Do you dare to explore the wild west of Bali? In this part of the island you can discover untouched beaches, traditional Balinese villages, protected national parks, forests with massive flowering shrubs, crystal clear lagoons, coffee and coconut plantations, and countless beautiful rice fields. Reason enough to explore this area -that is not even that far away from the busy cities- right? We thought so too! For this reason, we give you some places to visit when you are there.
Secret waterfall and lagoon Batu Belah
The only way to the Batu Belah waterfall is already disturbed by rocks. This makes it a special isolated place, far away from many tourists. But if you got there after some effort then this beautiful waterfall with lagoon is worth it! The water of the lagoon under the waterfall slides down between the rocks and this flows into several private swimming pools and spots. The name Batu Bleah describes the beauty of the place. Batu Belah means a huge rock, cut in two halves where the water flows in between. This hidden waterfall is located is Dewasana village
Soka Beach
This beach is seen as one of the most extraordinary beaches in the west. Located 10 kilometres west of Tabanan city, the beach is bordered by green hills from the west to the Batukaru Mountains in the east. This results in an amazing view of Mount Agung and Mount Batukaru, and on the blue ocean in the south. The somewhat larger coral stone on the beach that is surrounded by sand and sea is considered the cooking pot of a Balinese old man Kebo Iwa according to the locals (no idea what can be cooked on this stone). Soka Beach is exotic, tropical, and unique and therefore worth a visit.
Quiet surfing and yoga at Balian Beach
Balian beach is not necessarily the place dive in the sea and swim, but the waves are perfect for surfing and there are good yoga sessions nearby at Shankari Retreat. The beach is located at the mouth of the Balian River south of the city Antosari. At this quiet spot, you can take a walk and see local fishermen throw their net out over the river that flows into the sea. The beach consists of black sand, stones, and flat rocks. Wandering through this substrate you can stop at a few cafes and join other travellers for a beer while watching the sunset during your conversation. This place is very casual and down to earth.
Rambut Siwi Temple
This temple is located in a cliff bank of which you there is a breathtaking view of the Indian ocean. It is one of the largest Hindu temples in Bali. This temple has been renovated and placed higher on the hill so that it is closer to God to worship him. The fresh breeze that extends over the tranquil temple makes this an ideal place to relax or to meditate.
Despite the beautiful view, this is a temple that is not crowded. Here you can visit this temple in full peace and quietness. The entrance fee is approximately 20,000 IDR and visitors must ensure that they wear a sarong to cover knees and ankles. The shoulders and middle edges must also be covered. If you do not have a sarong, they are also lent here for free.
Tirta Lestari Water in Gumbrih village
Have you seen enough cliffs, waterfalls temples and /or rice fields? Then let yourself be transported for 2 kilometres along this Pangyangan river in a traditional Balinese Jukung boat. The Gumbrih Tourism Water Park is located in Gumbrih village. Here, silence and beauty are combined while floating on a river surrounded by green and beautiful trees. the 30-minute boat trip stops at the bridge denoting as the border of Gumbrih and Pangyangan.
Besides green flora and fauna, you can also spot wildlife here like Kokokan birds and Lizards. In the river, many types of fish swim through the flow, and you can catch shrimps and crabs out of the river with your bare hands.
Bunut Bolong
You may already have heard about this one, the Bunut Bolong, a unique, giant Banyan Tree with a big hole at the bottom of the tree. The hole itself is big enough so a small car can pass through it. Make a visit and capture this wonderful creation of nature.
Rose Peak
Experience the sense of freedom as you stand at hundreds feet peak of a hill, overlooking the nature and city view of Negara District. A local initiative to develop the area, Puncak Mawar was opened last year. New facilities are added gradually but for now, you can enjoy the view and take a photo with properties provided, such as the big-size artificial rose (the icon), traditional bike, and swing. Rose peak is situated near Batu Belah Waterfall.
