BALI TOURS : BALI’S REGENCIES :
BADUNG – DENPASAR – GIANYAR – BANGLI – KARANGASEM – KLUNGKUNG – BULELENG – TABANAN – JEMBRANA
Bali Facts:
Capital: Denpasar
Governor: Made Mangku Pastika
Area: 5,632.86 km2 (2,175 sq mi)
Population: 3,551,000 (2009)
Density: 630.4 /km2 (1,633 /sq mi)
Ethnic groups: Balinese, Javanese, Baliaga, Madurese
Religion: Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Buddhist
Languages: Indonesian (official), Balinese
Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Bali is a small island in the Indonesian archipelago – with Java to the West and Lombok to the East, it is only 8 degrees south of the equator. The island is volcanically active and extremely fertile, its mountainous terrain boast many peaks around 2000m, with the tallest Gunung Agung (known as the “mother mountain”) is over 3000m.
In 2009 the population was recorded at just over 3.5 million – Bali is home to the vast majority of Indonesia’s small Hindu minority. Balinese Hinduism is practiced by over 90% of Bali’s population with the remainder following Islam. Bali is the tourist destination of choice in Indonesia, while also being renowned for its highly developed arts – sculpture, painting, music and dancing, leather and metalwork.
Prior to independence, proclaimed after WWII in August 1945, Bali was a Dutch colony. Prior to this time, Bali also endured a period of Japanese occupation. Even though the Dutch-rule was not for a great period of time, a lot of older Balinese also speak the Dutch language.
The path to independence has been riddled with conflicts, military confrontation with the British and allies, and an attempted coup by the communists. While political stability and national democracy appears to have been achieved, Bali can attribute its economic growth to the huge expansion of tourism which has completely transformed the southern part of the island – in fact tourism accounts for 80% of the Balinese economy.
Bali, one of Indonesia’s 31 provinces, is made up of eight Regencies; Denpasar, the capital is considered to be within the Badung Regency.
BALI TOURS : BADUNG REGENCY
Capital : Denpasar
Population: Over 300’000
Location: Central & South Bali
Important Phone numbers:
Direct Enquiries – (0361) 108
Badung Tourist Office – Jl. Bakungsari #1, Kuta. Telp: 756176
Villages, sites & temples of Badung Regency are: Denpasar – capital of regency; Nusa Dua, Tanjung Benoa (tanjung – peninsula), Uluwatu, Bali, Kuta, Legian, Bali, Petitenget Temple, Canggu, Kapal, Mengwi, Taman Ayun Temple, Bukit Sari Temple, Sangeh monkey forest.
BALI TOURS : DENPASAR, BALI’S CAPITAL
Sites and places of interest in Denpasar and Badung :
Museum of Bali – Puputan Sq. Denpasar’s only museum was built in 1932. This ethnographical museum (ethnography being the study of a particular society and culture) contains many prehistoric and historic instruments and textiles. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Pura Jagatnatha – One of Bali’s most visited temples, located next to the museum, Puputan Sq. and near the Four faced Statue in central Denpasar. This temple is especially worth visiting for the Saraswati, Galungan and Kuningan ceremonies. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Art Centre Werdhi Budaya – Puputan Sq, Bali’s centre for dance and art. This art complex has a large amphitheatre that stages many of Bali’s traditional dances. It is the centre of activity throughout the Bali Art’s Festival held every year, mid June – mid July. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Indonesia Art Institute – Bali’s dance, music and art institute. The STSI amphitheatre stages monthly full moon dance performances. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Badung/Kumbasari Market – Recently renovated market that provides for al the locals needs. Beautifully arranged fruit, flowers for offerings, herbs, spices and all kinds of local handicrafts stretch out into two main buildings over the Denpasar River. Jl. Sulawesi is the neighboring street that provides a myriad of fabrics and textiles. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Kreneng Market – The second largest traditional market in Denpasar. It is renowned for its night stalls selling many varieties of Balinese food and drink. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Bird Market – Located on Jl. Veteran, this market sells an assortment of beautiful birds and other animals including the unique Kintamani dog. Please remember it is illegal to keep certain birds and animals in captivity! ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Puputan Badung Square – The city’s central park. A statue commemorates a heroic moment in the battle of 1906. It is the location for many of Bali’s pageants and processions. Nyepi and the opening ceremony of The Bali Arts Festival is held around this square. One of Bali’s oldest temples Puri Jaganatha and the Museum of Bali are on one side of this square. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Catur Muka Statue (Four faced statue) – Standing in the centre of Denpasar, to one side of the Puputan Square, is a large granite, statue depicting Brahma as the almighty Creator of the world, nature and all it’s inhabitants. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Puri Satria, Pemecutan Jero Kuta & Puri Kesiman – These palaces have seen better days but all are a good example of traditional Balinese architecture. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Other interesting locations within the Badung Regency are:
