FLORA AND FAUNA

Bali has an interesting collection of animal and plant life. The rice terraces are the most common sight in everyday Bali, particularly in the heavily populated and extravagantly fertile south. Balinese gardens are a delight. The soil and climate in Bali can support a huge range of plants, and the Balinese love of beauty, and the abundance of cheap labor, means that every space can be landscaped. The style is generally informal, with curved paths, a rich variety of plants and usually a water feature. You can find almost every type of flower in Bali, though some varieties, such as hydrangeas, are restricted to the cooler mountain areas. Orchids are a special attraction, and orchid fanciers should see the collection at the botanical gardens near Bedugul. The temperate weather of the mountain also allows pines to grow.
Wood plants like teakwood grow in gorges. Gorges, which are very numerous in Bali owing to the ash structure of the soil, are favorite places for tropical trees such as Banyan tree (ficus elastica), or Pule tree (alstonia scholarish), two of the sacred trees of Bali. The latter is used in particular for the making of the sacred mask. Other trees, such as the Pangge Baya or the Ebony are getting rare as they are the favored material for woodcarving. Along the rivers grows bamboo, a multipurpose material. One makes pipes, rope, baskets and even food from bamboo.
The shores of Bali are abundant in animal and floral species. The mangrove forest contains all sorts of big and small crabs, shrimps and fishes. The coral reefs contain colorful fish which have long been exported abroad. These fish, and crab, are now disappearing, as has the giant turtle, which used to come by the thousands onto Balinese shores. It is now prohibited to sell and export its shell. On both straits that flank the island, though, there still remain many dolphins.
Bali is situated in the Asian zone of Indonesia, characterized by big carnivore mammals, such as the tiger or smaller ones such as black panthers or the leopard. The most famous one, perhaps, was the Bali Tiger (Panthera tigris balica), the most dangerous carnivore that lived in paradise. The last one was shot in 1937. There are also big herbivores such as the deer and the wild buffalo. Bali's cattle consists of the tamed wild-ox and the Banteng (Bos Sondaicus), the wild version of which can still be found in the National Park.
One species of birds particularly endangered is the Bali Starling, of which less than fifty are surviving in their natural habitat. Riversides also have a rich bird life where one can also find Kepodang (Oriole), Kipasan (Fantail), and Kutilang (Pynocnotus), some of which are good singers, who sometimes join the great choir of crickets.

ENTERTAINMENT

As well as superb traditional dances, there are classical Gamelan orchestras, Shadow Puppet Plays, Dramas, and a variety of traditional cultural entertainments unique to this culture. Nightlife also abounds in certain areas, Discos, Restaurants, and Supper Clubs provide western style enjoyment.

CLIMATE

Located just 8 degrees south of the equator, Bali has a tropical climate all year round. The average temperature hovers around 30 degrees Celsius year-round. There are dry and wet seasons - dry from April to September and wet from October to March - but it can rain at any time of the year and even during the wet season rain is likely to pass quickly. Temperatures range from 30-31 C' by day, 24-25 C' at night in the wet season and 28-29 C' by day, and a pleasant 23 C' at night in the dry season. In general May to August are the best months in Bali. At that time of year the climate is likely to be cooler and the rains lightest. Around the coast, sea breezes temper the heat and as you move inland you also move up so the altitude works to keep things cool. It can get very cool up in the highlands and a warm sweater can be a good idea in mountain villages like Kintamani or Bedugul.

ART AND CRAFT

Artistically Bali is a melting pot of cultures and traditions. The Balinese have a natural capacity for absorbing different cultural elements to blend them with their own to produce dynamic new hybrids. Over the years Bali has been the recipient of numerous influences; Chinese, Buddhist, Indian, Hindu, Javanese and most recently, Western. For centuries artists and craftsmen in Bali worked under the patronage of the priests and ruling classes, decorating palaces and temples. The artists themselves were anonymous, never signing their work and usually living close together in artists' 'villages'. Although highly skilled, Bali's carvers, sculptors, weavers and painters, who decorate the island's temples and palaces, were never paid for their work, and would earn their living as farmers or traders, just like everybody else. They worked as artists only when summoned by the raja or the high priest. By the 1930s, however, Balinese society was undergoing quite significant changes. The rajas had lost a great deal of their power to the Dutch colonials (many had in fact lost their lives, or at least their homes), and foreign tourists were gradually taking their place as patrons of the arts and paying for the work. Over time, this encouraged a whole variety of changes; artists began to carve and paint secular subjects, to experiment with new material, to express themselves as individuals and sign their own work. Making paintings and carvings became a full time and relatively lucrative job, and the arts and crafts industry is now one of the most profitable on Bali. Generally the artists did not have much room for personal expression as their designs followed strict aesthetic and religious guidelines. With the arrival of European artists at the start of this century, this soon began to change and artists started developing their own individual styles.

