nirartha was escorted by the macaques from the forest into the spot where the Pura Pulaki would be built.

Afterwards, Pura Pulaki was abandoned. In 1920, the Dutch colonial government rented the area of Pulaki to a Chinese trader Ang Tek What. The area, including the temple, was taken over by the Indonesian government in 1950 and was restored and protected.
Temple compound
Pura Pulaki is the main temple of a group of temples surrounding the area, called Pesanakan. The surrounding temples around Pura Pulaki are Pura Pemuteran, which is popular for its hot springs, Pura Kerta Kawat, and Pura Pabean. Pura Pulaki is situated by the beach Pantai Gondol.

Pura Pulaki is a pura segara or “sea temples”, which were founded in the 16th century also by Nirartha. Pura segara were built to honor the deities of the sea.[3] Each of the pura segara is traditionally said to be visible from the next, forming a ‘chain’ around the coast of Bali. Many of the most important sea temples are located along the south-west coast of the island. The temples’ positions were meant to provide a chain of spiritual protection for the Bali island.

Like all pura, Pura Pulaki is divided into three areas: the outer sanctum of the temple (jaba pisan or nistaning mandala), the middle sanctum (jaba tengah or madya mandala), and the inner main sanctum (jero or utamaning mandala).

The outer sanctum or jaba pisan is the outermost courtyard of the temple. Entry to the outer sanctum of Pura Pulaki is marked by a candi bentar split gate. This candi bentar is flanked with two towering bale kulkul, a pavilion where the drum to call for prayers is kept.[

The inner sanctum or jero is the most sacred part of a Balinese temple. Entry into the inner sanctum is marked with a portal structure known as paduraksa. The black-stone paduraksa of Pura Pulaki is decorated with figures of Naga Basuki, a dragon which maintain the balance of the cosmos. The paduraksa of Pura Pulaki was built in 1983.

CategoriesBuleleng Area By administrator

Bali Buddhist Monastery

Brahmavira Arama Buddhist Monastery is the perfect place for a serene Buddhist Monastery in Bali. Buddhist Monastery Bali located at Tegehe hamlet, the village of Banjar, near Lovina, in Buleleng Regency. Perched on a slope of a hill, Brahmavira Arama Buddhist Temple and Monastery rise majestically overlooking a sea with lush green hill as a background.
The monastery (Brahma Vihara Arama) was built in 1970 by locals financing by Indonesian and also aids of Thailand government, and it’s consecrated in 1972. It has been damaged by earthquake in 1976. The new Stupa has been repaired and is decorated with splendidly colorful confection.

The temple complex enjoys a wonderful hillside setting such as brilliant orange tile roof stand over an entrance gate guarded by fine two Naga, with bell tower in the corner of middle courtyard. Every step’s up to the temple has Buddha wisdom also around the walls.

A lower temple with a gold Buddha is from Thailand as a centerpiece, carved stone plaques showing scene from Buddha’s life on all the main temple, and colorful Buddhist to the left of the top temple. Further up you’ll see the founder of the temple next to it is several big Stupas, in this part is the most interesting of the monastery, and magnet for pilgrimages. It well knows as Vihara Buddha Banjar, is biggest Buddhist temple in Bali. It is located at a hilly area at Tehege Village, Desa Banjar, Buleleng Regency about 22 km west of Singaraja city. Due to its location in a hilly area, Brahmavihara Arama has a silent and peaceful atmosphere and it’s perfect as a spiritual area.

HISTORY
Brahmavira Arama Buddha Banjar is a Buddhist temple that was built in the late of 20th century Christian exactly in 1960 and after 1970; it was opened formally in 1973. Actually Buddhist has been built before located at Banjar Tegehe around the hot spring area of Banjar Village, but at that time only the few of people adherents were getting more increasing then Brahmavihara Arama was finally built on such area of land; the area has been expanded in order to be able to build Borobudur Miniature that is located on the southern part of the Brahmavihara Arama that has been built and opened.

Principally there are 5 complexes of building:

  1. Upastha Gara located on the top of the hill on the west, is a comfortable and a quite place. On the wall there is relief of Buddha’s birth, and in the center there is Buddhist statue in the condition reaching the heaven. In religious and ritual activity this space is functioned as stabilizing the candidate of monk, a stating stage to follow the next training. It was in this space the monk said their oath.
  2. Dharmasala is located on the east, Dharmasala room is a kind of a room for giving lecture. This room is also a place for giving preach and other spiritual activities
  3. Stupa, is a giant bell-like building located at he corner of North West, its wall are made of concrete, carved on relieves that are very interesting. In the Stupa there are many sacred Buddhist things kept such us bright and fire proof things.
  4. Bodi tree; at the northwest corner there is a big Bodi that is decorated with relief. This place is a victory of Buddha when reaching eternal perfection. In this place visitors usually do meditation especially on Asuda and Waicak Holydays.
  5. 5. Kuti, at Vihara complex there are rooms called Kuti. These rooms are the home stay for monks and student who are studying and a place for monks exercise. If we hang around all corners of the room and park we can find many Buddhist statues. Among there are two beautiful one ; Parinirwana and Buddha statue. Both are made from bronze coated with gold gifts from Thailand and Sri Langka in 1977. These Statue are place in different rooms. Buddhist Parinirwana statue visualized Buddha reaching heaven or Hindus term Moksa (eternity). Other biggest Buddhist statues at the park in Brahmavihara Arama are about 31 statues. They are made from sandstone or concrete showing the symbol that there are 31 stages of nature outside heaven.


    Other important holydays at Brahmavihara Arama are Waicak comes every Purnamasiddhi (full moon). In May, once a year it is to celebrate:
  1. The birth of Buddha in Purnamasiddhi Waisaka Puja
  2. The reaching of Heaven by Buddha that is a perfect freedom, and
  3. When Buddha reached Parinirwana (eternity).
CategoriesBuleleng Area By administrator

Banjar Natural Hotspring

Banjar Hot Springs are centuries-old springs have been upgraded with modern facilities over time. They’ve have become a favourite retreat and recreational site among locals and international visitors.

Locally known as Air Panas Banjar, the hot springs are located approximately 5 km southwest from the famous Lovina coast in North Bali. They share the same district as the Brahmavihara Arama Buddhist monastery, which is located only 1.5 km to the east.

In Bali there is a unique natural wonder and at the same time a wellness oasis, which is located in the middle of a tropical greenery and a temple complex. The springs of Air Panas Banjar are considered a unique attraction in Bali, which is very popular among locals, as well as tourists.

The water contains sulfur and is highly turbid, but is especially suitable for sensitive skin. The numerous springs make it possible that the water basins are always supplied with fresh water..

Hot springs for centuries already.

These are centuries-old sources, which have been supplemented again and again over the course of many years. They developed into a popular place of recreation and retreat, attracting many visitors. The whole complex was already known for its healing properties during the occupation by Japan in World War II.

Even then, the water was used to cure skin problems and rheumatic complaints. The facility is located in the same district where the Brahmavihara Arama Buddhist Monastery is located. The monastery is located only about one and a half kilometers east of the springs.

Arrival:
There is a parking lot at the entrance to the site. Cars and coaches stop there and there is another access for motorcycles. On the way to a stone gate there are numerous souvenir stores selling various items to tourists. Shirts, art, fabrics, handicrafts and much more are hawked here.

The way to the springs leads over a bridge after the gate. Guests then come to another staircase, from where the first stairs are already visible. The water fountains can already be seen from here.

What activities are available?
The healing water has a temperature of about 36 – 38 degrees Celsius. This may seem unusual, especially since the outside temperatures in Bali are often also above 30 degrees Celsius. Nevertheless, it is worth getting into the warm water. It relaxes and develops an extremely beneficial effect.

Due to the sulfur dissolved in the water, a bath has a beneficial effect and helps with rheumatic complaints, with tension, pain in joints as well as skin irritations. The springs are an oasis in the midst of tropical greenery that can be enjoyed and invites you to bathe.

In the middle of a temple
Directly where the hot water comes out of the ground in the nearby rainforest, a small temple was built, from where the mineral water flows into a total of three basins of the plant. At the same time, the first pool is the hottest. From there, the water flows over gargoyles, built of stone, into the square-shaped main pool.

The individual gargoyles are imitated nagas, which according to mythology are snakes that often have dragon-like heads in Bali. Finally, the water has already cooled down a bit and flows into the last basin. Visitors experience a highlight of the entire facility here, as multiple jets of water splash down into the pool. Guests standing in the beam can have their shoulders or back massaged by it.

Graduated plant
The bathing pools were created around the hot water spring and have a graduated structure. The first level has eight of the dragon spouts with a smaller pool adjacent to the spouts. Since the central bathing pool is large, families can also plunge into the bath. The main central pool is located on the second level.

Diving into the hot springs.
The sulfur smells very strong. Furthermore, it also colors the water turbidly, although fresh water constantly flows in. However, the sulfur also stains the skin and light colored bathing suits, and it can stain light colored towels when drying. Therefore, when visiting the facility, dark bathing suits and dark towels should be used.

Likewise, it is recommended to take a good shower after bathing. Guests have the opportunity to put them on the warm stones of the pool edge and rest there. In a nearby restaurant you can have a coke or ice cream. In addition, there are changing rooms for changing and lockers where items can be locked up for a fee.
Rules of conduct
Inside the bath there is an obligation to wear swimwear. Nude bathing is not allowed. It is also forbidden to jump from the edge of the pool. It is recommended to bring bathing slippers or flip-flops. Guests who like it especially quiet can visit the facility in the morning, because then the crowd is the least.

Explore the surroundings
Bathing in the warm springs is recommended for relaxation after visits to one of the temples. It can also be used for rest after a hike on Mount Batur. The hot springs are located in North Bali, about nine kilometers from Lovina Beach, surrounded by mountains. The distance to Singaraja is 24 kilometers. The springs are located about one kilometer south of Banja.

More information and location
Address: Jalan Banjar, Banjar, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 80517, Indonesia.

Phone number: +62 (0)362 92901

Coordinates: -8°12’37.655″ N 114°58’1.785″ E

Conclusion
Banjar hot springs offer a pleasant retreat for all guests, whether singles or families, amidst the hills of Bali. Here there are many possibilities such as fun, sightseeing but also relaxation and above all a completely new experience in the middle of the warm sulfur water.

Even those who don’t want to swim in the hot sulfur water can enjoy gorgeous views in the tropical surroundings or look for souvenirs in one of the many souvenir stores.

CategoriesBuleleng Area By administrator

Gitgit Waterfall

Gitgit Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction located in the Gitgit Village of Buleleng Regency in Bali, Indonesia. It is one of the most famous and easily accessible waterfalls on the island. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a refreshing retreat from the tropical heat.

Gitgit Waterfall cascades down from a height of around 35 meters, creating a picturesque sight and a soothing sound as the water hits the rocks and pools below. The waterfall is fed by a small river that originates from the nearby mountains, making the water pure and clear.

To reach Gitgit Waterfall, visitors need to start on a short trek through a paved path lined with shops selling souvenirs and local handicrafts. The path winds through the dense jungle, adding to the allure of the journey. Along the way, visitors will also come across smaller waterfalls and pools, providing opportunities for a quick dip or photo opportunities.


Activities to do at Gitgit Waterfall.

There are several activities you can enjoy at Gitgit Waterfall. Here are some popular options:

Sightseeing and Photography: Gitgit Waterfall is a picturesque spot, offering breathtaking views of cascading water amidst lush green surroundings. Take your time to admire the natural beauty, capture stunning photographs, and create lasting memories.

Swimming: If you’re looking to cool off and have a refreshing experience, you can take a dip in the natural pool formed at the base of the waterfall. However, always exercise caution and be aware of the water currents and depth before entering. Safety should be a priority, so swim at your own risk and follow any instructions or guidelines provided by the local authorities.

Nature Walks and Trekking: The trek to Gitgit Waterfall itself is a delightful experience, as you walk through the paved path surrounded by dense jungle. You can explore the area further by taking nature walks along the river and discovering other smaller waterfalls or hidden gems along the way.

Picnicking: Gitgit Waterfall provides a serene and scenic setting, making it an ideal spot for a picnic. Bring along some snacks or a packed lunch, find a comfortable spot amidst nature, and enjoy a peaceful meal surrounded by the soothing sounds of the waterfall.

Exploring the Surrounding Area: Gitgit Village is home to several other attractions worth exploring. You can visit the nearby Twin Lakes of Buyan and Tamblingan, which offer stunning views and opportunities for hiking or boating. Additionally, you can immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting nearby temples or interacting with the friendly villagers.
Safety Measures to Ensure While Visiting Gitgit Waterfall.


When visiting Gitgit Waterfall, it’s important to prioritize safety. Here are some key safety measures to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience:

Follow Signage and Guidelines: Pay attention to any signage or guidelines provided by the local authorities. These may include information about restricted areas, prohibited activities, or safety precautions. Respect and adhere to these instructions for your own safety and to preserve the natural environment.

Wear Appropriate Footwear: The paths around Gitgit Waterfall can be uneven and slippery, especially after rainfall. Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear such as hiking shoes or sports sandals to maintain a good grip and prevent any accidents.

Swim with Caution: If you choose to swim in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall, exercise caution. Be mindful of the water currents, depth, and any submerged rocks. Only swim if you are confident in your swimming abilities, and consider wearing a life jacket for added safety.

Stay on Designated Paths and Viewing Areas: Stick to designated paths and viewing areas to avoid venturing into unsafe or restricted areas. Venturing off-trail can pose risks such as slippery slopes or falling rocks. Respect the natural surroundings and ensure your own safety by staying within permitted areas.

Keep an Eye on Personal Belongings: While enjoying the waterfall, be mindful of your personal belongings. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and consider using a waterproof bag or protective cover for electronic devices to prevent damage from water splashes.
Stay Hydrated and Protect Yourself from the Sun: Bali’s tropical climate can be hot and humid. Stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle with you. Additionally, protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and lightweight clothing. It’s important to take breaks and seek shade if you feel overheated.

Be Mindful of Wildlife and Insects: Gitgit Waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation, which may attract wildlife and insects. Be respectful and observe wildlife from a safe distance. Take precautions against mosquitoes by wearing insect repellent to minimize the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

Emergency Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with the nearest emergency exits and first aid facilities. Carry a basic first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary personal medications.

CategoriesBuleleng Area By administrator

Banyumala Waterfall

The Banyumala Twin Waterfalls are located in the village of Wanagiri, which is situated in the regency of Buleleng on the island of Bali, Indonesia. It is believed that the falls have been a popular local attraction for centuries, with the Balinese people visiting the falls for recreational purposes and to pay respects to the gods.

The falls are named after the Banyumala tree, which is a species of mahogany that is native to the region. The tree is revered by the Balinese people for its medicinal properties and is often used in traditional medicine and rituals.

