The beat is dropping, the lasers are charged, and Southeast Asia’s biggest electronic music festival is back. Djakarta Warehouse Project (DWP) 2025 returns to the magnificent GWK Cultural Park from December 12-14, bringing titans like Calvin Harris and Skrillex to the stage.

For thousands of music lovers, the biggest question isn’t who to see, but where to stay. The hotels in Ungasan and Jimbaran right next to the venue are already overflowing, with prices surging and traffic expected to be a gridlock.

But for the sophisticated traveler, there is a better way. Discover why staying just down the hill in Nusa Dua is the strategic move, and why Merusaka is the best resort in Bali for your festival weekend basecamp.

DWP 2025 Essentials

When: December 12 – 14, 2025

Where: GWK Cultural Park (Just 20 mins from Merusaka).

The Lineup: Calvin Harris, Skrillex, Steve Angello, and more.

The Strategy: Stay close enough to reach the party quickly, but in a sanctuary where you can actually sleep and recover.

The Strategic Choice: Why Nusa Dua?

Veteran festival-goers know that your choice of hotel makes or breaks your weekend.

• The Trap: Staying too close (Ungasan/Jimbaran) means being trapped in non-stop noise and gridlocked traffic. Staying too far (Canggu/Seminyak) means a grueling 2-hour commute.
• The Solution: Merusaka is located just a breezy 20-30 minute drive from GWK. You have a direct, easy route to the festival gates, but when the music stops, you escape back to a quiet, secure, 5-star beachfront sanctuary.

Elevate Your Festival Experience

Don’t just survive the festival; thrive in it. Here is how Merusaka enhances your weekend:

1. Fuel Up at the Best All-Inclusive Resort Why worry about finding food or drinks before the show? Merusaka is renowned as the best all inclusive resort in the area. With our all-inclusive package, your pre-festival needs are covered. Fuel up with a gourmet dinner and premium drinks before you head out, and return to endless hydration and comfort food without ever looking at a bill.
2. World-Class Recovery After dancing for 8 hours, you need more than just a bed. You need a sanctuary. Our direct pool access rooms allow you to wake up and slide straight into the cooling water—the ultimate refresh. Plus, a session at The Spa is the perfect way to work out the knots and get your legs ready for Round 2.
3. The Best Value Resort in Bali While villas near GWK are charging premium “festival rates” for room-only stays, Merusaka remains the best value resort in Bali. We offer 5-star beachfront luxury, expansive pools, and incredible service often for a price comparable to a standard room in the overcrowded festival zone.

Pro Tip: Traffic to GWK will be heavy. We recommend booking a private car with our Concierge for a designated drop-off and pick-up time, ensuring you travel in air-conditioned comfort and safety.

Secure Your DWP Basecamp Today – Rooms are Filling Fast!

The secret to seeing the most powerful and beautiful Bali waterfalls in October and November is simple: visit now!

Bali Waterfalls in October: See the Thundering Giants

Have you seen a stunning video of a Bali waterfall on social media? The water is roaring down with great force. The jungle is a vibrant, glistening green. The whole scene looks like a hidden paradise. This is the kind of image that makes you want to book a flight.

Many travelers visit during the busy dry season (June-August). However, they sometimes find a much smaller stream of water. They also find a landscape that is less lush than they expected. Therefore, the secret to seeing the powerful magic of the island’s waterfalls is timing. The giant waterfalls save their most beautiful show for a special time of year. As the first nourishing rains begin to fall, the rivers swell. The waterfalls awaken! This is “waterfall season.” The very best time to experience it is during Bali waterfalls in October and November.

This is your guide to witnessing that social media dream in real life.

Trip Essentials for Your Waterfall Adventure

• Best Time to Go: October & November, for the perfect mix of powerful water flow and plenty of sunny days.
• What to Wear: Non-slip water shoes or trekking sandals are ideal. Bring swimwear for a refreshing dip and a light rain jacket.
• Getting Around: A private car with an experienced local driver is the safest and most comfortable way to explore.
• Good to Know: Most waterfalls have an entrance fee. You may need to take a short walk to reach them.

