Bunut Bolong
A Sacred Banyan Tree with a Mysterious Hole in its Trunk
What is Bunut Bolong Tree?
Bunut Bolong Tree comes from the word bunut which means banyan tree, and bolong which means hole. This giant tree has a large hole in its trunk that is wide enough for vehicles to pass through. Located right on the road, this tree is highly sanctified by the locals. Believed to date back centuries, the tree looks very old with an impressive trunk structure. Bunut Bolong has become an icon in the West Bali region and attracts many tourists to witness its uniqueness. In addition, the tree has a deep cultural value and is considered a sacred place by the locals as it is believed that the tree is a pathway for humans and spirits. Rituals and ceremonies are often held around this meaningful tree.
Location of Bunut Bolong
This large hollow tree is located in Manggisari Village, Pekutatan District, Jembrana Regency. You can reach it by vehicle about 49 km from the city of Negara and about 86 km from the center of Denpasar. The Bunut Bolong tree serves as a highway that is traversed by various types of vehicles. Around this area, you will also find an ancient temple surrounded by unspoiled lush forest. From the location of this tree, tourists can enjoy the stunning panorama of the sea to the south, as well as the beauty of the mountains to the north. Along the way, you will feel the atmosphere of the beautiful countryside, with clove plantations and refreshing fruits. This location is also close to the Rambut Siwi Temple, adding to the tourist attraction around Bunut Bolong.
Myths and Taboos of Bunut Bolong
The Bunut Bolong tree has a myth that is believed by the local community. In 1928, the village was hit by a deadly disease, and the village elders meditated under this large tree to ask for guidance. They asked for help, and eventually, the village that was originally located on the north side of the tree moved to the south side of the tree. Miraculously, the disease subsided, and the community came to believe that the Bunut Bolong tree had magical powers. To this day, the tree remains sacred and guarded by local residents.
There are several taboos that must be respected by residents to prevent unwanted things from happening. One of them is that bridal couples who will hold a wedding are prohibited from passing through this tree hole, because it is believed that their marriage will be canceled. In addition, cars carrying corpses or ceremonial processions are also prohibited from passing through this tree and are advised to use alternative routes.
Despite the restrictions and taboos in this area, it is precisely this that makes it one of the popular tourist destinations, especially for those who want to witness a rare natural phenomenon firsthand. With a magical and spiritual aura that is so thick, Bali Touristic makes Bunut Bolong Tree worth visiting by tourists who want to explore the history and spirituality of this tree. As one of the Jembrana Interesting Places to Visit, tourists can experience the uniqueness of this tree firsthand.
Visitors are expected to always maintain politeness and respect local customs, considering that this area is considered sacred by the surrounding community. Until now, Bunut Bolong remains a sacred symbol that reminds us of traditional Balinese values, which are always connected to the magical nature of Bali and our lives.
Tips for Visiting Bunut Bolong Attraction
- It is recommended to come in the morning or evening, because at that time the atmosphere is more comfortable and beautiful, with less sunlight.
- Always keep the surrounding area clean by not littering, especially in this sacred area.
- Respect any prohibitions or taboos that have been passed down from generation to generation, to avoid unwanted things.
- Visiting tourists can make donations as they wish. However, during religious ceremonies or holidays, a fee of around IDR 5,000 will be charged to take pictures around this tree.
