- THOUGH it is a bit sneaky, the roads at off-beaten track in southern Tabanan is indeed challenging but pleasant
- You will be pampered by wonderful natural scenery of beaches and overlay of paddy fields and surely you can encounter various people’s activities
The spread of verdant paddy field will surely not make you get bored with those very same destinations. One day, you can try to consider for having an off-beaten track in Southern Bali. Probably, the road may be slightly sneaky and have different smoothness, unlike the national road of Denpasar to Gilimanuk (westernmost part of Bali).
When starting from Tanah Lot, turn right on the traffic light of Tanah Lot from Denpasar. Then, take first left turn at the local traditional market. It would be better if you go by riding a motorbike or scooter as you can stop everywhere. However, please be noted that the roads at countryside are not so wide.
You will pass through Yeh Gangga and Kedungu Beach. They are black sandy and slightly stony beach. Nevertheless, they are deserted beaches and can be alternative for crowd beaches in Badung areas. On Kedungu Beach, there are also some guests trying to conquer the waves through surfing activities.
Before Tanggungtiti village, you will cross the Yeh Hoo River on a semi-permanent bridge. In other words, the bridge is slightly low and without side barriers. But do not worry, in normal river stream it is okay and safe to cross. However, if wishing to enjoy the beauty of the river, it is worth using for a stopoaver to take some pictures.
Throughout the journey, your eyes will be pampered with beautiful nature and countryside activities. There are also many temples, village halls, unique huts amid paddy fields.
When traveling during paddy season, you will encounter some munias or cereal eater birds. If they flock and savour farmers’ paddy, they will suffer losses. It’s a pity for farmers if they do. It would be better for you to help them dismiss the birds while passing. You have done small thing but important to them. You are not a tourist but a traveler because you have direct impact on them. Just like a friend from somewhere and then dropping in and lending a hand.
However, when farmers are cultivating their land the bird population encountered will be different. They may be various herons, spotted doves and Javan kingfishers.
Under clear sky, the panorama will be really wonderful. Just imagine, around you is green while in the north blue mountain and blue hills in the west.
Next villages to be passed through are Tegalmengkeb, Klecung, Bebali and Antap. At Tegalmengkeb, you can choose three paths consisting of two paths of subak made of concrete and another is village path. Make sure the river between Klecung and Bebali is not flooded because the path is quite low. When floods, you may not cross the river as stream is swift.
Then, from Bebali to Antap Kelod you will pass through subak path. It means that it remains narrow and made of concrete. So, it is difficult for vehicles to pass from two directions. If you happen to drive a car, you must turn right in front of auxiliary public health center and take the bridge in front of Dalem Temple of Antap Kaja. However, if you ride a motorbike you can take this path or turn left heading for the suspension bridge in front of Dalem Temple of Antap Kelod. Both paths will take you to Banjar Soka, right on the Denpasar-Gilimanuk highway.
Surfers staying in Kuta or Kerobokan areas usually take this route when heading for Balian Beach or Medewi Beach. It can be alternative route from Denpasar to Gilimanuk. Commuter workers from West Selemadeg and surrounding area usually take advantage of this shortcut route to work in Denpasar or Kuta areas. When missing, you can consult to your Google Map or ask to local people.
