Beautiful Place in Bali

uluwatu temple

LOCATION :

Pecatu Village, Sub district of South Kuta, and Badung Regency

• 25 Km southerly part of Denpasar town
• It is situated on the coral reef sordid to sea about 80 meters above the sea level

POINT OF INTEREST :

 Sad Kahyangan Temple in Bali (six big groups of Bali Temples)

DESCRIPTION :

Uluwatu Temple is a Hindu temple set on the cliff bank in south part of Bali Peninsula. . It is featured by a small dry forest which is mostly called by Alas Kekeran (interdict forest) which is belong to the temple and dwelt by a lot of monkeys and other animal. Name of Uluwatu was come from the word Ulu meaning the head and Watu meaning stone. Therefore Uluwatu Temple mean the temple built in tip of coral reef.

HISTORY :

In the right and left of temple building or Pelinggih Ida Bagus Ratu Jurit located in complex of Uluwatu Temple, there are two stone mangers that look like a boat. When both of it are united, hence it's look similar to sarcophagus, the famous stone from megalithic era culture. There is archaeology omission coming from 16 centuries in firm of arch or winged entrance gate. Winged entrance gate is one of the scarce archaeology omissions. Winged entrance gate that is existing in Uluwatu Temple (a period of its making) can be compared with the same one located in mosque complex in Sendangduwur Village, Lamongan, East Java. The period of its making is relevant with the year Candrasengkala found at this inscription. Candrasengkala founded in the mosque is written by the wording Gunaning Salira Tirta Hayu meaning year 1483 Saka or 1561 Masehi.

If the sarcophagus that existing in Dalem Jurit complex area represents the artifact, hence Uluwatu Temple represents the place sanctified since era of megalithic culture (About 500 S.M). In papyrus of Usana Bali mentioned that Mpu Kuturan (The Hindu Priest who spread out the Hinduism in Bali) had built a lot of temple in this island and one of them Uluwatu Temple. In papyrus of Dwijendra Tatwa has been elaborated that Mpu Kuturan had visited this temple twice those are:

1. The first visit when he conducts the Tirtha Yatra (the journey to visit the holy places). His heart had jolted and heard a soul whisper that place good for worshiping God when arrive in Uluwatu. On that time, he chose this place as a place for Ngeluwur (re of soul /dead leave without body to return to the origin/moksa). Pursuant to the consideration then he set mind to build the Parhayangan or extend the building of Uluwatu Temple which there have previously. When Mpu Kuturan extend the building of Uluwatu Temple, he build hostel as residence and then the ex- the hostel building is used by the local people as a shrine named the Gong Hill Temple (Pura Bukit Gong). The building of Parhyangan in Uluwatu Temple is done by Mpu Kuturan in the early 16 century after he lifted to become the Purohita (priest of king adviser) from king of Dalem Waturenggong commander in the year 1460-1552 .
2. Mpu Kuturan on his second visit has reached the nature Moksa. OnTuesday of Kliwon Medangsya (Balinese Calendar), it was witnessed by a fisherman, his name Ki Pasek Nambangan, he looked the flash with very bright light step into the space called Ngeluwur.

TEMPLE POSITION & FUNCTION :

Implicit at papyrus Padma Bhuwana that Uluwatu Temple draw in the direction that is located in Southwest functioning to worship the Rudra God, one of the god in nine god (Dewata Nawa Sanga). Rudra God is the Deity Siwa as Pemralina or return to provenance. In this papyrus also mention that Uluwatu Temple is the Kahyangan World worshiped by entire Hindu people. Since this area is opened for public, it is visited by many people from all over the world because it has beautiful panorama with spectacular sunset and stunning view of Indian Ocean and deep the cliff bank. It is the perfect to visit in Bali.

PUBLIC FACILITIES :

• Parking Area
• Police Station
• Food Stall
• Villa
• Money Changer

• Souvenir Shops
• Public Telephone
• Restaurant
• Hotel

• Drinks Stall
• Balinese Kecak Performance
• Local Security
• Public Toilet

TAMAN AYUN TEMPLE

LOCATION :

Mengwi Village, Mengwi Sub District, Badung Regency

• 18 Km north side of Denpasar Town
• It is strategically located beside of major roadway between Denpasar to Singaraja

POINT OF INTEREST :

Royal Temple of Mengwi Empire

DESCRIPTION :

Taman Ayun Temple is set on the land which is surrounded by the big fish pond and look like a drift on the water. It owns the beautiful temple building with multistoried roof and Balinese Architecture. The wide beautiful landscape garden in front courtyard to welcome all visitors who come and visit this temple. It is a beautiful place to visit on your vacation in Bali.

