TOUR AROUND BALI

Every aspect of Bali's geography and ecology is influenced by the towering range of volcanic peaks that dominate the island. They have created its landforms, periodically regenerated its soils, and helped to produce the dramatic downpours which provide the island with life-giving water. The Balinese recognize these geophysical facts of life and the island's many volcanoes, lakes and springs are considered to be sacred.

In simple outline, Bali has three mayor areas - the mountains, the coastal lowlands and the limestone fringes. The mountains are lofty and spectacular, dominated by Mt. Agung and its neighbours, Abang and Batur. The mountainous region around Kintamani, centering around the volcanic caldera of Mt. Batur with its deep crater lake and bubbling hot springs, is rugged with a wild beauty.

The southern lowlands formed the cradle of Balinese civilization because it was possible to grow two or more irrigated rice crops per year. Base on this agricultural surplus, eight small but powerful kingdoms arose, symmetrically lining the pararel north-south river valleys that shaped their early growth.

Despite its small size and lack of natural resources compared to the other kingdoms of Bali, Klungkung has always maintained the mystique of being the island's original royal centre. The Kerta Gosa in Klungkung town has a place for the administration of traditional justice in pre-colonial times.

The beautiful eastern regency of Karangasem is dominated by the towering presence of Mt. Agung (3,142m), the island's most sacred and highest volcano, whose dramatic foothills and lava flows provide some of the most breathtaking landscapes found anywhere in Bali. High up on Mt. Agung's southern flanks perches the great "Mother Temple", Pura Besakih - the most sacred and powerful of the island's innumerable temples.

There is excellent diving in the coastal reefs off Tulamben, where the sunken wreck of a WW II ship provides a home for a host of colourful marine life. Six kilometres west of Singaraja, the popular beach resort of Lovina is along stretch of blank sand bordering five coastal villages. The pace of live at Lovina reflects the callmness and safety of the sea. This is as excellent spot for swimming and snorkelling, particularly near the reef.

On the westernmost tip of the island, extensive montane forests, coastal swamps and marine waters comprise the West Bali National Park.

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