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THE SECRETS OF SEA SALT MAKING IN AMED

Welcome to Amed, a picturesque coastal village nestled in the eastern shores of Bali, Indonesia. Known for its volcanic beaches, vibrant marine life, and captivating sunrises, Amed is a destination that often surprises visitors with its unique charm. Beyond its natural beauty, Amed holds a treasure trove of cultural heritage, particularly in its traditional salt-making practices. In this blog post, we delve into the fascinating world of salt makers in Amed, uncovering the centuries-old techniques that have sustained generations of Balinese families.



In Amed, salt making is more than just a livelihood; it's a tradition passed down through generations. The salt makers of Amed, known locally as 'pengrajin garam,' meticulously harvest salt from the seawater using age-old methods, creating a product that is deeply intertwined with the island's heritage.


Let's delve into the intricate steps that shape this timeless craft:


  1. The process begins with the gentle collection of seawater from the shores of Amed. Workers, balancing sturdy double-bucket shoulder poles, carry this life-giving water to the awaiting soil fields.

  2. With careful attention, the soil in the fields is smoothed to create an ideal surface for drying. Here, under the warm gaze of the tropical sun, the salt water slowly evaporates over several days, leaving behind the essence of the sea.

  3. As the sun works its magic, transforming water into salt-infused soil, the next phase commences. Using rakes, the dried, salty soil paddies are broken up, preparing them for the next stage of the journey.

  4. With hands guided by generations of wisdom, the broken soil is transferred into awaiting cones, each one a vessel for the alchemy of nature.

  5. With gentle yet firm pressure, the soil inside the cones is stamped down, creating a solid foundation for the continuation of the process.

  6. Once more, seawater is gathered, pouring over the soil within the cones. Allowance is made for the water to seep down through the soil, infusing it with the essence of salt.

  7. With patience as their ally, the filtered salty water is collected from below the cones, a harmonious union of land and sea.

  8. This liquid treasure is poured into drying trays, patiently awaiting the sun's embrace for the next few days.

  9. Under the gentle warmth of the sun, watch as the salty water evaporates, leaving behind delicate crystals of pure salt.

  10. Finally, with gratitude in their hearts, the fresh salt is gathered in baskets, ready to share its essence with the world.

  11. From sea to soil to salt, the journey of Amed's salt makers is a testament to the enduring beauty of tradition and the timeless rhythm of nature.


balinese salt maker on the beach of Amed Bali Indonesia

Despite the modern world's advancements, the salt makers of Amed remain dedicated to preserving their time-honored practices. They prioritize sustainable methods that respect both tradition and the environment. Each harvested grain of salt is a testament to their unwavering commitment and the enduring beauty of tradition in an ever-changing landscape.


salt drying in amed with volcano view during sunset

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