Uluwatu Temple – perched on a high cliff on the Southwest tip of Bali, Uluwatu Temple is one of Bali’s older places of worship. Built around the 11th century, by Hindu high priest Empu Kuturan; it is inhabited by a group of sacred monkeys who guard the temple. This is one of Bali’s best sunset spots. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Beaches on Bukit – southern peninsula; Uluwatu, Gerger, Goa Suluban, Padang Padang, Nyang Nyang, Bingin, Dreamland, Nusa Dua, Bali, Kedonganan. Many of the above beaches are famous surfing spots, some are difficult to access and the waves are generally for the intermediate to advanced surfer. Beware of corals and strong currents. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Nusa Dua – A major tourist resort on the southern most peninsula of the island. Set on about 450 hectares, this well groomed tourist enclave boasts 3.5 kilometers of white sand beaches, a number of five star hotels and one of the world’s best golf courses, Bali Golf & Country Club – recently voted to be amongst the best 5 courses in the world. Convention halls, amphitheatres, shopping centers & immaculate landscaping make Nusa Dua an ideal place to stay if you wish to get away from it all. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Tanjung Benoa – Benoa Peninsula – bordering Nusa Dua to the north this peninsula offers travelers fine hotels, water sports and similar environs as Nusa Dua. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Bali – On the west coast of the Bukit Peninsula, near the airport, is Bali Bay. It is home to some of Bali’s top hotels, Four Seasons Resort, Ritz Carlton and Bali Intercontinental Resort. Guests can sail swim and even go fishing in the bay. Bali village has long been one of Bali’s traditional fishing villages and the traditional fish market offers delicious seafood right on the beach. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Tuban – The area, just slightly north of the airport, known as Tuban, has long enticed tourists to her reasonably priced hotels, well-groomed beaches and organized nightlife. The Waterbom Park & Spa, go-karts and hotel sports facilities fulfill daytime pleasures; large shopping centers with many restaurants, local, international and fast food outlets stay open well into the night. Tuban is also well known for the horse drawn carts that can be seen taking visitors around the area. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Kuta – World famous for sand, surf and shopping, this area is jam-packed with activity 24 hours a day! Kuta is a major hustling & bustling resort town, with hundreds of hotels, bars, restaurants and shops. Here, small guesthouses and large hotels jostle for positioning along the beachfront. Beach sellers endlessly offer their wares to the sun-worshipper; sarongs, jeweler, shells, massages and manicures; even bows and arrows. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Proclaim an interest in purchasing something and these beach marketers will crowd round the unsuspecting tourist until a sale is struck. This is part of the fun of Bali. Nightlife is a major happening in Kuta with a number of surf bars, cafes and restaurants offering videos, cheap drinks and even cheaper food. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
The more upmarket restaurants are ensconced in Kuta’s small narrow (gangs) alleyways. The internationally famous Poppies and a string of other hidden garden paradi offer the weary tourist a welcome respite from the haggling streets. Cold beers, exotic cocktails, delicious food all, at a fraction of the European price. If action is what is wanted then Kuta is the place to be! ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Kapal : This roadside town produces a large part of Bali’s ceramics, statues and temple accessories. The Sadat Temple in the town centre has interesting wall carvings. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Mengwi & Pura Taman Ayu – Originally built in the 17th century, this royal family garden temple was extensively renovated in the early 1900′s. Surrounded by a moat and lotus lake, the temple’s inner courtyard has an impressive number of Merus – tiered shrines built for the Bali’s ancestors and heroes. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Bukit Sari Monkey Forest & Pura Bukit Sari – near the village of Sangeh, just north of Mengwi. A troupe of monkeys guard the impressive 17th century temple, which is set in the heart of a nutmeg forest. Beware of the monkeys as they have a reputation for being swift of hand and light of foot! Hold onto your cameras and bags tightly, it is best if you don’t wear jewellery. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
BALI TOURS : BANGLI REGENCY
Capital – Bangli
Highest Peak – Mt. Abang – 2’152m.
Location: Central – Eastern Bali
Land Area: 520’81 sq. km.
