Bali is, according to Tripadvisor, the number 1 highest ranking tourist destination in the world.
Safe to say, we live in one of the most loved and explored islands in the 21st century. Yet… Who can say they’ve really seen Bali. Who can even say they’ve seen Seminyak? Seminyak alone grows a new fashionable clothing outlet every 5 minutes! But today we’re not talking about our dear bustling Seminyak.
No, this time I want to show you Muntigunung.
If you’re familiar with Bali beyond Kuta and Canggu you’re certainly aware of how absolutely stunning the mountainous ranges of Kintamani are, with its jaw dropping views of Mount Batur, and the equally amazing caldera below. There are so many incredible vantage points from which to enjoy the region’s natural charms… But believe me when I say they do NOT compare to what you see from Muntigunung. Landscapes so grand that my camera couldn’t do them justice, it’s just not possible to convey, you need to experience it for yourselves. It is an absolute must for fans of trekking.
However, Muntigunung is unlike any normal place or trekking group. Muntigunung is an extensive “Community Social Enterprise” (in their own words) built and run by locals to aim towards a brighter future for the people in its community. As recent as 2006 Muntigunung was in a dire situation, with minimal access to water due to the Geography and few opportunities for work, many in Muntigunung had to resort to begging on the streets. Realising that this could not go on, in collaboration with the Future for Children (Swiss NGO) and Yayasan Dian Desa they manifested the Muntigunung Community Development Program. Now, almost two decades later, Muntigunung is beyond recognition. Where once there stood a village ravaged by seemingly hopeless poverty there is now a thriving community that locals can truly feel proud of. With a diverse economy including farm products such as nuts, dried fruits, moringa and more, as well as handicrafts such as batik, hammocks, bags and pouches. The work keeps the people of Muntigunung off the street and able to provide for themselves and their families, while providing a great social life! Water is hardly a problem anymore either, as they have now constructed numerous rain wells to provide enough fresh drinking water for the entire village.
What’s that? Trekking? OH right, I got a bit sidetracked didn’t I. Well, you see, this Muntigunung community is in a GORGEOUS spot, and I don’t say that lightly. It may as well have the best view in Bali. But do you want to know the best part? It’s basically under the radar, and they limit trekking groups to two a day! Not only do you get to witness one of the greatest stories in Bali, you also get very private access to an extremely special place in the world.
When visitors say they want to experience real Bali, I say Muntigunung.