Pondok Jaka: Exploring the Uniqueness and Local Wisdom of an Ancient Balinese House in Sangeh Village
Pondok Jaka stands as an ancient Balinese house that has stood firm for nearly two centuries. Beyond capturing the attention of visitors with its unique architecture and the ambiance reminiscent of old Bali, Pondok Jaka offers an unforgettable recreational experience. This article delves into the journey of Pondok Jaka, from its initial management to evolving into a prominent tourist attraction and favored documentation site in Bali
In the village of Sangeh, Abiansemal District, Badung Regency, Bali, the presence of an ancient Balinese house, nearly 200 years old, can still be found. This location is known as Pondok Jaka, an outbound tourism area developed by the Sangeh community group since 2015. The house, originating from one of Sangeh's families, has garnered attention since it has been jointly managed with the development of surrounding tourism.
The uniqueness of Pondok Jaka in Abiansemal is truly striking. The concept of the traditional house stands in stark contrast to the conventional homes of the Balinese people. With such allure, it is reasonable that its existence is captivating for tourists, who often spend their time exploring and capturing photos in this authentic setting.
Guided by a community group under the banner of Sangeh Traditional Activity (STA), Pondok Jaka initiated the arrangement and management of this traditional Balinese house since 2015. The house was once inhabited by two generations of Sangeh village residents, but with the passage of time, the family's descendants chose to reside outside the village. In 1992, the house was bequeathed to Nyoman Merta Rinawan, the last generation of that family, who then handed over its management to the STA group.
The naming of the house as Pondok Jaka Sangeh was not arbitrary. It was named so because the house is located not far from the Sangeh tourist forest. Encompassing an area of 75 acres, the house is surrounded by several palm trees known to the Balinese people as "pohon jaka," of various ages. Therefore, the local community agreed to refer to this house as Pondok Jaka.
Ancient Balinese House (Sumber Photo : Writer Collection)
Although some parts have undergone repairs, the main construction of the house, made from earth and a mixture of cow dung, remains robust. Pondok Jaka's presence becomes a distinctive attraction for visitors seeking to witness the atmosphere of ancient Bali. Within a single area, there are four main buildings, including bale daja, bale dangin, a kitchen, and bale dauh, each serving a unique purpose.
Pondok Jaka in Sangeh can be considered as one of Bali's newest tourist destinations, a testament to the creative minds of the youth in the Sangeh village. Their vision was sparked by the high cultural and historical tourism potential of the old house, especially given its proximity to the popular Sangeh Tourist Object in Bali. Pondok Jaka doesn't merely offer an opportunity to observe ancient houses but also provides recreational activities such as outbound adventures, camping facilities, and a dining area. Visitors can immerse themselves in the traditional Balinese ambiance, admiring the details of the house, which still preserves clay wall plaster, earthen floors, and traditional tools like tengala and kisa.
With a consistent influx of visitors, Pondok Jaka has evolved beyond being a historical experience destination. It has become a documentation site for various purposes, including short films, entertaining video content, and pre-wedding photoshoots. While the management seeks voluntary donations from visitors, they also impose specific fees for documentation purposes. The ancient Balinese house at Pondok Jaka, Sangeh Village, captivates visitors with a historical atmosphere rarely found elsewhere. Since its management began under the STA group in 2015, Pondok Jaka has experienced rapid development, emerging as a booming destination since 2019.
Pondok Jaka offers the ambiance of ancient Bali through an old house consisting of four distinct buildings. From bale daja serving as sleeping quarters to bale dangin for religious activities, each section of the house possesses its own unique characteristics. The presence of a kitchen with traditional stoves and classic eating utensils further adds to its allure. Visitors not only enjoy the historical atmosphere but also actively participate in recreational activities such as outbound adventures and savor local cuisine in the surrounding area. With a stable stream of visitors, especially during weekends and holiday seasons, Pondok Jaka attracts tens to hundreds of people per day.
The appeal of Pondok Jaka extends beyond local visitors, making it a favored location for diverse documentation purposes. With specific fees for photo and video shoots, the management fosters an environment that supports the preservation of ancient Balinese houses while delivering a valuable experience for visitors.
Ancient Balinese House (Sumber Photo : Writer Collection)
With a main structure that remains sturdy despite its nearly 200-year-old age, Pondok Jaka plays a vital role in preserving the history and traditions of Bali. The meticulous management by STA has transformed it into a rapidly evolving destination, attracting visitors from various backgrounds. With an authentic atmosphere and a diverse array of activities, Pondok Jaka stands as a living representation of ancient Bali.
For those seeking to immerse themselves in the historical ambiance and beauty of well-preserved ancient Balinese houses, Pondok Jaka is the perfect choice. Enjoy a unique experience by exploring the four historical buildings, engaging in recreational activities such as outbound adventures, and relishing delicious dishes at the nearby eateries. With affordable rates, Pondok Jaka offers more than just a tourist destination; it provides a journey through time to experience Bali's ancient charm. Witness and feel its beauty firsthand.