No. Of Districts – 4 ( Bangli, Kintamani, Susut, Tembuku)
Important Phone numbers:
Direct Enquiries – 036691108
Bangli Tourist Office – Tlp: 0366 – 91537
(Address – Jl. Sriwijaya #23)
History :
As Lake Batur located in the Bangli Regency, was a major source of irrigation water for south & east Bali, the regency was greatly fought over by neighboring rulers. Bangli became the capital of this Balinese kingdom in the year Balinese Icaka year of 1204. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Sites:
Bangli Town – Located in the southern part of the regency, on the foothills of the Batur volcanic range -: The ancient Kehen Temple (Pura Kehen) in Bangli, is famous for having been built under an enormous Banyan tree*.. The walls are inlayed with pieces of chipped porcelain and the upper sanctuary has 11 tapering merus (resting places of the gods). There is a small museum (Saison Buddha Bangle) nearby. Every 3 years the Kehen temple celebrates a unique festival, in which offerings tower high in the courtyard and ritual Baris Warrior Dances are performed utilizing different weapons. The nearby Sasana Art Centre also organizes the occasional art & dance performance. The view beyond the town of Bangli, from Demulih Hill (Bukit), offers and astounding view. (* These trees -fiches benjeminica or religiosa-, visible all over Bali, can grow with or without aerial roots. They are of special significance to the Balinese who believe that they are the dwelling place of spirits. They are usually sashed around the trunk, with a chequered black & white cloth, and are the recipients of many daily offerings.) ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Bamboo Forest nr. Kubu : Located 5kms. From Bangli; many different types of bamboo, such as Petung and Bambu Talang grow in this forest, the sound of the wind blowing through the bamboo is quite unique. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Dusun Kuning Waterfall – 6 kms. South of Bangli; near to Dusun Kuning village is a 25 m. high waterfall that flows into the Melangit River to the south. The cool and shady clove-tree forest that surrounds these falls is home to hordes of monkeys. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Mt. Batur -1’750m. Last active 1926. The Batur complex has been described as one of the largest and finest calderas in the world, (caldera being a volcano with a lake in the centre of the crater). Lake Batur, is a major source of irrigation water for both south & east Bali. On the western shore is Toyah Bungkah; surrounded by a stark volcanic landscape is an ideal spot for fishing and swimming. A hot spring, with supposed curative powers, is worth a visit. Terunyan village – Located on Northeast shore of Lake Batur, and only accessible by a 30 minute boat trip, departing from Kedisan village, located on the southern side of the lake. (The name of this village is derived from the words Taru & Menyan – the smell of the fragrant tree of incense growing in this village). One of Bali’s most famous sites, this village’s immaculately kept houses, streets and grass verges are reminiscent of what Bali might have looked like in days gone by. This Bali Aga village does not perform the ngaben, or usual cremation ceremony, that Bali is famous for, but uniquely preserves it’s deceased by leaving the bodies, (although covered in shrouds, the face is left uncovered) under the fragrant & magical, incense tree. This method of “embalming” is called Mepasah. Trunyan’s temple is the Pancering Jagat Temple (or navel of the world temple) and houses a 4 meter high statue known as Arca da Tonta. The Barong Brutuk dance is staged here on the full moon of (Purnama) Sasih Kapat. Masked dancers whip bystanders & spectators in this totally unique land fertility dance. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Penglipuran – A traditional, picturesque Balinese village, with a population of 750. The Penglipuran Heroes Monument was built here in commemoration of Cpt. Anak Agung Gde Mudith and his troops. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Pengotan Village – A traditional pre Majapahit village with different traits and customs than other villages in Bali. Many unique dances are staged at Pura Penataran during temple festivals. The Papah “war’, various Baris dances and even the manner in which they bury their deceased is completely different to that other Balinese villages. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Penulisan – Picturesque village with panoramic views. Nearby in the village of Tegeh Koripan, a temple with a long flight of stairs is often shrouded in mist giving it a magical appearance. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Pura Dalem Balingkang – Pinggan Village (located in the northern part of Lake Batur)originally built as a palace, this unique temple has a delightful mix of Balinese and Chinese influences. Picturesque mountain scenery. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Puncak Penukisan Temple – This temple located on Penulisan hill, the dividing line between north and south Bali, consists of 5 different temple complexes situated on various terraces. Stone statues in the fifth complex are believed to be from the megalithic era. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Pura Ulun Danu Batur – 990m above sea level – in Kalanganyar, Batur Village, Kintamani District. These surviving shrines of this temple were relocated to its present location after a devastating eruption in 1917.An anniversary ceremony (Ngusaba Ke Dasa) is held each year. This temple houses an impressive Gong Gede (large gong) which is used to accompany the sacred Baris & Rejang dances which usually take place around the third week of March. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Tamanbali – Raja – A large water garden temple built by King Sang Anom. Ponds and water features with a vast array of tropical flora surround this temple. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Bangli’s Arts & Crafts
Article Village
– Palm Leaf Handicrafts – Cempaga, Tanggahan, Peken, Susut, Kayubihi, Undisan, Throughout Bangli
– Gold & Silver
– Bamboo Handicrafts
– Wood Carving(Furniture & temple)
Other sites are:
Balai Seni Art centre – Kintamani.
Subandar shrine.
Penelokan – volcano & Lake view.
