How Bali’s Pemuteran Village Became a Global Ecotourism Leader, Earning a Place on the World Tourism Organization’s Prestigious List of Best Villages for Tourism 2025: You Need to Know

Posted on November 3, 2025

Bali, Indonesia’s tropical haven, is known for its stunning beaches, majestic temples and vibrant culture. However, a hidden treasure in the northern region of the island has recently captured the international spotlight. Pemuteran, a charming fishing village, has been named the best tourist village in the world for 2025 by the United Nations World Tourism Organization. This honor highlights the village’s exceptional efforts in marine conservation and sustainable tourism, placing it among the most innovative ecotourism destinations in the world.

A village focused on marine life conservation

Pemuteran, on the northwest coast of Bali, is known for its dedication to marine conservation. This village, which once faced challenges such as the destruction of coral reefs and dwindling marine biodiversity, has transformed itself into a leading example of how ecotourism can support environmental recovery. Its focus on coral restoration and protection of marine ecosystems has earned the village a well-deserved place on the prestigious list of the World Tourism Organization.

The village’s coral reef restoration initiatives are at the heart of conservation efforts. Over the years, the local community, businesses and government in Pemuteran have worked together to restore the reef, using artificial reefs and coral planting to help regenerate damaged areas. These initiatives have had a remarkable impact, resulting in a thriving marine environment that attracts divers, snorkelers and environmentally conscious travelers from around the world.

For those who visit Pemuteran, it offers more than just beautiful beaches; It provides an opportunity to participate directly in marine conservation efforts. Visitors can participate in coral planting activities, guided eco-tours, and other educational programs designed to promote awareness and inspire action for marine conservation.

A model of community tourism

Pemuteran’s success lies in its holistic approach to tourism, an approach that integrates environmental conservation, community engagement, and sustainable development. The village’s marine conservation programs have been supported by the local community, creating a shared sense of responsibility towards protecting the environment. This cooperative model ensures that the benefits of tourism are felt by everyone, from local fishermen to small business owners, while preserving the natural beauty that attracts visitors in the first place.

The impact of sustainable tourism extends beyond environmental benefits. Pemuteran has used its ecotourism initiatives to drive economic growth, with businesses such as eco-lodges, local restaurants and tour operators seeing the benefits of the village’s focus on sustainability. By prioritizing responsible tourism, Pemuteran has created a thriving local economy that values ​​environmental conservation and the well-being of its residents.

UNWTO recognition: a global standard for sustainability

Pemuteran being named one of the best tourist villages by the World Tourism Organization is a prestigious recognition of Pemuteran’s dedication to responsible tourism. The UNWTO initiative aims to recognize villages around the world that excel in preserving their natural and cultural heritage while supporting sustainable development. Pemuteran’s efforts to restore its coral reefs, engage the community in conservation, and promote eco-friendly tourism practices make it a prime example of what the future of tourism could look like.

Pemuteran is part of a growing trend of destinations prioritizing sustainability and environmental stewardship. In Bali alone, other villages such as Pingliburan and Jatiluwih have also received recognition for their dedication to preserving cultural heritage and landscapes. These villages set the standard for ecotourism, proving that it is possible to build a thriving tourism industry without compromising the environment or local communities.

The ripple effect: How Pemuteran is shaping Bali’s future tourism

The recognition of Pemuteran is more than just a win for the village itself, it is a strong statement about the direction of Bali’s tourism industry. With an increasing number of travelers seeking environmentally responsible destinations, Bali’s focus on sustainable tourism positions it as a leader in this global transformation. As tourists become more aware of their impact on the planet, destinations like Pemuteran are well-equipped to meet this demand for eco-friendly travel experiences.

By focusing on environmental and community conservation, Pemuteran shows the world that tourism can be a positive force for environmental conservation and social and economic development. The village’s success demonstrates how tourism can play a vital role in preserving ecosystems and improving the quality of life for local communities. As more travelers look for destinations that align with their environmental values, Pemuteran provides an ideal model for others to follow.

What’s next for the tourism scene in Pemuteran and Bali?

The UNWTO recognition is just the beginning for Pemuteran. As more attention is drawn to the village’s remarkable achievements, the potential for growth and further innovation in sustainable tourism has become clear. Pemuteran already serves as a planner for other villages in Bali and beyond, encouraging them to adopt similar practices that balance tourism needs with natural resource conservation.

Looking to the future, Pemuteran’s focus on marine conservation and ecotourism is expected to continue to grow, providing more opportunities for visitors to engage with the environment and support local initiatives. As travelers become more aware of their impact, demand for destinations like Pemuteran will increase, ensuring sustainability remains at the forefront of Bali’s tourism industry.

Conclusion: A village with a vision

Pemuteran’s recognition as one of the World’s Best Tourist Villages for 2025 is a well-deserved honor that highlights the village’s commitment to environmental sustainability, community engagement and responsible tourism. The village’s focus on coral restoration, ecotourism and local engagement distinguishes it as a global leader in sustainable tourism. As more travelers seek destinations that prioritize sustainability, Pemuteran’s example offers hope for a future where tourism can be a force for good – protecting the planet and benefiting local communities for generations to come.