The Most Powerful Waterfalls to Visit Now

The Iconic Powerhouse: Tegenungan Waterfall

Located just a short drive from Ubud, Tegenungan is one of Bali’s most famous and powerful waterfalls. This is a massive, roaring curtain of water. It crashes into a deep pool below. This creates a lot of spray and a loud sound. In October and November, you truly see its full power.

Insider Tip: Go as early as you can in the morning (before 10 AM). This helps you avoid the biggest crowds and get the best light for photos. Be ready for a good number of steps to get down to the bottom of the falls.

The Twin Beauties: Banyumala Twin Waterfalls

For a more peaceful and charming experience, travel north to the Banyumala Twin Waterfalls. This spot is hidden away in the lush highlands. It feels like a true secret. Here, two parallel cascades flow gently down a rock face covered in vines. They fall into a calm, clear turquoise pool at the bottom.

• Insider Tip: This is one of the best spots for swimming in Bali’s waterfalls. The walk down is a bit more rustic. However, the reward is a refreshing and very beautiful swim. Do not forget your swimwear and a towel!

The King of Waterfalls: Sekumpul Waterfall

Sekumpul is often called the most amazing and grand of all Bali’s waterfalls. It is a must-see for the true adventurer. It is actually a stunning group of at least seven tall cascades. They plunge deep into a rich, green jungle valley. The size and beauty of this place feel immense.

Insider Tip: This requires a real adventure. The walk to the base is longer and more challenging than others. Therefore, hiring a local guide at the entrance is mandatory for safety. This trip takes about half a day. But the sight is one of the most incredible natural wonders in all of Bali. Plan your trip to North Bali with our guide here.

Your Waterfall Adventure from Nusa Dua

Experiencing the power of Bali waterfalls in October is an unforgettable adventure. The peaceful Merusaka resort is the perfect base to return to after your day of exploration.

Our Concierge team knows how to create the perfect day trip. They can arrange a comfortable private car and an experienced driver. They will guide you to these thundering giants. This ensures your October or November adventure is both smooth and spectacular.

Bali is much more than a beautiful place to visit. It is an island with a strong spiritual energy. This energy has delighted travelers for centuries. To begin a spiritual journey in Bali means going beneath the surface. You connect with the island’s deep culture and old traditions. Finally, you connect with yourself.

This 5-day itinerary is not a list of places to check off. Instead, it is a kind guide for experiencing the soul of Bali. It is a journey designed for self-reflection, cleansing, and finding peace. Let Merusaka Nusa Dua be your peaceful base as you start this mindful escape.

Trip Essentials: Your Spiritual Journey

Best Time to Visit: You can visit all year. However, the quieter shoulder season (Sept-Nov & Apr-Jun) is best for reflection. It also means fewer crowds at temples.

What to Pack: You will need a sarong and sash. Temples often provide these, but it’s nice to have your own. Also, wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

Mindset: Come with an open heart and show respect. Be ready to slow down and focus on the present moment.

Perfect For: Solo travelers, couples, and anyone seeking a refreshing escape from the normal daily routine.

Day 1: Arrival & Grounding in Nusa Dua

Enjoying a relaxing day out is easy on the beautiful, calm beaches of Nusa Dua.

Your journey starts with finding calm. When you arrive at Merusaka Nusa Dua, think of it as entering a quiet haven. The goal of your first day is to leave the outside world behind. Settle into the peaceful environment. Then, ground your energy.

Insider Tip: After you check in, take a quiet evening walk along the shores of Mengiat Beach. Listen to the gentle sound of the waves. Feel the soft sand under your feet. This simple action is a powerful way to connect with the island’s natural energy.

Day 2: Purification at the Sacred Springs of Tirta Empul

Today, you will travel to one of Bali’s most sacred and powerful places. It is the holy water temple of Tirta Empul near Ubud. Balinese people have come here for over a thousand years. They bathe in the sacred springs for a ritual cleansing.

The Ritual: The melukat purification ceremony starts with a small offering. Next, you enter the cool, clear water. Then, you cleanse your head and face under each of the flowing water spouts. It is a beautiful and deeply touching ritual of cleaning and renewal.

Insider Tip: To experience this sacred tradition respectfully and understand its meaning, we highly recommend going with a knowledgeable local guide. Our Concierge can arrange a private tour for you. Read our Bali Temple Etiquette guide here.

