Ready to swap the familiar Canggu or Ubud for the lesser-known areas of this paradise island?
The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism continues to persuade tourists not to choose only the well-publicized southern regions of Bali for their vacation. Northern and Western Bali, as well as, quite unexpectedly, Banyuwangi — a district on the neighboring island of Java, accessible from the paradise island — are among the destinations they plan to make just as popular.
To discuss these plans, the country's Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ni Luh Puspa, held a call with Banyuwangi regent Ipuk Fiestiandani.
"Banyuwangi already has a name and strong promotion. Given the state of Southern Bali, which is frankly overcrowded with tourists, it is necessary to redirect visitors to other areas. We hope that these two islands can cooperate to boost tourism in Banyuwangi-Bali," said Ni Luh at the meeting.
The deputy minister added that the discussion has already moved to the technical stage. She wants the "Northern Bali — Western Bali — Banyuwangi" (3B) project to be implemented soon.
One of the first steps by the Ministry of Tourism will be the launch of a fast boat on the Banyuwangi-Buleleng route.
"We hope that the 3B tourist package will stimulate tourism development in each of these regions. It will help redistribute tourists from Banyuwangi to Northern and Western Bali and vice versa," said the Banyuwangi regent.
Ipuk also believes that the 3B program will greatly benefit the tourism sector and the local economy.
"Banyuwangi is ready, our airport, port, hotels, and guesthouses are adequate, and the program for guests in Banyuwangi is also quite extensive. The cuisine is interesting and diverse," added Ipuk.
Currently, tourists from Bali often find themselves in Banyuwangi on their way to the famous Ijen volcano. Few people know that from this port city, the Pandanwangi train now runs, connecting Jember and Banyuwangi, providing easy access to major tourist destinations in both districts.
In Jember, passengers can enjoy natural attractions such as Tancak waterfall, Papuma beach, and the cool Rembangan area. Or arrange a tour to Mount Bromo and Tumpak Sewu waterfall.
From Banyuwangi, aside from Ijen, one can head to Red Island Beach and Baluran National Park, which Indonesians refer to as 'Africa in Java'.
As for Buleleng, where a second Balinese airport will soon be located, the number of guests is still not as high as local officials would like. Representatives of the Indonesia Home Stay Association (IHSA) and the Buleleng District Tourism Department discussed ways to attract them.
Committee representatives reported plans to hold several festivals and forums on the island's north, combined with the celebration of their organization's three-year anniversary.
— The Homestay Festival (FHN) will take place from Friday to Sunday, May 23–25, 2025. It will showcase the potential of guesthouses from across Indonesia, serving as a platform for promotion, education, and sharing best practices among guest house managers.
— The Folk Economy Exhibition (PEKAN) on May 24–25, 2025. PEKAN will be a platform for local and national small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to present their best products. The goal is to enhance synergy between the tourism sector and the popular economy.
— The Great Journey through Tourist Villages (JELANG DEWI) will take place on May 25, 2025. This will be an expedition for participants to explore the beauty and uniqueness of the tourist villages in Buleleng district. The route is expected to help promote and increase interest in rural tourism.
Representatives of the tourism business are confident that Northern Bali has vast tourist potential. Key areas include:
— Nature and adventure tourism — mountain landscapes, waterfalls, and untouched beaches
— Cultural tourism and traditions — local ceremonies, performing arts, and folk wisdom
— Gastronomic and agro-tourism — local cuisine and participation in agricultural activities
— Creative and wellness tourism — local crafts, yoga, traditional spa programs, and other types of relaxation.
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