Singaraja

Singaraja still has some of the feel of an old colonial capital. The streets are wider and grander than elsewhere in Bali and some of the old houses set in large gardens recall days long gone. Singaraja just looks different from other towns and cities in Bali. This is also a noticeably multi ethnic city. The Arabic influence is especially apparent in the district near the old docks called Kampung Arab and the largest Chinese temple in Bali is here.

It takes 2 to 3 hours to drive to Singaraja from the south of Bali. There are three main routes: east via Kintamani, taking in the stunning active volcano and mountain vistas, west via Pupuan, through beautiful rice-paddies, spice and coffee plantations; and central, via Bedugul with its famous market and botanical gardens.

Singaraja is a notable production centre of high quality silk and cotton ikat. There are weaving centres on Jalan Dewi Sartika and Jalan Veteren. See the weavers in action and buy direct from the makers.

Air Sanih (Yeh Sanih) is a quaint, tiny coastal village with a notable cold spring bathing area set in nice gardens. The spring water here is said to originate from holy Lake Batur.

Gitgit Waterfalls, are on the northern slopes of the central mountain range, there are three waterfalls around the village of Gitgit.

Meduwe Karang Temple in Kubutambahan village is a lovely temple, perhaps one of the most impressive in North Bali, and the location of the famous original carving of the Dutch cyclist which you see copied all over Bali. The temple is devoted to deities of agricultural matters.

Temple Beji (Pura Beji), Sangsit village is a splendid pink sandstone temple with especially dramatic stone carvings, which is one that is rarely visited temple by tourists. The temple is dedicated to the goddess of rice, Dewi Sri, who protects the irrigated rice fields. The temple was built in the 15th century during the Majapahit period and is considered to be one of the oldest temples in Bali.