HISTORY :

Pursuant to Papyrus Chronicle of the Mengwi (Lontar Babad Mengwi), the temple which is now referred by Taman Ayun Temple that it had been newly sanctified in the year 1634 M and it is named with Taman Ahyun Temple. The word of Ahyun is coming from from the root word Hyun meaning a temple is founded in the park (pool with the beautiful garden) which can fulfill the desire. The word Ahyun is then changed into Ayun word. Taman Ayun Temple is one of Hindu Temples in Bali become tourist destination which has been visited by many tourists from local and foreign. This temple is usually visited by tourist once having a set tour to Tanah Lot Temple due to this temple is the same route of the Tanah Lot Temple Tour.

TEMPLE POSITION & FUNCTION :

The function of Taman Ayun Temple is a place to pray the god in their manifestation. It is according to the content of Babad Mengwi and the existence of temple building structure, especially the temple that is located in third area (Jeroan). According to Astadewata, the special God is worshiped in Taman Ayun Temple is the God in manifestation as a Wisnu God which his palace located in top of Mangu mount. In papyrus of Usana Bali mentioning that one of Dewa Catur Lokapalas carry through its worship is Meru Pucak Pangelengan that is a temple building with 9 multistoried roofs. Pitara God is a holy soul deity of ancestor who is also referred as the other names of Hyang Pitara or Dewa Hyang. Pitara God is obliged to be worshiped by clan heir (Prati Sentana) in the form of temple ceremony which the same meaning as by the ceremony to the god. The worshiping existence to Pitara God in Taman Ayun Temple can be searched and proved by pursuant to the existence of temple building which lay in by consecution in east which is called Paibon that is representing Special Temple. Taman Ayun Temple in capacities or its status as special altar for the King family of Mengwi Palace or as a Merajan Agung from Mengwi King Families specially for the founder of Mengwi Empire that is I Gusti Agung Putu.

ENTRANCE TICKET INFORMATION :

IDR 15.000/person

PUBLIC FACILITIES :

·         Parking Area

·         Police Station

·         Food Stall

·         Souvenir Shops

·         Public Telephone

·         Drinks Sell

·         Money Changer

Trunyan, The Ancient Village of Bali

Trunyan, Most Unique Ancient Village in Bali

So far, the uniqueness containing in the village name of Trunyan has been well know up to foreign countries. Trunyan Village denoting an ancient village located right on the shores of Lake Batur, Kintamani ,retains a variety of uniqueness. One of them is in the treatment applied to the bodies. At this location , the corpse is not buried but laid down on the ground of local cemetery.

To know better about the unique tradition and culture of the Trunyan community, here are the brief reports of quick trip to Trunyan Village, Kintamani. To achieve the Trunyan Village, we should first pas through the Penelokan tourist object. From Penelokan , we can witness tha amazing splendor of Lake Batur and Mount Batur.

Sometimes, we some across a tourist boat serving the crossing from Kedisan Village to Trunyan Village. Meanwhile, from Denpasar you will take a distance af about 60 km and from the capital of Bangli is only 23 km. Besides, the remnants of the frozen and black lava almost evenly spreading across the region become an attraction for every single visitor.

To complement the existing tourism facilities in Batur area, at Kedisan has been built at boat dock specifically serving the crossing traffic leading to Trunyan . A motor boat is usually able to accommodate maximally seven tourists. Meanwhile, Trunyan Village is situated on the Edge of Lake Batur surrounded by green cliffs and hills.

It is said , there is a Taru Menyan tree growing in the area and smelling like very fragrant incense. According to local belief, this causes the bodies not to smell, although it is only laid down on the bed of the cemetery. Three types of grave in Trunyan , the body is not burnt but only placed on the ground of cemetery. Curiously though the bodies have turned to leave a skull they absolutely exude no odor .Even, those skulls become the fascination of Trunyan as an ancient village.

The community is considered as the village of Bali Aga or the natives of Bali. According to the Chief of Trunyan Village, the village had three type of grave where, according to village tradition of Trunyan, they were classified by the age of the dead people, the wholeness of the main body and the way of burying. Cemetery was considered the most holy and best. The bodies buried were only the intact body whose death process was considered natural or not due to suicide and accidents.