Day 3: Mindful Movement & Inner Stillness

This day is all about reconnecting with your body and mind. You will do this through yoga and meditation. Bali is a famous center for these practices. You can feel their calming influence everywhere.

The Experience: Begin your day with our complimentary sunrise yoga session on the beach. There is no better way to greet the day. You stretch your body and calm your mind as the sun rises over the ocean. Afterward, spend the rest of the day relaxing quietly. For example, you can write in a journal by the pool. Alternatively, meditate in the resort’s peaceful gardens.

Insider Tip: Follow your morning yoga with a healthy breakfast. Also, think about booking a relaxing treatment at The Spa at Merusaka in the afternoon to complete your day of self-care.

Day 4: A Sunset Blessing at Uluwatu Temple

Kecak Performance

In the late afternoon, you will travel south to the huge limestone cliffs of the Bukit Peninsula. Here, sitting high on the cliff’s edge 70 meters above the crashing waves, is the wonderful Uluwatu Temple.

The Experience: This sacred sea temple is one of Bali’s most important spiritual sites. The atmosphere becomes truly magical as the sun begins to set. The main event is the fantastic Kecak Fire Dance. Dancers perform this show in a clifftop amphitheater as the sun sets over the ocean. The rhythmic chanting and exciting storytelling create an unforgettable spiritual and cultural memory.

Insider Tip: Arrive at the temple at least an hour before sunset (around 5:00 PM). This gives you time to explore the grounds and find a good seat for the Kecak performance. Be careful of the monkeys that live there!

Day 5: Integration & Departure

Your final morning is for quiet reflection before you return to the world.

• The Ritual: Take one last mindful walk on Mengiat Beach at sunrise. Think about the experiences of the past few days. Notice the sights, sounds, and feelings that have appeared during your journey. Then, enjoy a long, unhurried breakfast. Savor the final tastes of the island.
• Insider Tip: This is the perfect time to write in a journal. Capture the new thoughts and the feeling of peace you have found before starting your trip home.

Bali is famous for its beautiful beaches and wonderful resorts. It is a true paradise for family holidays. But what if your family wants more than just sandcastles? For parents who want to make their children’s trips better, Bali offers many great educational activities for kids Bali is proud of.

At Merusaka Nusa Dua, we know that the best family holidays create lasting memories. They involve unique cultural experiences and learning moments. We love sparking curiosity in young minds. We offer adventures that go “beyond the beach.” Our Concierge team helps plan these enriching trips for families. This ensures your journey into the heart of Bali is smooth and full of discovery.

Family Trip Essentials: Bali with Kids

• Getting Around: We strongly recommend private car transfers. They are best for comfort and safety when traveling with children. Our Concierge can arrange this easily for you.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry season (April-October) offers consistent sunny weather. However, the shoulder season (Sept-Nov) has fewer crowds. Therefore, it is perfect for calmer excursions.
• Age Range: Activities are available for various ages, from toddlers to teenagers.
• Bookings: Booking most educational tours and classes in advance is essential.

The Best Activities for Cultural Discovery

Turn your family vacation into an unforgettable learning adventure with these hand-picked activities. They promise fun, discovery, and cultural insight.

1. Explore Indonesian Culture at Taman Nusa Cultural Park

Step into a living museum that makes Indonesia’s history come alive! Taman Nusa Cultural Park offers a great hands-on experience for kids of all ages. Children can explore miniature traditional houses. These houses represent cultures from all across the nation. Also, they can watch local artists at work. In addition, they can even join in traditional games and crafts. It is a wonderful way to learn about Indonesia’s rich past in an interactive outdoor setting.

• Insider Tip: Plan for at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the park. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Be sure to bring hats and sunscreen. Our Concierge can arrange a dedicated driver for your family’s visit.

2. Get Hands-On with a Balinese Cooking Class

Spark your children’s interest in food with a cooking class just for families. Many local cooking schools offer special programs. In these programs, kids can learn about local spices. Then, they prepare delicious traditional dishes. Furthermore, they will understand the role of food in Balinese culture. Kids love pounding spices, chopping ingredients, and tasting their own creations!

