NEGARA

Capital of the western part of Bali, Negara is rarely visited by western travellers, except during the annual bull racing season (July to October, with most activity in September and October). The bull races ("Mekepung") are thrilling contests between teams of two young bulls harnessed to a chariot, which is riden by a jockey who seems to hold onto the bull's tails for dear life as they career down the 2km race course!

Winning is everything, and the owner of the winning team will earn great respect, For the winning jockey it is a ticket to stardom, and perhaps the chance to become national champion.

Of course, the bulls are treated with great care, and are fed elaborate diets containing all sorts of wonderful potions and secret ingredients in an effort to place the odds in the team's favor.

Being off the beaten track, Negara may offer some interesting possibilities, perhaps during a stayover whilst travelling to Java.

The rural area around Negara is a major centre of coconut and banana growing.