Mean while, the second cemetery was specially intended for young people like babies and adult who where not married yet. “However, it should remain to comply with the condition where the corpse is still intact and has no defects,” he explained. Furthermore, the third cemetery was called Setra Bantas. It was specifically earmarked for the disabled and the bodies dying of either unnatural causes such as accidents and suicide.

Seven Sacred Grave’s Holes

Out of the three types of cemetery, the most interesting and visited by many tourists is the main cemetery or Setra Wayah. This cemetery is situated about 400 meters north of the village and bordered by projection of foot of the hill. In buying the corpse, part of the chest upwards is not buried and left open . The body is only bordered by plaited bamboo fence forming a cone used to fence off the corpse.

It was described, there were 7 graves and if all graves has been full and there were more new bodies, people would bury the corpse, while the old corpse would be taken out from the pit and the new bodies would occupy the pit .The old body would be just placed on the edge of the pit. So, do not be surprised if the human skulls scattered at the Setra Wayah that may not be buried or removed.

Furthermore, Sutapa said that another uniqueness of Trunyan Village was the ancient’s relics. The Trunyan inscription dated Caka Year 813 (891 AD) mentioned the existence of a temple called Pancering Jagat. The temple retained a holy seven tiered building called Meru shrine. In the Meru was stored a megalithic statue with the height of approximately 4 meters and it was truly sanctified by the society of Trunyan. The statue it self is known as the Lord Da Tonta (Ida Pancering Jagat).

Such seven tiered Meru shrine is regarded AS the symbol of man. Meanwhile, the symbol of woman lies on the shrine of Ida Ratu Ayu Dalem Pingitan in the form of three-tiered Meru equipped with the immeasurable symbol. According to local belief of Trunyan and Balinese community, the Purusha-Prakirti (cosmic male-famale) is a symbol of fertility. Trunyan also has another uniqueness namely , Barong Brutuk Dance, believed to represent the ratu Pancering Jagat.

Penglipuran : Bali Traditional Village

Penglipuran Village is a traditional countryside owning unique characteristic life, socializing and culture. It is located in Kubu Village , Bangli Sub district and Bangli Regency. The natural nature and environments of countryside is designating the pittance touch of modernization influence. This countryside is supported by cool atmosphere because it is located on the height land about 700 m above sea level and according to history of all old doyens that this countryside is taken away from the word Pengeling Pura what its meaning remember to ancestor, but there is also telling that the word of Penglipur mean the entertainer. It is said that at former empire era, all king often use this area as a place to amuse themselves, because its nature is beautiful and can give the peacefulness and inspiration at the time of experiencing a problem. This village can be reached through roads connecting district of Bangli with Kintamani. From Bangli town to the north up to Kubu village about 5 kilometers, then have turn left, one will arrive at Penglipuran and will be received with warm welcome by the villagers.

What to See at Penglipuran Village

Penglipuran Village, Place of interest in BaliThe houses exist in this countryside from north to the south is look very beautiful in particular the Balinese traditional entrance gate which are made similar each other. When we step down to this village, we will meet the Balinese houses are oriented northeastwards to Mount Agung which is located in north-east of Bali Island . The structure of house building between one house and others are equal in particular to condition, form, size and function from the building except building of family bed room is freeform. The family temple building is places the same direction to the Agung Mount, kitchen is located in upstate from the lawn and the building of Bale Sakaenem is the six beamed building which its function for ceremony place. The place for look after the livestock and the place to plant assorted vegetable are referred as non irrigated dry field which is called Teba. Its Construction material is made from wood except family residence. It is predominated by substance from bamboo because around this countryside is bamboo producer.

Social Life System

The countryside is lead by a leader which is Bendesa or Kelian or Penyarikan or Patengan and he/she is assisted by Sinoman. The social system is recognized by the 12 group terms that are number 1 until 12 as member of Pemerincik that is commissioned member converse the problem or plan and its result is submitted to the member. They are very trusting of 12 groups and have represented the tradition in heritage away back. The Consanguinity System in this countryside is Patrilinial system that is according to father lineage. This countryside religion leader is called as Jero Bayan which is consisted of 3 Jero Bayans that is a Jero Bayan Mucuk and 2 people of Jero Bayan Nyoman. The specific cultural potential like pattern of building architecture remains to be traditional, the beautiful nature and environment with cool atmosphere, hence this countryside is the ideal place to visit during your vacation in Bali.

