Seringkali kekaguman berbanding terbalik dengan keintiman. Makin intim, kagum lantas memudar. Tapi tidak untuk London.
Brick Lane |
The Shard, lancip di antara kotak-kotak |
Pemandangan malam London dari restoran Hutong di The Shard |
Seringkali kekaguman berbanding terbalik dengan keintiman. Makin intim, kagum lantas memudar. Tapi tidak untuk London.
Brick Lane |
The Shard, lancip di antara kotak-kotak |
Pemandangan malam London dari restoran Hutong di The Shard |
If Bali has taught me one thing, it's the more often we get lost, the more we know many routes of our way home. And to think that some beautiful paths can't be discovered without getting lost, it's an unexpected blessing.
Central Ubud is now more and more commercialized, however we still could manage to find 'secret' pathways that goes over the villages, connects us to the hidden serenity.
One of the best ways to explore the hidden gems in Ubud, is cycling around the mysterious lanes.
The feeling of the aloeswood smell-breeze in your hair is unforgettable, while enjoying the uniqueness of daily local's life at their compound—which relative solitude, and observing hundred ceremonies throughout the year—if you decide to stay longer.
Initially, I rented a bike as I was not yet able to drive a motorcycle, and there was no adequate public transportation in Ubud. Secondly, I wanted to wandering around the village. Third, I just wanted to follow my own schedule of seeing the sights. Forth, it's affordable: bicycle rental rates are between Rp 20,000 ($1.38)- Rp 30,000 ($2.07) perday!
The first day of cycling, I started from Sayan with the plan to visit center Ubud, through Penestanan. Right after 1 km, the route felt like a big mistake, as I was torn between conflicting emotions when I cycled on a steep uphill in Penestanan: should I go back and take another route? I felt totally wrong when I walkup up the uphill—making my bike looked like just an accesorries. But then, I remembered, cycling was not a competition. But I promised to myself, I won't go cycling down that route anymore! However, it was quite dangerous both when I had to paddle up dan down racing with cars passing by, with an extra effort to pass through pedestrians.
Alas, I finally arrived at Campuhan—cycling through the wider strees, crossing the river, started to enjoy the Ubud vibes.
One thing that instantly attracted my eyes on the streets of Ubud, those big trees which wrapped around ina woven black and white checkered textile—known as poleng, embodies the symbol of Rwa Bhineda; the balance of nature. Poleng means two tones, such as black and white or a day and a night, constructs two opposite things that makes a harmonious combination.
Thus the reason why things are wrapped in poleng, those big trees are believed has a respected magical power, and it should be preserved. A pecalang, the traditional Balinese village police whom I asked when I took a breath, explained more about poleng on the trees,“We need to thank the trees that have given us the supply of oxygen; the shelter and food sources for herbivorous creatures.”
I saw lots of poleng textiles in Monkey Forest area, which lead me to shortcuts exploration.
Actually, the term of shortcut is a bit misleading, as it was not 'a shorter alternative' route, but definitely a 'more freely non-traffic' route.
Let's start with:
Monkey Forest street ↔ Raya Ubud street.
What's more annoying than being stuck in traffic while cycling in Monkey Forest street? Near Kopi Bali House, there's a small street which I thought only accessible for pedestrian, which turned out it's a 'secret' no-traffic path that brought me to Raya Ubud through Bisma street! This secret route is also applicable if you need to go to Campuhan street. Beware, a bit rocky stone-cobbled street, please cycle safely.
Monkey Forest street/forest ↔ Nyuh Bojog
If you drive the car from Monkey Forest street to Nyuh Bojog street, you should circling several one way roads, up to total 5.6 kilometers. But cycling throug this short cut, the distance cut down to 500 meters.
Raya Ubud street ↔ Andong street
This shortcut is my favorite for a greenery getaway as the road flanked by rice fields and palm trees. If you dare to wandering around a little further away from the centre, how about cycling north to tegalalang rice terraces—one of the most insta-worthy tourist attractions. I would recommend going early in the morning before the buses start roaming around lunch time. FYI, tegalalang is a nice place to watch sunrise.
