A Hidden Marvel of Nusa Lembongan
1. Introduction to Gala-Gala Underground House
Gala-Gala Underground House. Tucked away on the serene island of Nusa Lembongan, just off Bali’s southeast coast, lies one of the most intriguing and mysterious attractions in Indonesia—the Gala-Gala Underground House. This subterranean labyrinth, hand-carved entirely out of limestone, is a testament to human perseverance, creativity, and spiritual devotion. Built by a single man over the course of 15 years, the Gala-Gala Underground House offers visitors a rare glimpse into the life of a hermit who sought to create a sanctuary of solitude and peace beneath the earth’s surface.
The Gala-Gala Underground House is more than just a tourist attraction; it is a remarkable piece of architectural and cultural heritage that reflects Bali’s unique blend of spirituality, mysticism, and artistry. For those visiting Nusa Lembongan, this underground house provides a fascinating and unconventional detour from the island’s pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
2. The Visionary Behind Gala-Gala: Mangku Byasa
The story of the Gala-Gala Underground House begins with its creator, Mangku Byasa, a Balinese Hindu priest, and hermit. In the early 1960s, Mangku Byasa was inspired by the Mahabharata, one of the great Hindu epics, which tells the story of the Pandavas—five brothers who were forced to live in exile in an underground cave. Motivated by this tale, Mangku Byasa embarked on a personal spiritual journey, deciding to create his own underground dwelling where he could live in peace, away from the distractions of the outside world.
With only a hammer, chisel, and sheer determination, Mangku Byasa began carving into the limestone beneath his family’s land on Nusa Lembongan. Over the next 15 years, he painstakingly hollowed out a network of tunnels, rooms, and chambers, creating what would become known as the Gala-Gala Underground House. Remarkably, Mangku Byasa completed the entire project by hand, without the use of any modern machinery.
Mangku Byasa’s vision was not only to create a physical space but also to build a spiritual refuge where he could practice meditation and live in harmony with nature. Today, the underground house stands as a testament to his unwavering faith and dedication, attracting curious visitors who wish to explore this extraordinary creation.
3. Exploring the Gala-Gala Underground House
The Gala-Gala Underground House spans an area of around 500 square meters and is located approximately 6 to 7 meters below the surface of the ground. The structure consists of a series of interconnected tunnels, chambers, and living spaces, all meticulously carved out of the soft limestone rock. Despite its humble appearance, the underground house is a surprisingly intricate and well-organized space, with distinct areas for living, sleeping, and spiritual practice.
a. The Entrance:
Visitors to the Gala-Gala Underground House begin their journey by descending a narrow staircase that leads down into the underground structure. The entrance is unassuming, marked by a small hole in the ground, but as you make your way down, the cool air and dim lighting set the tone for the unique experience ahead.
b. The Tunnels:
The underground house is composed of a network of narrow tunnels that wind their way through the limestone. These tunnels vary in height and width, with some sections requiring visitors to stoop or crawl to pass through. Despite the confined space, the tunnels are surprisingly well-ventilated, allowing fresh air to circulate throughout the structure. As you navigate the tunnels, it’s easy to imagine the immense effort it took Mangku Byasa to carve each passage by hand.
c. Living Quarters:
The underground house includes several rooms that were designed to serve as living quarters for Mangku Byasa. These rooms are small and sparsely furnished, but they offer insight into the simple and ascetic lifestyle that Mangku Byasa embraced during his time underground. One room features a stone platform that served as a bed, while another room is believed to have been used as a kitchen, with a small area for preparing food.
d. Meditation Chambers:
Perhaps the most spiritually significant part of the underground house is the meditation chambers. These small, quiet rooms were carved with the specific purpose of providing Mangku Byasa with a peaceful and secluded space for deep meditation and reflection. Visitors can still sense the tranquility of these chambers, which offer a stark contrast to the busy, fast-paced world above ground.
e. Spiritual Symbols:
Throughout the underground house, visitors will notice various spiritual symbols and carvings that reflect Mangku Byasa’s deep connection to Hinduism. Some of these carvings depict traditional Hindu motifs, such as the lotus flower or the trishula (trident), while others are more abstract, symbolizing Mangku Byasa’s personal spiritual journey. These carvings add a layer of cultural and religious significance to the underground house, reminding visitors of the spiritual purpose behind its creation.