In recent years, the Banyumala Twin Waterfalls have become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world who are drawn to the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that the falls offer. Despite the increased tourism, the falls and the surrounding village of Wanagiri remain an important cultural and spiritual center for the local community.

What To Expect When Visiting
Visitors can explore the surrounding nature when they walk down to the bottom of the falls. Expect to discover beautiful, lush green forests and plants. The forests are home to many species of birds and other animals. You can enjoy exploring the surrounding nature while taking a dip in the cool water at the base of the falls. While walking through the trails of the surrounding nature, you can admire the fascinating view of the surrounding mountains and cliffs. The surrounding nature is a perfect place for photographers to capture amazing pictures.

The Majestic View of the Falls
The Banyumala twin waterfalls cascade down from two tiers of limestone cliffs. The falls can be viewed from three sides, providing a breathtaking view. Banyamala twin waterfalls have a fall of 35 meters, creating a magnificent scene. You can see the waterfalls best at dusk when the surrounding lights reflect off the water, creating a magical scene. The sight of the waterfalls at dusk is truly magical.

Taking a Dip in the Pool
After hiking down to the bottom of the falls, you can take a dip in the cool, clear pool of water at the base of the falls. The water is the perfect temperature and is a great place to cool off on a hot day. You can enjoy swimming in the pool or just relaxing on the rocks surrounding the pool. Waterslides have been installed in the pool. You can slide down the waterslides and enjoy the cool water. If you are visiting Banyumala Twin Waterfalls with children, the pool is a great place for them to play and splash water. You can also play a game of Marco Polo in the pool. The pool is a great place to take pictures, especially when the surrounding nature is lush and green.

What Visitors Say They Liked About Visiting Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
Visitors to the Banyumala Twin Waterfalls often rave about the natural beauty of the falls and the opportunity to swim in the clear, cool water at the base of the falls. Many also appreciate the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the falls, which offer a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Some visitors also enjoy learning about the local culture and traditions of the village of Wanagiri, where the falls are located. The village is home to a vibrant community of traditional Balinese farmers and artisans, and visitors may have the opportunity to observe or participate in traditional activities such as farming, crafting, or temple ceremonies.

Overall, visitors to the Banyumala Twin Waterfalls tend to appreciate the combination of natural beauty, recreational activities, and cultural experiences that the falls offer.

CategoriesBuleleng Area By administrator

Wanagiri Hidden Hill

The Hidden Hills Wanagiri, or Bukit Wanagiri, is an paradise for panoramic views, located in Bali. This picturesque location with its lush green hills and pristine lakes provides a spectacular view during sunset.

It is a well-known destination for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. But does its staged selfie spots make it a paradise or a hackneyed hangout?

Visitors can expect to see panoramic views of the surrounding lush green hills and beautiful lakes, as well as a popular spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors also can expect to see beautiful sunset views.

Wanagiri Hidden Hill is a fun stop for those looking for an selfie-worthy spot in the northern part of Bali. It is conveniently located just a short drive from the iconic Handara Gate. This spot offers a panoramic view that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

The Wanagiri Hidden Hill has multiple selfie spots, each with its own unique attraction, from human-sized bird’s nests, swings, wooden teacups, a bow of a boat, wooden stars, tree houses, an Indonesian interpretation of the Eiffel Tower and much more. All of these platforms face directly towards Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan, surrounded by lush forests, making it a truly beautiful and serene spot in Bali.

Although it might seem like you’re the only person in the area and the scene is calm, that’s not typically the case. You’ll likely need to wait in a line at each spot before getting a chance to snap your photograph. But with a little bit of patience, you can get the gorgeous shot you intended!

CategoriesBuleleng Area By administrator

Handara Gate

Handara Gate Located in the charming village of Pancasari, Sukasada, Buleleng, Bali, Handara Gate has become an iconic symbol of Bali’s captivating allure. As you approach Handara Gate, the first thing that strikes you is the remarkable backdrop – a lush, verdant forest that exudes a sense of ancient mystique. It’s not just any ordinary gate; it’s a breath-taking portal to a world where timeless Balinese architecture blends seamlessly with the pristine beauty of nature. This is where the magic begins.

What is Handara Gate?
Handara Gate is a famous landmark located at the Handara Golf & Resort Bali, a mountain golf course and resort in Bali, Indonesia. This gate is situated within the resort’s premises and is known for its picturesque and iconic appearance. It is often featured in photographs and has gained recognition as a popular Instagram spot. The resort itself offers a world-class golf course, comfortable hotel and cottage accommodation, and a delightful dining experience.
Handara Gate is an impressive stone entrance with traditional Balinese architecture, set against the backdrop of the lush tropical gardens, cool mountain weather, and breathtaking mountain scenery of the resort.
The gate’s prominent location within the resort makes it a key attraction for visitors who want to capture the natural wonderland and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Where is Handara Gate?
Handara Gate is located in the village of Desa Pancasari, in the highlands of Bali, Indonesia. Specifically, it can be found at the entrance of the Handara Golf & Resort Bali, which is situated in the northern part of the island.
The gate is a notable and iconic landmark in this region, known for its picturesque setting and Balinese architecture. Visitors often come to the Handara Gate to take photographs and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby lakes and mountains.

The driving time to Handara Gate can vary depending on traffic conditions and your location. If you’re travelling from Ubud, you can expect the journey to take at around 1:30 hours, or around 2 hours if you’re coming from Kuta. Click here to get directions to Handara Gate.

Given that this iconic destination is situated at a considerable distance from most accommodations, we recommend combining this excursion with a visit to a nearby spot, such as the Wanagiri viewpoint or Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Banyumala Waterfall to maximize the value of your trip.

CategoriesBangli Area By administrator

Batur Lake

Bali as primary destination in the world, offers largely on its tropical destinations with white sand beaches, blue sky, and cultural attractions. Beach resort and hotel have been developed. Many tourist destinations that worth to visit whenever you want, Not only famous for beaches, Bali also has natural mountains are very beautiful and are well-known to foreign. One of them is the nature of mountains in Kintamani Bangli. The natural beauty of Kintamani which is supported by the beauty Batur Lake are very wonderful and unspoiled.

In Bali there are for lakes namely Buyan Lake, Tamblingan, Beratan and Batur. Each has unique characteristics and different. One of four lakes is Batur Lake, the biggest lake on Bali Island. Lake Batur is located an altitude of 1,050 above sea levels lies on the right slopes of Mount Batur, a still active volcano next to it. It is located on the northern part of Bali. The largest lake overshadowed by the active volcano is located in Bangli Regency, at the northeast of Bali. It lies down in the feet of Mount Batur and Mount Abang. The lake is classified as a “neutral-dilute” lake because there is no known underlying hydrothermal activity, and the abundant rainfall more than quenches any such activity. There is a hot spring right by the lake. We can enjoy the spectacular scenery of Batur Lake from Kintamani. Across the lake, only reachable by boat, lies Trunyan village, where the Bali Aga people live. The surrounding of the lake is a favorite place for picks self up. At Batur Lake we can see the scenic view and feel cool atmosphere. Bangli’s mountainous region center is around the spectacular volcanic crater (or caldera) of Batur. Mount Batur adjacent to the volcano is the large crescent-shaped Batur Lake, all surrounded by the high walls of the crater rim. The place is a great day trips, trekking or just to get away from the daily activity.

Mount Batur itself is actually just a small volcano, but sets in the heart of a huge crater 14km in diameter. Adjacent to the volcano is the large crescent-shaped Batur Lake, all surrounded by the high walls of the crater rim. As the road rises steadily from Bangli or Tampaksiring, nothing in the surrounding gray landscape of bushes and garden plots suggests the presence of a volcano. But over one more small ridge a dizzying view awaits the ayes, encompassing the crater and beyond. From Panelokan, the main road runs right round the rim towards Kintamani, the panorama shifting as we circle around the crater. One very interesting excursion in Batur is the climb down the inside of the crater from Penelokan to Kedisan. We can then drive around the smaller Mount Batur, through Songan. From Toya Bungkah, boats cross the lake to a Bali Aga village called Trunyan. This place is notorious for its mortuary traditions. Instead of cremating the dead, as Balinese do throughout most of the island, the Trunyan communities leave the bodies to decompose naturally in a special cemetery.

How to Get There
Batur Lake is located in the area of Kintamani. It is usually approached from the south with 2 routes in from Ubud (45 minutes), and one each from Besakih (1 hour) and Bangli (30 minutes). There is also an easy way in from the north via a turning off the coast road east of Singaraja (1 hour). You can also go there by bus or bemo, there are daily shuttle bus services from Ubud which are widely advertised locally there. Kintamani is served by bemos and buses from Batubulan terminal in Denpasar.

Nearby Tourist Attractions
Mount Batur
Kintamani
Trunyan Tourism Village


Accommodations
Mapa Lake View Bungalow
The Ayu Kintamani Villa
Bali Sunrise Villas & Restaurant.

CategoriesBangli Area By administrator

Trunyan Village

Trunyan or Terunyan is a Balinese village (banjar) located on the eastern shore of Lake Batur, a caldera lake in Bangli Regency, central Bali, Indonesia. The village is one of the most notable homes of the Bali Aga people, the others being the villages of Tenganan and Sambiran. Trunyan is notable for its peculiar treatment of dead bodies, in which they are placed openly on the ground, simply covered with cloth and bamboo canopies, and left to decompose. The influence of a nearby tree is said to remove the putrid smell of the corpses.

Description.
Trunyan is one of the culturally isolated Bali Aga villages in Bali. Trunyan village is located on the isolated eastern shore of the crescent-shaped Lake Batur, at the foot of Mount Abang, a peak on the eastern rim of the large caldera. The village is most easily accessible by boat.

The people of Trunyan are generally considered to be the Bali Aga people, the mountain Balinese. Unlike the lowland Balinese, Bali Aga people practice ancient rituals that predate the arrival of Hinduism or Buddhism. The Bali Aga of Trunyan is noted for its unique traditions, even among the Bali Aga. According to copper plate inscriptions found in one of the shrines of the main temple of Trunyan, the temple dates back to at least the 10th century AD (833 saka). The village is believed to be much older than the temple.

Society.
Trunyan society consists of two main “castes”, the banjar jero and the banjar jaba. The castes are based on bloodlines dating back to the Gelgel dynasty. The banjar jero are descendants of the Trunyanese who went out of the village to be appointed by the kings of Gelgel to rule; whereas the banjar jaba are descendants of people who were ruled by the banjar jero.

This caste system is one of few examples of outside society affecting life in the most isolated Trunyan. Another example of outside influence on the Trunyanese is the requirement for young men to travel through lowland Bali for some time to live as beggars. This practice is similar to the monks of Thailand and is derived from a strong Buddhist tradition of the 10th century.

Similar to other Balinese people, the Trunyanese place emphasis on prestige. Major ceremonies should be held as lavishly as possible. For example, wedding ceremonies are expected to be impressive, or not to be held at all. Since the Trunyanese economy is based on small-scale agriculture, accumulating money and possessions is relatively difficult. Many married couples with children in Trunyan perpetually postpone their wedding ceremonies just because of the high costs involved.

Funeral rites.
The people of Trunyan practice customs found nowhere else in Bali, many even unique among the Bali Aga people. Among the unique customs of the Trunyanese is their treatment of dead bodies. Instead of cremations, the funeral rite for dead bodies in Trunyanese society is for them to be simply laid on the ground, covered by cloth and a bamboo cage, and left to decompose. The influence of an ancient banyan tree (known as taru menyan, literally “nice smelling tree”) near the burial ground is thought to keep the corpses from smelling putrid. It is said that the tree emits a scent that neutralizes the smell of rotting bodies. It is also said that from this tree the name trunyan is derived. When a corpse has fully decomposed, the skull is placed on a stair-shaped stone altar which is located 500 meters north of the Banjar Kuban, a special place that can only be reached by boat. Only the bodies of married couples are allowed to be treated like this. If the deceased is not married, the body is buried at a cemetery.

These Trunyanese funeral rites date back to the neolithic Agama Bayu sect, one of the six most important religious-spiritual sects during the pre-Hindu period in Bali. The Agama Bayu worshipped the stars and the wind (angin ngelinus).

Volcano god Bhatara Da Tonta.
The Trunyanese worship a local god and patron of the village known as Ratu Gede Pancering Jagat, known by the Trunyanese as Bhatara Da Tonta. The local god is connected with the Batur volcano. Bhatara Da Tonta is rendered as a four-meter-tall neolithic effigy. The giant statue is housed in an underground chamber and is still regularly cleansed with rainwater bedecked with flowers and anointed with special oil. The manner of worship is based on an ancient bronze tablet from 911 AD which was found in the Pura Tegeh Koripan, a temple built in the form of a neolithic pyramid at Mount Penulisan, the second-highest point of the caldera of the Batur volcano. The effigy of Bhatara Da Tonta is brought out once a year during the Brutuk festival, which is held on the full moon of the fourth month (Purnamaning Sasih Kapat), which falls around October on the Gregorian Calendar.

Barong Brutuk.
The Brutuk dance or Barong Brutuk dance is both a performance and a religious ritual. Brutuk dance performers wear sacred masks and two aprons of dried banana leaf fiber, tied around the neck, waist, and torso. The dance is performed with no music. The Berutuk dance is performed by a selected group of unmarried men who must undergo a purification ritual and isolation before the performance. During the isolation period, the men have to sleep in the temple, abstain from sexual contact, and learn the prayers for the ceremony from the temple priest.

CategoriesBangli Area By administrator

Kehen Temple

Kehen Temple is a beautiful Hindu temple located in the foothills, the southern part of Bangli Regency. Inside of Kehen temple, there is the Panyimpenan Temple building. Hence, this building has 3 inscriptions related to the contents and existence of the temple. The location of Kehen temple is strategic in the highlands, so we can see beautiful scenery. This is a famous temple in Bali and many visitors from abroad have visited it. Moreover, Bali Island has many interesting places throughout the island. One of the tourist destinations that you must visit while you go for a walk to Kintamani is Kehen Temple.

Our Bali Ancient Village Safari Tour is one of the tourist activities in Bali to visit this tourist place. Hence, you can contact our team to get more information about this tour. Or you may join our Penglipuran Tampak Siring Expedition to explore the beautiful temple in the northeast of Bali. It will bring you memorable experiences.

Kehen Temple, The Story Review
Explanation of the existence of inscriptions in Kehen Temple

Kehen Temple, The Story Review

Explanation of the existence of inscriptions in Kehen Temple:
* Kehen Temple Inscription ‘A’ mentions the existence of 3 sanctums namely Hyang Api, Hyang Tanda, and Hyang Karimam.
* The Kehen Temple ‘B’ Inscription from 11 centuries mentions the imperial official, Senapati Kuturan Mpu Kandara. This describes the words of anathema in oath
* Inscription from 13 centuries (year 1204 M) mentions Hyang Kehen and Hyang Wukir. Right now Hyang Kehen is the same with Kehen Temple and Hyang Wukir is Puncak Bukit Bangli Temple .