BALI TOURS : BULELENG REGENCY
Capital – Singaraja
Location: North & North Western Bali
Important Phone numbers:
Direct Enquiries – 0363 22108
Buleleng Tourist Office – Jl. Vetran 23 Tlp: 0363 61141
Villages, sites & temples of Buleleng Regency are: Singaraja – capital of regency; (sites are listed from west to east). Deer Island (Menjangen), Teluk Terima, Pulaki Temple, Gondol, Banjar Hotsprings, Banjar Tega’s Buddhist Monastery, Temukus War Monument, Sing Sing Waterfalls, Lovina, Banyuning, Beratan, Sangsit, Jagaraja, Sawan, Kubutambahan, Air Sanih, Ponjok Batu, Julah, Sembiran, Gitgit Waterfall, Pancasari, Munduk. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Singaraja – Bali’s chief port in Dutch colonial times, this town received many influences from the foreign traders. Singaraja has a number of Chinese Temples and colonial buildings. The Gedong Kertya Library houses a unique collection of Lontar (palm leaf) scriptures written in Balinese covering many issues including traditional literature, medicinal formulas, black magic and many more. There are a number of old books in English, Dutch and Ancient Javanese (Kawi). ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Buleleng Harbor – this historical but unused harbor is located along the north coast. Old warehouses, an ancient jetty and an arched bridge are all that is left of this one time major seaport. Here a monument has been built in commemoration of Bali’s struggle to defeat the Dutch. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Singa Ambara Raja – A famous town landmark is the winged-lion statue located on Jl. Veteran, near the Tourist Office and opposite the office of the Governor of Buleleng, which symbolizes the heroic spirit of the people of Buleleng. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Pura Agung Jagatnatha – One of Bali’s biggest & newest temples; an outstanding feature is the Padmasana, a shrine that symbolically represents the three parts of the Balinese Universe.
Deer Island (Pulau Menjangan) – 79 km west of Sinagraja. One of the most famous marine parks in the world, and part of the West Bali National Park. Rare and protected Java Deer inhabit this small island, however visitors usually come for the diving and snorkeling. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Labuhan Lalang – a small port where divers and visitors may catch a boat to Deer Island. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Teluk Terima – 76 kms west of Singaraja. Also known as Jayaprana’s grave; this site remembers the sad love story between a prince wishing to marry a country girl, however the king also wished to marry the girl and so had the prince killed. On dreaming of the happenings the girl killed herself rather than marry the wicked king. A panoramic view to the north makes this a site well worth visiting. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Banyuwedang – 60 km west of Singaraja. Natural Hot Springs with supposed curative powers near a temple. In need of upkeep. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Pulaki Temple – 53 km west of Singaraja. A large temple on both sides of the road part is perched on craggy rock looking out to sea, the other part climbs into the hills, both parts house monkeys that are keen on eating almost anything in sight! Balinese women sell fruit to tourists and it seems that grapes are their favorite. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Gondol – 50 km west of Singaraja. A Government-run fish breeding project. Turtles, shrimp & prawns are included in the program. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Banjar Tegah Hot springs – 18km west of Singaraja. These slightly sulphuric hot springs are well worth visiting. Set slightly back in the hills, dragon fountains fume hot water into the tiered bathing pools. A number of souvenir shops and a restaurant cater to tourists. A number of local visitors and schools visit at weekends and holidays. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Banjar Tegah Buddhist Monastery – Bali’s largest Buddhist monastery set in beautiful valley scenery. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Temukus War Monument – 15 km from Singaraja. Built by the Dutch and destroyed by the Balinese during the Independence struggle. It was rebuilt by the local Government in 1992. The monument affords an extraordinary view of Lovina and the coastline. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Sing Sing Waterfall – 13 km west of Singaraja. Gushing falls in the wet season the water may no run as swiftly in the dry season. The falls are well signposted. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Lovina – 10 km west of Singaraja. Buleleng’s main tourist area. Black sand beaches fringed with palm trees open onto a calm sea where travelers can view dolphins, snorkel, dive, sail, fish and swim. A resort area with a full range of accommodation. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Singaraja – Buleleng’s capital, see start of Buleleng Province for more info.
Banyuning – 1 km east of Singaraja. A village known for pottery and ceramics.
Beratan – 1 km south of Singaraja. Famous for gold and silver works of a unique style. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Sangsit – 8 km east of Singaraja. Pura Dalem (the temple of the ancestors) is famous for its unique and amusing stone carvings and Pura Beji, a temple dedicated to the Goddess of Rice, is also a recipient for these extraordinary carvings. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Gitgit Waterfall – 11 km south of Singaraja. An impressive waterfall cascades into a small lagoon in a plantation of coffee and clove trees. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Kubutambahan – 12 km east of Singaraja. The Maduwe Karang Temple is renowned for carvings of a very imaginative nature. One such carving is that of a Dutch colonialist riding around on a bicycle whose tires are made entirely of petals! ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Jagaraga – 13 km south east of Singaraja. Another northern temple that has amusing carvings, some of the carvings depict the Dutch colonialists getting drunk, an armed robbery and a wartime dogfight between aero planes.
Sawan – 16 km south east of Singaraja – The villagers are traditional makers of gamelan gongs and other gamelan instruments. The Batu Bolong temple is quite distinct looking. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Air Sanih – 18 km east of Singaraja. A cool natural spring-fed pool borders the beach.
Pancasari – 24 km south of Singaraja. A mountain village known for the golf course, Bali Handara Kosaido Country Club and two of Bali’s lakes, Buyan and Tamblingan.
Ponjok Batu – 25 km east of Singaraja. The Ponjok Batu Temple (ponjok batu meaning pile of stones) perches on a rocky cliff next to a beach. A fresh water spring bubbles forth right on the beach. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Julah – 29 km east of Singaraja. It is said that this is the oldest village in North Bali. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Sembiran – 30 km south east of Singaraja. Probably a megalithic village, the culture, dialect and rituals are quite different from the rest of Bali.