Ubud Monkey Forest

Located          :
It is located in southern part of Ubud District, Gianyar Regency, about 28 kilometers from Denpasar.

Descriptions  :
The monkeys within the Sacred Monkey Forest of Padangtegal are commonly called long-tailed macaques. Their scientific name is Macaque fascicular. Macaques are found throughout Southeast Asia and many species of macaques live successfully in areas that are heavily utilized by humans. On Bali, there are Balinese long-tailed macaque troops (populations) that live in areas where they have little to no contact with humans and troops that come into contact with humans on a regular basis. However, despite the fact that many species of macaques thrive in areas that are heavily utilized by human, there is evidence that the viability of Balinese long-tailed macaques (the ability of macaques to continue to thrive) may be dependent upon the conservation of Bali’s forested areas.

Within long-tailed macaque societies, females are typically born into and remain with a single troop for life. In contrast, adult and sub-adult males may migrate between troops (young adult males typically leave their natal troop between the ages of 4 to 8 years. In order for a migrating adult or sub-adult males to be accepted into a new troop, migrating males must align themselves with a troop’s females and be accepted by those females. Therefore, long-tailed macaque societies or troops are made up of “Matrilines” (“Matri” is a root word that means “mother”). Currently, there are approximately 222 (20 adult males, 79 adult females, and 123 young) Balinese long-tailed macaques that inhabit the Sacred Monkey Forest of Padangtegal. However, these long-tailed macaques do not belong to the same troop. In fact, within the Sacred Monkey Forest, there are 3 distinct troops.

Tourists tend to have a difficult time identifying the Sacred Monkey Forest’s long-tailed macaque troops. One reason for this is that the areas(s) that each of the troops primarily occupies, within the boundaries of the Sacred Monkey Forest, changes over time. Changes in the range of each troop, is dependent in part upon variations that occur in the number of individuals within each troop and changes that occur in each of the troops’ composition (the age and sex of individuals within a troop). Finally, tourists have a difficult time identifying each of the Sacred Monkey Forest’s long-tailed macaque troops, because there can be extensive overlap between the ranges of all the Sacred Monkey Forest’s troops. This overlap in ranges occasionally causes inter-troop conflicts to break out (conflicts break out between 2 or all 3 of the Sacred Monkey Forest’s macaque troops). As a result of these conflicts, it is not uncommon for troops to engage in violent physical clashes. Although it is rare for individual macaques to sustain life-threatening wounds, as a result of taking part in an inter-troop clash, it is not uncommon for macaques to sustain wounds that leave permanent scars. Throughout Bali, Balinese long-tailed macaques tend to stay within forested areas.

However, Balinese long tailed macaques, including those within the Sacred Monkey Forest of Padangtegal, occasionally wander into rice fields or even village areas that are adjacent to forest. Outside of forested areas, monkeys can become pests and the Balinese tend to apply whatever means necessary to protect their crops and other property. The Sacred Monkey Forest’s long-tailed macaques are the subject of an ongoing research project that is being conducted by the Balinese Macaque Project. The Balinese Macaque Project involves researchers from the United States, Guam, and the University of Udayana (Bali, Indonesia). To date, the Balinese Macaque Project has conducted research to determine the mating strategies, migration and range patterns, dominance relationships, and habitat use of Balinese long-tailed macaques. The Balinese Macaque Project hopes that such research will facilitate the development of conservation strategies for Balinese long-tailed macaques and sites like the Sacred Monkey Forest of Padangtegal

TheForest
The presence of sacred forest is a demonstration of the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature. In Bali, sanctuaries such as Monkey Forest are usually in sacred village areas, often surrounded by temples. These” cultural” sanctuaries are not only an important part of Balinese heritage, but also an important part of everyday live. Temple festivals are regularly held for the villagers and the gods in such areas. A Balinese temple is more than just a collection of pagodas and pavilions. The area enclosed by temple wall and the forest area surrounding it is sacred. These temples and the forest are essential for renewing contact with the spiritual world. The activities associated with these areas are essential in maintaining harmony between humans, nature, and the cosmos. Not only are ancestral spirits and gods given offerings and prayers but also the spirits of trees and statues in the Monkey Forest are given offerings and prayers by the Pemangku and local villagers

TheTemple.
The Hindu Temple exists in the middle of forest. There are three Holy Temples in this monkey forest and those are existing surround the forest and it is estimated built in the middle of 14 century, in the early governance of Gelgel dynasty. Dalem Agung Temple is located in northwest from the forest represent the existence of most important temples. Beside of two others, that are Permandian Temple, in Westside from this forest and Prajapati Temple which is located in south-east side where the place of Dewa Siwa (Siwa God), one of the Khayangan Temple in Padang Tegal Village.

