Bali Nature Treks is an in-depth, half-day exploration into the heart and soul of Balinese nature and culture. Ida Bagus Ketut Dharma L, a traditional medicine man and artist from the rural Keliki Village, 20 minutes outside of Ubud, leads the 3-hour long trek through the expansive rice paddies, lush forestry and unique villages along the path from Sakti to Keliki. Along the way, Ida Bagus lends his extensive knowledge of indigenous plant life and traditional medicine to intimate groups of no more than six hikers.
Ida Bagus comes from a long line of traditional healers and artists, having learned both the crafts of medicine and painting from his grandfather. He is a talented artist in the ancient tradition of the Keliki style, which features painstakingly detailed pen and ink renditions of images drawn from Balinese rituals, religion and nature. He has been learning this craft since the age of 7 from masterful village painters. Ida Bagus continues this ancient artistic tradition by offering free Keliki art classes for village youth out of his home; he currently has 27 students ranging from the ages of 6 to 16. Ida Bagus hopes to continue the art form by encouraging younger generations to embrace its practice.
The final stop on the hiker’s grand tour is the traditional Balinese home Ida Bagus shares with his wife, Ayu Sukri, and his teenage son. Visitors enjoy a delicious traditional meal prepared by Ayu, whose culinary talents make her a master of an art form in her own right. After lunch, Ida Bagus opens up his extensive gallery of paintings to his visitors, who almost always to leave with a memento from their unforgettable day.
