Buleleng

Buleleng is a regency (kabupaten) of Bali, Indonesia. It was founded as a kingdom by Gusti Panji Sakti, who ruled c. 1660-c. 1700. It is both physically and culturally the "other side of Bali". Long isolated from the south by the central volcanic ridge and vast expanse of primary forest, it has developed unique social and cultural features. The Buleleng regency stretches across almost the whole of the northern part of Bali. The area generally consists of steep mountain slopes plunging down into a narrow coastal plain. Ancient beads dating back 2,000 years were recently discovered in Pacung, 40km east of Singaraja the first sign of Indian trade with the Indonesian archipelago. And small stupa effigies showing signs of a Buddhist presence have been unearthed in Lovina, where 6th century Buddhist monks landed and settled, eventually traveling south to where their culture blossomed, 200 years later. These discoveries bear witness to the role of early sea routes in the history of Buleleng, the first region to be colonized by the Dutch.

The City of Singaraja was the capital of Bali during Dutch times. Today it is a mix of Muslim kampung, Chinese shops, tree-lined avenues of colonial houses and neo-Balinese government offices. There is a Chinese temple (klenteng) near the harbour, not far from Kajanan mosque, whose mirhab pulpit has an interesting combination of Moslem and Balinese decorative motifs. The Balinese elements of the city appear pushed to the periphery of the city while traditional traders-the Bugis and the Chinese-occupy its centre. To the south of Singaraja, you'll find Gitgit Waterfall, Bali's highest.

Tourists looking for a quiet beach resort can head for Lovina, a long stretch of beach is safe and a perfect place for swimming and snorkeling. Lovina also offers dolphin viewing. It is the perfect base from which to explore northern Bali. West from Lovina, the coastal road passes through the small towns of Banjar and Seririt. Banjar is home to the only Buddhist monastery named Brahma Vihara Arama on Bali. The monastery, a blend of Balinese and mainland Southeast Asian architecture, offers a stunning panorama down to the sea. Banjar also offers Hot Springs popular with both locals and tourists. Up the road, driving from the dry coastal area to increasingly lush landscape, you will arrive at the small village of Pedawa, with unique shrines made from bamboo.