
Regency in Bali, Indonesia
Photo: Jos Dielis, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Tabanan is a town in Central Bali.
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Taman Kupu Kupu Bali
A small but well maintained centre for research and education into butterflies with some very spectacular species on show. Who doesn't like butterflies? Best to visit in the early and mid morning when the butterflies are at their most active.
Batukaru Temple
One of Bali's key directional temples and a site of pilgrimage for Hindu Balinese. Majestically situated on the slopes of Mount Batukaru since the 11th century, this is an especially sacred site, even by Balinese standards and all visitors must carefully read and abide by the temple rules posted clearly at the entrance. The temple is high on the slopes of the mountain and the often misty, drizzly micro-climate here just adds to its undoubtedly mystical atmosphere.
Mengwi Water Temple
This very pleasing temple was built in 1634 by the King of Mengwi as his family temple. The terraced courtyards of the temple are set in very well maintained grounds, surrounded by man-made waterways and entered over a bridge. Mengwi is about 8km east from the town of Tabanan.
Bukit Sari
The macaques here act as guardians of Puri Buki Sari (Bukit Sari Temple). Legend has it that these monkeys are descendents of the army assembled by the monkey king Hanuman and that the forest here is a fragment of Mount Meru that fell to earth. The temple was built in the 17th century. The monkeys here are as bold as elsewhere in Bali so hang on to your belongings. Sangeh combines well with a visit to Pura Taman Ayun. Tourists can buy durian for a cheap price (around Rp 5,000-10,000) each. Domestic and international tourists may be charged different rates.
Mandila Mathika Subak
This museum is dedicated to the famed subak system of unmechanised irrigation which has been in use in Bali since 600 CE. It has collections of Balinese traditional agriculture tools and old documents. Domestic and international tourists may be charged different rates.
Stunning mountain setting where the rice paddies meet the jungle and you can still see the sea. Genuine boutique style eco resort with only 4 guest bungalows, restaurant serving organic food grown on site, massage hut, waterfall and a mountain fed stream freshwater swimming pool. Relax, join in village activities, trek or ride a mountain bike down to the ocean. From US$85
Ten traditional bungalows in a beautiful rural setting on the slopes of Mount Batukaru. Strong sustainability and eco emphasis here.
All rooms are equipped with high speed internet connection, air conditioning, in-house movies, LCD/plasma TV with cable channels, kitchenette, balcony/lanai/terrace and refrigerator. Some of its facilities and services are infinity pool, resort Shop, library, café Bar, in-villa dining, room service and spa.
Bali Homestay
This unusual and locally ground-breaking accommodation option involves being placed with a local family in rural villages about 10 km north of Tabanan. You will get involved in every aspect of daily life in a Balinese village. Also a strong emphasis on environmental matters.
Ten villas in a beautiful area in the shadow of Mount Batukaru. They take environmental considerations very seriously, and are winners of the Green Paradise Award.
This charming traditional style homestay is owned by the Mengwi royal family and gives visitors a real opportunity to experiecne the life stay of an authentic Balinese high caste family. Guests are encouraged to become involved in the daily routines of making offerings, cooking, prayers, dance and music rehearsals etc. The six guest rooms are offered for nightly rental and are very comfortable indeed.
A villa resort in the mountains that attempts to create the atmosphere of a colonial plantation house. Grow their own produce and offer a full range of Mount Batukaru-based outdoor activities.
An eco lodge Internationally recognised for its genuine commitment to environmental conservation. 4 unique bungalows in a truly spectacular setting on the slopes of Mount Batukaru at Biahan close to Sarinbuana. There is a huge emphasis on sustainability and other eco-practices here. A great base for exploring the untamed natural beauty of this mountainous region and the Batukaru Rainforest. 3 - 7 hour treks can be arranged, Mountain biking and community workshops.
Tasteful luxury hotel right on the black sand beach at Yeh Gangga. Individual cottages. Has top notch in-house spa and restaurant.
Set in 2 hectares of lush green grounds surrounded by terraced rice paddies. Bathing in the hot springs is a key attraction of staying here. The resort also offers a full range of Mount Batukaru-based activities.
The main coastal road from Denpasar to West Bali passes right by Tabanan, and access from the main tourist centres in South Bali is straightforward. Most visitors to the Tabanan area arrive with their own transport.
Read in the guideThere are a lot of bemos available in the town of Tabanan, and some of these will be useful in getting you to interesting sights in the region. Taxis and private vehicles for hire are thin on the ground here though.
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Kuta, Badung · International · DPS
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