Jatiluwih

Although most people I know come to Bali to experience the fantastically rich culture, some come just for the beaches and the waves; some even come for meetings and conventions; others just for pure relaxation. But if you are a nature lover don’t miss Jatiluwih, it is a breathtaking panorama of genuine and fertile rice fields stretching from the foothills of Batukaru volcano to the south coast.

You can start your trip in the morning leaving the hotel at 9.00am. There are many ways to see Bali and each serves its own purpose well. Motorcycles are a pleasant and cheap way to see the countryside and cooler than a ride in a car. Jeep and minivans are also available for hire – with or without a driver. It is advisable to settle the price with the driver before starting on a journey.

After passing the town of Tabanan the road takes you to the north through the villages of Wanasari, Jegu, Buruan and Wangaya Gede. On the route you will see amazing things such as the wonderful rural ambience; farmhouses, characteristically, a little shrine to place offerings dedicated to Dewi Sri the Goddess of rice, ploughing, flocks of ducks that are brought to bathe and feed all day in the flooded paddies, and harvesting, that one pictures when remembering Bali. The cascading terraces of rice fields are the most striking features of the landscape.

You will also see farmers who are working the rice, planting or harvesting, and if you are interested, experience it, you can stop and join them, you will be welcomed gladly. “Alo turis, alo turis!” followed by giggles is the standard greeting from children everywhere on Bali. Older people will be more sedate but their curious eyes will follow you, as will their more modest greeting of “mau kemana” (where are you going). Traveling in Bali can be very exciting and getting off the beaten track can take you right to the heart of Balinese life, although you don’t have to stray far to feel it.

On the route at the village of Wanasari there is a butterfly park, you can stop and watch various kinds of colourful tropical butterflies. And then nearby the temple Pura Luhur is the holy spring of Air Panas, where hot water rushes from the riverbank. All these strange but natural phenomena are believed by the locals to be visited by spirits. Therefore Air Panas has a small temple, which is graced by people who make their prayers with offerings.

The journey continues up the road until it ends at Pura Luhur Batukaru (2,278 m / 7,474 ft). Being one of Bali’s most venerated temples, every West Balinese temple has a shrine dedicated to it; it is isolated within its solitary clearing far above the populated farmlands. The dense rainforest of this upland would invite every adventurer to explore it. Wild orchids, healing herbs, fragrant spices and exotic trees can be discovered in this mystical heart and soul of this amazing island.

Then, the last destination (the goal of the journey) is the mountain village Jatiluwih, a breathtaking panorama of genuine and the most fertile terraced rice fields on the island. It is known as the granary for the whole of Bali. Perched on a high terraced slope, Jatiluwih deserves its name, which means “Truly Marvellous”. The cascading terraces of rice fields are the most striking features of the landscape. Stretching from the foothill of Batukaru volcano to the south coast. The cool western uplands, overlooking half the island, offer magnificent views.

Enroute to Jatiluwih you can observe many kinds of tropical vegetation; coffee, coconuts, cacaos, cloves, jack fruits, bananas, papayas, sirsaks (an extremely juicy fruit), rambutans, mangoes, durians (you may not like the smell but the taste is wonderful), etc. The western upland is the most interesting area to hike. Also if you love hiking you will love the scenery and feel of this place as you take a true journey to the secret soul of Bali. But if you want to have your meals at a restaurant, continue your travel to the east till you arrive at Pacung, there is a good restaurant which offers delicious buffet lunch – with its wonderful view of terraced rice fields and the sacred volcano Batukaru in the distance.

Waka Land Cruise, a reputable company, has been organizing a sacred adventure to the secret soul of Bali. Travel by legendary luxury Land Rover, on tiny country roads and tracks, through terraced rice fields and untouched rainforest to the real heart of Bali.
So keep in mind the beautiful Bali for your holiday, because it would be worth to venture there.

Its well worth the visit