Banyan Tree's open-air retreat in Bali, Buahan, has been recognized as the Asia Pacific Glamping Experience of the Month for August 2026 by the Asia Pacific Outdoor Lodging Association. The accolade highlights the property's distinctive approach to luxury hospitality, which strips away conventional walls and doors to immerse guests in the island's highland rainforest.
Located in the Payangan highlands, just north of Ubud, Buahan sits about 90 minutes by car from Ngurah Rai International Airport. The adults-only sanctuary is designed for travelers seeking a deeper connection with nature, themselves, and each other. Its open-air villas, built from local materials, offer panoramic views of the surrounding forest and mountain peaks, while maintaining a sense of privacy and seclusion.
Experiential programming and dining
Buahan's experience portfolio goes beyond typical resort amenities. Guests can participate in the Soul Freedom Journey, a guided introspection experience, or join Jungle Cooking at the Dukuh Asri Regenerative Centre, where they learn about local ingredients and traditional Balinese culinary techniques. Evening rituals include Moon Meditation and Fire Ritual, which blend spiritual practice with the natural rhythms of the island.
Dining at Buahan emphasizes regional flavors and communal traditions. The signature Timbungan lunch features slow-cooked fish, pork skewers, and crispy duck, all prepared in the traditional Balinese megibung style, where dishes are shared from a central platter. This approach not only showcases local gastronomy but also fosters a sense of togetherness among guests.
Sustainability and community engagement
Sustainability is a core pillar of Buahan's operations. The property's architecture uses locally sourced materials and traditional building techniques, minimizing environmental impact. Regenerative farming practices supply the kitchen with fresh produce, while conservation efforts protect the surrounding ecosystem. The retreat works closely with local farmers and artisans, ensuring that tourism revenue directly benefits the community and helps preserve Balinese cultural heritage.
The Banyan Tree Connections package combines accommodation with curated wellbeing experiences and dining, available year-round. This offering aligns with broader trends in luxury travel, where travelers increasingly seek meaningful, place-based experiences. As noted in quiet luxury trends, hospitality design is shifting toward personal, immersive encounters that resonate with the destination.
For travel professionals, Buahan represents a model of how luxury and sustainability can coexist, appealing to a growing segment of high-end travelers who prioritize authenticity and environmental responsibility. The property's recognition by the Asia Pacific Outdoor Lodging Association underscores its leadership in the glamping segment, which continues to expand across the region.
Buahan's success also reflects a broader movement in Bali and beyond, where immersive travel experiences are gaining traction over traditional sightseeing. By offering guests a chance to live within nature rather than merely observe it, Buahan sets a benchmark for experiential hospitality.
For more information, visit the Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape website.
