Blangsingah Glass Bridge: Is It Worth Going To?

Bali has once again amazed travellers and locals alike with the unveiling of the Blangsingah Glass Bridge. This architectural marvel stretches 199 meters across the Petanu River, connecting Kemenuh Village to Saba Village and provides breathtaking views of the Tegenungan waterfall. It’s a captivating blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity, offering an experience that’s both exhilarating and serene.

As we traverse this impressive glass structure, we’re not just treated to a unique scenic walkway, but also to a display of connection between communities and sustainable tourism practices. This impressive bridge, which was constructed with the expertise of contractors from China, underscores a commitment to local employment, with the surrounding communities of Blangsinga and Tegenungan benefiting significantly from the project.

Key Takeaways

• The Blangsingah Glass Bridge is a new, stunning attraction in Bali spanning 199 meters and offering views of the Tegenungan waterfall.
• It symbolises a sustainable approach to tourism, providing employment opportunities to local residents.
• Access to the bridge is tiered, with different admission fees for local Balinese, Indonesian domestic visitors, and foreign tourists.

Is Bali Glass Bridge Worth Going To?

Is the Bali Glass Bridge worth going to? Having visited recently, yes, but also no. Let me explain. As a family who has lived in Bali and seen all the sites, this was new to us and was a totally new experience for our kids. We got to watch our five year old overcome fear and discover his bravery, and we got to share a laugh as our baby crawled around trying to work out why the floor was see-through. And of course, we got to take a bunch of photos that we’ll treasure as memories.

If you’re an ‘influencer’ and need to create content, it’s worth going to, as it’s a unique experience in Bali, and it’s also close to the Tegenungan Waterfall.

And if you like seeing cool stuff, it’s also definitely worth going to see, as it is a fun destination.

However, at IDR 250,000 for foreigners (about $25 AUD) it comes with a hefty price tag, and it isn’t exactly a ‘day trip’ as it takes about 5-10 minutes to cross each way (there is a swing on one side, which can be used if the weather is ok). So if you’re on a budget, the 250k would likely be better spent on visiting three or four of the famous temples in Bali instead.

If you need a driver to take you to the Bali Glass Bridge (or anywhere else in Bali) then make sure you contact our friend Jacky on [email protected] or WhatsApp +6281803427974 and tell him Jarrod sent you. While Jacky isn’t the cheapest driver on the island, he is the most reliable driver we have met in almost seven years, and he is part of our ‘Bali Family’.

The Blangsingah Glass Bridge Experience

Embarking on a journey across the Blangsingah Glass Bridge is not merely a walk, but a unique encounter with engineering and nature woven together. Here, we invite you to explore what makes this experience unlike any other.

Location and Access

The bridge is nestled 12 kilometres from the heart of Ubud, adjacent to the scenic Tegenungan Waterfall, linking the villages of Kemenuh and Saba. Access to the bridge is convenient from either village, with parking available for motorbikes and cars at nominal fees of 5k IDR (about 50 cents) and 20k IDR (about $2 AUD) respectively.

Tickets to experience the bridge are on the expensive side by Bali standards, with the cost of tickets 250k IDR for adults (about $25 AUD) and 125k IDR for children, with card payments available. The gates open at 7:00 AM and close at 7:00 PM. Upon arriving, you will be given velvet shoe covers – red for men, purple for women, and yellow for kids – to maintain the bridge’s pristine condition.

Design and Structure

The structure is a marvel, stretching 199 metres in length and 2.2 metres in width, while suspended 66 metres above the ground – akin to the dizzying height of a 20-storey building. With 47 transparent panels, it’s a surreal experience to gaze at the world below your feet. The west entrance greets you with an adrenaline-inducing effect of cracking glass and resonant sounds. Not just a novelty, but a touch that heightens the thrill. The bridge, robust enough to hold 500 people, was a collaborative effort with Chinese contractors and took close to two years to complete, ensuring both stability and excitement.

View and Surroundings

As you step onto the bridge, the lush greenery envelopes you, and the tranquil Petanu River flows beneath. Look one way and you’re greeted with a panorama of verdant trees; turn another, and there’s the road to Tegenungan. While the Tegenungan Waterfall itself isn’t visible, the view is no less breathtaking. As you embrace the gentle sway of the bridge beneath your feet, take a moment to capture this experience—hold your phone against the glass for a memorable photo. Although you can make it across in about five minutes, we recommend taking your time to soak in the sights and sounds. It’s not just a crossing; it’s a chance to connect with Bali’s beauty.

