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There are still many villages in Bali which have
not yet been touched by modernization, as they are far away from
the hub of the cities, and quite secluded, being tucked between
valleys and hills, surrounded by miles of rice fields in tidy rows
and terraces.
These rice fields are carefully tended by villagers
using traditional techniques and simple tools, handed down from
generation to generation. Today, you can still see the farmers tilling
their fields with their cows or water buffaloes. As a matter of
fact, farming is their only means of survival.
 Jatiluwih
village, which is located in the north of Tabanan regency, and more
precisely in the northern part of Penebel district, is one of these
villages. It is said that the village possesses one of the most
beautiful natural surrounding on the island. Located at an elevation
of 850 meters from sea level, the climate in this village is quite
cool and the air is very fresh. The village can be reached from
Tabanan, the nearest city, in an hours drive through magnificent
landscapes of cleverly terraced rice fields, only interrupted by
occasional little rivers of crystal clear water. Now and then, the
sound of bird song adds to the magical feeling of being surrounded
by 360 degrees of beautiful views. The village is without doubt
a good spot for an outing with the whole family. From the southern
corner of the village, one can view the landscape of south Bali
set against the deep blue sea in the background. A Bale Bengong,
a traditional Balinese open sitting lounge, is provided for those
who wish to absorb the beauty of nature. On the horizon, Nusa Penida,
an island adjacent to the mainland, and the southern tip of Bali
with its beautiful curves, are visible when the sky is clear.
When the paddy is ripening, the yellow carpet-like
paddy fields add to the beauty of this panorama. In the evening,
the glimmering light of the faraway cities cal also be seen, way
below the village. A two kilometers walk into the woods will bring
you to a unique temple called the Petali Temple, which is also old
as the village itself. It does indeed look very ancient.
The village has several temples, and some of the
houses are still traditionally built and have thatched roofs. The
communities of the village still hold a very strong sense of solidarity
and all works are carried out together. The farmers of this village
grow a special variety of paddy which is called the Balinese paddy
and grows up to 120 cm in height. The rice is somehow fluffier and
more fragrant than the new varieties more recently introduced by
agriculture expert. The Balinese variety can only be harvested twice
a year, whereas the new ones yield three crops per year. Despite
this fact, many Balinese prefer the original rice variety to the
new kinds.
As we inform earlier, modernization has not yet
crept into the life of the village. There is not a single bungalow
or any form of accommodation available here. The villagers are very
friendly and do not know much about tourism. The will not hassle
you to buy anything, but instead welcome you with warm smiles.
It sounds like a great day out, doesn’t it?
Hurry up take a tour with us! |