Function of Kehen Temple as follows:
* It is one of Monarchic Temple. Kehen temple is under the supervision of the king while the     ceremony follows local rural customs
* Kehen temple become a sanctum which is used as an altar (oath) for imperial officials. Therefore, if someone who is unfaithful to his obligations, they will get very terrible Sapata or curse. The function of Kehen temple as sanctum in the implementation of the oath ceremony is support by the existence of 4 dragon tails, namely canister Sarpantaka. Nowadays, the canister is put in a Gedong building
* Worshiping the supremacy of Lord Shiva in Eka Dasa Rudra to give blessings to human life and the universe to be fertile, safe, prosperous and peaceful.


The courtyard structure of Kehen Temple is set to have a terrace and it shows a megalithic tradition. Then as a symbol of the existence of the mountain which is one source of fertility. The candi Kehen ceremony is divided into 2 types, namely the Piodalan Ceremony which takes places every 6 months on Wednesday Keliwon Sinta (Bali Calendar) and the Ngusaba Ceremony which take place every 5 years.

Other Bali Places to Visit in Bangli Regency
Bangli Regency is located in the northeast of the island of Bali where most of its territory is located in the highlands. The following places of interest can be visited includes Kintamani, Kehen Temple, Penglipuran Village, Ulun Danu Batur Temple, Bukit Penulisan Temple and Dusun Kuning Waterfall.

CategoriesKlungkung Area By administrator

Crystal Bay

Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida boasts a stunning sandy beach that can be easily reached by road, as well as a renowned location for scuba diving and snorkeling. It’s an exceptional spot, highlighted by a remarkable rock formation in the center of the bay, making it a must-visit destination in Nusa Penida.

Crystal Bay, located on the island of Nusa Penida in Bali, is an awe-inspiring beach that can be easily reached by scooter, thanks to a newly-built road from Toyapakeh harbor. Spend your day reveling in the mesmerizing scenery of the beach and the sea. Or simply unwind under a parasol. You may even get lucky enough to catch sight of dolphins. The sunset from this beach is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular experiences in Nusa Penida. With all these amazing features, it’s no wonder that Crystal Bay is considered one of the top 5 must-visit destinations on Nusa Penida island.

Snorkeling at Crystal Bay
Crystal Bay, along with Gamat Bay, stands out as one of the top snorkeling destinations in Nusa Penida. To explore the enchanting coral and marine life of this stunning spot, you can conveniently rent snorkeling gear from one of the beach warungs. Here, you are likely to spot turtles as well as a diverse range of fish and colorful coral. However, it is crucial to exercise caution as the current can be quite strong at the end of the bay.

If you don’t have fins, it is best not to venture too far out. You can use the mooring points of the boats anchored in the bay as a reference. Even though it may be tempting to explore the small temple built atop the rock, don’t go beyond these boats and do not attempt to reach the rock in the middle of the bay. Also, stay away from the right side of the bay where waves could push you onto the corals during low tide.

If you follow these guidelines, Crystal Bay is a fantastic spot to discover the underwater wonders of Nusa Penida. Additionally, it’s an excellent starting point for a boat trip to see Manta Rays at Manta Bay. You can book the trip through your hotel or inquire with a captain at Crystal Bay early in the morning.

Some individuals claim to have seen the Mola Mola while snorkeling. But the ideal way to spot it is through an experienced scuba diving instructor who can safely guide you to the right location. In September 2017, I captured my first Mola Mola on my GoPro camera with Dune Penida dive center. Nevertheless Crystal Bay is a picturesque diving spot all year round, not just during the Mola Mola season.

Crystal Bay beach
Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida is a fantastic beach to spend the entire day lounging on a deck chair, basking in the shade under a parasol. Additionally, you can purchase refreshing drinks, coconuts, and basic snacks from one of the beach warungs. It’s the most easily accessible beach on the island.
However, in 2016, the government conducted a forceful operation involving the army, police, and bulldozers to demolish all illegally constructed buildings. Many locals were shocked.

There were two interpretations of the event. Some believed it was a move to preserve the island’s authentic character. While others suspected that it was a step towards constructing a luxury hotel.The second interpretation seems more probable since construction of a massive resort began in 2020 (and stopped with the pandemic). Despite this, the beach remains untouched for now, so let’s take advantage of it while we still can!

Sunsets
Crystal Bay offers a stunning sunset experience. The sunset typically begins around 5:30 pm, and the location of the setting sun in the bay varies depending on the season. However, if you’re fortunate, you may capture an amazing photo of the setting sun aligned with the small rock arch in the middle of the bay. The sky often glows with red, pink, and orange hues after the sunset.

For a unique perspective, head to the west side of the beach and climb the stairs that lead to the top of the hill. From there, you can witness a breathtaking sunset view. During the day, you can follow the trail down to Pandan beach, which is usually less crowded. For more adventurous hikers, it’s possible to reach Broken Beach in less than two hours, although good shoes and bravery are required.

If you’re looking for delicious cocktails or food, the Amok sunset bar and restaurant is a great option located close to Crystal Bay.

How to get to Crystal Bay
The road leading to Crystal Bay has been fully renovated and is easy to locate. If you are coming from Toyapakeh harbor it will take only about 15 minutes by scooter. At the first significant intersection, identified by a small temple in the center, take a right. And follow the direction marked for Crystal Bay and Gamat Bay. Namaste Bungalows will be on your route. After descending a steep slope, turn right again, and you’ll see the parking lot. Expect to pay a parking fee of 2000 IDR.

For those who wish to walk from Namaste Bungalows or nearby hotels, it will take approximately 30 minutes to reach Crystal Beach. Upon returning, you may prefer to hire a young local to bring you back on a scooter for a reasonable price of 10,000 IDR.

When returning up the hill, be sure to take a left turn at the initial intersection. Otherwise, you’ll end up in the village of Penida, which is a dead end.

CategoriesBangli Area By administrator

Tibu Mana waterfall

The Tibumana Waterfall must be one of our favourite spots in Ubud. Only a 30 min ride away from the hustle and bustle of the busy centre of Ubud you can find a calm and quiet oasis, in the midst of the jungle, places like these is why we keep on falling in love with Bali over and over again. While Bali is filled with beautiful beaches, we honestly prefer chasing waterfalls, as there is nothing as rewarding as climbing down stairs and walking through muddy pathways only to be rewarded with a waterfall crashing down into a pool of cold water. The Tibumana Waterfall was one of Bali’s most popular waterfalls due to its proximity to the touristy city of Ubud.

However, it also possessed a nice plunge with a classic tall rectangular shape, which also made it pleasing to witness as well as photograph.
In addition to this waterfall, there was also a pair of intermediate waterfalls on the way to the main falls as well as a nice cascade on a separate path next to a shrine.

Authorities
The Tibumana Waterfall resides in the Bangli Regency near the village of Bangli in Bali Province, Indonesia. It may be administered by the Bangli Regency local government. For information or inquiries about the area as well as current conditions.

CategoriesKlungkung Area By administrator

Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach or Atuh Beach is a beautiful beach located in a remote cove under steep green cliffs on the east coast of Nusa Penida island. Atuh beach, also known as Pantai Atuh by locals, is a perfect beach to relax and swim for the day. Therefore it’s one of the best beaches on Nusa Penida if you ask us. Located in the next bay to Diamond beach you can perfectly combine these two wonderful Nusa Penida beaches. Both have some of the most crystal clear water and are surrounded by towering limestone rocks. With Diamond beach being a rugged, untouched beach without any sunbeds or warungs, Atuh Beach offers a handful of warungs where you can order drinks, food and rent sunbeds. Read in this complete guide everything you need to know about Atuh Beach Nusa Penida.

How to get to Atuh beach Nusa Penida
Located on the eastern side of Nusa Penida island, getting to Atuh Beach is a scenic drive. If you are used to driving motorbikes you can rent a NMax bike on Nusa Penida for about 100 000 IDR per day. With some steep roads it is highly recommended to rent a powerful bike with about 150 cc, so an Nmax is a great option. Always check the brakes before using the bike on Penida island because you’ll use the brakes a lot!

Atuh Beach is clearly signposted along the way. If you follow the navigation of Google Maps it will take you about 50 minutes from the main tourist spot on the island in Toya Pakeh. Drive carefully because there can be potholes in the road and sharp turns.

Entrance fee Atuh Beach
The entrance fee for Atuh Beach in 2022 is 10 000 IDR per person and the parking fee is 5000 IDR per vehicle. This entrance feel includes Diamond beach as well.

On this drone picture you can see Atuh beach and the parking lot and entrance road on the left side of the cliff. When you follow this path there is an intersection to hike down to Atuh beach and the other stairs cut into the cliff go down to Diamond beach which you see on the left side of the picture.

Best time to go to Atuh beach Nusa Penida
Facing east, Atuh Beach gets most of the sunshine in the morning and early afternoon. So that’s why the best time to relax on Atuh Beach is in the morning hours. You can perfectly combine a visit to Atuh Beach after you’ve seen the sunrise from Rumah Pohon tree house for example at the thousand island viewpoint.

You also have to keep the tides into account because with low tide there is not much ocean left to swim in. It will just be the beach with exposed rocks and the ocean will be too far away to take a dip in. If you’re planning to come in the morning you will most likely have high tide, but check a tides app to be sure.

You can perfectly combine Diamond beach and Atuh Beach because it has the same access road. If you want to visit both then be prepared to climb a lot of stairs! For accessing both beaches you have to descend some steep stairs. The stairs to Atuh Beach are safer than Diamond beach which is a challenging walk along narrow stairs cut out from the cliff wall. 

What to expect at Atuh beach Nusa Penida
Coming from the parking lot you will first pass Diamond beach viewpoint which is absolutely worth a stop and photo. This beach is like a perfect postcard so even if you’re not making your way down Diamond beach, a photo is a must here.

If you continue the walk you will see Atuh Beach on your left hand. The stairs down to Atuh Beach are easy to find and you’ll only have to follow them all the way down to get on the beach. Be prepared for some sweat! Especially on your way back up! It’s gonna be a good work out but with a stunning tropical beach to rest and cold coconuts or beers waiting for you!

The Atuh Beach cliff
What makes Atuh Beach so unique is the stunning arch and rock formations out in the water. If you’re at Atuh Beach for sunrise you might be in for some great photographs. But also during the morning when the ocean gets it bright blue color thanks to the sunshine, the interesting shaped rock formations make a fantastic point of interest for photos. The contrast between the turquoise blue water, light yellow sand and green cliffs creates the perfect tropical setting!

Warungs, sunbeds and umbrellas at Atuh Beach
If you’re down for a chill day by the beach then Atuh Beach is without a doubt some of the best and most beautiful beaches on Nusa Penida to do this. What we loved so much about Atuh Beach are the comfortable sunbeds which are for rent in combination with umbrella’s for some shade. The warungs also offer all sorts of drinks from cold coconuts, beers, juices and local food like Nasi Goreng and all sorts of other dishes. After we watched sunrise at the Thousand Island viewpoint and hiked down to Diamond beach, we recharged our batteries for the rest of the day at Atuh Beach.

Swimming and snorkeling at Atuh Beach
The crystal clear turquoise water at Atuh beach looks very inviting to take a dip in. It it definitely some of the safer beaches in Nusa Penida to swim. However, you should always keep the current into account. The further you go out, the higher the chance that the current of the ocean gets stronger. Especially if you go snorkeling, which is actually a great idea at Atuh beach, you might forget how far away from the shore you are. And because there is no lifeguard on duty at Atuh beach, you really have to keep yourself safe.

CategoriesKelungkung Area By administrator

Angle Billabong

Angel’s Billabong is a natural infinity pool formed by the cascading waves of the Indian Ocean that have carved out a stunning rock formation. It is characterized by crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and surreal views of the surrounding landscape.

This natural wonder has gained popularity in recent years due to its picturesque beauty and its immersive experience. It has become an Instagram hotspot, attracting visitors from all over the world who seek to capture the perfect shot or simply marvel at its natural splendor.

But Angel’s Billabong is not just about its visual appeal. The name itself suggests a mystical quality, as if you are entering a sacred place. It is believed by locals to be a sacred pool and a gateway to the spirit world, adding an element of mysticism and intrigue to your visit.

Whether you are an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or simply someone in search of tranquility, Angel’s Billabong offers a unique experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

LOCATION OF ANGEL’S BILLABONG
Angel’s Billabong is nestled on the stunning island of Nusa Penida, located approximately 20 kilometers southeast of Bali, Indonesia. Nusa Penida is part of the Klungkung regency and is known for its rugged landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. The island has gained popularity among travelers seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience away from the bustling tourist areas of Bali.

To access Angel’s Billabong, you will need to take a ferry or speedboat from Bali to Nusa Penida. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on the weather conditions. Once you arrive at the Nusa Penida port, you can hire a scooter or a private driver to reach Angel’s Billabong. The drive from the port to the site takes about 30 minutes.

When you arrive at Angel’s Billabong, you will be greeted by a breathtaking panorama. The natural infinity pool is located on the southwestern coast of Nusa Penida, adjacent to the famous Broken Beach (Pasih Uug). The pool is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

It is important to note that Nusa Penida is less developed than Bali and has limited infrastructure. The roads may be rough and challenging, so exercise caution while driving. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of drinking water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.

Angel’s Billabong is truly a hidden gem tucked away on Nusa Penida, offering a serene and picturesque escape from the busy streets of Bali. It’s a destination that should not be missed if you are seeking natural beauty and adventure during your visit to Indonesia.

CategoriesKlungkung Area By administrator

Broken Beach

Broken Beach or Pasih Uwung Located in Nusa Penida, Bali, Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong are two of the most breathtaking natural wonders you will ever encounter. Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong are some of Nusa Penida‘s must-visit sites, situated on the southwestern coast of the island near Crystal Bay. Formerly notorious for its terrible road conditions, the route is now much better. Only the last hundred meters serves as a reminder of the past. Those who want a challenge can hike from Crystal Bay to Broken Beach. But the trail can be difficult to locate and can take up to two hours to traverse. Known as Pasih Uug to the locals, the two beaches are among Nusa Penida’s most iconic destinations, alongside Kelingking Beach and Crystal Bay.

What is the origin of the name Broken Beach?
Broken Beach is so named because a portion of the cliff near the seashore has collapsed, creating a circular shape that measures approximately 100 meters. As a result, the area resembles a circular bay. Water flows into this bay through an arch that overlooks the sea. It’s difficult to describe, so please take a look at the photos!

While visiting Broken Beach, you’ll likely spend time walking around the bay and taking numerous photographs. However, please be careful when taking selfies! Some careless tourists have gone to great lengths to capture the perfect selfie and have fallen from the cliff. As a result, local authorities posted signs warning visitors about the dangers of taking selfies.

If you’re lucky, you may spot Manta rays from the arch. The cliff is located above Manta Bay, where fishing boats take guests for snorkeling tours.

