Great News About The West Bali National Park

27/05/2025 23:45

When most people think of Bali, they picture sun-kissed beaches, rice terraces, and vibrant temples. But tucked away on the island’s remote northwest corner is a completely different world — West Bali National Park (Taman Nasional Bali Barat), a protected area rich with wildlife, diverse ecosystems, and a calm, untouched beauty that surprises even seasoned travelers.

A Rare Wilderness in Bali

Covering over 190 square kilometers of land and sea, West Bali National Park is Bali’s only national park. It spans forests, mangroves, savannas, coral reefs, and even a small mountain range. The park plays a crucial role in conserving Bali’s unique flora and fauna, including several endangered species.

One of its most iconic residents is the Bali Starling (Jalak Bali) — a critically endangered bird that’s found only in this part of the world. With its striking white feathers and blue eye markings, spotting one in the wild is a true highlight for any visitor.

What You Can Do Here

West Bali National Park isn’t just for birdwatchers or researchers — it’s a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking for peace away from crowds. Popular activities include:

• Jungle Trekking: Explore various trails that lead through dense forests, open grasslands, and coastal mangroves. Guides are recommended, not only for safety but to enhance the experience with stories and insights.

• Birdwatching: The park is home to over 160 species of birds. Bring binoculars, or better yet, join a guided birdwatching tour to maximize your chances of spotting rare species.

• Snorkeling and Diving: Menjangan Island, located within the park’s marine zone, is one of Bali’s top snorkeling and diving spots. The coral reefs here are vibrant, healthy, and teeming with marine life.

• Wildlife Viewing: If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of deer, monkeys, monitor lizards, or even wild boars roaming the park.

Getting There and Staying

The park can be accessed via the town of Gilimanuk, which is also the main ferry port to Java. It’s about a 3.5- to 4-hour drive from Denpasar or Ubud, but the scenic journey through mountains and rural villages makes it worthwhile.

There are several eco-lodges and resorts on the park’s edges, especially near Pechatu or Pemuteran. These accommodations often offer packages that include park entrance, guides, and even snorkeling trips to Menjangan Island.

Why It’s Worth the Trip

West Bali National Park offers something you won’t find in Seminyak or Canggu — silence, space, and nature in its purest form. It’s one of the last places in Bali where you can experience what the island may have looked like centuries ago — wild, peaceful, and deeply connected to the rhythms of the earth.

For travelers who seek more than just beach bars and Instagram spots, West Bali National Park is a must-visit. It’s a reminder that Bali is not just beautiful — it’s wild, diverse, and full of surprises.