Blangsinga Glass Bridge Visitor Information

From opening times to visitor guidelines, we’ve got all the details you need for visiting the Bali Glass Bridge…

Opening Hours and Rates

Opening Hours: This breathtaking attraction welcomes visitors 7 days a week. However, please be mindful that the bridge has a maximum capacity, allowing only 500 people on the bridge at any one time. However, that is unlikely to be an issue! When we visited in November 2023 we were the only people there, walking across and back without a single other visitor. This may be in part due to the cost, as 250k IDR per adult is a steep price tag for an experience that is finished in 15-20 minutes.

Rates: Admission to the Blangsingah Glass Bridge is priced at IDR 250,000 for all foreign visitors. Balinese visitors pay IDR 100, 000 while tourists from other parts of Indonesia pay IDR 150,000.

Tourist Services and Facilities

Facilities: Visitors to the Blangsingah Glass Bridge can look forward to enjoying:

• Local Employment:
  • Over 60% of the management and care staff are proudly hired from local communities, enhancing your tour experience with authentic Balinese hospitality.
• Accessibility:
  • Two entrance points: the east entrance at Blangsingah and the west entrance at Tegenungan, making the site accessible for visitors arriving from different parts of Bali.
• Contact Information:
  • For bookings and more information, you can call +62 819-1720-3357.

Blangsinga Glass Bridge Cultural Significance

The Blangsingah Glass Bridge represents more than just an architectural feat; it stands as a testament to the cultural bonds and deep respect for traditional practices that flourish on this island.

Banjar Belangsinga

The local community of Banjar Belangsinga, known for its warm hospitality, views the glass bridge as a celebration of their societal fabric. It has quickly become a source of communal pride, enhancing social interaction and quite literally bridging the divide between them and neighbouring areas. The Banjar, a form of grassroots governance in Bali, places great emphasis on sustaining social ties, and this bridge is a powerful representation of their ethos of togetherness.

Local Temples and Traditions

For visitors, the bridge provides a direct route to immerse in the local temples and traditions. As one traverses this transparent pathway, it’s common to be struck by the sight of the Dewa Sukrawan temple, an integral part of the island’s spiritual tapestry. This temple occupies a revered position within the local culture, symbolising the community’s dedication and collective spirit. The bridge does more than span a physical gap; it extends an invitation to explore and appreciate the rich cultural heritage that Bali is determined to preserve.

Blangsinga Glass Bridge Sustainability and Community Impact

It’s essential to acknowledge that the Blangsingah Glass Bridge not only offers a marvel of design but also brings forth significant sustainability and local economic impacts. Their focus on environmental considerations and community welfare has always been at the forefront of this project.

Environmental Considerations

The project team has shown a commendable commitment to environmental stewardship in the Sukawati area of Gianyar. They took meticulous steps to preserve the surrounding natural habitat, making concerted efforts to minimise ecological disturbances throughout the construction process.

Key environmental strategies included:

• Utilising sustainable materials where possible to ensure the bridge’s structure would have a reduced environmental footprint.
• Conducting thorough environmental impact assessments to guide our construction process responsibly.

Economic Benefits for Locals

The bridge’s presence has ignited a spark in local tourism, which has been beneficial for the communities of Sukawati and Gianyar. Notably, the economic benefits include:

• Employment: Around 60% of the staffing for bridge management and care are sourced from the local communities, thus providing them with steady jobs and income.
• Tourism: When the bridge first opened there was a surge in tourism, which led to additional revenue for local businesses.
• Infrastructure Improvements: Road widenings are planned to accommodate increased bus travel, which benefits both locals and tourists.

By investing in sustainable design and providing economic opportunities for local residents, we’re steadfast in our aim to make the Blangsingah Glass Bridge a paragon of responsible tourism development.

Blangsinga Glass Bridge – Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some common questions about the Blangsinga Glass Bridge to guide our fellow explorers. Check out the details below!

How much does a ticket to the Blangsinga Glass Bridge cost?

The ticket price for the Blangsinga Glass Bridge varies. For local Balinese residents, the cost is IDR 100,000, while other Indonesian domestic visitors are charged IDR 150,000. The price for foreign tourists is IDR 250,000.

How tall is Bali Glass Bridge?

The Bali Glass Bridge stands impressively at a height of 40 metres above the ground. It offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area which many find breathtaking.

Is there a waterfall near the glass bridge in Bali that visitors can view?

Yes, the Tegenungan waterfall is located near the glass bridge. Visitors can enjoy the stunning view of the waterfall as they walk across the bridge.

Have there been any closures of the glass bridge, and if so, why?

There have been no reports of extended closures since the bridge’s opening. Should closures occur, they’re typically due to maintenance works to ensure the safety and enjoyment of visitors.