Hot Springs

Yeh Panas translates water hot. We drove through Tabanan, up the slopes of Batukaru, through lush rain forest and rice fields, to these hot springs - Balinese style. It started raining, as it does in a rain forest, hence the umbrella. Hot water flowed through our private pool from the spring beside the river, which we watched grow exponentially as the rain continued. We were't sure of "the protocol", but managed, relaxing, and letting the peace take over. The rain stopped and we explored the spring temple surround ing the source.

Needless to say, with the help of the guide books, I try to find places off the beaten path. We were shocked to see the bus loads of tourists at the ocean temple of Tanah Lot. It was a huge market of vendors and tours. We did not the feel the spirit of Pura Luhur Batukaru.