• Insider Tip: Look for classes that specifically advertise “family” or “kid-friendly” options. These classes usually have simpler recipes and a more engaging pace. Ask our team for recommended culinary experiences.

3. Discover Marine Life at the Turtle Conservation and Education Centre (TCEC)

Inspire your children to love marine conservation. Visit the Turtle Conservation and Education Centre (TCEC) on Serangan Island. Here, children learn about the different types of sea turtles found near Bali. They understand the threats the turtles face. Finally, they witness rescue and rehabilitation efforts up close. If you are lucky, you might even be there when they release recovered turtles back into the ocean!

• Insider Tip: TCEC is a non-profit group. Consider giving a small donation or buying a souvenir. This helps support their vital conservation work. Our Concierge can assist with transportation.

Art, Nature, and Lasting Memories

4. Learn Ancient Art at a Balinese Painting or Batik Workshop

Bali is an island deeply rooted in art. Let your children show their creativity in a Balinese painting or batik workshop. Local artists will guide them. Kids learn traditional techniques. They will also understand the symbolic meanings. Because of this, they can create their own unique masterpieces to take home. It is a beautiful way to connect with Balinese art and express themselves.

• Insider Tip: Ubud is the center of Balinese art. Many small studios offer workshops there. Ask our front desk for recommendations and booking help.

5. Explore the Organic Wonders of a Local Farm

Connect your kids with where their food comes from. You can do this by visiting a local organic farm. Many farms, especially near Ubud, offer guided tours. Children can learn about tropical fruits, vegetables, and spices. Therefore, they might even help with planting or harvesting. This helps them appreciate nature and sustainable practices.

Insider Tip: Ask for farms that offer tasting sessions! Trying fresh local fruits directly from the tree is an unforgettable experience. Merusaka’s own Boemi Organic Garden can also offer a taste of this experience right here at the resort.

Creating Meaningful Memories with Merusaka Nusa Dua

A family holiday at Merusaka Nusa Dua is not just about relaxation. It also offers chances for real learning and cultural experiences. Let our dedicated team help you plan an itinerary. This itinerary will create lasting memories and inspire a deeper appreciation for Bali’s unique heritage.

As you travel through Bali, you will see the island’s friendly dogs. They are an important part of daily life. Among them is a truly special and unique breed. This breed is a great source of local pride. It has a history as wonderful as the volcanoes it comes from. This is the Kintamani dog.

The Kintamani is more than just a beautiful animal. It is a living piece of Bali’s natural heritage. They have a striking appearance and a spirited personality. Learning about this breed gives you a unique look into the island’s rough, high areas. Let us introduce you to this wonderful mountain dog.

Breed at a Glance: The Kintamani Dog

• Origin: The Kintamani highlands, near the Mount Batur volcano, Bali.
• Temperament: Smart, Loyal, Independent, and Alert.
• Defining Features: A thick double coat (usually white), a bushy tail carried over the back, semi-erect ears, and almond-shaped eyes.
• Official Status: The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) officially recognized the breed in 2019.

A Breed Born from the Volcanoes

The Kintamani dog comes from the cool, rough, and forested highlands of the Kintamani region. The active Mount Batur volcano dominates this area. This setting shaped the breed. It became the hardy and agile dog we see today. For example, their thick, double-layered coats keep them warm. They adapt perfectly to the cool mountain climate. This is a big difference from the coast’s heat. Local stories talk about their past. Some people believe they are descendants of ancient Chinese Chow Chows. These dogs arrived with traders many centuries ago.

Insider Tip: The Kintamani region is a beautiful day trip from Nusa Dua. It offers stunning volcanic views. You might also see these beautiful dogs in their home.

The Hallmarks of a Kintamani: A Striking Appearance

You will first notice the Kintamani’s striking beauty. They look almost like a wolf. They are medium-sized dogs. They stand straight and have a smart expression. These traits set them apart.

• Key Features: Kintamani dogs can be other colors, like black or beige. However, the most common and valued dog has a thick, bright white coat. Furthermore, they have other defining features. They have dark, almond-shaped eyes. Their alert, semi-prick ears fold forward at the tips. Finally, a magnificent bushy tail curves gracefully over their back.

