Nestled on the forested slopes of Mt Batukaru in central Bali, the Besikalung Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected haven for endangered birds and animals. The sanctuary is home to leaf monkeys, macaques, and a rich variety of native bird species.
This initiative brings together five nearby villages and nine farmers’ groups who have implemented traditional regulations to protect wildlife across this zone. It is the first wildlife sanctuary in Bali to be established by private enterprise and covers part of the island’s largest remaining forest—spanning a 5km radius from the famous Besikalung Temple.
Over the years, we’ve released dozens of birds, including white-vented mynahs and peaceful doves, and have undertaken extensive tree planting and forest monitoring. The sanctuary borders the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, and we are now preparing to collaborate with UNESCO on a project to preserve the subak—Bali’s ancient 1,000-year-old traditional irrigation system that sustains these iconic rice fields.
Location
Besikalung is a peaceful rural area in central Bali, nestled on the slopes of Mount Batukaru. Surrounded by lush rainforest and rice terraces, it offers an authentic glimpse of traditional Balinese life. The region is also home to the Besikalung Wildlife Sanctuary, where conservation efforts protect endangered species and local ecosystems.
Project Tasks
- Bird monitoring/nestbox maintenance in the Besikalung temple area where the Bali Starlings are released (in the morning and afternoon)
- Assisting/participating in the scheduled Integrated agriculture system
- Assisting/participating in farmer activities. We suggest you bring boots due to activities in the rice fields
- Conducting fish farming as part of sustainable agriculture initiatives
- Teaching English for the village staff.
- Vanilla (vanili) breeding and harvest activities with local farmers
No special equipment required, just an enthusiam for nature and to get stuck in!