Can you fly a drone at Broken Beach?

If you’re aiming for a spectacular aerial shot, I suggest flying your drone at an altitude of around 150 meters and capturing a vertical photo from that height. However, it’s important to avoid attempting to fly your drone beneath the arch to capture video footage. Numerous people have tried and failed and if you go diving there you will see many drones at the base of the arch in the sea.

Why ? Because most the pilot fly the drone too slowly beneath the arch. When the drone lose contact with their pilot below the arch, the drone climbs to its intended altitude for retrieval, it collides with the arch’s roof, causing it to fall and sink.

To fly your drone below Broken Beach arch, you have two options: either fly at maximum speed under the arch and hope that the momentum will propel the drone to the other side, or cease recording before reaching the arch, resume recording on the opposite side, and then edit the footage together later..

CategoriesKlungkung Area By administrator

Kelingking beach

Kelingking Beach is a breathtaking rocky cliff in the ocean and one of the most famous spot of Nusa Penida, often featured in advertisements for Bali and Indonesia. Its unique rock formations resemble the backbone of a dinosaur and it’s even nicknamed T-Rex Bay on Google Maps. From the top of the cliff, visitors may even spot Manta rays.

Tourists flock to the esplanade for breathtaking views and drone photography. The popularity of Kelingking Beach has greatly contributed to the tourist growth of Nusa Penida island, particularly through social media. Interestingly, “Kelingking” also means pinky finger in Indonesian, but the reason behind it requires a little imagination.

Kelingking Beach Nusa Penida Bali Vertical Drone viewPinky finger
More than 400 000 photos on Instagram
The star attraction of Kelingking Beach is the breathtaking viewpoint atop the cliff. While the coastline boasts magnificent cliffs, this one is truly exceptional! A selfie with the T-Rex is a must, but be prepared to share the spotlight with other Instagrammers. As of January 2018, over 13,000 photos had been posted with #Kelingking and over 25,000 with #kelingkingbeach. Fast forward to February 2023, and those numbers have skyrocketed to over 100,000 and 450,000, respectively ! Everyone strives for the perfect photo, some even climb the dead tree (joining the crowds, of course).

Kelingking Beach Nusa Penida Bali Indonesia burnt cliff
The locals are constantly brainstorming unique bamboo platforms, offering distinct perspectives and backdrops for that coveted photo op. And we increasingly see couples accompanied by professional photographers equipped with drones to capture incredible videos and photos! I recommend heading up the cliff a bit, to the right when facing the sea, to get away from the crowd and capture some nicer photos without the hustle and bustle.

Pantai Kelingking Beach Nusa Penida BaliCave at the end of the beach
Please avoid any accident at Kelingking Beach
Tourists often showcase their creativity to capture unique photographs, but some may take their adventures too far. In 2019, a press article reported a tragic incident at Kelingking Beach, where a young Russian girl fell off a cliff while riding a scooter. Shockingly, the article mentioned that scooter remained intact at the cliff’s top. Unfortunately, another accident occurred on December 22nd, 2020 and many more since the reopening of the borders. Swimming at Kelingking Beach is now forbidden, after a European tourist drawned in violent waves after trying to rescue another tourist in February 2023.

If you plan to hike down the cliff to the beach (which I highly recommend!), please exercise caution. Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, wear a hat to prevent sunstroke, and most importantly, wear proper shoes. The first time I descended, I made the mistake of wearing flip-flops, which was a poor choice. Luckily, proper stairs have been installed, making the path much easier to navigate than it was a few years ago.

Kelingking Beach Nusa Penida Bali waves Beware of Kelingking Beach waves
After descending, you’ll be greeted by a stunning beach. While the allure of swimming may be irresistible, be wary of the powerful waves and currents that can carry you out to sea. Sadly, Kelingking Beach has experienced multiple drowning incidents, making the warnings imperative.

However, don’t let these precautions dampen your enthusiasm – the trip to the beach is well worth the effort.

Kelingking Beach T Rex Beach Nusa Penida BaliDown to Kelingking Beach
Kelingking Beach : do you really deserve it ?
Kelingking Beach is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque beaches in Nusa Penida island, and in my opinion, the most stunning in Bali under the “wild beach” category. Even if you are not inclined to descend to the beach, take a stroll along the narrow path that meanders down the ridge line for a few meters. It’s a quieter spot to admire the panoramic views and click better photographs.

I have a piece of advice for you – take your pictures before descending the trail, as climbing back up might leave you less photogenic. The initial part of the trail, up to the first turn, is relatively easy and gives you a fair idea of the entire trek. You can decide here if you have the grit to hike down to the beach or head to other accessible beaches like Crystal Bay or Atuh Beach, especially if you are with kids.

Some time ago a fire destroyed the vegetation and the elaborate network of ropes and wooden poles that facilitated the descent. However, the trail to the beach has been reconstructed and is much safer now. So, don’t abandon the trek halfway, as the climb up is more manageable than the climb down. The incline is towards you, making it more secure and paradoxically less strenuous.

Kelingking Beach Nusa Penida Bali down to the beachDown to the beach
How long to go down to Kelingking Beach?
It takes 20 minutes to get down to Kelingking Beach. To ensure safety, it is important to wear proper footwear and take caution with each step. Signs clearly state that access to the beach is solely the responsibility of the individual. The ascent back to the starting point may take up to 30 minutes.

How tall is Kelingking cliff ?
Kelingking Beach cliff is around 150 meters high.

Staircase to Kelingking Beach Nusa Penida BaliStaircase to the beach
For those who love records, here are the challenges to beat.
Setting a new speed record for descending to Kelingking Beach: A particularly athletic young man, who didn’t want to leave his girlfriend alone for too long, managed to descend and ascend the steep cliff path in just 20 minutes (according to him). He was obviously very much in love and / or very jealous.

Making a double descent to Kelingking Beach: Another tourist, having returned to his scooter, realized that he had left his keys on the beach. He went down the cliff path again to search for them, and fortunately, he found them!

Going down to Kelingking Beach daily : Local vendors now bring down cold drinks to sell on the beach every day. However, they don’t seem to understand the law of supply and demand as they charge the same price as elsewhere. It’s likely they pack up shop when their cooler is empty, but they may refill it several times throughout the day.

The beach down at Kelingking is stunning. But, as with everywhere on Nusa Penida island, be cautious of strong waves and currents that could pull you away.

How do you get to Kelingking Beach ?
The route leading to Kelingking Beach has been recently renovated and is in excellent condition, except for some relatively large potholes on the side towards the end. It’s quite feasible to navigate the route independently by riding a scooter, but do exercise caution on the road as traffic can be heavy. If you’re traveling in a group of four or more, it may be more convenient to rent a car with a driver.

To get there, turn left after the village of Sakti (the right road leads to Crystal Bay) when coming from Toyapakeh. Then, take the first road on the right and follow the signs. The route is straightforward and signposted at every intersection. It should take about 30 minutes to get to Kelingking Beach from either Toyapakeh or Crystal Bay.

CategoriesKarangasem Area By administrator

Tenganan Village

Tenganan Pegringsingan or Pageringsingan is a village in the regency of Karangasem in East Bali, Indonesia. Before the 1970s was known by anthropologists to be a secluded society in the archipelago.
Rapid changes have occurred in the village since the 1970s, such as the development of local communications by the central government, the opening up to tourism, and the breaking of the endogamic rules.
Tourists are attracted to Tenganan by its unique Bali Aga culture that still holds to the original traditions, ceremonies, and rules of ancient Balinese, and its unique village layout and architecture. It is known for its gamelan selunding or Gambelan selonding music played on iron metallophones and gringsing or geringsing double ikat textiles woven in only 3 places in the world.

Historical legend of Tenganan Pegringsingan Village
According to legend, the people of Tenganan Pegringsingan were selected by the Hindu god of storms and warfare Indra to administer a territory that was conceived following his divine plan to be a microcosm of the world. They were instructed to use every means to keep it pure and clean. The concept of territorial, bodily and spiritual purity and integrity is of paramount importance in the village.

Another variation of this legend is of the magical horse Uccaisrawa, of King Udayana, ruler of the 11th century kingdom of Bedahulu. The horse was to be sacrificed but escaped. The king was distraught and sent search parties out to find him. A group of trusted servants, men from the Peneges family were assigned to search the eastern area of the island in the area of Karangasem. The king had promised a huge reward to whoever found Uccaisrawa, however, when they did find him, he had died of exhaustion.

The king rewarded the finders with the land for as far as the smell of the dead horse could be detected. The men of Peneges dismembered the horse and carried the parts to various places around the place where the horse had died. Unknown to the king’s men, the Peneges men had hidden portions of a dead horse into their clothes, so the rotten smell followed them everywhere until the king’s men decided it was enough to land and left.

The Peneges men brought their families to the place called ngetengahang which means “to move to the middle”, a valley now known as Tenganan Pegringsingan. It also is named after the double ikat geringsing cloth that Indra taught the women to weave. It sparkled with star motifs that emulated his divine realm.

Village layout
Houses in Tenganan Pegringsingan village are built on either side of the uphill to downhill concourses with their doors opening onto it. The entrances of the houses are narrow, only allowing one person to enter or leave at any one time. Entrance to and exit from the village through the gate on the downhill end. On either side of the entrance are two small temples.
Across from these is the long balé agung, where the administrative decisions for the village are made. Next to that is the drum tower, kul-kul. The kul-kul is beaten 21 times each morning to start the day. Up the center are a series of communal pavilions (balé patemon) for formal and informal meetings, and ceremonial gatherings.At the northern end is the village temple Pura Puseh, the temple of origin.

The People of Tenganan Pegringsingan
The people of Tenganan Pegringsingan are called Bali Aga—the original Balinese. They descend from the pre-Majapahit kingdom of Bedahulu. There are strict rules as to who is allowed to live in the village. Only those born in the village can stay in the village and become full members of the community. There are rules regarding marriage and anyone who marries outside of the village has to leave. A strict protocol regarding marriages among the kin groups have steered the Tengananese through the genetic perils of intermarriage although with increasing contact with the outside world these rules have relaxed somewhat.

Rites and Rituals
Many of the life-cycle rituals of the Tengananese are similar to those of the Balinese in general, but have subtle differences. Some ceremonies are unique. One of the distinguishing features is the use of geringsing or double ikat cloth. By virtue of their magical qualities geringsing are not only capable of keeping impurities and danger out of the village, but also shield and protect humans from harmful influences during rites of passage as they transition from one phase of life to the next.
The Tengananese receive their first geringsing at the hair cutting ritual. The cut hair is placed in a basket which is placed on a folded geringsing on the balé tengah, on which the Tegananese both enters and leaves the world.
In the ceremony that admits a boy or girl to the youth association of the village, they are carried dressed in geringsing cloth on their father’s right shoulder. In the concluding ceremony of teruna nyoman which is the initiation, the candidates wear a geringsing and a keris or dagger.



For the tooth filing ceremony, an essential rite of passage for all Balinese Hindus, the participants’ pillow is covered by geringsing.

After death the genitals of the deceased in Tenganan are covered by a geringsing hip sash. These cloths may not be used again and so usually are sold. For muhun soul purification rites, an effigy of the dead is carried in a geringsing shoulder cloth.

In the wedding ceremony the groom invites his in-laws to visit his parents home where the couple, dressed in festive geringsing clothing sit while relatives bring symbolic gifts which are placed on a geringsing cloth.

To see this place, it Good to do a full day combined with Lepuyang Temple or Gate of heaven

CategoriesKarangasem Area By administrator

Taman Ujung Soekasada

Taman Ujung Water Palace, a stunning feature of the Karangasem Royal Park, was constructed in 1909 by the Karangasem king.
It served as a peaceful retreat for the king and a venue for entertaining esteemed royal visitors. Taman Ujung Sukasada is also fame as Taman Ujung Water Palace. This park boasts a distinctive architectural style that blends Balinese, Chinese, and European elements. The use of colorful glass in the buildings is reminiscent of European churches, while the gardens feature Chinese-inspired design. Balinese influences can be seen in both the interior and exterior of the park’s structures.

The architect responsible for designing Taman Ujung is a Dutchman and his name is Van Den Hentz, accompanied by Chinese architect Loto Ang and Balinese Undagi. In 1921, The project was finish but the inauguration took place 16 years later in 1937. Marble inscriptions in Latin and Balinese scripts, written in Malay and Balinese languages, serve as evidence of its completion.

The origin story of Taman Ujung Sukasada involves the transformation of a pond called Pond Dirah. By the King of Karangasem, I Gusti Bagus Jelantik, who had the title Anak Agung Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem at the time. His vision was to turn the Dirah pond  into a stunning garden, which eventually led to the creation of Taman Ujung Sukasada in 1909. Originally, the park spanned over 400 hectares, but during a land reform, the land was distribution into the public, leaving the current park area at 10 hectares.

The Dirah pool was once used as a means of testing individuals believed to have black magic. According to ancient beliefs, those accuse of practicing black magic would be place in the pool to prove their innocence. If they fell ill afterwards, they were considere guilty of black magic. Conversely, if they emerge unscathed, they were deem innocent.

To see this place, it Good to do a full day combined with Lepuyang Temple or Gate of heaven

CategoriesKarangasem Area By administrator

Tirta Gangga Water Garden

Tirta Gangga is a former royal palace in eastern Bali, Indonesia, about 5 kilometres from Karangasem, near Abang. Named after the sacred river Ganges in Hinduism, it is noted for the Karangasem royal water palace, bathing pools and its Patirthan temple.  The one hectare complex was built in 1946 by the late King of Karangasem but was destroyed almost entirely by the eruption of nearby Mount Agung in 1963.

Tirta Gangga is based on the beliefs in Balinese Hinduism, where river Ganges and its waters are considered sacred. Its waters are cherished for irrigation and agricultural abundance, recreation and economic activity. The Patirthan temple illustrates the historic significance of Tirta Gangga in the Balinese tradition as a pilgrimage and holy water site.

Tirta Gangga is also known as the “Water Palace” and is famed for its lush gardens and holy waters.
The name of this attraction translates to ‘water from the Ganges’. The palace has religious significance for the locals as the waters are considered to be holy.

Tirta Gangga Water Palace Bali, Entrance Fee & Dress Code

One of the greatest attractions at Tirta Gangga is the centrally-located lotus fountain with beautiful carvings. Underwater springs feed the fountains which fill the many pools within the palace. You will find giant koi swimming here as well as lotus flowers which forms a beautiful scene.

Many local ceremonies are held at Tirta Gangga as it is considered a holy place. Particularly during the Spring, visitors will find a number of religious ceremonies held here with processions of priests with offerings, flags and music.

For visitors, there is an entrance fee of approximately 20,000 IDR and you can hire a guide if you wish for around 50,000 IDR. There is also a small pool in which you may swim and relax in, for an additional fee of around 10,000 IDR. But this is a small price to pay to take a dip on a hot summers day after taking a walk around the beautiful gardens.

