The vacation style of tourists on the Island of the Gods has now shifted. If in the past the majority of people made a solid itinerary of moving from one beach to another in a day, now the trend of "Slow Travel" and Wellness Tourism (Wellness Tourism) has become the favorite choice of many travelers.
Slow travel invites you to enjoy every moment of your trip more deeply, with minimal stress, and focusing on physical and mental health. For those of you who want to take a break from your routine and find true tranquility, here is a guide to the best slow travel destinations and activities in Bali that are currently popular.
1. Enjoying the Tranquility of Sidemen Village, Karangasem
If you miss the atmosphere of old Bali which was still beautiful and calm, Sidemen Village in East Bali is the answer.
- Attractions: Expanse of terraced rice fields at the foot of the majestic Mount Agung, clear river flows, and rural air that has not been touched by pollution.
- Slow Travel Activities: Trekking relax through the rice fields, learn to weave traditional Sidemen cloth, or just read a book by the river.
- Why Trend? Sidemen is the main alternative for tourists who think that central areas such as Ubud are now too crowded.
2. Melukat: A Spiritual Self-Cleansing Ritual
The tradition of Melukat or the ritual of cleansing oneself using holy water has now become one of the cultural activities most sought after by local and international tourists.
- Recommended Locations:
- Tirta Empul Temple (Tampak Siring): The most famous melukat place with its historic holy water fountain.
- Menening Temple (Ubud): A quieter option surrounded by natural shade of trees.
- Campuhan Windhu Segara Temple (Padanggalak): melukat location at the mouth of the river and sea with a magical mystical atmosphere.
- Benefits: Provides a sense of calm, refreshes the mind, and provides a memorable spiritual experience.
3. Exploring Hidden Waterfalls in North Bali
Away from the hustle and bustle of South Bali, the Buleleng and Tabanan areas offer a row of exotic waterfalls that are perfect for relaxation.
- Banyumala Waterfall (Twin Waterfalls): Presents a natural pool of clear water surrounded by a wall of green plants.
- Leke Leke Waterfall: Hidden in a pristine forest with a refreshing light hiking trail.
- Tips: Come in the morning to enjoy the freshness of the water and the serenity of the forest without the hassle of photo queues.
4. Yoga & Sound Healing in Kintamani
Not just Ubud, now the Kintamani area is starting to combine mountainous landscapes with wellness activities.
- Attraction: Outdoor yoga or sound healing (sound therapy using a singing bowl) session which is done at sunrise (sunrise).
- Highlights: Meditate against the backdrop of views of Lake and Mount Batur and the cold air that pierces the heart.
Tips for Running Slow Travel in Bali
- Limit Daily Destinations: Just choose 1 or 2 main locations a day so you can enjoy the atmosphere without having to rush.
- Stay in Nature/Eco-Resort Concept Accommodation: Choose accommodation that blends with nature, such as bamboo house or villa in the middle of rice fields.
- Choose Comfortable Transportation: Because slow travel routes often go to rural or mountainous areas (such as Sidemen, Kintamani, or Munduk), renting a car plus a local driver is the best choice. Experienced drivers know the road conditions, so you can just sit back and enjoy the views along the road.
Conclusion
Vacations are no longer about how many places you managed to visit, but rather how fresh your mind and energy are after returning from vacation. The slow travel trend in Bali is proven to provide a more memorable and quality holiday experience.
Ready to experience a true healing sensation on the Island of the Gods?