Keliki Village: Where Green Energy Meets Balis Hidden Beauty

TheIndonesia.co - Tucked away in Gianyar, just north of Ubud, Keliki Village has become one of Bali’s most inspiring destinations—not just for its serene landscapes and subak rice terraces, but also for its pioneering use of solar energy. This once quiet farming village has transformed into a model of sustainable living and a rising eco-tourism hotspot.

According to Antara News Agency, since 2022, Keliki has earned recognition as an energy-independent village, powered by a network of eight solar panel systems (PLTS). These include installations in the rice fields to power irrigation pumps and a rooftop solar system that energizes a waste-processing facility turning organic waste into fertilizer. The impact has been profound—local rice yields have increased from 5 to 8.7 tons per hectare.

The village’s commitment to green innovation caught global attention when it was included in G20 site visits and supported by Pertamina as a “Desa Berdikari Energi” (Energy Self-Sufficient Village). Today, this blend of eco-conscious living and cultural charm has made Keliki a must-visit destination for travelers seeking authenticity, sustainability, and a glimpse of Bali’s future.

Over the past three years, Keliki has seen a 200% surge in tourist visits. With only limited accommodations available, villas are springing up fast, even in the middle of rice fields. One area has even earned the nickname “French Village” due to its popularity among visitors from France.

Locals and leaders are working hard to protect their land and traditions. To limit the loss of productive farmland, a local adat regulation (pararem) allows only villagers to build accommodation on their own land—and even then, only up to 30% of their rice fields may be converted, with the rest preserved for farming.

For now, Keliki walks a delicate line between green tourism and land conservation. Its story is both a success and a cautionary tale—a beautiful example of how renewable energy can empower communities, but also a reminder of the care needed when tourism grows quickly.

How to Visit Keliki Village

Keliki is just a 30-minute drive from Ubud, making it an ideal day trip or overnight stay for eco-conscious travelers. From Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar, it’s about 1.5 to 2 hours by car. You can hire a private driver, use ride-hailing apps like Grab, or book through eco-travel operators offering village stays and guided energy tours.

Whether you're drawn by its lush green fields, solar-powered innovation, or simply the chance to experience a more meaningful side of Bali, Keliki invites you to see the island differently—in harmony with nature.

Let’s travel better. Let’s travel with purpose.