Another greenery getaway for cycling; find a jogging track behind Hotel Campuhan which known as Campuhan hill. The thing is, we need to pass around a hundred small stairs, which makes us have to prepare more muscles to carry the bike.
If the stairs scare the hell out of you, how about cycling down Subak Sok Wayah street, along the lush green fields of rice and coconut trees on the small path. If you are cycling from Ubud central to Campuhan, please turn to right before Ibah Hotel to find out this hidden gem. Spoiler: lots of delicious restaurants lined the streets.
If you want to recreationally cycling with a group, then the more the merrier!
Check out these bike tour operators:
- Green Bike Cycling Tour
Phone: +6285101699692
Cycling into a balinese village compound, experiencing local culture, starting from Kintamani to Ubud.
- eBikes Bali
Phone: +628123866408
It's a good choice if you can't decide between riding a motorcycle or a bicycle! Starts from 9 am to 12 pm, then from 3 pm to 6 pm. Custom times can be requested for private groups.
- Bali Eco Cycling
Phone: 0361 975557
They offer two alternatives: the full day and half day—including massage! Available for sunrise cycling, after breakfast, dan after lunch.
- Banyan Tree Bike Tours
Phone: +6281338798516
They offer the tour for experienced cyclists in small groups, exploring hidden parts in Bali for 4 hour ride along 32 km.
- Bali on Bike
Phone: +6281236622505
Pick up time Ubud: 08.00-08.30 am.
They take cyclist to the countryside, volcanoes, and lunch at tour owner house.
Their tour probably have the similar route and departure-arrival time.
If you are worried of the cycling duration that seem takes long hour; they offer a downhill tour, as most of the time what you do is simply pressing the brakes.
Before you go jump on the bike:
· Ensure the wheels are properly aligned, and the brakes are properly working
· A properly fitting helmet
· The bike's light—especially if you are heading out the dark.
· A bike lock, especially if you plan to make multiple stops.
· Poncho, don't let the rain ruin your plan.
Finally, enjoy stunning views along our bike routes of Ubud, and remember one important thing: please ride on the left side of the road.
Sometimes in life you are faced with a choice between two things that both matter. Which one do you prefer: a splendid sunrise or an alluring sunset? In Bali, you can have it both, in one spot.
Although this may be true, before we explore one of the beautiful sun-seeker spots in Bali, we'd like to introduce you to one of the mythical giants in Balinese folklore; Kebo Iwa.
Kebo Iwa was a ruthless giant and always hungry. When his hunger was unbearable, he rampaged through the village. He ate whomever he met and destroyed houses and temples. By reason of despair and fear, the villagers initiated the way to kill Kebo Iwa by made a fake promise: they would provide a large amount of food and asked Kebo Iwa to rebuild the houses and temples in return.
After a while, when the village was fully rebuilt, Kebo Iwa dug a deep well as a water supply for the villagers. As he dug deep inside the land, a mountain began to form.
One day, in the well, Kebo Iwa fell asleep on a full stomach. The villagers did the final action, their true intention: throwing the limestone and water into the well. Drowned in suffocating, Kebo Iwa tried to escape the well, but he failed; died on a boiling water, an exothermic reaction as the result of combination of water and limestone. Strangely enough, the well is now known as Lake Batur, while the enormous pile of ground as high as 1717 m beside the lake is the spot that we're now going to explore: Mount Batur.
However, three big questions are now probably popping out in your mind: Is it safe to climb Mount Batur, considering of Mount Agung eruption? Reading the latest info from Indonesia's National Board of Disaster Management, there are no indications of increased volcanic activity, it remains at a safe level one. In addition, Mount Batur is located north-west of Mount Agung, with the distance 18.16 kilometres between them; peak to peak.
The next question would be: is it hard to climb Mt. Batur? The route to Mount Batur can be tracked in any web mapping service and if you are in a relatively good fitness condition, it's possible.