Facilities
A very wide parking lot, souvenir and snack kiosks are also available to fulfill visitor’s need.

Accommodation & Restaurant around Monkey Forest Ubud
Ubud is one of tourist places in Bali provides many hotels from luxury until the low budget. Also available restaurants, serve from Indonesian to Western cuisines.

 

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) Temple

Located          :
It lies at Bedulu Village, Blahbatuh District, Gianyar Regency, surrounded by rice fields and beautiful banks of Petanu River, and right on the tourism route Denpasar.

Descriptions  :
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) located two kilometers east of Ubud, this complex overlooks the Petanu River and consists of a SiSwati rock-cut cave, a bathing place, a monks’ chamber, a number of Buddhists rock cut Stupa and statues , and several foundations. Dating from the 11th century, the temple features statue of Ganesh , Hariti and a sacred bathing pool.The actual site of Goa Gajah (Elephant cave) is down a flight of steps south of the car park. There were never any elephant on Bali, the cave probably takes its name from the nearby Petanu River which at one time was known as Elephant River or perhaps because the face over the cave entrance might resemble an elephant. In the courtyard at Goa Gajah Temple can be found an ancient source of holy water, 12 by 23 meters in size, divided into 3 compartments.

The name Goa Gajah ( English = Elephant Cave ) was probably derived from a name mentioned in a scripture called Negara Kertagama written during the reign of His Majesty King Hayam Wuruk of Majapahit kingdom. In this scripture is mentioned that the king had a hermitage on the slope of a mountain called “Lwa Gajah”. Other assumption come from the shape of the cave which entrance is decorated with carving to look like monster, and from a distance look like elephant head. Another said that the name is come after a Ganesha wooden statue which is put in the cave. Ganesha is a mythological son of Shiva, with human body and elephant head. First excavation was conducted in 1950 based on the surface findings and the scriptures. Before it was excavated the area was totally buried and no indication of the bathing place and the cave. The excavation by National Archaeological Service was successful and could disclose a monumental heritage.It seems that Goa Gajah is a hermitage place for the Buddhist priest or what is later known as Shiva-Buddha Syncretism, since there is remains of Buddhism and Shivaism such as Lingga-Yoni symbol, and the Hariti Fertile Mother.

It was also probable that the oldest Buddhism remains is here, as a Buddhist statue just 25 meters north of the cave was found bearing the same style with those found in Borobudur. On the wall of the cave was written Sanskrit word with a type of old writing called ” Kadiri Quadrate ” mentioning ” Sahivansa “. It is not known what is the meaning exactly. The writing style was developed during the flourish of Singhasari Kingdom in East Java around 13th century. Now the problem still could not be solved is the presence of bathing place with sculpture water fountain. The architecture of this bathing place showing the same style and architecture as those bathing place in East Java called ” Belahan “. While this bathing place has already been disclosed that it was built by King Erlangga of Mataram kingdom in the 10th century. It was probable that the site of Goa Gajah has been continuing from 9th century until much later time of 13th century of Majapahit Kingdom.

One important information from the bathing place in East Java is on it’s wall is written ” Udayana Gempeng ” which means Udayana is dying of love ” While the figure Udayana is known as one of the famous king in Bali during 11th century. Historian supposed that the king was falling in love with one of the princess of East Java which was in fact the Princess Mahendradatta that he married and ruling Bali together. The princess was died earlier and was said to have been rested at Burwan. Another fact that is very important for Balinese since the marriage of above couple is that, all ancient Balinese language was changed into old Javanese Language, the introduction of Hindu-Javanese Calendar which is consist of 7 days a month, and 210 days a year. It is strongly believed that since this time the most important Holiday of Balinese was started such as Galungan and Kuningan holiday.

TAMAN UJUNG WATER PALACE

LOCATION :

Taman Soekasada Ujung lies at Tumbu village, Karangasem district.

·         It is approximately 85 km from Airport Denpasar

·         5 km from Amlapura.