The dress code is modest as there is a temple on site. A sarong covering ankles is required and can be hired at the entrance. Visitors should also ensure that their shoulders and midriffs are covered.

Surrounded by green rice paddies, this tropical oasis is a must visit for those holidaying in Bali. Tirta Gangga is located approximately 80 kilometres north of Denpasar in a village called Ababi Village.

To see this place, it Good to do a full day combined with Lepuyang Temple or Gate of heaven

CategoriesBangli Area By administrator

Mount Batur

Mount Batur is one of the most popular sights in Bali, for good reason. It’s a beginner-friendly climb, and you get to see amazing views. If you’re planning a climb, here is everything you need to know about Mount Batur sunrise trekking – from seeing it without the tourist crowds, to how to seeing it without even trekking! 🙂
Mount Batur is a UNESCO heritage site and an active volcano. Its elevation is 1717 meters. It is the most popular hike in Bali because you get to see a gorgeous sunrise (in good weather!), panoramic views over Lombok island and Mount Agung volcano after a reasonably easy hike.
It’s worth it if all you’re looking for is some time out in nature and a good view. However the mountain can get crowded, with up to 600 hikers a day. We would recommend picking a trekking guide who takes a less touristed-trail.

In June 2023, the Balinese governor announced that the public, including local Balinese communities, may be banned from hiking any of Bali’s mountains except in very specific circumstances. This was in response to tourist behaviour perceived to be disrespectful to the Balinese spiritual traditions on the mountains.
As yet, no ban has been put in place and both locals and travellers are still allowed to hike at Bali’s mountains. It is expected that stricter protocols will be put in place to protect the mountains, but a ban on hiking is considered to be very unlikely.

Is Mount Batur hard to climb?

It really depends on individual fitness level, but if you’re relatively fit you can reach the summit within 2 hours. Most travellers find it fairly easy – which is why it’s such a popular climb! The descent is typically easier for most (although for those with weak knees it may be harder!), but there are some tricky terrains to manage, so definitely leave some energy for the way down. Descent will also take 1.5-2 hours.
If you want something easier, you can consider the Caldera Trek, which takes under one hour. You can also do a jeep ride!
There’s a good reason why so many people bother to wake up in the middle of the night, and hike up Mount Batur in total darkness. The views from the top are amazing. As the sun rises, you’ll see Mount Abang, Mount Agung and Mount Rinjani volcanoes, as well as the volcanic lake. When the sky clears, you will also have some excellent panoramas of towns and villages below.
If you’re doing the Mount Batur Sunrise Hike, you’ll have a very early morning start! Your hotel pick-up will be around midnight, and your hotel drop-off will be around noon. If you’re doing the the Mount Batur Jeep trip, your hotel pick-up will be around 3am, with drop-off around noon.
If that’s too early for you, you can also consider doing a Sunset hike or Sunset jeep ride. These have a later start time and avoid the crowds. The sunset trips will start early-mid afternoon, and finish around 8-9pm. This may work better for families with children!
No matter which route you take (will be chosen by your trekking guide) you will most likely encounter this terrain: 1) a dirt road at the very bottom which you may share with motorbikes and even cars, 2) narrow jungle path surrounded by thick brush, 3) rocky dirt path, with an occasional loose rock, 4) on the descent you may need to slide down some very slippery black sand lava – take it slow and you’ll be fine!

Don’t worry about hiking in the dark – your guide will be prepared with flashlights for you!


Wear recommendation
Ideally you should dress warm as it gets chilly at the summit of Mt Batur before sunrise – the temperature here ranges between 14-18 degrees.
We’d recommend a jacket or a long sleeve fleece and some long trousers. After the sunrise, it warms up so do have a short sleeve shirt underneath, as well as a hat handy. Rain gear (rain jacket or poncho) is a good idea especially during rainy season (December to March). You don’t need proper hiking shoes, a good pair of running shoes will do.
Make sure you have these essentials with you: bottle of water, sunscreen, sunglasses and your photo and/or video devices. You can fly a drone at the top of Mt Batur, so if you have it – pack it!
You can also consider having some light snacks, however most guides will include breakfast in your trek package. This typically includes a banana sandwich, tea or coffee and an egg cooked in volcanic steam! Usually you will also find locals selling chocolate bars and snacks as you wait for sunrise so pack a bit of cash.

How long to reach the start point?
Depends on where you are staying. If you are in Ubud, it’s about an hour (especially if you are going in the middle of the night when there is very little traffic). If you are coming from South Bali (Kuta Area, Seminiyak, Canggu) it can take close to two hours. If you stay somewhere in the Kintamani area, it will take you 10-15 minutes. Sometimes you can even walk from your hotel or homestay.

When is the best time to go?

This will depend on your preferences. The dry season of June to September will usually bring the best sunrises. However that is also peak season, meaning that the crowds can get pretty intense. Up to 600 people per day climb Mt Batur during those months.
If you don’t mind getting caught in the rain, the shoulder seasons of October to November and April to May are better to avoid the crowds. If you are travelling during rainy season and don’t want to waste your time waking up early for a low chance of seeing the sunrise, you can do the Sunset Trek.
The entrance to the mountain is tightly controlled by the local guide association. Some hikers have even reported verbal harassment when attempting to hike solo. This system is meant to ensure safety as well as to make sure that locals have a way to benefit from the tourism in the region. Here are our favourite Mount Batur guides!


Places of interest nearby

Lots of people combine their Batur trek with a visit to the Natural Hot Springs to soak tired muscles. The Hot Springs are pretty touristy though, so if that’s not your thing, we would recommend a coffee plantation. Kintamani is famous for being the coffee growing region in Bali! Do make sure that it’s a sustainable coffee plantation with no luwaks though.
Other interesting places nearby are: Besakih Temple (most important temple to the Balinese!), the Kato Lapo waterfalls and our favourite Trunyan Village. It’s Bali’s oldest village with a magical tree and was featured in the BBC for its fascinating traditions.

4WD Jeep tour

4WD Jeeps have been recently introduced into the area as an alternative means of experiencing Mt Batur. If you are not into hiking or just want a different experience, which includes going to the black sand lava fields, the Jeep Adventure might be the right option for you.

CategoriesBangli Area By administrator

Penglipuran Village

Penglipuran Village is one of the traditional villages located in Bangli Regency, Bali Province, Indonesia. The village is famous as one of the tourist destinations in Bali because of its society who still preserve their traditional culture in their daily lives. The architecture of buildings and land processing still follows the concept of Tri Hita Karana, the philosophy of Balinese society regarding the balance of relations between God, humans and their environment. Penglipuran village succeeded in building tourism that benefited all of their communities without losing their culture and traditions. In 1995, Penglipuran village also received a Kalpataru award from the Indonesian government for its efforts to protect the bamboo forest in their local ecosystem.

Geography
Penglipuran is one of the traditional villages from Bangli district and Bali province, Indonesia. The total area of this village reaches 112 hectares with an altitude of 500–600 meters above the sea and located about 5 kilometers from the Bangli City and 45 kilometers from the Denpasar City. The village is surrounded by other traditional villages. Kayang village in the north, Kubu village in the east, Gunaksa village in the south and Sansang river in the west. Temperatures vary from cool to cold (16-29 degrees) and averages rainfall around 2000 mm per year. Ground surface is considered flat with a height of 1–15 meters.

History
Penglipuran Village is believed to be inhabited during the reign of I Dewa Gede Putu Tangkeban III. Almost all of the villagers believe that they are from Bayung Gede Village. In that time, the people of Bayung Gede were people who were experts in religious, custom and defense activities. Because of their abilities, they are often called to the Bangli Kingdom. But because of the distance, the Bangli kingdom finally provided a temporary area for the people of Bayung Gede to rest. This place is often referred to as a Kubu Bayung. Kubu means “camp” and “bayung” means people from Bayung Gede village. This place is then believed to be the village they live in now. They also believe that this is the reason that explains the similarity of traditional rules and building structure between Penglipuran village and Bayung Gede village.
Regarding the origin of the word Panglipuran Village, there are two different perceptions that are believed by the community. The first is Penglipuran means “pengeling pura”[3] with “Pengeling” means to remember and “temple” means ancestral place. The second perception says that penglipura comes from the word “pelipur” which means comfort and “lipur” which means unhappiness. So if combined, penglipuran means a place for consolation. This perception arises because the Bangli king is said to often visit this village to meditate.

Population
Based on records from Kelihan Dinas (officials below lurah that specifically handling government administration) in 2002, up until July there were 832 people living in Penglipuran Village. The 832 individuals consisted of 425 men and 407 women with 197 head of family. The families are divided by their status which is 76 head of families with Pangayah / Karma Pangarep status (permanent members with customary rights and obligations) and 121 heads of families with Pangayah/Krama Roban status (temporary member referred to as the responsibility of one of Pangayah Pangarep).
The most recent data in early 2012 showed that there is no visible increase in the population of Penglipuran Village which consists of 980 individuals joined in 229 families (76 families), issued by I Wayan Kajeng, Chief Administrative of the Penglipuran Traditional Village. In 12 years the population in this village increased by 200 people.

Education and job
In 2002, 426 people from Penglipuran Village completed their elementary education, while 91 people had an education level up to junior high school. 156 people completed high school and 68 people managed to complete the highest level of education which is University. Most of Penglipuran Village people choose farming as their job, followed by becoming a private employee. The rest is divided between civil servants/ABRI, traders, breeders, craftsmen and the last one is laborers.

Marriage
Marriage and the family lineage is seen as something that very important for people of Penglipuran Village. The majority of people in Penglipuran Village married the people from their own village too in order to preserve the family lineage. Therefore, most of the population is still bound by blood relations with each other. If there is a man from Penglipuran Village who marries a woman from another clan/family outside of Penglipuran Village, then he still has to carry out his obligation as a member of the Penglipuran Village society.

Tri Mandala Land Management
The land management of Penglipuran Village is strongly influenced by Tri Mandala. According to Tri Mandala’s concept, the land is divided into 3 zones according to the value of their purity. The zone will then be placed according to the spiritual orientation called “Kaja-Kelod”. Things that are considered the most sacred will be placed towards Mount Agung (the most sacred place in Bali) and the opposite of the most sacred things will be placed towards the sea.

  • Utama Mandala is at the northernmost side of the village, therefore this zone is considered as the most sacred place. It contains places called “Pura” or temples to worship of gods. Pura Puseh Desa is used to worship the god Brahma (creator god) and Pura Bale Agung is used to worship the God Wisnu (god of preservation).
  • Madya mandala is a zone for humans. Here the people of Penglipuran Village will live with their families in a building unit called the “Pekarangan”.
  • Nista mandala is in the southernmost side of the village and is an impure zone. Therefore, it contains the village grave and Pura Dalem or a place to worship God Shiva (god of destroyer).

The number of yards in this village is 77 with 1 “karang memadu” (a special “pekarangan” for family who do polygamy) and 76 “karang kerti”. Karang Kerti means a place to serve god by having a good married life.

Like village land management, the Pekarangan unit also follows the Tri Mandala concept. “Utama Mandala” in one’s pekarangan will contain a family temple to worship their god and ancestors. “Madya mandala” will consist of a kitchen, a bedroom, etc. where daily activities take place. Finally, Nista Mandala is usually used to dry clothes and store livestock.
One of the main components of almost entire building in desa Penglipuran is bamboo. They use 4-5 layers of bamboo that are linked to each other to build roofs and weave bamboo to make room dividing walls. But lately they has begun to use modern construction because of the large amount of bamboo cut. One Pekarangan unit can be entered through two sides with the main door shaped like a gate and called “angkul-angkul”. One of the other important buildings in this village is Bale Banjar. This building does not have walls and is shared by residents for mass Ngaben ceremonies or community meetings.

Awig-Awig
To achieve mutual harmony in the community, residents of the Penglipuran Village have two types of laws that they obey and follow, named Awig (written rules) and Drestha (unwritten customs).

Monogamy
For the people of Penglipuran Village, polygamy or having more than one wife is prohibited and considered taboo. If a person has more than one wife, he and his wives must move from Karang Kerti to Karang Memandu (outer part of the village). His rights and obligation as part of Penglipuran Village society are also revoked. After the person has moved, the villagers will build a house for them to live on but they will not be able to pass through public roads or enter the temple nor attend the traditional activities.

Worship at Given Temple
Not all temple can be visited by everyone to worship except the main temple which is Pura Besakih. Therefore, Hindus of Bali have temples that they worship and go to. These temples are distinguished by their respective families, including the Penglipuran Traditional Village.


Temple in Penglipuran Village

Obligations to the main temple – Gebog Doma (Inter Regional)
Because the people of Penglipuran Village are immigrants that has just come to a new area, so they have to worship the nearest temple of their area, Kehen Temple, which is the largest temple in the Bangli Region

Obligations to Kahyangan Tiga (Inter-Village)
The most important obligation for Balinese people is to worship “Kahyangan-Tiga” located in their respective villages. In the Village of Penglipuran the obligation is divided into:
Penataran Temple – Temples to worship deity Brahma as the creator of the entire universe. The temple is located in the center of village, next to Puseh Temple.
Puseh Temple – Temple to worship deity Vishnu as a support for all of life. This temple is located in the most sacred place in the Penglipuran Village, and is the first temple built in this village.
Dalem Temple – Temple to worship deity Shiva as a god of fusion. Therefore, this temple is located at the bottom of the village, leading to the sea. The villagers believe that it will help the souls of deceased people to return to their place.
Every 210 days based on the Balinese calendar, there is a Galungan celebration organized by Kahyangan-Tiga members. Every citizen must prepare offerings, food, and things needed for the celebration.

Obligations in the Family Temple
In each family home yard there is a Sanggah or a small temple intended for the ancestors of the family.

Village Governance System
The Penglipuran Customary Village Government System was compiled in an Indigenous Leadership Institution called Prajuru Desa Adat Penglipuran. This institution consists of two parts named Kanca Roras and Bendesa or Kelihan Adat.

Kanca Roras
Kanca Roras is a representative assembly with 12 members. Kanca Roras is taken from the word Ka-anca which means assigned and roras / rolas which means twelve. Kanca roras has a function resembling an assembly of representatives or a legislative body and its formation is based on the order of leadership in the name of the ulu-apad system.

Kelihan Adat
Kelihan Adat are people who are chosen and is an elder in the custom. Kelihan Adat are executive officials whose appointments are made through elections at a public meeting (kajudi ring paruman desa). Kelihan adat have a duty only if they are given a mandate from Kanca Roras.

