About West Bali National Park
West Bali National Park is a protected conservation area covering approximately 190 square kilometres in northwestern Bali, spanning Jembrana and Buleleng regencies. Established in 1941, it is Bali's only national park and preserves diverse ecosystems including savanna, monsoon forest, mangroves and coral reefs around Menjangan Island. It is notable as the last natural habitat of the critically endangered Bali starling and offers trekking, birdwatching, snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a large protected natural area with savanna, dense monsoon forest, mangrove coastline and offshore coral reefs. The main visitor hub is at Cekik near Gilimanuk with a park office and information centre. Exploration is by guided trekking on designated trails, birdwatching for the Bali starling and other wildlife, and boat trips to Menjangan Island for snorkeling and diving on well-preserved reefs. Facilities are basic and focused on nature-based activities.
Key highlights
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Only national park in Bali covering 190 sq km of terrestrial and marine area
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Last natural habitat of the critically endangered Bali starling (Leucopsar rothschildi)
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Diverse ecosystems including savanna, monsoon forest, mangroves and coral reefs
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Menjangan Island with clear waters and protected coral reefs for snorkeling and diving
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Guided jungle trekking and birdwatching trails on the Prapat Agung Peninsula
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Gilimanuk Bay and mangrove forests with wildlife watching opportunities
History of West Bali National Park
Established in 1941 during the Dutch colonial period to protect the Bali starling and the island's northern forests. Formally designated as Taman Nasional Bali Barat in 1982 and officially inaugurated as a national park in 1995, it remains Bali's only national park and a key conservation area managed by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry.
Culture & Context
The park area includes coastal temples such as Pura Pulaki and is adjacent to traditional Balinese villages including Blimbingsari and Palasari. It reflects the Balinese concept of harmony between humans and nature and supports community-based ecotourism and conservation education for local communities.