Living on the south of Bali, it's common to occasionally lament that the island's nature isn't what it used to be, with much of it built up and lacking its former authenticity. For those yearning for true nature and vast green expanses, there's Amed.
It began developing quite recently. Just a couple of years ago, Amed lacked decent internet access. Additionally, Amed is saved from an excess of tourists by its sufficient distance from tourist hotspots. It takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to drive here from Kuta.
But if you've made the journey, then enjoy the green expanses to your heart's content. Because in the vicinity of Amed, there are several great routes to explore where you can imbibe the spirit of adventure, freedom, and romance.
The hills around the Lempuyang Temple, like Mount Agung, are the landscape dominants of Amed and its surroundings. If you're in Amed and planning to visit the temple, try to choose the eastern road instead of the western one that leads to it from the west.
Most tourists travel to the temple complex via the western road. The road from Amed isn't particularly interesting, except for the Berina rice terraces. However, you may have already seen them when traveling to Amed from the south.
Try to visit the Lempuyang Temple from the eastern side. The road starts from the Grill restaurant and initially goes through a valley with a slight incline. On both sides of the road, there are ridges of hills, and on the right, there is a valley with rice terraces and a bubbling mountain stream. Along the way, there are many places where you can stop and take photos.
Past the Protestant church, the road inclines and winds uphill. However, in terms of difficulty, it's no more challenging than the roads on Nusa Penida. It's covered with good quality asphalt and doesn't ascend steeper than 30-35 degrees.
Please consider the following basic safety measures when riding on mountain roads to ensure your journey is safe:
- Avoid speeding.
- Ride only bikes with properly functioning brakes.
- Use both brakes when descending.
- Realistically assess your bike's load. For instance, two 100-kilogram individuals on a Honda 115 is not a good idea.
- Avoid riding on mountain roads during or after heavy rain, as landslides may occur.
- If you pass by a section where the asphalt has collapsed, choose the part of the road farthest from the edge.
- Signal before approaching a sharp turn.
To say that this road is poetic and inspiring would be an understatement. It leads you past mountain peaks, through forests where the air is fresh and clear.
As you approach the Lempuyang Temple, you'll see a long line of parked cars and crowds of tourists who have come here for selfies. And in your eyes, there will be a secret, the knowledge of the beautiful adventure that preceded your arrival.
Wishing you delightful adventures!
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