Bamboo in Penglipuran Village
Bamboo from the Penglipuran Village is one of the best bamboo that can be found in Bali. The Penglipuran Village society believe that the bamboo forest does not grow by itself but rather planted by their ancestors. Therefore bamboo is considered a symbol of their historical roots. The bamboo forests that grow in the Penglipuran Village have an area of 37.7 hektare (previously 50 hektare) and consist of 15 bamboo species which are all owned by the village. Some of these forests are managed directly under the Adat Desa as a Laba Pura (for the maintenance of temple buildings) while some are managed by several residents with use rights status. Bamboo is also used by the people of Penglipuran village as a materials for building and housing. Some of the buildings that are built using bamboo as the material are:

Pawon
This building functions as a kitchen in which there is a rice barn and a small place to rest. Pawon is built entirely of bamboo including roof, wall, bed, and even the tableware inside it.

Bale Sakenem
Bale Sakenem is a place for religious ceremonies that are exclusive only for the family. The ceremony that is often performed at Bale Sakenem is ceremony of Pitra Yadnya (Ngaben) and Manusa Yadnya ceremony. This building uses bamboo as its roof.

Bale Banjar
Bale Banjar is a building that can be used by all the people in Penglipuran Village. This village has no walls, only a support pillar and is used for mass Ngaben ceremonies and community gathering.

Penglipuran Village as a tourist place
Penglipuran is a village that still maintains their culture, traditions and bamboo forests in accordance with the principles of Tri Hita Karana. This then becomes an attraction for tourists to come to visit. Therefore, starting in 1993, the Balinese government promoted Penglipuran as a tourist destination. The Penglipuran community realizes their potential and applies “community-based-tourism” to avoid tourism capitalism in their village. With this concept, no individual will benefit directly from tourism because these benefits will be allocated for village development. Tourism actors such as tour guides, ticket guards and other officers will be directly employed by the village and get paid from the amount of profit earned, for example 40% of the total ticket sales.

In addition, before the concept was implemented, the people of Penglipuran village were usually able to benefit by inviting tourists to their “pekarangan” while explaining their traditions and culture. This is considered unfair because houses far from the main gate tend to get fewer opportunities. Therefore, through this new concept, all houses are given a number and the tour guide will provide a number with a rotating system to groups of tourists who come to visit. Each house is also given the opportunity to sell souvenirs in their Pekarangan by following their new concepts, for example 5,000 IDR from each sold souvenirs must be given back to support village development.

Before 2012, due to poor accommodations, tourists only spent 10–20 minutes in the village but many tourists ask to stay to spend more time in the village. At that time they were still doubtful because tourists might be a threat to their culture and traditions. But after 2012, tourists are allowed to stay after debriefing on how to behave in accordance with tradition and culture. This was later considered to have a good impact because it could expand employment opportunities in the future.

CategoriesBangli Area By administrator

Kintamani

The area of north-eastern Bali at the Mount Batur caldera, and which encompasses Penelokan, Toya Bungkah, Batur and Kintamani villages, is known widely as just Kintamani. Kintamani, Batur and Penelokan villages sit on the rim of the huge Batur caldera about 1,500m above sea level, and offer dramatic views of the active volcano Mount Batur and serene Lake Batur. Toyo Bungkah village is down at the lake edge.As well as the lake and the volcano, Kintamani is home to Pura Ulun Danu Batur, one of Bali’s key nine directional temples.

Climate
You are high in the mountains of Bali here and the temperature is usually about 15 degrees cooler than down on the coast, and even more so at night. That, coupled with the often cloudy and drizzly weather, makes a sweater or jacket advisable in the day time and vital after sunset.

The main attraction for visitors is located around Lake Batur where Penelokan village provides spectacular views of this crater lake and Mount Batur, set in a vast volcanic caldera. Photo opportunities abound, but try to be there as early in the morning as you can manage before the cloud inevitably starts to gather.

Further northwest along the rim of the caldera is Pura Ulun Danau Batur, one of the most important temples in Bali. Entry is by donation here – Rp 10,000 is about right. The temple was rebuilt up on the caldera ridge in 1926 after an eruption of Mount Batur destroyed the old one down in the crater. There are a large number of shrines, but most visitors are drawn to the huge eleven roofed meru in the inner courtyard. This is dedicated to the goddess of the lake, Ida Batara Dewi Ulan Danau who is regarded as the controlling deity of the whole water and irrigation system of Bali. A virgin priestess is resident at the temple to represent the goddess, and she is served by 24 priests who are chosen as young boys and then keep the role for their lifetime. This is a strong example of just how importantly water and irrigation matters are regarded in traditional Balinese culture.

You can visit the Bali Aga village at Trunyan on the eastern shore of the lake by boat from Kedisan. This is recommended in some guides, but first hand reports are frequently negative and speak of some problems. This is an isolated community and one which is not particularly welcoming to tourists, despite relying on income from visitors. If you really must go, catch a boat at the lakefront in Kedisan (or you can charter a boat from Toyo Bungkah) and make sure the price is clearly understood before departing, and that the entrance donation to the Trunyan villagers is included. When you arrive at Trunyan, the key attraction is the cemetery. Ancient customs retained by the Bali Aga here include the open burial of dead bodies in a pit covered by just some light cloth. If you want to visit a Bali Aga village though, then Tenganan near Candidasa is a far better option.

One of the best things about a visit to Trunyan is the views of Mount Batur from the eastern shore of the lake. This provides a very different perspective from the usual view from the crater rim. You can though get those same views by taking the small road around the southern edge of the lake through the villages of Kedisan (where there are a few simple places to stay and eat), Buahan and on to the tiny settlement of Abang. The road ends at Abang, a four-wheel drive vehicle is more appropriate for this skinny and at times very steep road (but you can explore the eastern shore of the lake further on foot, all the way to Trunyan (about 4 km) if you are feeling energetic (you will be stopped by locals along the way asking if you want to go to Trunyan, they may even follow you and tell you that you cannot go there on foot and you must take a boat with them. Take plenty of water for the walk and be prepared for steep hills.

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Seminyak

Seminyak is a mixed tourist residential area on the west coast of Bali in Indonesia, just north of Kuta and Legian.

Originally a separate township, this is now another suburb of Kuta. This area is very popular with resident expatriates; land and accommodation prices are amongst the highest in Bali. Plenty of luxury spas and hotels abound. Owing to its high density of high-end shopping, combined with the clustering of many fine eating establishments, it has rapidly become one of the most well-known tourist areas on the island.

In addition to a few commercial strips with popular and lively restaurants, bars, villas, and good crafts/furniture shops, there are a few notable establishments: Ku Dé Ta, which is a bar/restaurant with a cult following based on its beach side/semi-resort atmosphere that has earned it the title of number one party spot in various magazines, and Oberoi, which is an expensive hotel with a worldwide reputation. Jalan Raya Seminyak (more often referred to as Jalan Legian), runs parallel with the beach, bisecting the district and acts as its main road artery.

Seminyak is an upscale beach town. It’s the sort of place to rent a private villa or stay in a luxury resort, chill out by the swimming pool or on the beach during the day, enjoy spa treatments and watersports, and then go out in the evening for fine dining and great nightlife.

It’s not the kind of place that you visit for culture and quiet, however. Seminyak really serves as an upmarket destination for young, hip partygoers who want something a little more refined than the nightlife in Kuta and Legian.

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Canggu

Canggu is a coastal village and 10 km beach on the south coast of Bali, Indonesia. It lies approximately 10 kilometers north of Kuta, and presents a much more relaxing atmosphere of dining, cultural and beach activities.

Demographics
The main Canggu streets are Jalan Raya Canggu, Jalan Batu Bolong, Jalan Padang Linjong, Jalan Batu Mejan and Jalan Tanah Barak. Along Jalan Batu Bolong you find the temple of the dead, Pura Merajapati, and the Pipitan Cemetery. Along the beach there are two main temples, Pura Batu Bolong and Pura Batu Mejan, which are both hundreds of years old and were initiated for building by Dang Hyang Nirartha. The Canggu area used to have scenic views of paddy fields and coconut groves but current rapid developments are quickly replacing these traditional views with private villas.

Echo Beach (also known as Mejan Stone Beach) is the westernmost beach in Canggu just before Perenenan. Batu Bolong Beach is well known, situated next to a temple. It’s famous for Old Man’s, a beer garden/restaurant with a large stage. At the end of the road it leads to Sand Bar, as well as many other bars and restaurants. The quieter “Nelayan Beach” is the last beach before Berawa Beach.

While traffic is quite light within Canggu, the main road (Jalan Raya Canggu) is notoriously jammed with traffic. In order to avoid going North-east to the main road, many riders choose to take the infamous Canggu-Berawa shortcut (Jalan Anggrek), which is also often congested due to its narrowness, although cars have been prohibited from accessing it from the Berawa side.

Surfing
Canggu has gained popularity among surfers as a longboard-friendly surf spot, one of the few on the island. Three main strips have developed for tourists – surfers and non-surfers alike. [3] The spotlight on the area as a surf destination has been helped along by the presence of Deus Ex Machina’s Bali outpost, the Deus Temple of Enthusiasm, and its annual contests that focus on classic single fin long-boarding.

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Kuta Beach

Kuta Beach is a 2.5-km stretch of cream-coloured sand, bordering Legian to the north and Tuban (home of the Ngurah Rai International Airport) to the south. This beach on Bali’s southwestern coast is one of the most popular resort areas in Bali. It’s even more recognised among international visitors than the island itself – thanks to its combined features of sun, sand and surf.
Accommodation ranges from cheap guesthouses to 5-star hotels and resorts, plus thriving bars, nightclubs and multi-storey shopping malls. Despite the modern and urbanised feel of Jalan Pantai Kuta, the main beach road that runs parallel the coastline, the beach of Kuta continues to appeal – it’s still a place for Bali’s magical sunsets.
The Beach of Kuta – one of the highlights of 5 Best Surf Beaches in Bali for Beginners and 10 Best Places for Sunsets in Bali.

The Beach of Kuta
Hit the beach in the early mornings so that you can claim a spot on the sand, together with surfers steadily watching for ocean swells as the action takes place on the waves. Throughout the day, troupes of beach vendors and masseuses will all vie for your attention, be it for a beach sarong or a cheap massage, aka ‘spa treatment,’ on the sand. During and after sunset, it’s a mixed scene – friendly beach soccer matches that you can join, spontaneous ‘beach bars’ selling cold Bintangs and local bites, chats with locals, djembe drumming jam sessions, and even fire dancers.

Kuta Beach’s focal point is its central section, aptly named ‘Halfway’. Here, you only need to cross the Jalan Pantai to Kuta Beachwalk, a modern shopping, dining and entertainment complex, filled with numerous tenants. The footpaths on both sides connect to most of Kuta’s other highlights, such as Hard Rock Café, HQ Beach Club, the Kuta Art Market, and the Balawista lifeguard tower that is right next to the Sea Turtle Conservation site, where batches of hatchlings are released regularly.

Best time to visit Kuta Beach
Like with most of Bali’s west-facing beaches, you can expect the best waves in Kuta in the dry season (April–August), with easterly winds. Conversely, expect flotsam and jetsam during the monsoonal months (October–March), with a combination of westerly winds and overflowing rivers from the highlands and neighbouring Java.

The entire length of Kuta Beach is cleaned daily by a bright red tractor and trash-raking machine, and by the peddlers and masseuses (who are listed as members of Kuta’s local beach hawkers’ association and enforced to actively participate in daily beach clean-ups).

From midyear to October, you can expect larger swells and undercurrents, which can be dangerous even for experienced swimmers. Even though you can swim or paddle on almost any day in Kuta Beach, always take caution and pay attention to the red flags posted by the Balawista crew. On the other hand, whenever you see red and yellow flags, it means it’s safe to hit the waves.

Shopping and dining at Kuta Beach
You won’t find fixed bars right on the sand along the length of Kuta Beach, but rather small vendors who claim their spots under the palm trees with ice boxes stocked up with soft drinks and beers, or wandering vendors carrying baskets of tropical fruits and light bites. Some also tout goods, ranging from colourfully dyed beach sarongs and broad-brimmed wicker hats, knock-off Oakleys, Ray-Bans and Rolexes, to unexpected knick-knacks like bows and arrows.

A variety of dining spots are just across the road, ranging from McDonald’s to an eclectic mix of restaurants at the Kuta Beachwalk. Take a short stroll south along the beach footpath and it leads you to the HQ Beach Club where international dishes are served in cosy settings. For a wide variety of local and international cuisine (and cold beers or fresh coconuts) sold at local prices, head further south along the footpath to the permanent cluster of small warungs.
Just up the path from these warungs is the Kuta Art Market, where you’ll find fixed priced items but bargaining is still a fun exercise, ranging from paintings to keychains and pervasive Bintang singlets.


Kuta Beach facilities
There are public toilets at Halfway and near the Kuta Art Market, but their cleanliness and upkeep isn’t the best. The restrooms at Kuta Beachwalk are available for public use and are modern and very well maintained. Parking is available along the beachside of Jalan Pantai Kuta, but it’s mostly occupied by motorcycles and very limited for cars. If your hotel isn’t nearby, getting to Kuta Beach is best by taxi or your hotel’s shuttle transfer services.

There are plenty of rentals readily available on the sand, run by locals, ranging from surfboards and body boards, beach loungers and parasols. If you ask to rent a board, they usually also offer coaching services. You can always just ask for the board, be it a racer or a Malibu, and rent it by the hour (the duration is usually flexible or negotiable). Feel free to ask around for the best price.

Things to do at Kuta Beach
Although surfing and swimming is the highlight activity at Kuta Beach, you can also enjoy anything from beach soccer or volleyball in the mornings or at sunset. Non-surfers can learn the art of wave riding with the number of surf schools available along the beach. There are beginner lessons for both kids and grown-ups, with some guaranteeing you’ll be able to stand up on your learner board within the 1st hour of your session.

If you aren’t into too much action, simply relax on the sand, spread out your beach sarong and laze about under the sun and watch the world go by. Or simply unwind and opt for a cheap beach spa session – be it a thorough Balinese massage, or body scrubs using a traditional concoction of virgin coconut oil and aromatic spices.

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Melasti Beach

Melasti Beach, or Pantai Melasti as the locals know it, is a white sand beach in Ungasan, Bali, near Uluwatu.
For a long time, the road out to Melasti Beach was terrible, but a local construction project has remedied that, and it’s now home to several beach resorts. And Melasti Beach is pretty easy to get to from anywhere in Bali.


Where Is Melasti Beach?
Melasti Beach is in Ungasan Bali, which is in South Bali. In fact, Melasti Beach is the southernmost point of the whole island of Bali, which is something of a selling point to tourists looking to have some bragging rights when they get home.
The exact Melasti Beach location/address is Jl. Melasti Ungasan, Ungasan, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
The Pantai Melasti Beach should never be confused with Melasti on the other side of the island at Tanah Lot Temple.