ARCHITECTURE

Balinese temples are divided into three parts. One inevitably passes through a split gate or Candi Bentar to enter the first courtyard. Then a second gate rising high with the grinning face of a guardian demon leads to the second division. Inside there are numerous pavilions used for various purposes. In the final courtyard one may find the meru pagoda which may have as many as eleven roofs if the owner or temple is important enough. The black thatch is from the sugar palm and can only be used in temples. There will also be numerous sanggah or spirit houses, and pedestals which will be full of offerings on ritual days. All around you, carving in brick, volcanic stone and wood will be apparent. All are ringed by walls. The Balinese have always spent a great deal of energy and money on their temples for it is their duty to repay the ancestors for their prosperity.
Balinese royalty has always felt it imperative that they demonstrate their prosperity and standing by building magnificent palaces. The carved wooden doors of these palaces are especially famous for their beauty. The teak doors of the main palace of Denpasar were so large that they required forty porters to carry them. In the palaces bright colours and gold leaf abound for the display of opulence and even the smallest and most insignificant of details is deemed proof of nobility. Unlike Europe, Balinese palaces are not single huge buildings but rather a collection of numerous structures each with a special function such as the bale gede, an open pavilion of 12 columns, where the oldest male of the family sleeps. During important ceremonies such as tooth filing, this will serve as a place to commune with the ancestors and gods who descend from the heavens to partake of the many offerings placed on the beds. As in the temples, the four directions of the Balinese compass are critical in d etermining the lay-out and positioning of buildings.
Another large and important structure is the wantilan or cock fighting arena. It is called this because at one time cock-fights were frequently held here. It is found near the palace and central market in every traditional village. Nearby stands a kulkul or slit drum tower to call the members of the village together for meetings. The wantilan is also commonly used for performances. Once built entirely of wood, most are made of re-enforced concrete today. The traditional wantilan has also inspired the shapes and forms of many hotels and houses, such as the Amandari.
By using such natural materials as thatch roofing, bamboo poles, woven bamboo, coconut wood, mud and stone, complete harmony with the environment is maintained. The Balinese have always been particularly adept at using bamboo and behind every Balinese house one can find at least one stand of bamboo.
The introduction of cement and other modern materials and the rapid growth of hotels, galleries and new homes has produced mixed results. The opulence and ornamentation of many new hotels are often breath-taking. Nowhere else in the world would such wood carvings and stone work be possible. Still the line between kitsch and good taste is narrow and too often people have failed to appreciate the essence of Balinese architecture that in many cases has become an amazing parody of itself. One hopes that in the future more attention will be paid to resorts like the Amandari and Four Seasons Resort in Jimbaran, who have modified traditional Balinese architecture without tainting its integrity.
For those truly interested in Balinese architecture, a visit to the Bali Museum in Denpasar is a must. There you will not only find many old traditional buildings but also information as to the local styles, of which there are many.

Welcome To Bali

Bali Island, the perfect holiday destination for all ages offers something for everyone. Bali offers not just various customs but also various "adrenalin pump" parks. Many exciting amusements are available in Bali, with something new opening all the time.
The number of offshore and inland attraction are on the rise because many tourists want them. This tropical paradise has a unique blend of modern tourist facilities combined with wonderful shopping and a rich past and heritage. After white water rafting that has gained popularity in Bali, comes offshore rafting or ocean rafting. The more adventurous sort of amusement has now become an alternative sport for tourists. Meanwhile white water rafting is still a popular activity with trips on Ayung, Telaga Waja, Unda Rivers, etc. The tourists can refresh their mind by watching beautiful scenery along the route. Those are not enough, some of the best surfing beaches in the world can be found on the western side of the island whilst conversely the eastern side is a wonderful haven for families, with beautiful white sand beaches and gentle seas.
Bali is small island, just 140 Km by 80 Km and lies between Java, the most highly populated and influential of all the islands, and Lombok, one of the quieter and moderately slower paced islands. Like many islands, Bali has developed a world of its own. It not only captures what is special about Indonesia but also has a uniqueness of its own.