DESCRIPTION :

Ujung Water Palace, which by the local people is called as Taman Soekasada Ujung, was built in 1919. However, the launching of this complex of water palace was performed in 1912. The water palace was constructed by the late King of Karangasem, I Gusti Bagus Jelantik, that reigned in Karangasem between 1909 and 1945.

Ujung Water Palace was majestically built to welcome and to serve important guests and Kings from neighboring countries, besides for the pleasure of the King and his royal family.

Taman Soekasada Ujung has been announced to be a cultural tourist object for it is noted as one of several cultural heritages exist in Karangasem regency.

The complex of this water palace is the combination of Balinese and European architectures. There are 3 big and large ponds inside the area. In the middle of the main pond, there is a building that connected to the edge of the pond by 2 bridges.

On the most tip of the highest level of this complex, we will find a great statue of “warak” (rhinoceros). Beneath the warak there is a Bull statue. From this high place we will see a marvellous view of sea, hills with lush and green forest, the beauty of Mount Agung combined with the green terraced rice fields.

The greatness of Ujung Water Palace had been destructed by the explotion of Mount Agung in 1963 which was made worst by the great shake happened in 1979. However, the recovery effort had been performed to bring back the glory of this complex of water palace by holding a reconstruction and revitalisation project on it. Although it is not as great as it was, the amaze of the past still can be seen here this moment.

PUBLIC FACILITIES :

·         Parking Area

·         Food Stall

·         Souvenir Shops

·         Public Telephone

·         Drinks Sell

Gitgit Waterfall

LOCATION :

Gitgit Waterfall is one of the famous tourist destinations in Bali which is located in Gitgit countryside, Sukasada sub district and about 10 Km from Singaraja Town or about 70 Km from Denpasar.

DESCRIPTION :

Gitgit Waterfall is a beautiful tourist destination in north part of Bali. Gitgit waterfall is located in the plateau area with the height about 35 meters and it is surrounded by tropical tree and emits the constantly natural water debit during the year. Waterfall voice around the charming nature was amazing and it was the separate attraction which can be enjoyed by each visitor who comes to visit. There are some plantations protecting the rain forest around the waterfall and in this place we often met the wild monkey to get the water from this waterfall.

Tourist Destination in North Part of Bali

 It is set at height land about 300 meters above sea level. Beside of Gitgit, there is another important spot point like the monument for hero struggle of Singaraja resident who dead on the battle against the Dutch colonialist. This monument is called Bhuwana Pangkung Bangka. This Monument is extant monument and idol of people struggle action against the Dutch colonization. This monument is located in Gitgit countryside and Sukasada sub district and about 17 Km from Singaraja Town . It is situated on the hill bank. The facilities are available at Gitgit Waterfall is consisted of the parking area, restaurant and art shop. It is not far from the waterfall place, there is a place for taking a rest while enjoy the beauty panorama of rice terrace and Buleleng Beach. In order to visit the Gitgit waterfall, all visitors will follow the walkway down until the spot point. This road is one of the omissions in Dutch era where the local resident uses it to access other regions. On 1975, this waterfall is opened as tourist destinations in north part of Bali . Since it is appointed as a tourist destination in Bali, many tourists from domestic and foreign countries visits this waterfall and Bali Singaraja Lovina Tour is one of the famous tours in Bali visit this place.

PUBLIC FACILITIES :

• Parking Area
• Public Toilet
• Changing Room
• Entrance Fee – Charge
• Souvenir Shops
• Drinks Stall
• Food Stall

Tanah Lot Temple

Located          :
It is located at Braban Village, Kediri District, Tabanan Regency. It is about 13 km from the closest city of Tabanan, about 30 km from the main city Denpasar. It can be reached by motorcycle and road fairly good. From Denpasar you can go from Denpasar’s Ubung terminal to tanah lot via Kediri and then from Kediri turn left around 11 kilometers to the south.

