Karangasem, On the Wallace Line

Luxury Undersea Vista at Tulamben

Karangasem Regency, in fact, retains a beach that is most preferred among divers. Its name is Tulamben Beach and is actually inseparable from the history of Tulamben Village that is known as a marine village from an indefinite period.

The name Tulamben has existed since the Caka year 1102 (1180 AD). At that time, Bali was administrated by Bedahulu Kingdom (now in Gianyar). Prior to the arrival of Javanese migrants (of Majapahit Kingdom), Tulamben was named Batu Lambih because there were many stones that were buried at the beach due to the eruption of Mount Agung (1880). Afterwards, the word Batu Lambih changed to Batu Lambe, in the long run to Tulambe and ultimately became Tulamben as of today. Tulamben Village then was strategically located as a sizable port in Eastern Bali.
Tulamben Village has become an eyewitness of World War II. A US cargo ship, Liberty, cast ashore at Tulamben Beach after being shot by torpedo from a Japanese submarine in the Lombok Straits (1942). History of Liberty continued when the eruption of Mount Agung brought a bitter natural catastrophe in 1963. Lava floods and rolling of huge volcanic stones dragged the shipwreck of Liberty to the depth of 30 meters above sea level and fragmented it into two parts. This shipwreck then came to be the home to hundreds of species of coral fish and shrimp.
This Tulamben tourist object is nestled in the territory belonging to Kubu sub district, some 102 km east of Denpasar and 23 km from Amlapura city. This attraction can be reached by a three hour drive from Denpasar and Kuta. Tourist facilities provided here are complete, ranging from accommodation, restaurants and shops with Balinese distinctive souvenirs. Diving and snorkelling facilities are also available and can be hired from rental shops nearby.
Other than Liberty’s wreck, you can enjoy the arresting undersea vista, too. In the meantime, Tulamben is now becoming a tourism village mostly visited by tourists. Located on the east side of Mount Agung, it’s surrounded by fascinating panoramas and will assuredly add to your marvellous memories during your stay here. (BTN/033)