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Abstract
This study identifies the defining characteristics of sustainable mountain tourism as practiced by the Bali Aga, the indigenous communities of Bali's highlands. In contrast to the widespread agricultural land conversion for tourism in lowland Bali, Bali Aga villages have preserved their cultural and environmental integrity. Through a qualitative methodology involving field observation and document analysis, this research finds that sustainability is achieved through a combination of geographical isolation, which forms remote cultural enclaves, and a profound adherence to local philosophies. The principles of Tri Hita Karana (harmony with God, humans, and nature) and Sad Kerthi (holistic environmental and spiritual well-being) are institutionalized through strong customary laws (awig-awig) and practices (dresta) that strictly regulate land use and prohibit disruptive tourism commercialization. Furthermore, their unique architectural identity, which utilizes natural materials like bamboo and thatch, embodies their ecological ethos. The Bali Aga demonstrate a resilient model of tourism where cultural preservation, traditional governance, and environmental stewardship are intrinsically linked, allowing them to withstand the pressures of tourism invasion and maintain a sustainable existence.
Keywords: Bali Aga, sustainable mountain tourism, Tri Hita Karana, Sad Kerthi, customary law.