Bali Hidden Gems
What is the first thing popped in your mind when you heard a word “Bali”? Most people will say beach. Indeed Bali has beautiful beaches stretch along the island. Not only the white sandy beaches, but also the black ones. But do you know that Bali is not just about the beach?
The island of Bali has many hidden gems spread throughout the island. Rice terraces, forest, volcano, lakes, rivers, caves, canyon, you name it. The good thing is most of those places are still less exposed by many tourists. You still can enjoy the stream of the river between lush green canyons while you do rafting. Even if you are lucky, you can see one or two apes hanging on the trees.
Wandering the non-touristy places in Bali is one of my favorite activities during the weekend. I usually go with scooter for faster and easier way to travel around this island. I visited a scenic jogging/walking path on the hill in Ubud, enjoy the view from atop of hill overlooking to the sea in Karangasem, found a hidden waterfall with its blue lagoon, hike Mount Batur on sunrise time, trekking in an uphill village overlooking to the lake, and etc.
Bali is famous with its authentic rice terraces called Subak. Subak is the water management (irrigation) system for paddy fields on Bali Island, which was developed in the 9th century. For the Balinese, irrigation is not simply providing water for the plant’s roots, but water is used to construct a complex, pulsed artificial ecosystem. The famous rice terrace in Bali can be found in Tegalalang, Keliki, and Jatiluwih as a UNESCO world heritage. Make sure you stop by those places to see how Balinese combine art and irrigation system.
Are you an adventure seeker? Try to climb the volcano in Bali. Mount Batur is an option for those who want to witness a stunning sunrise above the cloud, with not so long hike needed. Only require about 2 hours hike to reach the top of Mount Batur on 1.717 meters height above sea level. And prepare yourself for the golden sun rising slowly from behind the sea of cloud. You also can spot Mount Rinjani in Lombok at the far east. Want to try the higher level of hike? Then you should hike Mount Agung, the highest one in Bali with 3.031 meters height elevation. Those volcanoes are not only for the strong legs hikers. For people who just want to enjoy the volcano from afar, there are restaurants that offer lunch with the view of this majesty volcano.
Where there’s a volcano, there’s must be a waterfall. And it’s true. Bali has a lot of waterfalls to offer. From the highest one in the midst of forest, until the one situated in the centre of rural villages. Both are worth to visit. And let the cool breeze indulge you while you enjoy the sound of waterfall hit the lagoon underneath.
Talking about the lake, Bali has some lakes with beautiful view surrounding. The famous ones are Lake Batur and Lake Bedugul. Each has their own beauties to capture. While the more secluded one, Lake Tamblingan, lies side by side with Lake Buyan in the midst of Munduk green hills.
I’m sure by now you just can’t wait to come to Bali and explore its secret gems, hidden in the middle of untouched nature. Then just pack your bag and go!
Written by Fransisca Widi
