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The Mystique of Bali
Bali on the map seems such a
small island. Indeed it covers a small area of just 5,620 square
kilometers, and is one of the smallest islands in the Indonesian
archipelago. However, it is a great mistake to think that you can see
all of Bali in a couple of days. Apart from a stunning range of
scenery that varies every view kilometers and amaze of criss-crossing
roads to explore there are thousands of places of interest to
discover, and a culture and lifestyle full of exciting events to
witness.
Sanur Beach
Sanur, with traditional
Intaran as its heart, has been settled since ancient times. Sanur is
Bali’s first beach resort. It is also Bali’s largest traditional
village. Now, the ceremonies and festivals in Sanur is bigger and
brassier than ever before. But one thing has never changed, Sanur is
still calm and refined cultural backwater, and Sanur people are as
gracious and charming as the place in which they live.
Kuta Beach
On the western side of the
narrow isthmus which leads to Bukit Peninsula is the farmed Kuta
Beach. Its lovely sunsets are exciting. Originally a sleepy fishing
village, Kuta has developed into a busy holiday resort with hotels,
restaurants, discos and shops of all sizes intermingled with local
family areas. The surf is ideal for board riding and body surfing.
Garuda Wisnu
Kencana Cultural Park
Situated on a limestone
escarpment overlooking the south bali tourist region, Garuda Wisnu
Kencana Cultural Park showcases the art and culture of the island of
the gods amid dramatic natural backdrops and breathtaking panoramic
vistas. Visitors will find both monumental splendour and spiritual
tranquility all enhanced by modern, efficient facilities and
services, whether arriving as one of thousands attending a cultural
event or alone to enjoy an al fresco drink and snack while watching
the sunset, the visitor will experience the wonder of Balinese
culture and the hospitality of Balinese people.
Besakih
The holiest temple in Bali,
Besakih on the slopes of the great Mount Agung, is the focal point
for all Balinese hindus. In 1979, the great 100-year ceremony of Eka
Dasa Rudra, a sacrificial purification ceremony of massive
proportions was held there. Besakih is a complex of about 30 temples,
the main one being Pura Panataran Agung, which in the main courtyard,
has a large three-seated shrine to Brahma, Wisnu, and Siwa, The Hindu
holy trinity.
Tanah Lot
Carved out of the landscape
by tides, wind and rain, the huge offshore sentinel rock of Tanah Lot
is the site of a picturesque sea temple. There is a bridge connecting
the mainland at low tide and below the waterline there are reputed to
be caves, which shelter large sea-snakes, the guardians of the
temple. |
