A dip in the river: Campuhan Bali

Bathing in the river is a part of traditional Balinese life. You will often see groups of women or groups of men in little streams taking a cooling dip out in nature. The Ubud area is great because it has a rich supply of rivers and streams, plus plenty of shady trees. Close to Pura Gunung Lebah, is the confluence of 2 rivers, the Wos Barat (west) and the Wos Timor (east). My guidebook said that down from Pura Gunung Lebah, were great spots to take a dip. ‘The healthy gurgling of the 2 rivers all but drowns out the thunderous roar of the road traffic and the temple compound gives access to both waterways and to several enticing bathing spots nearby.’ It goes on to say ‘a hibiscus lined path leads down from the west (Campuhan side) temple steps and along the riverbank facing the Hotel Tjampuhan.’

This is the route I took. Seeing as the river was close to the road and the high school, I was expecting a whole crew of locals to be hanging out, with myself becoming the object of interest as soon as I got my shirt off. As I was wondering what to do I had a revelation. WWSD? Sean would wade through the stream butt-naked till he found what he was looking for. The bridge overlooks the river, and hiking downstream in 18 inches deep water, I was able to round a bend and enjoy peace and quiet. I could see the Hotel across the road, but jumped into the cool water wearing just my shorts. Sitting in the rapids, my foot positioned on a rock to stop me getting washed downstream, I was thinking how amazing this was. For very little effort, and no cost, I was able to enjoy a cooling dip, almost in downtown Ubud, just as Balinese have done for hundreds of years. Imagine how tourists would love this, if they could find it! Imagine spending an afternoon here with your partner, enjoying the natural environment in Bali.

After maybe 40 minutes and a great cool-off, I walked along the rocky river and back up to my bike parked on the bridge. Ika is excited to take dip in Wos Barat sometime.