Tulamben

Tulamben is a small fishing village on the north-east coast of Bali, Indonesia. It is among the most popular dive sites on Bali with its unique underwater ecosystem and the wreck of the USS Liberty, a US Army Transport ship torpedoed by a Japanese submarine in 1942.

Geography

Tulamben is located in the Karangasem Regency of Bali, approximately 100 kilometers from Denpasar, the capital city of Bali. The village is situated on a fairly flat plain that gradually slopes into the sea, providing an ideal location for shore diving.

Diving

Tulamben is best known for its diving sites, particularly the wreck of the USS Liberty. The wreck lies just a few meters off the shore and is home to a diverse array of marine life, including coral reefs, tropical fish, and occasionally, the elusive Mola Mola or sunfish. Other popular dive sites in Tulamben include the Coral Garden and the Drop Off.

Economy

The economy of Tulamben is primarily based on tourism, particularly diving tourism. Many locals are employed as dive guides, boat operators, or in the hospitality industry. There are numerous dive resorts, restaurants, and shops catering to tourists in the village.

Culture

Tulamben, like the rest of Bali, is predominantly Hindu. The village has several temples, the most notable of which is Pura Batu Ringgit, a sea temple located on a cliff overlooking the ocean. Traditional Balinese ceremonies and festivals are regularly held in the village.

See Also

• Scuba diving in Indonesia
• Tourism in Indonesia
• USS Liberty (AGTR-5)