Bali - history, culture, nature

The temple complex is set in breathtaking scenery of high rocky cliffs on the south coast of Bali. Above the cliffs is a path under which the waves of the ocean thunder. There are gangs of monkeys living in the whole area, who like, for example, the mobile phones of tourists, which they snatch from their hands and in a few seconds are able to get into the bowels of devices of all world brands.

In Bali, you can discover quiet places without mass tourism and columns of buses, bringing crowds of tourists. At Uluwatu, however, we must prepare to share the best view with many other interested parties.

This southern area of Bali is primarily a surfer's paradise. Wind and big waves are a prerequisite for their satisfaction. There are several beaches, nestled directly below the rocky cliffs, which, however, we deserve a steep descent and ascent.

On the way inland we visit the temple of Tirta Empul. There is a sacred spa where pilgrims from all over the island come to bathe in the holy springs.

Our driver is an excellent expert on the local flora and fauna. We stop at the edge of the forest, go to its bowels and get an insider's expla­nation of local life.

The forest offers a variety of useful fruits. But Bali is also known for its coffee. Tasting in the middle of wild nature is a great experience. Would you like, for example, civet coffee kopi luwak?

The basis of the local food, as in most of Asia, is rice. Rice in Bali connects man with the gods and remains the food of his soul even after death. It has been grown here for about 2000 years. The harvesting methods used are about half younger.

These rice fields north of Ubud lie on the terraces of a deep and steep valley. At local temperatures and humidity, it is sometimes not easy to climb, the more attractive the surrounding landscape.

Who would have thought that rice would get to UNESCO monuments. Jatiluwih rice terraces are just such a monument. Compared to Tegalalang, the landscape is more open and the extent of the territory is much larger.

This water temple was built in 1663 and is located on the western shore of Lake Bratan. It is considered the temporary seat of the gods, various religious celebrations are the order of the day.

Tirtagangga Water Palace was founded relatively recently in 1947 by King Karangas. It is surrounded by rice fields and is dominated by a large water fountain. From here there is a nice view of the southern slopes of the Agung volcano. Ujung Water Palace is a bit older, its construction took place between 1909 and 1921.