How Do You Get To Melasti Beach?
If you’re in Uluwatu, then we’d say you can either get a Grab or Gojek or, perhaps, if you’re feeling brave, rent a scooter to make the drive.
However, we would note (as always) that we just don’t recommend driving a scooter in Bali unless you are an experienced driver and fully road legal (that means a current International Driver’s Permit and a license with a motorcycle endorsement) with insurance.
There are far too many accidents on scooters in Bali to take chances with this.
If you’re coming in from Kuta, Canggu, or Seminyak, then Melasti Beach is quite far away, and you’re going to want to hire a private car and driver (you can see the FAQ section below for how to do this).

When Is Melasti Beach Open?
It’s a beach, so technically, it’s open 24/7 and 365 days a year, but you’re probably not going to hit the beach at 3 a.m.
There is a ticketing booth, and it’s open during daylight hours.
beach with wave and rocks 2022 07 12 20 30 11 utc scaled.

What Is The Melasti Beach Entrance Fee?
The official entrance fee is 10,000 IDR for this beach (that’s less than $1 USD), and you must pay it at the ticketing booth before you park your vehicle.
It’s worth noting that this is a very popular place for people to do wedding photoshoots and to hold special events.
If you want to do this, you will be required to pay additional fees, which are negotiable (to some extent). You probably want to arrange any special terms before your visit.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Melasti Beach?
There is no bad time of year to visit Melasti Beach, and while, of course, the dry season is the most popular time of year to see Melasti Beach, you’ll have a nice time in the wet season, too.
On average, during the wet season, Bali sees 9 hours of sunshine a day! It rains for a few hours at the most.
Just check out the weather forecast before you set off for Melasti Beach if you’re coming from the other side of Bali Island.
There is also no perfect time of day for a visit. We love to stroll along Melasti Beach in the early morning when there’s nobody else about it and just enjoy the feel of sand beneath our feet.
However, swimming and sunbathing can be done all day long, and it’s warm and pleasant for the majority of almost every day on Melasti Beach.
The sunsets are also pretty dramatic and spectacular here, so turning up in the early evening to have a drink is just fine, too.
We would note that it’s at its busiest on weekends and at its quietest in the early morning.

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Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua is a resort area built in the 1970s in the southern part of Bali, Indonesia. Known as an enclave of large five-star resorts, it covers 350 hectares of land and encloses more than 20 resorts. It is located 22 kilometers from Denpasar, the provincial capital of Bali, and is administered as part of Benoa subdistrict (kelurahan) in South Kuta, Badung Regency. Nusa Dua means two islands (nusa ‘island’, dua ‘two’), because there are two islands in the bay of Bali Tourism Development Corporation area. On the southern side lies Peninsula Island, and on the northern side lies Nusa Dharma Island, which is smaller but shadier, and which contains the Pura/Temple Nusa Dharma.

Water Blow
Water Blow is located in the Indonesia Tourism & Development Corporation (ITDC) district where large waves of sea water from the Indian Ocean continually crash against jagged limestone edges of a cliff. The water blow is the outcome of the narrowing crag below the cliff face that channels a surge of water up to 30 meters high from its base following strong currents. This phenomenon results in giant, irregular splashes of wave that can reach several meters high. The area provides a 240-degree lookout of dramatic seascape that is bordered by guardrails.

Geger Beach
Geger Beach is located in Sawangan, about 3 kilometers from the southern area of Nusa Dua. The sea there is calm, which allows farmers to grow seaweed in the area, as well as being an attractive place for tourists to swim.

Hotels and Resorts
The Bali Tourism Development Corporation, which was tasked to create Nusa Dua, opened the Nusa Dua Beach Hotel in 1983 as an anchor for the future development of the area as a resort complex. Shortly after, two more five-star hotels opened next to the Nusa Dua Beach Hotel, both franchised by Sheraton (they have since been rebranded as a Westin and a Luxury Collection). Since the 1990s, the area has been experiencing a boom of resort construction, including brands such as Aman, Courtyard by Marriott, Grand Hyatt, Hilton, Kempinski, Marriott Vacation Club, Meliá, Mercure, Novotel, Renaissance, Sofitel, St. Regis, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Tanjung Benoa
The Peninsula of Tanjung Boonga, with the village of Boonga in the foreground and Nusa Dua in the background
Immediately north of the Nusa Dua enclave is the peninsula of Tanjung Benoa, which includes cheaper hotels as well as Boonga village. A multi-denominational area, it includes a mosque and Chinese and Hindu temples close to each other. Much of the beach’s sand was eroded away following the mining of the nearby barrier reef for construction materials.

Benoa Port, also located there, was previously used for yachts and small ships. In December 2012, it became the Boonga Cruise International Terminal’s turnaround port, serving as both embarkation and debarkation point for cruise passengers. As a turnaround port, tourists can arrive or leave Boonga Port by either plane or cruise ship.

On December 26, 2012, the Bali Governor signed a permit to utilize, develop and manage the Boonga Bay area. 838 hectares reclaimed by PT Tirta Wahana Bali International will be used for luxury tourist facilities such as hotels, villas, apartments, an international hospital, and entertainment centers such as a Disneyland-like theme park.

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Padang Padang Beach

Pantai Padang Padang or Pantai Labuan Sait or Padang Padang Beach is the best beach in the Bukit Peninsula, Bali. It’s a proper paradise island beach, and there’s nothing quite like descending the cliffside stairs as the striking cove below, shrouded on either side by imposing cliffs and lush, verdant rainforest, comes into sight. Then, your feet touch the soft, white sand, and you know you’ve arrived somewhere truly special. The coral-fringed beach is ideal for swimming as it forms a natural lagoon that even the most inexperienced swimmer can handle. It’s also one of the great surfing experiences in Bali, and experienced surfers love to come to Padang Padang Beach. The surf breaks here are absolutely top-tier, and it takes real skill to master the swells. If you’re not ready to tackle the challenge yet, never fear. You can find plenty of surf schools to help out. So, let’s take a closer look at Padang Padang Beach and learn all you need to know for an amazing visit to this hidden gem.



Where Is Padang Padang Beach?
Padang Padang Beach is on the Bukit Peninsula at the Southern End of Bali. It’s normally considered to consist of everything that runs south of Jimbaran Beach. To find Padang Padang Beach, you will need to head to Jalan Labuan Sait, Pecatu Village, South Kuta District, Badung Regency, Bali.
There is a very large parking area at the site. Once you arrive there, you must climb down a set of well-maintained cliffside stairs to the beach proper.

How To Get To Padang Padang Beach
If you’re in Uluwatu, you can easily get a taxi or local driver to this spot. Otherwise, it’s best to hire a private car and driver.

You can always rent a scooter to get wherever you want on the island, but we don’t recommend it. You must be road legal (International Driver’s Permit and current license with a motorcycle endorsement) to be insured, and the roads are dangerous, even for experienced drivers.

How Much Is It To Get Onto Padang Padang Beach?

There is a small entrance fee at Padang Padang Beach. You must pay 20,000 IDR per person (and there is no discount for children, and they only accept cash in IDR) as an entrance fee.
If you want to use the car park, the parking fee is an extra 5,000 IDR.
It helps to have exact changes or small bills here as the entrance gate at this small beach is not always blessed with large numbers of visitors paying the entrance fee and creating change for other visitors.
Once you’ve paid, you can climb down the narrow staircase and make your way through the cave and onto the beach.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Padang Padang Beach?
There is no “best time” to visit Padang Padang Beach in terms of the time of year. While the dry season will be a little cooler (thanks to onshore breezes), it doesn’t rain all day in the wet season, and you can expect around 9 hours of sunshine a day. We’d also note that if you want the biggest challenge as a surfer, the waves are bigger and stronger in the wet season. But be warned, they’re pretty big and strong even when it’s dry. It’s worth noting that Bali’s dry season is its peak season, and you may have to pay a premium for flights and accommodation at this time. However, you do want to visit this beach at low tide as the tide is going out and then leave before high tide. This is because the unique hollow rock entrance of the cave here can be hard to access when the water levels are high. You will need to check the tides online as they vary depending on the day, and we can’t say “go during mid-morning” as some days will be high tide.

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Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Park

Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue (also known as GWK statue) is a 122-meter tall statue located in Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park, Bali, Indonesia. It was designed by Nyoman Nuarta and inaugurated in September 2018. The total height of the monument, including the 46-meter base pedestal is 122 m (400 ft). The statue was designed to be Indonesia’s tallest statue, and is inspired by an event that finds its roots in Hinduism about Garuda’s search for Amrita, the elixir of life. According to this story, Garuda agreed to be ridden by Vishnu in return for the right to use the elixir to liberate his enslaved mother. The monument was completed on 31 July 2018 and inaugurated by Indonesian President Joko Widodo on 22 September 2018. It is the tallest statue of a Hindu deity and the tallest statue in Indonesia. Construction took twenty-eight years and around $100 million cost.

History
GWK was designed in 1990 by Nyoman Nuarta under the then-Tourism Minister Joop Ave, Energy Minister Ida Bagus Sudjana and Governor of Bali Ida Bagus Oka. The groundbreaking event of the statue’s construction took place 1997. In the late 1990s, the project was halted due to the 1997 Asian financial crisis.

Construction resumed in 2013 after a sixteen year hiatus, when property developer PT. Alam Sutera Realty Tbk (ASR) agreed to financing the construction of the statue and the project. The idea for the monument was not without controversy; religious authorities on the island complained that its massive size might disrupt the spiritual balance of the island, and that its commercial nature was inappropriate, but some groups agreed with the project as it would attract tourism.

Symbolism
Designed to be Indonesia’s tallest statue, Garuda Wisnu Kencana was inspired by a story from Hindu mythology about the search for Amrita (the elixir of life). According to that, Garuda agreed to be ridden by Vishnu in return for the right to use the elixir to liberate his enslaved mother.

Fabrication and dimensions
The statue was assembled in Bali from 754 discrete modules that were constructed in Bandung, West Java at Nyoman Nuarta Factory and then transported to the work site. The modules were cut into 1,500 smaller pieces to accommodate the cranes maximum load. The last piece that was placed onto the gigantic artwork was at its tail, which is located at the highest point of the statue.[10] Garuda’s shape is so complex that engineers have designed special joints in the supporting structure, with up to 11 enormous steel girders coming together at the same point, whereas normal construction joints have four or six girders. The Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue is designed to withstand storms and earthquakes, and expected to last for the next 100 years.

The 75 m (246 ft) tall, 65 m (213 ft) wide statue was designed by Nyoman Nuarta. It sits atop a pedestal to bring the total height of the monument to 121 m (397 ft), which is nearly 30 m (98 ft) taller than the Statue of Liberty in the United States. The completed monument is about as tall as a 21-story building. It weighs 4000 tonnes, making it the heaviest statue in the country. The statue is made of copper and brass sheeting, with a stainless steel frame and skeleton, as well as a steel and concrete core column. The outer covering measures 22,000 m2 (240,000 sq ft) in area. The crown of Visnu is covered with golden mosaics and the statue has a dedicated lighting arrangement. The monument was completed on 31 July 2018 and inaugurated by Indonesian President Joko Widodo on 22 September 2018.

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Pandawa Beach Uluwatu

Pandawa Beach is one of the many hidden beaches of Bali. Located on the island’s southern Bukit Peninsula, the 1-km-long coastal stretch is about 8 km south of the main hub of the BTDC complex in Nusa Dua.
Hidden behind large carved limestone cliffs that reveal wide views to the Indian Ocean, Pandawa Beach has impressive terrain and manmade limestone features that serve as a one-of-a-kind welcome into this coastal area.


How to get to Pandawa Beach
Huge cliffs were cut through to make way for its winding and smooth asphalt roads which lead down to the beach. The sides remained as high walls, while the ocean-facing cliffs midway down the slope feature deeply carved arches installed with large statues. They each depict the hero characters from the Mahabharata epic, known as Pandawa Lima or the ‘5 Pandawas’, which is also where the beach got its name from.

There are 6 white stone statues draped in colourful Balinese waistcloths, namely Dewi Kunti, the mother figure from the epic, and the 5 heroes – Dharmawangsa (also known by the name Yudhistira), Bima, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadewa
A single empty arch seems to make way for another planned character, either the heroes’ father, Pandu, or his 2nd wife, Madri. You can have great photo opportunities here, both against the sculptures and to the distant horizon and the stretch of Pandawa Beach 250 metres down from this vantage point.

The road from here branches in 2 directions toward different sections of Pandawa Beach. The eastern part has local stalls selling snacks and refreshments, and parasol-shaded sun beds lining the coast. This area is a little rugged due to the large rocks along the sand, most likely rubble from prior road constructions through the cliffs.

The western counterpart has a cleaner (and longer) stretch of sand, with various water sport activities and gear rentals, as well as cafes and stalls serving a wide range of cuisines, from grilled seafood and local cuisine to sandwiches and burgers.

What to do at Pandawa Beach
The water at Pandawa Beach is an exotic combination of blue and green, as local seaweed farmers still tend to their patches along these coasts. On clear days with mild winds, it is a nice place for swimming.

You can hire a sea kayak, wear some life vests, and paddle out for fun, and even grab a surfboard to catch a wave beyond the reef breaks. Swells are usually consistent with the strongest southern ocean currents moving out in unpredictable directions, so it is strictly for advanced surfers.

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Sangeh Monkey Forest

Sangeh Monkey Forest is a small fertile rain forest dwelt by a group of monkeys. It is one of the popular Bali Tourist Destinations located in the Sangeh countryside, Badung Regency, north part of Denpasar town or about 1 hour from Denpasar City. Furthermore, this forest is an animal sanctuary in Bali. The group of monkeys are living together in this forest. Therefore, it is an ideal place for Macaca fascicularis (Long Tail Macaque) to live freely and use the forest as their habitat. This Sangeh Monkey Forest is strategically located beside the main road from Denpasar to Petang Village. Moreover, good road access facilitates the visitors who want to reach this place. Hence. many tourists have come to this place to see the cute monkeys.

Sangeh Monkey Forest History
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Firstly, in the 17 century at Monarchic golden era of Mengwi, I Gusti Agung Ketut Karangasem (son of I Gusti Agung Made Agung) had built the temple in the middle of nutmeg forest. Afterward, local people call this temple as Bukit Sari Temple (like small forest with mixture vegetation and broadness about 10,8 ha). Meanwhile, the myths of Sangeh Forest is relevant to the happening of forest wood evacuation from Agung Mount in Karangasem to Mengwi District. However, somebody had seen and known this evacuation process, hence it finally becomes the forest. Nowadays, the local people know this site as Sangeh Monkey Forest.

This Nutmeg Forest is formally as a Tourism Garden Nature as well as a holy area of temple for worshiping to the god. It is executed from local people from Sangeh Countryside and its surrounding area. It is also become a sacred function beside of tourist object as a commercial tourism business. Bedugul VW Safari Tour is one of the exciting Bali Tour Programs to visit this waterfall that you may join with, therefore please feel free to contact our team to arrange this excursion.

