Senin, 19 November 2007
Buleleng is covered half side of the island separated by the central volcanic ridge and forest with the capital city of Singaraja. The Buleleng regency stretches across almost the whole of the northern part of Bali. The area generally consists of steep mountain slopes plunging down into a narrow coastal plain. Ancient beads dating back 2000 years were recently discovered in Pacung, 40km east of Singaraja -the first sign of Indian trade with the Indonesian archipelago. Also small stupa effigies showing signs of Buddhist monks landing and settling who, eventually traveled south to where their culture blossomed 200 years later, were also found. These discoveries bear witness to the role of early sea routes in the history of Buleleng, the first region to be colonized by the Dutch. The city of Singaraja (100,000 inhabitants) was the capital of Bali during the Dutch times.
Lovina beach. Located on west of the capital town is a quiet black sandy beach resort with calm wave is a perfect place for swimming and snorkeling. Lovina also offers dolphin viewing from motored outrigger. It is the perfect base from which to explore northern Bali.
Banjar Budhist monastery and Hot spring. Located on the west of Lovina beach is the only buddhist monastery blend architecture of local and southeast Asia. You can also find hot springs which is popular for both locals and tourists.
Pemuteran village. Is beach area with its volcanic sand is an ideal place to plan an excursion to in west Bali National Park (Taman Nasional Bali Barat), comprising the nature reserve of Menjangan island and the uplands in the west. Pemuteran village is also a good base for those who interesting to enjoy the magnificent under water view. Here you can find sort of accommodation from budget class till a luxury hotels.
Menjangan Island. Menjangan has the most beautiful coral reefs in Bali. Along with the nearby Labuan Lalang, this is a wonderful place for diving and snorkeling. Basic accommodation is available at Labuan Lalang, but you are forbidden to spend the night on this unique island.
The area of Bedugul, Lake Tamblingan and Munduk. These areas are the up-land side with tropical plantation such as coffee, cocoa, clove, and any other tropical plantation. The are about 30 minutes drive from the capital city of Singaraja are mostly ecotourism hill resort with no less than six waterfalls as well as treks to the pristine Tamblingan lake and nearby mountain, rainforest and plantation areas.
To the eastward, we can find scenic Sawan village, Pura Meduwe Karang temple in Kubutambahan on the northern coast. The carvers here, besides making sculptures of classical heroes, have also integrated the Dutch presence in their reliefs. The most famous shows a Dutchman riding a bicycle with wheels made of flowers. This is said to represent Nieuwenkampf, a Dutch artist who first explored Bali at the beginning of the century. He traveled around the island by bike, stopping to make sketches of the temples and religious events he witnessed.
