4.9 / 5

West Bali National Park
📍 Jl. Raya Cekik, Gilimanuk, Jembrana 82253View map ›

🗓 Best Time To Visit:April to September, during the dry season.

⏰ Open Hours:Open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

🏞 Things To Do:Bird watching, snorkeling, trekking, diving, exploring mangrove forests.

💰 Entry Fees:Foreign visitors: IDR 200,000 per person, Local visitors: IDR 40,000 per person.

🧳 Traveller Types:Nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, photographers.

🔎 Known For:Being home to around 160 species of birds, including the endangered Bali Starling.

🚉 Distances:Approximately 150 km from Denpasar Airport, 130 km from Ubud.

🐾 Wildlife:Home to Javan Rusa deer, wild boar, macaques and the endangered Bali Starling.

🚶 Trekking Trails:Taman Nasional Bali Barat has several trails, guided tours recommended.

🌊 Water Activities:Snorkeling and diving at Menjangan Island.

📌 Tips:Ensure to wear comfortable shoes for trekking, apply sunscreen and carry water.

Have questions about West Bali National Park?Ask the Tripoto Community ›

West Bali National Park: A Guide to Bali's Hidden Gem

Are you looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Bali? Do you want to escape the crowds and explore the natural beauty and wildlife of the island? If yes, then you should visit West Bali National Park, one of the most amazing and diverse destinations in Bali.

West Bali National Park is a large and protected area that covers about 10% of the western tip of Bali. It is home to a variety of ecosystems, such as mangrove forests, coral reefs, savannas, rainforests, and mountains. It is also the habitat of the endemic and endangered Bali starling, the symbol of the park and the island.

In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about West Bali National Park, such as its history, conservation, highlights, activities, and accommodation options. You will also discover some tips and advice on how to make the most of your visit to this hidden gem of Bali.

The Highlights of West Bali National Park

West Bali National Park has many attractions and features that will amaze and delight you. Here are some of the highlights of the park that you should not miss:

The Diverse Ecosystems of West Bali National Park

West Bali National Park has a rich and varied biodiversity that reflects the different habitats and climates of the park. You can find more than 300 species of plants, 160 species of birds, 25 species of mammals, and 14 species of reptiles in the park. Some of the rare and endemic species that you can encounter are the Javan rusa deer, the black giant squirrel, the Javan lutung, Bali tiger, and of course, the Bali starling.

The park also has a stunning and diverse landscape that ranges from coastal to mountainous. You can admire the scenic views of the Indian Ocean, the Bali Strait, the Java Sea, and the Bali Barat Peninsula from various points in the park. You can also explore the different ecosystems of the park, such as the mangrove forests, the coral reefs, the savannas, the rainforests, and the mountains.

The Endemic and Endangered Bali Starling

The Bali starling, also known as the Bali myna or the Rothschild's mynah, is a small and beautiful white bird with a black mask and a blue patch around its eyes. It is the only endemic bird of Bali and one of the most endangered birds in the world. It is also the symbol of West Bali National Park and the island of Bali.

The Bali starling was discovered in 1910 by the German ornithologist Erwin Stresemann. He named it Leucopsar rothschildi after the British zoologist Walter Rothschild, who sponsored his expedition. The Bali starling was first described in 1912 by the British ornithologist Lord Rothschild in his book Extinct Birds.

The Bali starling is native to the dry monsoon forests of West Bali National Park, where it feeds on fruits, insects, and seeds. It is a social and vocal bird that lives in small flocks and nests in tree cavities. It has a distinctive and melodious song that can be heard from a distance.

The Bali starling is critically endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and predation. The population of the wild Bali starling has declined drastically over the years, reaching a low of less than 10 individuals in 2001. Since then, various conservation efforts have been implemented to protect and restore the Bali starling population, such as captive breeding, reintroduction, habitat restoration, and community education. As of 2020, the estimated population of the wild Bali starling is about 200 individuals.

The Four Peaks of West Bali National Park

West Bali National Park has four peaks that offer spectacular views and challenging hikes. The four peaks are:

Gunung Patas, the highest peak of the park at 1,414 meters above sea level. It is located in the northwestern part of the park and offers a panoramic view of the Bali Strait, the Java Sea, and the island of Java. It takes about 6 hours to hike to the summit and back.

Gunung Klatakan, the second highest peak of the park at 1,239 meters above sea level. It is located in the northeastern part of the park and offers a scenic view of the Bali Barat Peninsula, the Indian Ocean, and the island of Menjangan. It takes about 5 hours to hike to the summit and back.

Gunung Merbuk, the third highest peak of the park at 1,038 meters above sea level. It is located in the central part of the park and offers a stunning view of the rainforest, the savanna, and the Bali starling sanctuary. It takes about 4 hours to hike to the summit and back.

