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Bali: Five must-visit places in Karangasem
Bali's Karangasem regency is home to many tourist attractions, from the majestic Mount Agung to its beaches, as well as its culture and history.
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Mount Agung stands majestically on Nov. 22, 2017 in Karangasem regency on Bali. Aside from the still-rumbling volcano, the eastern regency of the resort island has many other tourist attractions, including a relatively pristine hillside and an authentic Bali Aga village. (AFP/Sonny Tumbelaka)
K
arangasem regency in eastern Bali has been receiving much attention since Mount Agung first erupted in late November 2017 and continues to erupt into 2018.
Aside from the volcano, the regency is home to many tourist attractions, from its beaches to its culture and history.
Below are five of the must-visit places in the regency, as compiled by kompas.com:
Lempuyang Luhur Temple
Since the November 2017 eruption of Mt. Agung, this temple has become even more popular among tourists. One of its more famous spots is the temple gate, from where visitors can directly marvel at the sight of the volcano. Those taking photos from the right angle will be able to capture the symmetrical peak framed in the center of the gate.
Do note that Lempuyang Luhur Temple is one of the most important places of Hindu worship, so make sure to follow the local rules when visiting, such as proper speech, behavior and clothing. Women and men should wear a sarong that covers below the knee and a top that covers the shoulders and upper arms. If ever in doubt, ask a tour guide or check out local customs online before heading out.
Read also: Obama’s Bali trip includes museum visit, rice terraces, rafting adventure
Bukit Asah
Bukit Asah, or Asah Hill, is the perfect place to view the ocean and seaside cliffs. The surroundings carry a calming air, as the green hills are relatively unknown and uncrowded.
Opt to visit the site to catch the sunrise or sunset.
Tirta Gangga
This is a historical landmark, as the beautiful water palace was originally built by King Karangasem in the 1940s. Tirta Gangga was rebuilt in 1963 and became the gem of Karangasem we know today.
Read also: Bali ready for more Chinese tourists after lifting of travel warning
Bukit Putung
Bukit Putung is one of the regency's emerging destinations. A view of the East Bali region greets visitors atop the hill, lush against a backdrop of greenery and the ocean beyond. The nearby island of Nusa Penida can also be seen clearly in the not-too-far distance.
Expect to see monkeys hanging from the trees during your visit.
Tenganan village
Ever wonder what an authentic Bali village is like? Find out on a visit to this Bali Aga (indigenous Balinese) village, whose ancestors are said to hail from the Majapahit Kingdom.
Even today, the villagers hold strongly to their ancestors' traditions, which were established in the 11th century. These include the village administration system and rights to land and natural resource usage, as well as marriage, education and cultural ceremonies.
While interacting with the villagers and studying the unique architecture, be sure to take a look at the traditional handicrafts on offer, such as the rare items made from the lontar palm and the indigenous gringsing double-ikat textile. (kes)
