Discovering East Bali’s Timeless Charm: A Haven for Culture Lovers & Investors
A tranquil part of East Bali is attracting tourists and investors. These are people who want a peaceful place to live. They are drawn by the rich culture of the area as well as its investment potential which outweighs the costs found in the south Bali regions including Canggu and Seminyak. Those attracted to the prospect of buying a property in an area rich in natural beauty and heritage, or investors searching for a less bustling yet still attractive location, may want to consider East Bali.
Located in the tranquil East Nusa Tenggara village of Manggis, Alila Manggis is a seaside resort boasting an idyllic beachside location. It is ideal for guests who wish to explore the local region. In contrast to the South of Bali which is known for its frantic atmosphere, the East of the island offers visitors expansive natural scenery, traditional villages and historic sites of great beauty.
Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang, more commonly known as the 'Gates of Heaven', is one of the area's many notable attractions. The Lempuyang temple, situated on Mount Lempuyang one hour's drive from the sea, is a site of great reverence in Balinese Hinduism with international visitors. This location on the island of Bali, of the temple, which is framed by the majestic Mount Agung and also features iconic gates which are white and split, makes for a good backdrop for photographs. Moreover, these gates symbolise a profound bond between the spiritual and the physical as well as providing a setting that is serene and where few tourists can be found.
Built in a tranquil setting, the Puri Agung Karangasem palace is found near Amlapura, and features a mix of Balinese, Chinese and European architectural styles with a backdrop of maintained gardens that house a cultural museum. This area will also appeal to people with an interest in culture as well as to tourists.
Tenganan Pegringsingan, a rural village, is the last settlement displaying truly 'old' Balinese culture. It is home to the Balinese who existed before the great Maja-Pahit empire. Rival communities in this Balinese village are known for their double ikat textile designs and for ceremonies such as the Mekare-kare or pandan war. The region's rich history deeply ingrained in the culture adds a timeless and distinct quality to it, making it a target for enthusiasts of cultural tourism as well as buyers in search of authenticity.
Currently, from a property point of view, the East Bali market remains relatively in its developmental stages with lower priced property available compared to the regions in the south. In Canggu, the cost of buying a villa can begin at around IDR 5 billion which is USD 350,000 for a small villa. Villas in East Bali may cost IDR 2.2 billion which is USD 150,000 for a smaller leasehold plot. Freehold land is rare but can sometimes be bought for a price after careful planning.
For those who wish to live a life in the quieter parts of Bali or seek a slow and stable rise in property value, East Bali is the right place. East Bali provides the perfect combination of natural beauty, rich culture and a laid-back lifestyle for those who wish to retire in Bali. While the location may appeal to those who relocate due to being quieter, it is worth noting that there are fewer international schools in the area than there are in South Bali, and also fewer healthcare facilities. While internet connections are often plentiful in Latin America, the quality of service varies from country to country. In some nations, speeds can be as low as 1.5 mbps. However, it is improving in some places.
While the infrastructure in East Bali is being improved due to tourism, the upgrades to date remain relatively limited in comparison to the region of South Bali. This is because of growing tourism. Improved road access and utility connections are amongst the improvements. The administrative hurdles which buyers must overcome include checking that the property's builder has complied with the authorities' regulations and obtaining the correct land title. Leasehold and land use arrangements also cause difficulties, since foreign nationals are generally only allowed to purchase leasehold properties or develop these in nominee partnerships. It is crucial to conduct thorough investigations and to work with local, reputable estate agents and lawyers.
The length of the usual lease for property in Bali is 25 to 30 years. In some cases, lease terms are renewable but the fine print of these renewal options can differ and affect both the long-term value of a property as well as its return on investment. In East Bali, yields on property rentals are at present likely to be between 5 and 7 percent per year. The yields are lower than in other areas popular with tourists, but the cost of entry is lower as well.
A tranquil destination in East Bali offers a unique combination of natural landscapes and cultural heritage. The island is becoming increasingly easier to visit. As such, East Bali is gaining the interest of those looking to live in a secluded area which is rich in culture and also has the potential to be developed.
Real Estate Market: Key Points for Home Buyers and Investors to Consider
For a 200,000 USD buyer looking at property in East Bali, professional due diligence should be budgeted for to verify leasehold terms and the necessary permits are in place. This is especially so for lease renewals which impact property value.
While areas like Amlapura or Manggis can offer a tranquil lifestyle at a low price, one has to consider limited infrastructure and fewer services for expats.
Investors should consider low returns (5-7%) on rental properties and take into account the possibility of employing property management. This can help with maintaining high occupancy levels in the area with underdeveloped tourism.
Digital nomads should test internet connections before making a purchase in more remote locations. It can be found that some villages in Indonesia do not have reliable fibre optic internet connection, something which is to be found in South Bali.
Bali's east coast, being tranquil and culturally abundant, presents an alternative opportunity for those who seek a genuine, peaceful and still growing island lifestyle. This is a region that deserves to be investigated with passion and thoroughness whether the aim is personal or professional development.