Gunung Sangiang, the fourth highest peak of the park at 956 meters above sea level. It is located in the southwestern part of the park and offers a breathtaking view of the mangrove forest, the coral reef, and the island of Menjangan. It takes about 3 hours to hike to the summit and back.

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The Four Islets of West Bali National Park

West Bali National Park has four islets that are part of its marine protected area. The four islets are:

Menjangan Island, the largest and most popular islet of the park. It is located about 10 kilometers northwest of the mainland and covers an area of about 3.8 square kilometers. It is famous for its pristine and diverse coral reefs, which are home to more than 100 species of coral and 200 species of fish. It is also known for its historical and religious sites, such as the Segara Giri Dharma Kencana Temple and the Deer Statue. It is accessible by boat from Labuhan Lalang or Banyuwedang.

Gili Selang, the second largest and most remote islet of the park. It is located about 20 kilometers east of the mainland and covers an area of about 0.6 square kilometers. It is renowned for its challenging and rewarding diving spots, which feature steep walls, caves, and currents. It is also a nesting site for sea turtles and a feeding ground for dolphins and whales. It is accessible by boat from Amed or Tulamben.

Gili Tangkong, the third largest and most secluded islet of the park. It is located about 15 kilometers west of the mainland and covers an area of about 0.4 square kilometers. It is a haven for snorkelers and birdwatchers, who can enjoy the clear and calm waters and the rich and varied birdlife. It is also a breeding site for the Bali starling and a roosting site for the black-naped tern. It is accessible by boat from Pemuteran or Banyuwedang.

Gili Gelam, the smallest and most hidden islet of the park. It is located about 12 kilometers southwest of the mainland and covers an area of about 0.2 square kilometers. It is a paradise for adventurers and explorers, who can discover the untouched and unspoiled nature and wildlife of the islet. It is also a sanctuary for the Javan rusa deer and the black giant squirrel. It is accessible by boat from Pemuteran or Banyuwedang.

The History and Conservation of West Bali National Park

West Bali National Park has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the prehistoric times. It also has a vital and ongoing role in the conservation of the natural and cultural heritage of Bali. Here are some of the historical and conservation facts and events of the park that you should know:

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The Discovery of the Bali Starling

The Bali starling was discovered in 1910 by the German ornithologist Erwin Stresemann, who was part of an expedition sponsored by the British zoologist Walter Rothschild. The expedition was led by the Dutch naturalist Hugo Schauinsland, who was the director of the Bremen Natural History Museum. The expedition explored the western part of Bali, where they collected specimens of plants and animals, including the Bali starling.

The Bali starling was first described in 1912 by Lord Rothschild in his book Extinct Birds. He named it Leucopsar rothschildi after himself, as he was the owner of the largest private collection of birds in the world. He also donated some of the specimens to the British Museum and the Smithsonian Institution.

The Establishment of West Bali National Park

West Bali National Park was established in 1941 by the Dutch colonial government, who designated the area as a nature reserve. The reserve was named Bali Barat Nature Reserve, which means West Bali Nature Reserve in Indonesian. The reserve covered an area of about 19,000 hectares and was mainly aimed at protecting the Bali starling and its habitat.

In 1970, the Indonesian government expanded the reserve to include the marine and coastal areas, increasing the total area to about 77,000 hectares. The reserve was then renamed West Bali National Park, which is the name that is still used today. The park was officially inaugurated in 1982 by the Indonesian president Suharto.

Visiting Ancient Temples in West Bali National Park

If you are a fan of culture and history, you will appreciate visiting ancient temples in West Bali National Park. The park has several temples that date back to the 14th and 15th centuries, which reflect the Hindu and Buddhist influences in the island. You can also learn about the local beliefs and traditions that are associated with the temples and the park. Some of the most remarkable temples in the park are:

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Segara Giri Dharma Kencana Temple, which is a Hindu temple that is located on Menjangan Island. It is dedicated to the god of the sea, Baruna, and the goddess of prosperity, Lakshmi. It is also a pilgrimage site for the Balinese Hindus, who come to pray and make offerings. The temple has a unique and impressive architecture, which features a towering and colorful gate, a stone staircase, and a statue of a deer.

Deer Statue, which is a Buddhist monument that is located on Menjangan Island. It is a large and white statue of a deer that stands on a pedestal and faces the sea. It is believed to be a symbol of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, the embodiment of compassion and mercy. It is also a landmark and a photo spot for the visitors of the island.

Pulaki Temple, which is a Hindu temple that is located near the park entrance. It is dedicated to the god of war, Shiva, and the god of wind, Hanuman. It is also a sacred site for the Balinese Hindus, who come to worship and celebrate. The temple has a majestic and scenic location, which overlooks the ocean and the mountains. It is also surrounded by hundreds of long-tailed macaques, who are considered as the guardians of the temple.

