Community-Based Wellness Tourism: A Phenomenological Study in Taro Bali Tourism Village

The International Institute of Tourism and Business, Bali, Indonesia

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Abstract

This study explores the practices and community dynamics of well-ness tourism in Taro Tourism Village, Bali, a destination known for its integration of nature, spirituality, and local wisdom. Employing a phenomenological approach, this study investigates how wellness-oriented activities, such as yoga, spiritual purification (melukat), and herbal gastronomy, reflect and reinforce the village’s cultural values and sustainability principles. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with tourists, local residents, and tourism managers to capture diverse perspectives on the benefits, challenges, and community participation. The findings reveal that Taro’s wellness tourism experience is characterized by the application of the Tri Hita Karana philosophy, which promotes harmony among humans, nature, and spirituality. The active engagement of local communities through a Community-Based Tourism (CBT) framework not only supports environmental conservation but also enhances residents’ livelihoods. However, challenges remain in terms of market visibility, capacity-building, and sustainable resource management. This study contributes to the growing discourse on wellness tourism by high-lighting how local wisdom and participatory governance can strengthen destination resilience and authenticity, positioning Taro Village as a model of sustainable, community-driven wellness tourism in Bali.