A Spirited and Loyal Companion

The Kintamani’s personality is interesting. It is a mix of strong independence and deep, constant loyalty. They do not crave constant attention like many other breeds. The Kintamani is a free-thinker. This trait developed because they served as village guardians.

• Personality: They are very smart and quick. They are known to be surprisingly good climbers! Also, they make excellent watchdogs. They can be reserved with strangers. But they are incredibly devoted and loving with the families they choose. They form a powerful bond.

A Source of National Pride

For many years, people simply considered the Kintamani to be Bali’s local mountain dog. But local breeders and fans worked hard for years. Because of their effort, a huge goal was reached in 2019.

• Official Recognition: The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) is the world’s largest kennel club federation. They officially recognized the Kintamani as a distinct and standardized breed. This was a huge moment of pride for Bali and all of Indonesia. This recognition brought the Kintamani to the world stage. It confirms its status as a living cultural treasure.

To see these beautiful dogs and the stunning region they come from, ask our Concierge team. They can arrange a personalized tour to the Kintamani highlands for you.

The Bali zero waste movement is growing! Learn how Merusaka is committed to a greener future through our unique closed-loop system, organic garden, and conservation efforts.

Bali Zero Waste: Merusaka’s Guide to a Greener Future

For years, Bali has been a leader in environmental action. The island-wide ban on single-use plastic bags and straws was a major step. It was a visible sign of a deep commitment to preserving its natural beauty. For the conscious traveler, the Bali sustainability movement is getting stronger. It is moving beyond the basics. It is evolving into a deeper, more complete “Zero-Waste” philosophy.

This exciting new wave is about more than just reducing plastic. It is about rethinking how we consume everything. This article explores this inspiring trend. It also shares how we at Merusaka Nusa Dua are embracing our role in this journey toward a greener future.

The Zero-Waste Philosophy in Bali

The effort against plastic was just the beginning. Today, a growing number of innovative cafes, shops, and communities in Bali are embracing the “zero-waste” philosophy.

• What it Means: This movement aims to eliminate waste from the entire supply chain. It is a shift from simply managing waste to preventing it in the first place.
• How it Looks: You can see this trend in the rise of “bulk food” stores. Shoppers bring their own reusable containers to buy everything. This includes grains, spices, oils, and soaps. It is a thoughtful and powerful commitment to living in greater harmony with the environment.

Sustainability Within Our Resort: A Closed-Loop System

We believe that true sustainability begins at home. We implemented clever, on-site systems. These systems turn our waste into valuable resources. They create a “closed-loop” that greatly reduces our environmental footprint.

Boemi Merusaka Organic Garden: This is the green heart of our resort. Here, we actively practice a “garden-to-table” philosophy. Our culinary team uses the fresh, organic produce we grow here directly in our kitchens.

Smart Food Waste Solution: We partnered with Magi Farm to handle food waste. We use Black Soldier Fly maggots. They process up to 100 kilograms of organic kitchen waste every day. These amazing larvae consume the waste. Then, they produce nutrient-rich pellets. We use these pellets as a powerful natural fertilizer for our organic garden. This circular system not only eliminates our food waste but also enriches our soil. This allows us to grow even healthier produce.

Our Commitment: Action Beyond Our Walls

Our dedication to the environment extends beyond our resort and into the community. We follow the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana (harmony with God, people, and nature).

Sea Turtle Release

Regular Beach Cleaning: Our team is responsible for the beautiful Mengiat Beach. We conduct regular beach cleaning activities. This ensures our lovely coastline remains free from marine debris and plastic waste.

“Grow The Coast” – Restoring Our Shorelines: Our team came together for the “Grow The Coast” initiative. This was part of our 40th Anniversary. We planted hundreds of mangrove trees. This helps protect Bali’s precious coastline.

Sea Turtle Release – Protecting Marine Life: We work with local conservation groups. We host regular Sea Turtle Release events right on our beach. This educational experience for our guests gives these precious baby turtles a safe start on their journey into the ocean.

Conclusion: A Shared Journey

The sustainability movement in Bali zero waste is an inspiring and growing journey. We are proud to be a part of it. We contribute through both our clever internal systems and our active community conservation work. For the conscious traveler, choosing to stay with us means being a part of this positive impact.

Learn More About Our Sustainability Efforts and Special Offers Here.