Munduk – South west of Singaraja – Bali’s ecological village. This scenic village, located in the mountains, is an ideal place to stay and escape from the heat. Foggy afternoons, fields of blue hydrangeas and numerous waterfalls make it an ideal place to go hiking. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
BALI TOURS : GIANYAR REGENCY
Capital – Gianyar
Important phone numbers:
Direct Enquiries -108
Gianyar Tourist Office Tlp: 93401
(Address – Jl. Ngurah Rai 21, Gianyar.)
History :
Gianyar Town – District capital of Gianyar Regency – Located in the south eastern part of the regency, Gianyar is well known for it’s roasted babi guling (suckling pig). It is a large town that holds little of interest for the tourist. The temple of Pura Dalem just north of the town has fine examples of stone carvings and you may wish to visit some of the small weaving industries. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Batubulan – Stone carvings line the road, many are made on the premises however a few are also carved elsewhere. Many types of Balinese dances including trance dances are performed here for tourists. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Blahbatuh – Gaduh Temple houses the ancient, folkloric, stone head of Kebo Iwa, a Balinese hero of the Majapahit era. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Bedulu – This village houses the Museum of Archaeology, which exhibits pre-Hindu artifacts, stone carvings and old Chinese porcelain and the Samuan Tiga Temple, which stages an eleven day ceremony during the 10th full moon according to the Balinese Calendar.
Bona – a village dedicated to producing bamboo products. Said to be where the Kecak dance originated. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Celuk – This village specializes in gold and silver works, producing all kinds of jewellery and ornaments. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Elephant Cave (Goa Gajah) – An 11th century Buddhist meditations cave with a statue of Ganesh in the interior and other elaborate carvings.
Gunung Kawi – A candi complex dating from the 11th century, in which the candis have been carved directly out of the rock. The surrounding area is very picturesque. Not as dramatic as the other nearby candis and caves are Garba Cave and Candi Krobokan, two 12th century monuments, worth visiting if just to get off the beaten track. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Mas – A village renowned for producing Bali’s sacred masks.
Pejeng – Home to the temple of Penataran Sasih or Temple of the Moon. It contains the famous bronze Moon Drum, said to be over 2000 years old. It is the largest, single cast, bronze drum in the world. Good examples of 13th and 14th century stone carvings can be found at the nearby Pusering Jagat and Kebo Edan temples.
Sukawati – A market town selling all of Bali’s souvenirs in one location. It is also a market for the local Balinese looking to buy ceremonial articles. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Tegallalang – Shops abound on either side of the road. Slightly north rice terraces abound and, at nearby Petulu, see white Herons return to nest as the sun goes down.
Tirta Empul – Since the 10th century Tirta Empul has been one of Bali’s holiest places. Balinese come to bathe in the ancient pools as the waters are said to have curative powers. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Ubud – Now the cultural and artistic centre of Bali and a blossoming tourist destination. Bali’s four art museums namely, ARMA, Neka, Puri Lukisan and Rudana are all located here. The surrounding hamlets are all worth visiting. Ubud has many traditional dance and music performances and a number of workshops and courses are available. Accommodation ranging from five star luxury boutique hotels right through to guesthouses abound. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Yeh Pulu – Close to the Elephant Cave are some 14th century bathing pools with interesting carvings.
BALI TOURS : JEMBRANA REGENCY
Capital – Negara
Highest Peak – Mt. Patas – 1’500 m.
Location: Western Bali
Land Area: 841’80 sq. km.
No. Of Districts – 4 (Melaya, Negara, Mendoyo, Pekutatan)
Important Phone numbers:
Direct Enquiries – 0365 41108
Jembrana Tourist Office – Tlp: 0365 – 41210
Address – Jl. Setia Budi, Negara.
Museum Gilimanuk – 0365 61328
BUPATI – 0365 41210 N.B. Negara’s famous Bull Races are in August
Negara – District Capital of Jembrana – Located on the south-western part of the Regency.
History :
This regency is thought to have been established in the early 1400′s, although civil war broke out and the regency became part of the Badung regency. In the 17th century, sparsely populated Jembrana was not of much interest to the other royal Balinese kingdoms and for a time it was ruled over by a prince from Sulawesi. Jembrana was one of the first kingdoms to surrender to the invading Dutch in the 1800′s.
Negara Town – A small town on set along the main road between Denpasar & Gilimanuk. Negara itself does not have many tourist sites although it is famous for the bull races, held every year in October. Domesticated water buffalo races and horse races attract a number of tourist as well as many Balinese. Jegog – the giant bamboo gamelan (orchestra) – is typical of Jembrana and is seldom heard outside the regency. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
West Bali National Park – This Park is home to the rare Java Deer, the rarer Bali Starling and many other animals such as the Boss Javanicus, or wild bull.
