JOURNAL / EKSPEDISI LEGENDA KHATULISTIWA/ READ JOURNAL

Exploring the Beauty of West Bali National Park

West Bali National Park is one of the island's hidden gems, located at the far edge of the Island of the Gods. What makes it special is its extraordinary variety of ecosystems, creating a haven for tropical flora and fauna. Here you will find everything from lowland rainforest and savanna to mangroves, coral reefs, and even small islands like Menjangan, which has become famous for its underwater wonders.

Location and Geography

Situated at Bali's western tip, the park covers roughly 190 square kilometers, around 10 percent of the island's total land area. Its position near Gilimanuk Port makes it a natural gateway for travelers eager to explore Bali beyond its well-worn paths. For many, arriving here feels like stepping into a different side of Bali, one shaped by wilderness and silence instead of nightlife.

Richness of Flora and Fauna

More than 160 species of wildlife live in this park. Visitors may encounter Javan banteng, deer, or Javan langurs, and with luck, catch sight of the critically endangered Bali Starling. The park is also home to striking birdlife including the crested serpent eagle, milky stork, and Pacific swift, while its shores protect sea turtles and monitor lizards. This range of species has made West Bali National Park a living classroom, and an important case study for conservation within tourism in Indonesia.

Conservation Meets Adventure

West Bali National Park is more than a protected area, it is also an unforgettable travel experience. Trekking routes cut through forests and savanna, offering encounters with wild landscapes few expect to find in Bali. Offshore, the waters around Menjangan Island rank among the best snorkeling and diving spots on the island, with coral gardens and excellent visibility. Local guides and conservation programs ensure that each visitor contributes to protecting the ecosystem while enjoying it. This is exactly the kind of balance supported by the Indonesian ecotourism network, which promotes travel that benefits both people and planet.

Access and Visitor Facilities

The park can be reached from both the northern and southern routes of Bali, with Gilimanuk as the main access point and the Cekik office serving as its headquarters. Facilities are well developed, including visitor centers, accommodation, restaurants, and observation towers. Travelers can join guided packages, from trekking through the forest to snorkeling in Menjangan's waters. Each experience is designed to combine discovery with sustainability.

Plataran L'Harmonie

Inside the park lies Plataran L'Harmonie, also known as Plataran Menjangan, a resort designed to merge luxury with nature. Guests stay in villas surrounded by mangroves and coastal forest, where mornings begin with birdcalls and evenings close with sea-colored skies. In 2019, Plataran L'Harmonie was recognized with the Global Human Settlements Award in Planning and Design, acknowledging its sustainable vision that blends comfort with environmental responsibility. The resort shows how tourism in Indonesia can elevate conservation and hospitality together, creating meaningful stays for travelers.

A Journey of Harmony

West Bali National Park, with its forests, wildlife, and reefs, is not just a destination but a vision of harmony. It proves that conservation can coexist with comfort. The true magic of Bali is found not only in temples or beaches, but also in its protected wilderness. Supported by the Indonesian ecotourism network, this park invites travelers to experience Indonesia's natural and cultural richness in a way that leaves a legacy.

So the next time you plan a trip to Bali, set your sights on the island's western frontier. West Bali National Park is your reminder that paradise is as much about protection as it is about beauty.

0 Comment

Write your comment