REGULAR TOUR BALI

HALF DAY TOUR EXCURSIONS
UBUD THE CULTURAL HEART OF BALI – Private Daily ( 5 Hours )
Start your cultural trip with a visit to Tohpati, which is known for its batik and continue to Celuk, the center of exquisite silver works and Mas, for fine woodcarvings. Enter Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali with many fine art galleries, and a home to a score of local and foreign artists. Afterwards, you can test your bargaining skill at Ubud art market prior to a visit to Puri Saren Agung whose royal family ruled Ubud from the late 1800’s until 1917. ( NO MEALS )
Price A : USD. 55.00 / car ( max. 5 persons )
Price B : USD. 34.00 / person

HALF DAY CITY WALK IN DENPASAR – Private Daily ( 5 Hours )
Our minibus will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to Tegal Bemo station in Denpasar where we change to a ‘bemo’ local transport (a shared-minibus with 8-10 seats) and go to Jalan Gajah Mada, known as the center of commercial activities. Start your walking tour along Jalan Sulawesi, visiting shops with ikat, batik and other fabrics. Cross a bridge and you will arrive at Kumbasari Market, famous for handicrafts, fabrics and Balinese costumes or just observe the busy life along this market which is located next to the biggest wet market in Denpasar. Hop into another ‘bemo’ to Kereneng night market, a popular local market selling food and daily goods. Denpasar Museum ( large collection of historic & pre historic item ).
( NO MEALS )
Price A : USD. 55.00 / car ( max. 5 persons )
Price B : USD. 34.00 / person

THE TANAH LOT EXPERIENCE – Private Daily ( 5 Hours )
This excursion shows you the must sees of West Bali where you start from Pura Taman Ayun , founded by the King of Mengwi in the 17th century. It has three ascending levels of spacious courtyards containing rows of shrines and pavilions and is surrounded by wide moat. Continue to Alas Kedaton, the holy monkey forest with its tall nutmeg trees. Your last stop will be Tanah Lot temple, one of the holiest temples in Bali which is built atop a huge rock and surrounded by the sea. Enjoy the wonderful sunset when the golden red sky frame the temple roof and the wave crash into the rocks.
( NO MEALS )
Price A : USD. 72.00 / car ( max. 5 persons )
Price B : USD. 48.00 / person

SUNSET DINNER – Private Daily ( 5 Hours )
A sunset outing to the southwestern tip of Bali for a visit of the Uluwatu Temple, which is perched precipitously on atop sheer cliffs that drop straight into the pounding surf, 250 feet above the sea. This is one of the grandest and oldest temples in Bali that is built in 11th century. Watch the spectacular sunset overlooking the Indian Ocean and enjoy the mystic atmosphere before we drive you to Jimbaran Beach for extensive BBQ Seafood Dinner on the beach.
Price A : USD. 55.00 / car ( max. 5 persons )
Price B : USD. 47.00 / person

DINNER AT BALI DANCE FESTIVAL – Private Daily
An open restaurant located in Sanur area that provide an enjoyable dining experience with daily cultural performance typically from Bali and other regions in Indonesia.
Price A : USD. 55.00 / car ( max. 5 persons )
Price B : USD. 37.00 / person

KECAK DANCE PERFORMANCE – Private Daily ( 3 Hours )
Join us to witness this theatrical experience. The cak or Kecak dance is the well-known “monkey dance” which is originally derived from a sacred sanghyang dance, it has subsequently been added to and adapted, incorporating scenes from the story of Ramayana. The Kecak dance is an amazing cacophony of interlocking sounds – 100 men representing the Ramayana’s monkey army sit in concentric circles and chant. Their arms are thrown up to the skies, fingers outstretched, but the sounds and gestures have no meaning other than to drive out evil. Watch the spectacular sunset overlooking the Indian Ocean and enjoy the mystic atmosphere before we drive you to Jimbaran Beach for extensive BBQ Seafood Dinner on the beach.
Price A : USD. 55.00 / car ( max. 5 persons )
Price B : USD. 50.00 / person

DINNER WITH LIONS – Private Daily ( 3 Hours )
TSAVO LION RESTAURANT, is Bali’s latest lifestyle & fine dining destination and Asia’s first theme restaurant specially designed for you to have a close encounter with real wildlife. Savour & Encounter! Savour the food, ambience, service and Encounter the Mighty lions.
Price A : USD. 55.00 / car ( max. 5 persons )
Price B : USD. 66.00 / person

FULL DAY TOUR EXCURSIONS
THE HEARTLAND OF BALI – Private Daily ( 9 Hours )
This excursion will lead you to the rural heartland of Bali which presents an altered landscape and a different history. Your first stop is Pura Taman Ayun, founded by the King of Mengwi in the 17th century. It has three ascending levels of spacious courtyards containing rows of shrines and pavilions and is surrounded by wide moat. The next one will be Lake Beratan, a crater lies serenely in the midst of an elongated valley which was formed centuries ago. A small temple called Pura Ulun Danu Beratan to honour Dewi Danu, goddess of the lake, can be seen on the lake promontory. Stroll along Candi Kuning market, where local fruits, vegetable and flowers are sold. After lunch, the trip continues through breathtaking valleys of rice paddies near Jatiluwih to visit Pura Luhur Batukaru temple, in dense jungle near the peak of Gunung Batukaru, Bali’s second highest mountain. The ancient temple complex has a number of separate sanctuaries joined by damp mountain paths, bubbling spring and a large rectangular lake with a shrine in its midst.
Price A : USD. 67.00 / car ( max. 5 persons )
Price B : USD. 53.00 / person