Medewi Beach – Famous for surfing, the long left handers are best in the morning before the wind gets up. The beach itself is not fantastic. Tourist accommodation ranges from guesthouses to smarter hotels with pools. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Gilimanuk – Bali’s most western town, this is the ferrying point for people wishing to cross to Java. The tranquil bay is good for water sports and it is the closest place to stay if you wish to visit West Bali National Park.
Cekik – A village just south of Gilimanuk, with prehistoric remains
(Circa 1000BC) The headquarters of the National Park and visitors centre are located here.
Palasari Dam – The dam is good for water sports and the nearby village of Palasari is one of the few Catholic communities in Bali. The church is quite distinctive.
Candikusuma Beach – Large wide beach with views to Java. Very popular at weekends and holidays with the local community. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Baluk Rening Beach – This beach comes alive in August when the annual Jukung races take place. A western facing beach with good sunset views.
Perancak – A small village in which Bali’s renowned Buffalo racing is performed for tourists. A reptile park and a riverside temple are other Perancak sites.
Delod Berawah Beach – A popular beach with the occasional bull and horse race.
Rambut Siwi – One of Bali’s major cliff-top temples and the largest in west Bali. It was built in the 1500′s by the same priest that built both the Uluwatu and Tanah Lot temples. The sunset from this vantage point is outstanding. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Bunut Bolong – A sacred banyan grows over the road, or rather the road goes through this very large tree, up into the foothills of west Bali and towards Pupuan. The surrounding area is tropical forest and has many impressive trees
Pengambengan – The biggest fishing port on Bali, not an actual port but the here seas are at their calmest and there are no dangerous reefs. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
BALI TOURS : KARANGASEM REGENCY
Capital – Amlapura
Highest Peak – Mt. Agung – 3’142 m.
Location: Eastern Bali
Land Area: 839’54 sq. km.
No. Of Districts – 8 (Abang, Babandem, Karangasem, Kubu, Manggis, Rendang, Selat & Sidemen)
Important Phone numbers:
Direct Enquiries – 0363 21108
Karangasem Tourist Office – Tlp: 0363 – 21196
(Address – Jl. Diponegoro, Amlapura.)
Amlapura – Town of Karangasem – Located on the southeastern part of the Regency. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
History :
This regency founded in the early 1700′s, was still recognized as a kingdom even after Dutch conquest of Bali in the 1900′s. This regency still supports many traditions that have been in existence since the 14th century, having resisted the Javanese influence that invaded other regencies of Bali.
Amlapura Town : This regency capital changed its name from Karagasem to Amplapura 1963 after Mt. Agung erupted in the hope that a similar eruption would never again take place. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Agung Kanginan Palace – Reflecting a number of foreign architectural influences in the late 19th century by the king Anak Agung Gede Jelantik. This palace still maintains the royal bedroom with Dutch furnishings, as well as various meeting and ceremonial halls. Royal photographs of the late King and family and various clothes are also on display.
Taman Ujung Pleasure Palace – With an outstanding view to the Lombok Strait over rice paddy fields, this water palace, although barely more than ruins depicts a time of glory and glamour. Moats, pools and water gardens were the passion of the late King of Karangasem. Sadly the palace was badly damaged in both the Mt. Agung eruption of 1963 and a subsequent earthquake in 1979.
Tirtagganga Water Gardens – Built a few years later by the late King of Karangasem this water-garden plays host to bathing pools fed by cool springs, ornamental water features and a swimming pool.
Candi Dasa – Tourist Resort named after old temple on the nearby hillside. Beautiful beaches, good accommodation make Candi Dasa a good place from which to discover the eastern part of Bali. In the village you will find a Gandhi meditation centre on the edge of lotus pond just beside the beach. Offshore islets and coral reefs make it an ideal diving and snorkeling spot.
Tulamben shipwreck – a cargo ship torpedoed in 1942 consequently sunk near the coast of Tulamben and now offers divers an incredible array of marine life, still within shallow waters (between 2-10 m) and in close proximity to the coastline. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Padang Bai – The largest eastern port of Bali, where ferries & ships travel on to Lombok and beyond. Large luxury cruise liners anchor here close to the Silayukti sea temple.
Tenganan – A Bali Aga village – (Bali Aga – descendants of the Original Balinese who lived on this island before the influx of Javanese courtiers & artists of the Majapahit exodus from Java, between the 12 & 14th centuries). This immaculately kept village is 5 kms north of Candi Dasa. They are famous for weaving the geringsing a cloth that may take years to weave as the patterns of the textile are dyed to their final design whilst still in the thread stage.
The conservative Bali Aga does not allow members of the village to marry outside of their community. Youngsters wishing to do so are banned from taking part in the intrinsic ceremonies. Their religious calendar is quite different to that of the rest of Bali. The villages of Tenganan & Dauh Tukad have many incredible ceremonies between June and July. See Calender of Events- Mekare, Malingan etc.