The final question could be: is it possible to hike Mt. Batur without a tour guide? It's possible. Nevertheless, if you're a non-Indonesian, it's forbidden to climb it unassisted. After all, you can be still adventurous to ride on motorbike from your location to the starting points of climbing at Mount Batur, which are located at Pura Jati Luhur or Toya Bungkah. There will be the guide association booth, offering packages starting at Rp 400.000,-
Presently, the Mount Batur's climbing usually starts around 3 am. We approximately needs around two hours to reach the peak, so you could witness a splendid sunrise around 6 am.
But wait!
Before you go jump on your vehicle, please put these things in your backpack:
- LED flashlight. If you prefer being hands free: bring a headlamp.
- Sunscreen, liniment for muscle pain, antiseptic ointment, bandages.
- A wind-breaker, a hat, sunglasses, a spare t-shirt, raincoat—just in case, as weather forecast sometimes misleading.
- Mineral water, snack, wet tissues. And egg—you will know why!
Anyway, please avoid heavy loads, don't let your bag tackle your step!
What to wear?
- Please dress in layers, so you can adjust your body temperature. It's gonna be cold and quite windy at the top.
- Have your long pants on, to warm and protect your legs from the rocks and long grasses.
- Put on your hiking boots with ankle support.
Prepare your stamina
The first half hour of the climb is fairly flat. After the first pelinggih (shrine), watch your steps as the track becomes steeper with full of solid rocks and pebbles. No need to walk in a hurry, enjoy the ride. During your half-way to the summit, enjoy the stunning beauty of the Lake Batur.
Finally, from the top of the Mountain Batur, be ready to embrace the serenity of sunrise at the east. And look to the west; at the solid view of Mount Abang and Lombok's Mount Rinjani. While enjoying all its beauties, please try to cook your egg in the hot volcano steam. Now you know!
Notes:
- All the walk can take 4-6 hours.
- Mountain Batur is a sacred Hindu mountain, please respect local sensibilities — forget your short shorts and tank tops.
- Beware of cheeky monkeys! They like to own your cute things!
- There are some aggressive non-licensed guides trying to sell tours when you arrive at the starting point. If you need an assurance on feeling safe, you can get a better deal on some trekking tours around the island that offer the packages which include transportation and an english speaking guide.
Here are 5 tour operators for your unforgettable Mount Batur Trekking:
1. Bali Eco Cycling
http://www.baliecocycling.com/batur-trek/
This tour is suitable for you who are confident on bicycles. They provide snacks and a hearty breakfast. Their package combines Mount Batur Sunrise & Swim with full day Bali Eco Cycling Tour.
Price: starts from $88,- /person
Pick up points: Uluwatu, Canggu, Nusa Dua, Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Sanur, Ubud.
2. Bali Sunrise Tours
https://www.balisunrisetours.com/trekking-tours/mount-batur-sunrise-trekking
They provide a driver and air-conditioned car or mini-bus, entrance fee to the Kintamani area, a guide per group of 4 people, flashlights, drinking water, volcanic steam boiled eggs.
Price: starts from Rp 650.000,- /person
Pick up points: Nusa Dua, Kuta, Sanur, Ubud, Candidasa, Lovina
3. Bali Jungle Trekking
https://balijungletrekking.com/mount-batur-trekking-sunrise-hiking-tour
They provide a private service with a flexible trip which allow you to make a stop at places after the trek without any additional charge as long as it’s on the same direction to your hotel.
Price: starts from $49/person (Minimum two person)
Pick up points: Ubud, Seminyak, Kuta, Canggu, Kerobokan, Legian, Sanur, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Uluwatu, Lovina, Pemuteran, Amed, Sidemen.
4. Kadek Bali Trekking
They have many option for tour package.
http://www.kadekbalitrekking.com/mount-batur-trekking
Price: starts from $45 / person (Minimum two person)
Pick up points: Kuta, Seminyak, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, Sanur, Ubud, Padang Bai, Lovina, Amed
5. Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking
They provide a private driver, a car, and an English speaking private hiking guide as well.
https://www.mountbatursunrisetrekking.info
Price: Rp 1.320.000,- per person / Rp 1.760.000 per two person / Rp 2.250.000 per three person / Rp 2.600.000 per for person / more than for person: @ Rp.650.000
Pick up points: They pick you up directly from your hotel.