Menjangan Island
A Hidden Paradise in West Bali with an Enchanting Marine Ecosystem
What is Menjangan Island?
Menjangan Island is a tiny island located in the west of Bali, with an area of approximately 15,000 meters x 1,500 meters. As the name suggests, the island is inhabited by a type of wild deer called menjangan, which symbolizes the area. Menjangan Island is part of the West Bali National Park, which was established in 1982.
The most famous of the Menjangan Island area is the beauty of its underwater scenery. This place has been recognized as one of the best diving spots in Bali. The water around the island is blue with beautiful shades of green, coming from the many plankton that thrive in these waters. On the seabed, you will find colorful coral reefs and various types of fish swimming freely, creating a natural and stunning underwater scenery.
In addition to its underwater natural beauty, Menjangan Island is also known for a number of temples scattered over the island, one of which is the famous Gili Menjangan Temple, which was built naturally and has become a sacred place for the local community.
This unique bay around Menjangan Island has become a favorite location for photographers, underwater filmmakers, researchers and marine biologists from around the world.
Location And Route
Menjangan Island is located to the northeast of West Bali National Park, separated only by an ocean from Bali Island. It is located in Sumber Klampok, Gerokgak, Buleleng Regency, Bali. Menjangan Island is very small and separated from mainland Bali, so you will need to use a boat to cross to the island.
Labuhan Lalang Harbor, located in the tourist area of North Bali, is the main crossing point to Menjangan Island. From Labuhan Lalang Harbor, the boat trip to Menjangan Island takes about 30 minutes.
If you are driving from different parts of Bali, here are the approximate travel times to Labuhan Lalang Harbor:
- From Canggu, the journey is about 134 km or 3 hours 15 minutes.
- From Nusa Dua, the journey is about 156 km or 3 hours 50 minutes.
- From Pandawa Beach, the journey is about 162 km or 4 hours.
Exciting Activities on Menjangan
There are various exciting activities you can do on Menjangan Island to complete your vacation. It is because of these interesting activities that this area is included in Buleleng Interesting Places to Visit, which is suitable to be included in your vacation itinerary. Here are some exciting activities that you can try:
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
The main attraction of Menjangan Island is its underwater beauty, which is rich in natural coral reefs and a variety of cute little fish. You can choose snorkeling around the jetty or cliffs to enjoy the stunning underwater scenery, or scuba diving for a more in-depth experience.
- Horse Riding at Menjangan Resort
Horse riding activities can also be enjoyed at Menjangan Resort. You will be trained to ride a horse around the landing area and taken around the Menjangan forest area. This activity is ideal to do in the morning or afternoon when the sun is not too hot.
- Kayaking
You can go kayaking through the bakung forest area or even to the Banyuwedang hot springs. This activity can be done alone or with a guide who is available to accompany you.
- Deer Spotting
The wild deer that inhabit Menjangan Island are used to roaming around the island. However, keep in mind not to feed the deer in order to maintain the balance of the ecosystem.
- Odyssey Experience
If you want to enjoy the underwater beauty without having to dive, you can try the Odyssey submarine. This submarine allows you to explore the seabed and enjoy spectacular underwater views from inside the boat.
Uniqueness and Attractiveness of Menjangan Island
Menjangan Island offers a variety of stunning and unique natural beauty, here are some of its main attractions summarized by Bali Touristic:
- Eye-pleasing Natural Scenery
Upon arrival at Menjangan Island, you will immediately be greeted with an extraordinary natural scenery. Clean white sand and beaches with stunning blue and green color gradations will spoil your eyes. This beauty is perfect for enjoying the tranquility and getting away from the hustle and bustle.
- Unique Sea Beauty
The beauty of the seabed of Menjangan Island is very distinctive, with cliffs that make up the seabed. In these waters, you can do various exciting water activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving. One of the other uniqueness that can be found while diving is the wreck of Anker (slave ship) stranded on the seabed. The marine ecosystem around the island is still very well preserved, with beautiful coral reefs and a variety of small fish swimming around.
- Beautiful and Quiet Environment
Menjangan Island has a very beautiful and calm atmosphere, making it a very favorable place for tourists who want to enjoy nature in peace. The island is uninhabited, so you can get around safely and comfortably. In addition, Menjangan Island is also inhabited by unique animals, such as deer, starlings and deer. Some temple buildings are also found on the island, adding to the uniqueness of this tourist spot.
Ticket Prices, Opening Hours, And Facilities
- Ticket Price:
- Indonesian Entrance Ticket: IDR 15,000 per person
- Foreigner Entrance Ticket: IDR 200,000 per person
- Boat Rental: IDR 550,000 per boat
- Guide Rental: IDR 250,000 per guide
- Insurance Fee: IDR 4,000
- Snorkeling Equipment Rental: IDR 40,000
- Life Jacket Rental: IDR 25,000
- Operating Hours: Menjangan Island is accessible every day, and is open 24 hours. It is recommended to visit the island in the morning or evening, as the natural scenery will be different at both times, providing a more mesmerizing experience.
- Facilities: The facilities available on Menjangan Island are quite adequate, including clean toilets, Rinse bathrooms and changing rooms, Gazebo for a place to rest, and Some lodging areas around the harbor
Tips and Important Things to Note on Menjangan Island
- Change of Clothes and Equipment: Bring a change of clothes if you want to swim, snorkel or dive, and a waterproof bag for your belongings.
- Hire a Guide: If you are a beginner, hire a guide for snorkeling or diving for safety and the ecosystem.
- Best Time: Visit between April-November for sunnier weather and calm seas.
- Cash: Prepare cash as there are no ATMs on the island.
- Marine Safety: Always wear a safety jacket when doing activities at sea.
- Sun Protection: Use sunscreen and head coverings when outdoors.