Asak & Bungaya – Two villages that are renowned for village handicrafts such as stone carving, woven crafts and traditional costumes ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Manggis – A pretty village in the foothills of Mt. Agung with cooler more agreeable temperatures than the coast. A number of small hotels and villas cater to those looking for a more secluded place to stay than Candi Dasa.
Balina Beach & Yeh Malina – Balina Beach are beaches near to Manggis with white sand and clear water, good for swimming and fishing. Sunsets from this vantage point are very romantic.
Sibetan & Putung – This area is famous for the Salak or snake fruit plantations. Panoramic views of terraced rice paddy fields and the blue sea beyond afford good opportunities for avid photographers.
Bebandem & Putung- Bebandem is a pretty market town with nearby Putung offering spectacular views on a clear day.
Padangkerta – Ceremonies and rituals held at this village encompass trance dances, battles using thorny pandan leaves and all decorated with spectacular offerings.
Sideman – This village is famous for weaving brocades and the traditional Endek & Songket fabric.
Besakih Temple – Bali’s largest and most revered temple since the fifteenth century is built 1’000 meters (3333feet) above sea level on the slopes of sacred Mt Agung. This temple complex is entered by climbing up one of two staircases past several terraces. Each terrace contains about 30 different shrines or pagodas. Visitors are not allowed to enter the inner temple courtyards. Three main temples, Penataran Agung, Kiduling Kreteg and Batu Madeg were built to honor Siwa, Brahma and Wisnu respectively. Near the main gate is a pavilion called Pawedaan that is used by both Buddhist & Shiva priests when holding Weda recitations. Besakih enjoys many celebrations and Hindu ceremonies throughout the year and is visited by pilgrims from all over Bali. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Mount Agung – Climbing this mountain may take between 8 – 10 hours and is only recommended for the fit! Cloud cover may obscure the view from the summit. Trekkers should start at fist light and will probably make it back by dusk. A large amount of bottled water, dried fruits and sweets are very necessary is as the descent is tiring due to partial exhaustion!
BALI TOURS : KLUNGKUNG REGENCY
Capital – Klungkung
Location: Southeastern Bali
Important phone numbers:
Direct Enquiries – 0366 – 21108
Klungkung Tourist Office Tlp: 0365 – 21448
(Address – Jl.Surapati 3, Semarapura.)
History :
It was in this part of Bali that the fleeing royalty of the Majapahit dynasty set up their kingdom. Between the 14th and 19th centuries Samprangan, Gelgel & Klungkung were all capitals of the Klungkung Regency. Recognized by other Balinese kingdoms as the most powerful, this regency was one of the last strongholds of the Balinese during the Dutch invasion of 1900′s. The Gelgel dynasty ruled in Bali for over 600 years and throughout their reign the arts flourished ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Klungkung Regency Capital – This busy market town on the main route to Besakih and Amlapura is steeped in history and has some noteworthy sites, the Semara Pura Palace complex which houses the Hall of Justice and Kambang Pavilion. The market here sells interesting textiles woven in the eastern part of Bali, one thing to buy is sea salt panned from the nearby beaches.
Taman Gili Palace – Built in the Dewa Agung dynasty, by artisans of the royal court. Not much remains of this palace, destroyed during the Dutch invasion of Bali, except for the main gate and two buildings that were rebuilt and restored in the 1940′s.
Kertha Gosa – Judgment Hall – A Hall of Justice which functioned as the highest seat arbitration in the kingdom. The ceiling friezes depict scenes of horror and punishment. Villains judged here were imprisoned on Nusa Penida Island.
Bale Kambang – This floating pavilion is adjoined to the Judgment Hall, the ceiling friezes here depict scenes of Buddhist folklore and astrology
Bat Cave – Goa Lawah – A cave said to house the scared serpent that guards holy Mount Agung and the cosmos. Teeming with bats, this cave has various passageways, some up to 30kms long, in fact it is said that one leads all the way to the Temple of Besakih.
Gelgel – The royal household was based in the village Gelgel in the fifteenth century. Both the Jero Agung and Dasar temples are worth visiting, the latter being reserved for ceremonies of higher caste or aristocracy of Bali.
Kamasan – A small village near Klungkung from which a style of Balinese painting originated, the Kamasan style, based on east Javanese shadow puppets or wayang. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Kusamba – A salt panning village with a black sand beach.
Lembongan & Ceningan Islands – Small islands of the east coast of Bali, with a number of caves and beaches to explore. Lembongan is a very popular one-day cruise destination.
Paksa – A village famous for re-enactments of ancestral battles. The participants re-enact these battles whilst in a trance. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Penida Island – Originally the penitentiary island for the Klungkung kingdom. The Dalem Peed Temple is associated with myth and black magic.
Nusa Penida – the largest of the three outlying islands measuring approximately 200 sq kilometers. White sand beaches, white cliffs prove that this island is not volcanic but made mainly from limestone.