Description    :
The spectacular location of Tanah Lot is possibly the best known and most photographed temple on Bali. The tourist crowed here are phenomenal, especially at sunset, and the commercial hype is terrible. Tanah Lot sunset tours are heavily promoted in all tourist areas. The Tanah Lot Temple perched on a little rocky islet, look superb whether delicately lit by the dawn light or starkly outlined at sunset. But can it ever live up to the hype! For the Balinese, Tanah Lot is one of the important and venerated sea temples. Like Pura Uluwatu, at the southern end of the island. The name of Tanah Lot Temple in tourism bibliography about Bali almost never absent. The name Tanah Lot is probably from “Tanah Laut ” means land in the sea. It is the fact that the strong sea abrasion has separated the temple area with Bali mainland, so it looks that the temple nests on a small speck of rock building up on the ocean. Despite the fact that strong hit of sea wave but the site is still standing while the whole sides have disappeared by the raged waves of hundreds of years. No historical record is found so far to construct the history of the temple. Scripture of Dang Hyang Nirarta mentions that the priest Dang Hyang Nirarta had visited the temple and asked the people around the area to build shrine.

While the priest also educates the fishermen there in making fish trap. The temple as a whole is dedicated to the God of the sea. Fishermen pray to get fish and prosperity. A story mentions that one of the shrine at Batukaru temple was lost, and was found here standing at Tanah Lot temple complex. It was very probable that the temple was built by Mengwi Kingdom as the sea temple. A kingdom in Bali normally had 3 main temples, one located near the sea, one in the city or near the palace, and one on the mountain or near the mountain. This concept of 3 temples has also influenced the smaller unit of Balinese settlement in the level called “Banjar“. Every “Banjar” in Bali has also 3 main temples dedicated to different way of worshipping the gods and ancestor’s spirits. Now only 3 villages that responsible for the temple those are all nearby villages of Beraban, Kelating, and Tibu Biyu, and still as the temple for Mengwi Palace. The ceremony is performed every 6 month, based on Hindu-Java calendar which is already printed out during November every year. For tourists, it is not only the traditional magic of the temple is interested, but the location in the natural setting, especially during the sunset, the temple changes into silhouette against the sunsets above Indonesian ocean .

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Jatiluwih Rice Terrace

Jatiluwih, one of the most picturesque areas lies about 20 kilometers north of Tabanan, in Bali’s western region. Situated majestically in the hills 850 meters above sea level, Jatiluwih means ”really beautiful”. An appropriate name indeed with expansive views across terraced rice paddies, undulating hills and valleys. Arrive at lunchtime and enjoy a meal in the restaurant while soaking up the view, cool climate and fresh air. It is stretch from the foothill of the volcano of Batukaru to the south coast. The name Jatiluwih originally mean “sangat indah” in Indonesian or really marvelous. It is deserve the name as along the way you will be amazed with the real part of Bali, the wonderful of true Balinese ambience, paddies harvesting, the flock of the duck, water buffaloes, farms houses, all that images to remember Bali in your heart. The rice terraces are the most magnificent and striking features of the landscape. When you are lucky to see the Balinese working on rice planting or harvesting, you will be welcome to join the activities, just to taste a little bit their fascinating life. Along the way, you can observe many tropical fruits and vegetations. There is also a good restaurant for you, with off course the background of Jatiluwih rice terrace and the sacred volcano Batukaru in a distance. Jatiluwih is a favorite tourist destination in Bali, famous with the beautiful rice terrace unfolding from the foot of mountain until the coastal side. It is one of places to visit in Bali with the beautiful view as according to its name from Jati and luwih, where “Jati” mean really and “Luwih” meaning especial, good, and beautiful or the equivalent.

The local paddies are planted in this place look typically of the high relative size plant if it is compared with other pre-eminent paddy planted by most farmers in Bali. Despitefully, Jatiluwih also famous with its organic agriculture system due to the location is located in the in the plateau of Watukaru Mount which is suitable for the agriculture development. Jatiluwih is surrounded by cool atmosphere because it is located in the height of 700 meters above the sea level. Besides its nature potency, Jatiluwih is also saving the cultural potency, especially history of the Petali Temple existence that is related to the power of Ida Dalem Waturenggong King in Keraton Gelgel (1460 – 1552). The distance from Denpasar to Jatiluwih is about 48 km and it is situated in upstate of Tabanan town (28 Km). The road to this place has been progressively improved so that motorcycle can enter from east side through Pacung Village and go to Jatiluwih and also from the west side from Watukaru Temple pass to Jatiluwih. Jatiluwih is visited by tourist from local and foreign a country who wants to enjoy the cold atmosphere and beautiful panorama of rice terraces. Jatiluwih as a nature tourist destination in Bali which has been recognized since Dutch colonial build the Security Headquarter and until now the local residents conceives with the Dutch Tangs. Indonesian government has assigned the Jatiluwih to be a Tourist Destination Village because of this potency.