Before revealing themselves to the naked eye, Sekumpul Falls let their presence be known with a potent rumble - the waters of two mountain streams fly into a deep green valley, falling 80 metres, creating a vision with few equals in the whole world. In Balinese, Sekumpul means “group”, “gathering” - differing from what happens in other parts of the island, here, there are actually seven distinct cascades, each with its own water flow. Surrounding them, a luxurious forest of bambù, durian and rambutan shoot up towards the heavens. Until a few years ago, Sekumpul Falls was a secret paradise only visited by locals. However, the allure of their beauty is totally irresistible - today, excursionists from around the world venture over trails, brooks and slippery steps to enjoy the landscape and, if the season permits, a restorative dive into the fresh waters of the underlying pool. On the way, views range from rice paddies and coffee plantations while the lakes of Bedugul are nearby with an aquatic temple dedicated to the Goddess Ida Batara Dewi Ulun Danu.
Man and nature in perfect balance: the subak system
The fertile soil and the particularly humid climate have made Bali one of the most suitable places for rice production. But what makes Balinese rice unique is the way it is grown: steep terraces fed by an irrigation system devised in the 9th century and known as subak.
On the hills of Bali, Ubud stands on the edge of the tropical forest and terraced rice fields dotted with Hindu temples and shrines, among the most famous on the island.
Natural pigments & dyes in Balinese traditional crafts
Colors play a vital role in Balinese culture and identity: they are symbolic and their origins are sacred. Traditional Balinese arts and crafts arise from the interconnection between man, the forces of nature and the cosmos, resulting in a divine unity.
-copia.png/jcr%3Acontent)
