The Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia is mapping Karangasem’s rich cultural and natural attractions to drive sustainable tourism growth beyond South Bali.
On Saturday, the 8th of March, Deputy Minister of Tourism Ni Luh Puspa visited the Karangasem area, exploring several tourist destinations, including the Samsara Living Museum, Tirta Gangga, Puri Agung Karangasem, and Tenganan Pegringsingan Tourism Village.
“I see the importance of developing tourism beyond South Bali, as Bali is not just about the south—it also has eastern and northern regions that we must strengthen,” said Puspa.
According to her, Karangasem has significant potential for developing nature- and culture-based tourism that can attract more visitors. The Samsara Living Museum, for instance, offers unique activities such as pratiti reading, making traditional lak-lak cakes and jamu, and writing literary works on lontar leaves. Meanwhile, Tenganan Pegringsingan Tourism Village serves as a prime example of how tourism can coexist harmoniously with environmental preservation, local customs, and cultural heritage.
Puspa emphasised that collaboration with the local government is essential to support the development of the tourism sector in the East Bali area. Responding to this, the Regent of Karangasem, I Gusti Putu Parwata, welcomed this development plan, expressing his commitment to enhancing the tourism sector in his region to make it more appealing to visitors.
“Karangasem’s tourism potential is vast and presents great growth opportunities. We will also coordinate with the central government regarding the tourism development plan,” stated Parwata.