The Best Places to Stay near West Bali National Park

West Bali National Park has a variety of accommodation options that will suit your budget and preferences. Whether you are looking for a cheap and cozy hotel, a mid-range and comfortable hotel, a luxury and elegant hotel, or a self-catering and spacious villa, you will find something that will make your stay near the park pleasant and convenient. Here are some of the best places to stay near West Bali National Park that you should consider:

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Budget Hotels near West Bali National Park

If you are looking for a budget and cozy hotel near West Bali National Park, you can choose from these options:

Mimpi Resort Menjangan, which is a 3-star hotel that is located on the beachfront of Menjangan Island. It offers simple and clean rooms with air conditioning, TV, minibar, and private bathroom. It also has a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a pool, and a dive center. The price per night is about $40.

Sumberkima Hill Retreat, which is a 3-star hotel that is located on the hillside of Sumberkima Village. It offers rustic and charming bungalows with fan, mosquito net, balcony, and shared bathroom. It also has a restaurant, a yoga pavilion, a pool, and a garden. The price per night is about $30.

Naya Gawana Resort and Spa, which is a 3-star hotel that is located on the waterfront of Banyuwedang Bay. It offers traditional and spacious rooms with air conditioning, TV, minibar, and private bathroom. It also has a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a pool, and a jetty. The price per night is about $20.

Mid-Range Hotels near West Bali National Park

If you are looking for a mid-range and comfortable hotel near West Bali National Park, you can choose from these options:

Plataran Menjangan Resort and Spa, which is a 4-star hotel that is located on the beachfront of Menjangan Island. It offers luxurious and modern rooms with air conditioning, TV, minibar, and private bathroom. It also has a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a pool, and a dive center. The price per night is about $100.

The Menjangan, which is a 4-star hotel that is located on the edge of the park. It offers stylish and cozy rooms with air conditioning, TV, minibar, and private bathroom. It also has a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a pool, and a stable. The price per night is about $80.

Taman Sari Bali Resort and Spa, which is a 4-star hotel that is located on the beachfront of Pemuteran Village. It offers elegant and spacious rooms with air conditioning, TV, minibar, and private bathroom. It also has a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a pool, and a dive center. The price per night is about $60.

Luxury Hotels near West Bali National Park

If you are looking for a luxury and elegant hotel near West Bali National Park, you can choose from these options:

The Westin Resort and Spa, which is a 5-star hotel that is located on the beachfront of Banyuwedang Bay. It offers sophisticated and lavish rooms with air conditioning, TV, minibar, and private bathroom. It also has a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a pool, and a golf course. The price per night is about $200.

Waka Shorea Resort, which is a 5-star hotel that is located on the beachfront of Menjangan Island. It offers exquisite and exclusive rooms with air conditioning, TV, minibar, and private bathroom. It also has a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a pool, and a dive center. The price per night is about $150.

Menjangan Dynasty Resort, which is a 5-star hotel that is located on the cliffside of Banyuwedang Bay. It offers glamorous and spacious rooms with air conditioning, TV, minibar, and private bathroom. It also has a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a pool, and a glamping site. The price per night is about $120.

Self-Catering Villas near West Bali National Park

If you are looking for a self-catering and spacious villa near West Bali National Park, you can choose from these options:

Villa Manuk, which is a 4-bedroom villa that is located on the hillside of Sumberkima Village. It offers a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, a living area, a terrace, and a garden. It also has a pool, a gazebo, a barbecue, and a view of the ocean and the mountains. The price per night is about $200.

Villa Beten Bukit, which is a 3-bedroom villa that is located on the hillside of Sumberkima Village. It offers a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, a living area, a balcony, and a garden. It also has a pool, a jacuzzi, a sauna, and a view of the ocean and the mountains. The price per night is about $150.

Villa Semadhi, which is a 4-bedroom villa that is located on the beachfront of Pemuteran Village. It offers a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, a living area, a veranda, and a garden. It also has a pool, a pavilion, a boat, and a view of the ocean and the island. The price per night is about $100.

West Bali National Park is a hidden gem of Bali that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for nature and wildlife lovers. It has a rich and varied biodiversity, a stunning and diverse landscape, a long and fascinating history, and a vital and ongoing role in conservation. It also has a wide range of activities and experiences that will suit your preferences and interests, such as diving, snorkelling, trekking, cycling, birding, wildlife watching, and visiting ancient temples.

It also has a variety of accommodation options that will suit your budget and preferences, such as budget hotels, mid-range hotels, luxury hotels, and self-catering villas.

If you are interested in visiting West Bali National Park, you can book your trip with Tripoto, the leading online travel platform that connects travelers with local experts and guides.

You can also subscribe to our newsletter, follow us on social media, or contact us for more information. We hope you enjoyed this article and we hope to see you soon in West Bali National Park. Thank you for reading and happy travels!

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