4. The Spiritual Significance of Gala-Gala
The Gala-Gala Underground House is more than just an architectural marvel; it is also a deeply spiritual space that reflects the principles of Hinduism and the importance of meditation in Balinese culture. For Mangku Byasa, the underground house represented a sanctuary where he could withdraw from the material world and focus on his spiritual practice.
In Balinese Hinduism, the act of retreating from society and living in isolation is often seen as a way to purify the soul and achieve deeper levels of enlightenment. By creating an underground dwelling, Mangku Byasa sought to replicate the experience of the Pandavas in the Mahabharata, who found strength and wisdom during their time in exile. The underground house, therefore, serves as a physical manifestation of Mangku Byasa’s spiritual quest for inner peace and self-realization.
Today, the Gala-Gala Underground House continues to attract spiritually minded visitors who come to experience the calm and meditative atmosphere of the space. Some visitors even practice meditation in the underground chambers, hoping to connect with the same sense of peace and enlightenment that inspired Mangku Byasa.
5. Practical Information for Visiting Gala-Gala Underground House
a. Location:
The Gala-Gala Underground House is located in Nusa Lembongan, a small island southeast of Bali. Nusa Lembongan is part of the trio of Nusa Islands, which also includes Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida. The island can be reached by a short boat ride from Sanur Beach or Padang Bai on mainland Bali.
Once on Nusa Lembongan, the underground house is located in the village of Jungut Batu. Visitors can easily reach the site by renting a motorbike or bicycle, as Nusa Lembongan is relatively small and easy to navigate.
b. Entrance Fee and Opening Hours:
The Gala-Gala Underground House is open to visitors daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. There is a small entrance fee to explore the underground house, with proceeds going toward the maintenance and preservation of the site. Guided tours are also available, providing visitors with more in-depth information about the history and significance of the underground house.
c. What to Bring:
Visitors to the Gala-Gala Underground House should be prepared for the confined and dimly lit spaces within the structure. It’s a good idea to bring a small flashlight or use your phone’s torch to help navigate the tunnels, especially in areas where natural light is limited. Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, as the descent into the house can be steep and uneven.
Due to the underground nature of the site, the temperature inside the house is cooler than the outside, making it a comfortable escape from the tropical heat of Nusa Lembongan.
6. Other Attractions Near Gala-Gala Underground House
While the Gala-Gala Underground House is a must-visit for those interested in Bali’s spiritual and cultural heritage, Nusa Lembongan offers many other attractions that visitors can enjoy.
a. Dream Beach:
Dream Beach is one of Nusa Lembongan’s most famous beaches, known for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a visit to the underground house.
b. Devil’s Tear:
Located near Dream Beach, Devil’s Tear is a dramatic rocky outcrop where waves crash against the cliffs, sending plumes of water into the air. The sight is particularly impressive at high tide and is a popular spot for photography.
c. Mangrove Forest:
For nature lovers, Nusa Lembongan’s mangrove forest offers a peaceful escape. Visitors can take a boat tour through the mangroves, where they can observe the unique ecosystem and its wildlife.
7. Conclusion
The Gala-Gala Underground House is a hidden gem on the island of Nusa Lembongan, offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore a unique piece of Balinese history and spirituality. Built by a single man as an act of devotion and perseverance, this underground labyrinth serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of human determination and the deep connection between architecture and spirituality in Balinese culture.
Whether you’re drawn to the story of its creation, its spiritual significance, or its architectural marvels, the Gala-Gala Underground House is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Nusa Lembongan.