Historically Nusa Penida was a penal colony for the Klungkung Regency, undesirables were sent here after having been judged in the Kerta Gosa. A very dry climate and a local myth of a ferocious giant, giving Penida a reputation as an evil place, maintains the population at about 45’000. For the most part Penidan families fish and farm for a living, with seaweed being probably the largest export of this island. The main town is Samplan, on the north east coast of the island, this and another 18 hamlets make up the extent of the residential part of Penida. Two temples, Peed & Batukuning are interesting to visit. The dive spots on Penida are very challenging as currents are strong. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Nusa Lembongan – a small low-lying island of approximately two & a half kilometers wide by 4 kms in length. This island has white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, coral reefs and is currently developing as a promising tourist destination. Cruise operators visit this island with diving, snorkeling, glass bottom and banana boat rides being the main focus of tourist attention. The main cottage industry here is seaweed farming and the seaweed gardens are well worth visiting at low tide. A unique place to visit on the island is an underground house which was supposedly carved out of the ground with a spoon! Other attractions include walking around traditional village and catching a small boat to tour the mangroves. Surfers all head over to Jungut Batu on the north east of the island.
Nusa Ceningan – the smallest of the three islands, made up mainly from a sand flat. The name comes from cenik – the Balinese word for small. Seldom visited the small islet is home to a bat cave, incredible coral and marine life.
TABANAN REGENCY
Capital – Tabanan
Highest Peak – Mt. Batukau – 2’276 metres above sea level
Location: South-western Bali
Important phone numbers:
Direct Enquiries – 108
Tabanan Tourist Office Tlp: 811602
(Address – Jl. Gunung Agung, Tabanan.)
History :
Founded in the 14th century Tabanan had a mixed history with numerous conflicts, mainly with the neighboring kingdom of Mengwi. By the end of the 1700′s Tabanan had managed to claim part of the Mengwi kingdom however lost it back to the Mengwi Royal household by the mid 1800′s. By 1906 the Dutch having conquered Tabanan, imprisoned the king and his son. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Tabanan – District Capital of Tabanan – Located on the south eastern part of the Regency. A very large, clean town with wide-open streets. The Subak Museum dedicated to rice cultivation, and the Gedong Marya theatre, dedicated to the famous dancer Mario, are the only real tourist sites in Tabanan, however the rest of this fertile region has many diverse attractions.
Alas Kedaton Temple – Near the village of Kukuh, an ancient temple is located in this12 hectare forest that houses both monkeys and large bats.
Abiantuwung – This village stages many dance performances, both old and new. It is also boasted the Whrahatnala School of Dance, which has now sadly shut down. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Batukaru – With the highest peak at 2’276 metres above sea level, this volcanic massif has three small nature reserves on and around the three smallest peaks, Lesung, Tapak and Pohen.
Bratan Lake – Japanese caves on the west shore and a pleasure park on the southern shore of the lake and the cool mountain air make this a pleasant place to spend a day. Various water sports are available at the pleasure-park.
Botanical Gardens – Raya Eka Karya Gardens – With a land area of 129.2 hectares the Botanical Gardens maintains up to 650 species of tree and approximately 450 species of orchid. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Bedugul – A cool, mountain, market town that supplies much of the fruit, vegetables and flowers that Bali consumes. One thousand five hundred metres above sea level, Bedugul is on the shores of Lake Bratan, the crater-lake of Mt. Bratan
Jatiluwih – Famous for the view over endless rice terraces stretching as far as the eye can see. Here, at 850 metres above sea level, temperatures are cooler.
Kediri – A small village near Tabanan that stages an interesting cattle market every three days.
Kerambitan – Puri Gede, Puri Anyar Baturiti, are two 17th century palaces of the former Tabanan royal family. Interesting stone carvings and antique Chinese porcelain plates embedded in the walls of the gong pavilions are amongst the various items of interest.
Marga – National Monument of Margarana, built to commemorate the bravery of I Gusti Ngurah Rai and his followers in Indonesia’s struggle for independence against the Dutch. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Pura Luhur Batukau – A royal ancestral temple, with a seven-tiered pagoda, built on the foothills of Mt. Batukau. Not as easily accessible as others, this temple remains off the beaten track its forest surroundings have an abundance of flora and fauna.
Pujungan Waterfall – Near the village of Pujungan. Coffee plantations can be seen en route to this waterfall, which plunges down between narrow white cliffs.
Soka Beach – A wide, quiet, white sand beach with a few kiosks and colorful fishing boats. ( Just Explore Bali Tours )
Tanah Lot – This famous temple sits on top of an eroding sentinel rock and high tides cut it off from the mainland. Underground caves are said to house sea serpents that guard this temple. This is probably Bali’s most photographed temple, and is renowned for stunning sunsets.
Ulun Danu Bratan Temple – A 17th century temple, dedicated to Sang Dewi Danau, goddess of the lake. Part of the temple just out into the lake and a Buddhist stupa near the outer courtyard bears witness to this temple’s Hindu- Buddhist roots. Early mornings are the best time to visit, as clouds or mist soon roll in.
Yeh Panas & Penatahan Hotsprings – These hot springs are located on the banks of the River Ho. The bubbling water contains sulphur and sodium and is said to cure skin problems. Tourist accommodation is available
