Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape launches Lentera Bumi – the first and only resort-based conservatory dedicated to supporting and restoring local firefly populations in Bali. Meaning “lantern of the earth”, the project launch will coincide with Nyepi in March, known as the Day of Silence, where Balinese Caka New Year is celebrated in pure serenity for 24 hours.
Fireflies play an essential role in nature’s delicate food cycle stability and as an indicator of healthy natural ecosystems. However, populations are dwindling across the globe, with some even going extinct due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and pollution. Lentera Bumi aims to counter these factors, while inspired by the Balinese Tri Hita Karana philosophy that values connections amongst spirit, humanity, and nature.
Carefully guided by biology experts from the University of Udayana Bali to ensure an optimum regenerative process and increase survivability, the project involves a firefly breeding nursery, education of surround communities, as well as new organic farming practices on the resort’s onsite farm and rice field. This includes replacing commercial pesticides and agricultural chemicals with eco-friendly alternatives made with natural ingredients. The resulting organic compost is then used as a food source to help give the fireflies the best chance of survival.
The Silence Day package is available with a minimum of two-night stay in a bale, and includes a daily lunch, a spa treatment, wellness and leisure activities, as well as access to an exclusive experience witnessing the release of the newly bred fireflies back to their natural habitat under the twinkling stars.