 |
| Goa Gajah - the Elephant Caves |
On Sunday, we went on a tour of several sights around Ubud. However before that, thanks to Michael, he was able to negotiate 2 sarongs for a measly $15.00 instead of one for that price. It pays to be able to speak the language - but pays better when you don't speak it until the end :)
We were picked up at the end of our lane in front of Chili Cafe. There were 3 of us on the tour, me and Michael and a lady from Thailand who quite her job a year ago and has been traveling - twice to India and ending in Bali.
Our first stop was at Goa Gajah - the Elephant Caves. This cave is built into the rock with amazing carvings at the entry. Once inside, there really wasn't much to see, however the surrounding gardens were amazing.
Our next stop was a Batik weaving factory. When speaking to one of the weavers, it takes a full day just to make 3 meters and a month for a roll. A great photo op here and a real appreciation for the hard work that takes place to make these amazing pieces of art (not just material as these are ALL hand made with old fashioned weavers - nothing electronic here).
Next was the second largest temple in Bali (WE FORGOT THE NAME!!) - Beautiful spot with spectacular carvings and colours - we spent about 40 minutes there just taking pictures.
Next was a stop at a coffee and spice plantation - a quick walk through was followed by a sampling of their many types of coffees, including the Civet Coffee - the coffee that is "popped" out of the Civet a small animal similar to a muskrat. Extremely expensive abroad (upwards to $50.00/cup), only cost us $4.00 here. So of course we sampled and it was great - very smooth and full of flavour (coffee flavour that is).
Next stop was a spectacular view of a rice field from ahigh. The rice field is close to the highest volcano in the country called Gunung A Agung. After some great picture taking, we enjoyed a lovely buffet lunch overlooking the fields.
 |
| The Mother Temple |
On to the largest temple in Bali (The Mother Temple) for a walk through - we could only walk around the temple due to the ceremonies taking place inside but it was great to see all the locals in their traditional wear. The temple and surrounding area was beautiful but the people hassling your for money was horrible - it kind of takes away from the experience, especially the guy who got mad at us for only making a $5.00 donation when he said everyone else made a $40-$70 donation - funny how the handwriting in the book all looked the same!! Clearly he needs to learn the definition of DONATION!
Our last stop was the old Temple of Justice - beautiful drawings around the interior with amazing water features surrounding each building.
An hour later and home we were - ready for a rest before a feast of Crispy Duck (a local dish) in town. MMMM... soooo good!!!
Tomorrow, walking, cremation ceremony preparation and jewellery making.
Subscribe by Email
Follow Updates Articles from This Blog via Email
No Comments