On August 15, 2025, one of the most famous eco-resorts on the island, Ulaman Eco Luxury Resort, burned down in the village of Buwit in Tabanan. The flames engulfed the buildings during the day, and strong winds accelerated its spread. The fire was highly visible since the complex is located in rice fields, so the first footage from the scene quickly went viral on social media.
The resort was mainly built from bamboo and wood. On its one-hectare territory, there were 37 rooms designed in an 'eco luxury' style — bamboo domes, open lounge areas, and waterfalls within walking distance from the villas. The concept combined a futuristic design with natural materials, which brought Ulaman international awards.
Ulaman Eco Luxury Resort was actively promoted as a unique vacation spot near Canggu — just a few minutes by car, yet away from the noise of the resort area. Guests were promised seclusion, peace, and eco-friendly architecture.
In recent years, this hotel became a significant subject not only in the tourist environment but also in public discussions. In February 2025, a member of the Regional Representatives Council of Indonesia, Ni Luh Djelantik, posted on Instagram a photo taken on a net over water on the resort's premises. Activist Wayan Setiawan then questioned whether this structure and part of the buildings were in a coastal protected zone, where construction is restricted by law.
In response, Djelantik described the resort's philosophy: limited development, maximum of two stories, all buildings made of bamboo, integration with nature, hiring local residents, and rejection of mass construction. She emphasized that such projects support the village economy and preserve the cultural landscape.
Seventeen bamboo villas were burned. Fortunately, none of the residents were present at the time of the fire.
Social media users react differently to the incident: some regret the loss of a beautiful place, others ironically comment on the 'bamboo architecture' and its vulnerability. There are also those who recall past discussions about the legality of certain constructions.
A year ago, Bali experienced a series of fires in similar bamboo and straw eco-hotels. At that time, authorities promised to pay attention to safety protocols during construction.
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