More than 650 tree species have
been recorded in the park, and there are 459 different wild and
propagated orchids, including some rare ones collected from the
nearby forest. Visitors interested to learn more are welcome to
call in at the Information Center, although it pays to take a
guide, as the staffs do not speak fluent English.
The temperate climate, abundant rainfall and rich volcanic soils
make the crater ideal for market gardening. In the early 1970s
most local farmers cut out their coffee gardens and started growing
vegetables. Now the Bedugul gardens supply the huge Denpasar markets
and hotel resorts with fresh cabbages, carrots, onions, strawberries,
passion fruit and other fresh fruits and vegetables.
Flower growing has also proved profitable, and bemo-loads of freshly
cut roses, lilies, gardenias and gladioli are sent southwards
at dawn. Nursery gardens and orchid shelters have sprung up all
over the valley.
Stop at the produce and plant market to see tier after tier of
exotic flowering plants. Women here call out to passers-by in
a new language. "Dendrobium? Azalea? You buy orchid, madam?"
Tropical golf and mountain hikes
Some will find this the last word on Bali as a paradise. At the
northern end of the Bedugul crater is one of the most beautiful
golf courses in the world, designed by famous golf architects
Thompson, Wolveridge and Fream. This is the Bali Handara Country
Club, an 18-hole masterpiece with lush green fairways and the
fastest greens you are likely to find anywhere. Trees and beds
of colorful flowers line the fairways, and there is a spacious
clubhouse, complete with pro shop, sauna and fitness center, and
a restaurant. Open to the public except on tournament days, the
course is playable all year round, with no problems of advance
booking.
For those who enjoy nature more without whacking a little white
ball around, there are many delightful bush walks in the vicinity
of Bedugul. Guides are available at the Bedugul Hotel. They don't
speak much English, but they know every inch of the countryside.
One exhilarating hike takes you to the peak of Mt Mangu, on the
southeastern side of Lake Bratan. It is a 6 hour walk. At the
peak is an ancient temple, Pura Pucak, built by the first raja
of Mengwi. The view is spectacular.
Another walk begins at the northernmost end of the botanical gardens.
There is a good wide path here, so it is safe without a guide.
It leads across the foothills of Mt Tapak to the northern end
of the valley. The 8 km path emerges in the midst of vegetable
gardens to greet the main road at Pancasari village.
There is a further walk passing up and behind Mt Tapak through
dense jungle to a waterfall on this other side. This is a long
and steep climb and should only be ventured with a local guide.
So set off early and bring food. Nature lovers will find it well
worth the effort.
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