What to See at one of Bali Tourist Destinations?
According to the information of Hall KSDA (Experienced Resource Conservation) Forest Department, Sangeh Forest is growth by 6.825 grove bar, consisted of 28 birch and also 22 clump type/bush. In shares of extension area (3,169 ha), it is located in west part of this forest area, cultivated by some plant types like Chico Kecik, Mahoney and guava. This part is then expected to be the food sources for about 500 monkeys populating at this forest. The monkey species living in Sangeh is Macaca fascicularis. This monkey lives in three different group are located in east, middle, and west side. Sangeh forest have succeeded identified 22 types (species) bird, 5 mammal types, 3 reptile types, 2 type of amphibians and also 5 type of arthropods.

Bali Tourist Destinations
Sangeh is a one of tourist destinations in Bali managed by the special organizer from local resident. They come from 21 local organizers. Beside of that, they also assisted by staff from the duty Forestry, especially from KSDA. The management open Sangeh Monkey Forest daily from 7.30 am until 6:00 pm. This tourism object is located about 20 km in north side of Denpasar town with the travel distance about 30 minutes from Denpasar and passing the main road of Denpasar- Pelaga. Meanwhile, other public facilities to facilitate the visitors who visit this site such as parking area, toilet, art shops, souvenir shops, restaurant, footpath, and others. You can discover another places of interest nearby like Nungnung Waterfall.

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Taman Ayun Temple

Taman Ayun Temple Located in Mengwi, Badung, away from the hustle bustle of the city center, this temple is nestled in lush, greenery surrounding with trees and ponds – about 18 km northwest of Denpasar and about 8 km southwest of Ubud. Taman Ayun Temple is one of the most attractive and most visited temples in Bali. This 17th century creation was built as a family temple of Mengwi Empire and was only accessible for the royals. This temple is declared as part of the world cultural tourism site by UNESCO as it holds a very strong and sophisticated architectural design.

The Taman Ayun Temple complex occupies an area of 100 x 250 m2, comprising four different courts. The first one is called ‘Jaba’ or outer court – it is only accessible through one single entrance through a bridge over the ponds. In the first inner court, there is a small guardian shrine and a large ‘wantilan’ hall that the local communities usually use for gatherings.

Then, you will be welcomed by a tall fountain and a big shelter with ornamental features and reliefs depicting the 9 Gods guarding the cardinal directions in the second inner court. Lastly, the third inner court of the complex is the highest court and is considered the most sacred place. It is referred to as the Utama Mandala – the “gelung door” or the intricately ornamented gate that is only open during certain ceremonies only.

Taman Ayun literally means “A Beautiful Garden”, which strongly represents the situation of the temple that is super beautiful – surrounded by many tiered shrines dedicated to different gods, lovely manicured foliage garden, thatched-roofed prayer hut, and canals. No wonder, this is the ultimate place that people usually flock to get peace and serenity.

How To Get There
Taman Ayun Temple is located in Jalan Ayodya. No 10. Mengwi village, Mengwi sub district, Badung regency, Bali. If you travel directly from Ngurah Rai International Airport, the trip will take approximately 29.3 km with an estimated time of about 1-hour drive away. It is recommended to head to the temple by private vehicle, either by motorbike or by car. It isn’t hard to find motorbike and car rental in Bali! Just do not forget to show your motorbike driving licence and stay safe.

Things to do Nearby
While you are in Badung and are traveling with your family and kids, paying a visit to Alas Kedaton is an alternative option to the more popular Ubud Monkey Forest. It is a 7-hectares protected forest area that serves as a temple as well as animal sanctuary for the grey long-tailed macaques. This is a perfect opportunity to learn about Balinese cultural traditions while getting to interact and play with the monkeys. It only takes around a 20-minute drive away from Pura Taman Ayun.

a row of traditional houses with red roofs in Indonesia
Another historical landmark that is located nearby the Pura Taman Ayun that you may want to visit to dig more about the history of Bali, and Indonesia as a whole, is Monumen Nasional Taman Pujaan Bangsa Margarana. This 17-meters height monument was built in 1954 to commemorate the Puputan War Margarana – the war between the Dutch and Ciung Wanara Battalion led by the National Hero I Gusti Ngurah Rai. There is also a building inside the complex that serves as a museum storing various historical relics, from weapons, communication tools, to medical devices.

Pura Taman Ayun is the utmost option for all the culture vultures out there who are keen to explore the strong, cultural and religious tradition of Balinese people. However, while we are still in a pandemic situation, be sure to follow health and safety protocols to avoid the spread of Covid-19 by keeping your mask on, keeping physical distance, and regularly washing your hands with soap or hand sanitizer!

CategoriesTabanan Area By administrator

Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot (Balinese) is a rock formation off the Indonesian island of Bali. It is home to the ancient Hindu pilgrimage temple Pura Tanah Lot (literally “Tanah Lot temple”), a popular tourist and cultural icon for photography.

Tanah Lot temple
Tanah Lot means “Land [in the] Sea” in the Balinese language.Located in Tabanan, about 20 kilometres (12 mi) northwest of Denpasar, the temple sits on a large offshore rock which has been shaped continuously over the years by the ocean tide.

Tanah Lot is claimed to be the work of the 16th-century Dang Hyang Nirartha. During his travels along the south coast he saw the rock-island’s beautiful setting and decided to rest there. Some fishermen saw him, and bought him gifts. Nirartha then spent the night on the little island. Later he spoke to the fishermen and told them to build a shrine on the rock, for he felt it to be a holy place to worship the Balinese sea gods. The main deity of the temple is Dewa Baruna or Bhatara Segara, who is the sea god or sea power and these days, Nirartha is also worshipped here.

The Tanah Lot temple was built and has been a part of Balinese mythology for centuries. The temple is one of seven sea temples around the Balinese coast. Each of the sea temples was established within eyesight of the next to form a chain along the south-western coast. In addition to Balinese mythology, the temple was significantly influenced by Hinduism.

At the base of the rocky island, venomous sea snakes are believed to guard the temple from evil spirits and intruders. The temple is purportedly protected by a giant snake, which was created from Nirartha’s selendang (a type of sash) when he established the island.

Restoration
In 1980, the temple’s rock face was starting to crumble and the area around and inside the temple started to become dangerous. The Japanese government then provided a loan to the Indonesian government of Rp 800 billion (approximately US$480 million to conserve the historic temple and other significant locations around Bali. As a result, over one-third of Tanah Lot’s “rock” is actually cleverly disguised artificial rock created during the Japanese-funded and supervised renovation and stabilization program.

Tourism
Tanah Lot Temple
Sacred water at Tanah Lot temple
Entrance tickets cost 20,000 rupiah for Indonesian nationals (Rp 15,000 for children), but foreigners have to pay three times the price, or Rp 60,000 (Rp 30,000 for children). To reach the temple, visitors must walk through a set of Balinese market-format souvenir shops which cover each side of the path down to the sea. On the mainland clifftops, restaurants have also been provided for tourists.

Location
This tourist attraction is located in Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan, approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) south of Tabanan.

CategoriesBadung Area By administrator

Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple (Balinese: Pura (Luhur) Uluwatu) is a Balinese Hindu sea temple (Pura Segara) located in Uluwatu (South Kuta, Badung). The temple is regarded as one of the sad kahyangan and is dedicated to Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa in his manifestation as Rudra.

History and etymology
The temple (pura in Balinese) is built at the edge (ulu) of a 70-meter-high (230 ft) cliff or rock (watu) projecting into the sea. In folklore, this rock is said to be part of Dewi Danu’s petrified barque.

Though a small temple was claimed to have existed earlier, the structure was significantly expanded by a Javanese sage, Empu Kuturan in the 11th Century. Another sage from East Java, Dang Hyang Nirartha is credited for constructing the padmasana shrines and it is said that he attained moksha here, an event called ngeluhur (“to go up”) locally. This has resulted in the temple’s epithet Luhur.[

Monkeys
The temple is inhabited by monkeys (Macaca fascicularis), who are notorious for snatching visitors’ belongings, such as flip-flops, cameras, and sunglasses. They can usually be persuaded into ransoming the items for fruit, nuts, or candies, although this only encourages them to steal more.

Scientist and experts on primate behavior have conducted studies on the Macaque monkeys in the area and have collected data suggesting that they learn bartering behavior. This trade is passed down to the young offspring. New groups of Macaque monkeys introduced into the area quickly adapt and learn the new skill from the locals.

Kecak Dance performance
A Kecak dance performance based on the Ramayana is performed daily in Uluwatu temple at every 6pm on the cliff-side. The performance which is outdoors also shows the beautiful sunset at the background of the performance.

CategoriesBangli Area By administrator

Tukad Cepung Waterfall

Tukad Cepung waterfall is one of the many oases of nature found in Bali. It is located in the village of Tembuku and is hidden away in a cave, surrounded by high cliffs and a variety of greenery. This stunning location attracts visitors from all over the world, as well as locals, due to its natural beauty.

The sunlight falling on the glistening waterfall creates a rainbow, which feels as though it is projected right up to you. This place is comparatively cooler and offers an immense sense of peace and tranquility. Tukad Cepung is a rising star among Bali waterfalls and is a must-see destination for nature and photography enthusiasts.

Tukad Cepung Waterfall

Address
The waterfall is located at Central parkir waterfall tukad cepung, Jl. Tembuku, Tembuku, Kec. Tembuku, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80671, Indonesia. (See on Google Maps)

Location
The waterfall is located in the village of Tembuku, in the regency of Bangli, in the island of Bali. It is about 45 minutes away from Ubud, the cultural center of Bali.

What To Expect When Visiting

This waterfall is tucked away in a cave, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation. The natural beauty of Tukad Cepung makes it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. This waterfall is a virgin waterfall of Bali and remains hidden between rocks.

This waterfall is well-guarded by the cliffs, making it a bit difficult to locate for first-time visitors. However, the effort of walking down a few hundred stairs is worth it once you arrive at the destination. The circular cliffs give visitors the feeling of being in a cave, while the open sky right from where the waterfall emerges provides an enchanting view. The sunlight falling on the glistening waterfall creates a rainbow, which feels as though it is projected right up to you. Tukad Cepung Waterfall is a must-see destination for nature and photography enthusiasts.

Unlike other waterfalls in Bali, Tukad Cepung does not flow into a river, stream or jungle but flows gently down the cliffs. The river can be seen from up above, meanwhile, the waterfall can only be viewed once you walk down the stairs and into the cliff.

Take the time to relax near the waterfall, listening to the water flowing and gazing at the amazing rainbow of colors created by the sunlight. It is often a sign of great peace of mind and hidden forces. After spending several hours in nature, on your way back home, you can make a few stops around the area. Tukad Cepung Waterfall is close to Pura Dalem Penida Kelod, also known as the Temple of Death.

CategoriesKarangasem Area By administrator

Lempuyang Temple or Gate of Heaven

Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang is a Balinese Hindu temple or pura located in the slope of Mount Lempuyang in Karangasem, Bali. Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang is considered as part of a complex of pura surrounding Mount Lempuyang, one of the highly regarded temples of Bali. The temples of Mount Lempuyang, represented by the highest pura at the peak of Mount Lempuyang, Pura Lempuyang Luhur, is one of the Sad Kahyangan Jagad, or the “six sanctuaries of the world”, the six holiest places of worship on Bali.

History
The establishment of places of worship around Mount Lempuyang is believed to predate the majority of Hindu temples on the island of Bali. The puras of Mount Lempuyang, represented by Pura Lempuyang Luhur, the highest temple in the area, is grouped one complex of pura which represents the Pura Sad Kahyangan Luhur Lempuyang. The temple groups are considered as part of the Sad Kahyangan Jagad, or the “six sanctuaries of the world”, the six holiest places of worship on Bali. According to Balinese beliefs, they are the pivotal points of the island and are meant to provide spiritual balance to Bali. The temple groups of Mount Lempuyang is also one of the group of temples in Bali known as Pura Kahyangan Padma Bhuwana. Each of the temple in the Pura Kahyangan Padma Bhuwana marked each of the eight cardinal directions. Pura Lempuyang Luhur represents the direction of east (purwa) and the color white. This direction is associated with the domain of the Balinese god Iswara.

Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang was restored in 2001.

The gate of Heaven Of Lempuyang Temple

The candi bentar or split gate marking the entrance to the outermost sanctum (jaba pisan) of Pura Lempuyang Luhur.
Pura Penataran Agung is located on the slope of Mount Lempuyang 600 metres (2,000 ft) high above sea level. Mount Lempuyang, also known as Mount Lempuyang Luhur, is one of the most sacred natural points in Bali. The whole Lempuyang mountain was divided into three section which corresponds to the Balinese cosmology, the base of the mountain is known as Sang Ananta Bhoga and corresponds to the mount of Brahma, the middle part of the mountain is known as Sang Naga Basukih and corresponds to mount of Vishnu, while the top of the mountain is known as Sang Naga Taksaka and is considered as mount of Shiva. The sacred-most point of Mount Lempuyang is where the Pura Lempuyang Luhur is built. Pura Penataran Agung, also known as Pura Silawana Hyang Sar, is located in the middle part of the mountain; while at the base of the mountain, the Pura Dalem Dasar Lempuyang is built.

Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang is oriented toward the top of Mount Lempuyang. The temple compound is divided into three areas: the outer sanctum of the temple (jaba pisan or nistaning mandala), the middle sanctum (jaba tengah or madya mandala), and the inner main sanctum (jero or utamaning mandala).

Kori Agung or teh main gate of the temple to enter into the inner most sanctum of the Temple.

Entrance to the outer sanctum (jaba pisan) is marked with a white-painted candi bentar split gate. Several bale (Balinese pavilions) are located in the outer sanctum, one of them is the rectangular bale gong (“gong pavilion”) where the gamelans are stored. Another bale in this courtyard is the bale kulkul where the percussive drum to call for prayer is placed.

Entrance to the middle sanctum (jaba tengah) is marked with three white-painted paduraksa portals. The entrance to the left is used for entry, while the entrance to the right is used for exit. The central door is usually closed and is only opened during the pura’s main festival e.g. the biannual piodalan festival. The central portal is where sacred objects, heirloom, and offerings could pass during festival time. All three flight of stairs which lead to the paduraksa portals is flanked with mythical figures of Naga. Sculptures inspired by the epic of Mahabharata, e.g. of Arjuna, Bima, and Yudhistira dots the landscape of the stair climb. On the uppermost level of these is the statue of Krishna, the worldly form of Vishnu.

The uppermost inner sanctum (jero) is the most sacred courtyard of the Balinese temple. The courtyard of Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang features several meru towers and pelinggih shrines each dedicated to different gods and local deities. Several padmasana shrines in the shape of empty stone thrones, each are dedicated to the highest god of Hindu pantheon e.g. the Sang Hyang Widhi and the gods of the Trimurti.

Ritual
The piodalan or puja wali festival (pura’s anniversary) of Pura Penataran Agung is held once every 6 months every Waraspati (Thursday) or one day after the Galungan festival..