DISCOVER THE
CENTRAL BALI
HIGHLANDS
WHERE THE DRAGON SLEEPS
Bedugul and Munduk are on the road to the Bali Central Highlands.
We started from Denpasar and headed to Mengwi. The route from Mengwi to Bedugul is marked.
However, one must exercise caution because the trees’ overgrown green leaves obscure the directions, which are likewise green.
“Never mind. It is perfectly natural.”
On the way to Bedugul, one travels through Banyuriti, where the famed “Leke Leke Waterfall” is no longer a secret, but it is still worth a visit.
Nothing compares to the beauty of a magnificent rushing waterfall.
The famous Ghost Hotel
The well-known “Ghost Hotel” is also located in this area.
On the Internet, you can find several tales about it.
We tried to get information from locals, but it immediately became clear that they did not want to talk about it.
We wanted to see for ourselves if it is haunted.
Accessing the area is prohibited, but in exchange for a small donation, they will turn a blind eye and say, “No more than 10 minutes.”
I am a big fan of urban legends and ghost stories, so I marched straight to the hotel. Immediately, a scary sense gripped me, but I continued walking because I was not alone. The feeling persisted.
We stood at the entrance, which was taped off with yellow tape. It is not a good idea to enter, as the ceilings might fall at any time. I had a look around and walked about a bit more. I stayed for about 10 minutes.
The spirits are very active here in Bali, especially in abounded places.
I am a sensitive person who is also logical.
No one will ever take me there again, even if it is simply to stand in front of the entrance!
One thing is certain: It is a place that I would rather stare at from the outside, where I can make up my own spooky stories in my head.
One of Bali’s best Nasi Goreng “a la Mexico”
The “Lost Cafe” is a little down the road and well worth a visit.
You will want to arrive hungry, as the cuisine of “Ibu Kadek” is amazing.
There is a limited menu, which the cook prepares with whatever she has in her fridge and garden.
The food is absolutely delicious and I will be back soon.
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Bedugul and Candi Kuning
Candi Kuning can be found not far away.
The village is about 2 km away behind Bedugul.
You should definitely visit Candi Kuning’s traditional market.
Fresh veggies, flowers, and strawberries are plentiful.
Do not miss out on the “Kacang Rebus” (boiled peanuts with turmeric) or “Opak”, a snack made of casava with palm sugar that is available here exclusively. It tastes fantastic.
Places in Bedugul
Bratan Lake
On the drive up from Candi Kuning, the shore is lined with street kitchens, “the Kaki Lima”, with a few eateries a bit farther on.
Canoes and motorboats are available for a cruise by the lake.
Danau Ulun Bratan Temple
The floating lake temple was built in the 17th century to worship the water deity Dewi Danu.
Kebun Raya Botanical Garden
Bedugul Orchid Park, cactus house, bamboo forest, lake view, and much more are offered. Currently, visitors are allowed to enter with a vaccination certificate.
Pancasari
This is a vegetable and fruit farming region located just north of Candi Kuning.
There are large strawberry plantations where you can pick your strawberries.
Where to Stay
CABINS BY THE LAKE, PonDaNu Accommodation
Surrounded by nature, on the north side of Lake Beratan, this site provides beautiful yet elegant lodging, as well as a spa and restaurant.
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Glamping is trendy right now in Bali
Many glamping facilities have emerged from the ground like strawberries along the lakeside and in the hills.
We discovered a location that truly embodies the term “glamping”. It is situated right on the lake.
Richland Glamping is located on the northern end of Lake Beratan.
A few kilometres north of Lake Beratan, a road to Munduk branches off to the left.
You drive through a short stretch of forest and come across a group of monkeys.
The magnificent scenery of the two lakes, Buyan and Tamblingan, is well worth the trip.
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The road to Munduk runs north of the lakes and provides excellent views in good weather. The hiking is great up here, and there is a steep stairway down to the nearby lakes. The hills are densely forested with primeval woodland.
Wana Giri
The name of the village on the crater rim is Wana Giri, and it is home to numerous accommodations. I highly recommend the Giri Wood Hotel.
It was recently built and features an infinity pool with a beautiful view of the forest.
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