There is more to Bali than its beautiful beaches, breath-taking sunset at Tanah Lot and lush rice terraces. It has a relatively undiscovered spiritual side.

Bathing in the holy waters of Tirta Empul Temple

Most visitors to Bali, Indonesia's "paradise isle", are struck by the numerous temples dotting the island and the religious ceremonies conducted on a daily basis. Not surprising really as Hinduism is Bali's main religion, with 93.18% of its population practising it.

Bali's spiritual side is one of its hidden gems. You can unravel this charming side of the island with a unique experience aptly called "Temples and Gods". This specially designed programme by LUX2asia, Bali's first Luxury Destination Management Company and Concierge Service, is touted as "a spiritual journey where you discover the healing powers of Bali, as well as learn about Hinduism".

Gunung Kawi Temple

The "Experience", as the company would like to refer to the programme, is about 10 hours long and visits, among others, the sacred Tirta Empul and Gunung Kawi temples where you bath in the holy waters for purification, make offerings to the gods and attain inner peace in the process.

Along the way you stop at various places of religious interests. It also includes a typical Balinese lunch at the Cafe by the River of the luxurious Hotel Maya Ubud. The day wraps up with a two-hour special Balinese spa treatment at the Pita Maha Resort.

Accompanying the guests on the tour are LUX2asia's private butler and a Pemangku (Balinese priest).

This exclusive experience is only available with LUX2asia, which has been granted special access to the guarded areas of the temples.

Cafe By the River of the Hotel Maya Ubud

Renato Domini, LUX2asia's Managing Director, said this programme is unique in that its guests get to experience real Balinese temple purification rituals conducted by a Balinese priest.

"We give our guests full explanation about all the different offerings, as well as the rituals performed during the purification ceremony."

He added that "Temples and Gods" is special as "it shows the real thing and you can't book this tour anywhere else, as to my knowledge."

More information at LUX2asia website www.lux2asia.com

Photos courtesy of LUX2asia

Yeoh Siew Hoon, one of Asia's most respected travel editors and commentators, writes a regular column on news, trends and issues in the hospitality industry for 4Hoteliers.com.

Siew Hoon, who has covered the tourism industry in Asia/Pacific for the past 20 years, runs SHY Ventures Pte Ltd. Her other writings can be found at www.thetransitcafe.com

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