HIGHLIGHTS OF BALI – Private Daily ( 9 Hours )
Start the day with a visit to Kerta Gosa, or Hall of Justice, built in 18th century in Klungkung. It is beautifully laid out within a moat and provides an exquisite example of the Klungkung style of painting and architecture which can be seen in their ceiling murals. Continue through spectacular views of terraced rice fields to Besakih temple, located on the slope of Mount Agung, Bali highest volcano. It is called Mother Temple of Bali as it houses ancestral shrines for all Hindu Balinese and a complex of nearly 24 temples. Our next stop is Kintamani where you can enjoy your lunch with a breathtaking view over the caldera lake, Danau Batur. Driving down, we arrive in the bottom of a lush green valley, where the Gunung Kawi temple, Bali largest ancient monument is located. It consists of 10 rock-cut candi (shrines) – memorials cut out of the rock face in imitation of actual statues and stand in 7m-high sheltered niches cut into the sheer cliff face. Our last stop will be Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) whose history dates back to the 11th century. A fantastically carved entrance depicts entangling leaves, rocks, animals, ocean waves and demonic human shapes running from the gaping mouth which forms the entrance to the cave. Afterwards we will return to the hotel.
Price A : USD. 73.00 / car ( max. 5 persons )
Price B : USD. 57.00 / person

THE ART & NATURE OF BALI – Private Daily ( 8 Hours )
Your day will start with the famous Barong and Kris Dance show. It describes the eternal struggle between good (Barong) and evil (Rangda) and ends with a scene where the kris dancers fall into a trance and try to kill Rangda. We then proceed to Celuk, the center of exquisite silver works and Mas for its fine woodcarvings before visiting the holy spring of Tirta Empul surrounded by a large shrine to the God Indra. There are bathing pools which are believed to have strong curative powers. On the hill behind this temple is a presidential guesthouse built by the late President Soekarno. Our next stop is Kintamani where you can enjoy your lunch with a breathtaking view over the caldera lake of Danau Batur. Going down the hill, we pass the greeneries of Tegallalang with its rice field and coconut trees, to stop at one of Ubud’s art galleries and also Tohpati, which is known for its batik.
Price A : USD. 67.00 / car ( max. 5 persons )
Price B : USD. 50.00 / person

FASCINATING EAST BALI – Private Daily ( 10 Hours )
We are heading east to see the Kerta Gosa, or Hall of Justice, built in 18th century in Klungkung. It is beautifully laid out within a moat and provides an exquisite example of the Klungkung style of painting and architecture which can be seen in their ceiling murals. Continue on to Kusamba, a fishermen village that also engages in the salt making where you will also see colorful outrigger lined up along the black sand shores. The costal road with full view to Nusa Penida will lead us to Goa Lawah (Bat Cave). This cave, whose walls vibrate with thousands of bats, is considered holy, and a temple and surrounding shrines protect the entrance. After lunch, we go to Taman Tirta Gangga (Water Palace) whose swimming pools and ornamental ponds serve as a fascinating reminder of the Balinese rajah’s old days. Our last stop will be Tenganan, an original Balinese village, a stronghold of ancient traditions. You can see the local women weave the famous “flaming” cloth, kamben geringsing, which supposedly has the power of immunize the wearer against evil.
Price A : USD. 73.00 / car ( max. 5 persons )
Price B : USD. 57.00 / person

SPECIAL WEST BALI DISCOVERY by VOLKS WAGON – Private Daily ( 9 Hours )
This excursion will lead you to the rural heartland of Bali which presents an altered landscape and a different history. Your first stop is Pura Taman Ayun, founded by the King of Mengwi in the 17th century. It has three ascending levels of spacious courtyards containing rows of shrines and pavilions and is surrounded by wide moat. The next one will be Lake Beratan, a crater lies serenely in the midst of an elongated valley which was formed centuries ago. A small temple called Pura Ulun Danu Beratan to honour Dewi Danau, goddess of the lake, can be seen on the lake promontory. Stroll along Candi Kuning market, where local fruits, vegetable and flowers are sold. After lunch, the trip continues through breathtaking valleys of rice paddies near Jatiluwih to visit Pura Luhur Batukaru temple, in dense jungle near the peak of Gunung Batukaru, Bali’s second highest mountain. The ancient temple complex has a number of separate sanctuaries joined by damp mountain paths, bubbling spring and a large rectangular lake with a shrine in its midst.
Price A : USD. 73.00 / car ( max. 4 persons )
Price B : USD. 60.00 / person

General Conditions :

Price A : Transportation ( max. 4 persons / car ), Driver, Petrol, Guide

Price B : Transportation, Driver, Petrol, Guide, Entrances fee,

Donations, Meals.