Kelingking Beach Glass Lift has become the center of attention after Bali’s provincial and local governments ordered the project in Nusa Penida to stop and be dismantled. For travelers heading to one of Bali’s most photographed viewpoints, the natural question is whether this affects your visit.
The good news: the viewpoint and beach trail remain open. The decision instead reflects a broader effort to protect Kelingking Beach from developments that could change its natural character.
〰️🌀〰️🌀〰️🌀〰️
Why the Kelingking Beach Glass Lift Was Halted
The planned Kelingking Beach Glass Lift was designed to run down the cliff face overlooking the T-Rex headland, complete with a ticketing building, elevated bridge, restaurant space, and a 180-meter glass elevator shaft. After a review, authorities found several major violations, including construction in restricted cliff zones, building inside protected coastal waters, and missing environmental and marine permits.
Because the site lies within a conservation area, officials ordered all work to stop and instructed the developer to dismantle the existing structure within a set timeframe.
For visitors, the takeaway is simple: Bali wants Kelingking Beach to remain natural, accessible, and safe.
A Stand for Sustainable Tourism
The decision goes beyond law enforcement. It reflects how Bali hopes to shape the future of its natural attractions.
In his official statement, Governor Wayan Koster stressed that investment on the island must come from “a love for Bali,” meaning development should respect the environment, culture, and local wisdom instead of prioritizing fast returns. This aligns with the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, which promotes harmony between humans, nature, and the spiritual world.
By halting the Kelingking Beach Glass Lift, the government aims to prevent irreversible changes to the cliff ecosystem and the cultural landscape that makes Nusa Penida special. For travelers, this means the iconic view will remain exactly as it appears in guidebooks and photos — raw, untouched, and authentic.
〰️🌀〰️🌀〰️🌀〰️
What This Means for Your Visit
Travel plans to Kelingking Beach continue as normal. The viewpoint, walking paths, and the steep trail to the beach remain open. The lift was never operational, so its removal doesn’t affect current access.
Many travelers may find this reassuring. Kelingking Beach’s appeal has always come from its natural drama — the vertical cliffs, turquoise water, and wild landscape — not engineered attractions.
Will Demolition Disrupt the Area?
Authorities have instructed the developer to remove the structure over the coming months. This activity is confined to the construction zone and won’t interfere with visitor footpaths or main viewpoints.
Tour operators in Nusa Penida continue running daily trips, and access to the famous photo points remains unchanged.
〰️🌀〰️🌀〰️🌀〰️
Why This Matters for International Travelers
Kelingking Beach is one of Southeast Asia’s most recognizable coastal landmarks. The decision to dismantle the Kelingking Beach Glass Lift signals that Bali intends to preserve the natural character of its most iconic sites.
For international visitors, this ensures:
- The cliffside will remain natural and unobstructed
- The scenery stays consistent with what travelers expect
- Future development will follow stricter environmental standards
- The island remains committed to sustainable, culture-based tourism
In short, the ruling protects the experience that many visitors travel halfway around the world to enjoy.
What to Expect in the Months Ahead
- No closures for the viewpoint
- Daily tours and photo stops continue as usual
- Controlled demolition work limited to specific areas
- Stronger rules for future developments in Nusa Penida
Kelingking Beach will remain the same dramatic viewpoint travelers know — and the commitment to preservation ensures it stays that way for years to come.
👍 Book Now: Fastboat Ticket Sanur – Nusa Penida Only 110K/One Way
〰️🌀〰️🌀〰️🌀〰️
Kelingking Beach Glass Lift : Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
〰️🌀〰️🌀〰️🌀〰️
Kelingking Beach Glass Lift: What This Decision Means Going Forward
The halt of the Kelingking Beach Glass Lift reinforces that Bali’s most treasured landscapes are irreplaceable. For travelers, this means the dramatic cliffs of Kelingking will continue to offer the same untamed beauty that has made them a world-famous destination.
“Places like Kelingking are not only meant to be visited. They’re meant to be preserved, so every traveler who arrives after us can feel the same sense of wonder.”
— Giostanovlatto
〰️🌀〰️🌀〰️🌀〰️
Meet the Author
Giostanovlatto is a professional sunset-chaser and the founder of Hey Bali. He believes the real Bali begins where the airport taxi queues end. As a long-time observer of the island’s tourism, his conversations about Bali range from warung owners to ministers, all in the same straightforward language. He’s on a mission to ensure your journey starts with a smile, not a financial negotiation.
