Though many think of Bali as a sun and sand destination, this small island in the Indonesian archipelago offers much more. True, that it has some of the best beaches and surf in the region and that the nightlife is amazing. However, many tourists forget that Bali is unique in the region as it is a predominantly Hindu island that is in the world’s largest Islamic state. This has given the island a unique cultural identity and this is reflected in the dance, music and art of the Balinese people.
Ecologically the island is important as it is home to numerous indigenous species; as Bali was disconnected from the bigger islands of Java and Sumatra millions of years ago many of the animals have evolved to the unique environmental conditions here. The dense rainforest and varied geography has only speeded up this process of evolution.
Bali is located very close to a region of high seismic and volcanic activity; the thermal temperature that is below the ground in this region has created several hot spring and the Banjar Hot Springs which is located outside the major towns, about a half an hour’s drive from Singaraja, is only one example.
The Hindu religion which is worshipped by many has created tales of mythology surrounding the Banjar Hot Springs and many of the locals that visit this site believe that the springs can cure them of disease. The bathing wells were supposedly built several centuries earlier and the ornate fountains that resemble the heads of lions and dragons spew water out into the pools.
The Banjar Hot Springs are accessible by motor vehicle by driving through some of the remotest villages in the northern part of Bali, which gives visitors the chance to experience some of the authentic customs of the Balinese people. The Banjar Hot Water Springs are open to the public daily from 7.00am to 6.00pm and can be visited by guests in an Ubud hotel such as Uma Bali. This luxury hotel Bali proudly calls its own, offers the very best in contemporary comforts and conveniences and makes a great base from which to set off on exciting excursions around this island paradise.
