Blog · 15 October 2025
By Nandini Jungle by Hanging Gardens
Cooking with Chef Gustu, a culinary journey shaped by heritage.
In Bali, recipes are not written on paper, they are whispered from generation by generation, taught by hand, remembered in the senses. Each sambal, curry, and sate is a living story, refined through years, shaped by patience, and shared around family tables long before they reached restaurant menus.
At Nandini Jungle by Hanging Gardens, guests are invited into this heritage through an intimate cooking class led by Executive Chef Gustu. Set in the open-air pavilion, surrounded by the breath of the jungle, the class is more than instruction. It is an invitation to taste Bali as it has always been, fragrant, soulful, and deeply personal.
“It felt like being welcomed into a Balinese home. We weren’t just learning, we were part of a story. Eating the meal we had created together, was the highlight of our trip.”
Chef Gustu describes the philosophy simply:
“When I teach guests to cook, I don’t just show them ingredients. I share memories. The sambal recipe I use was for example taught to me by my grandmother. It has been adjusted, perfected, and passed down through our family, and now, to our guests. That is what makes it special for me, every time.”
Price: From IDR 3,500,000++ per couple
Reservation: Minimum 24 hours in advance
Now open for reservations. Book Now
A taste of Bali, refined through generations, and now yours to share.
Unearth Tranquility: The Wine Spa Ritual in Bali’s Hidden Paradise. Nandini presents Vino Bliss, a Wine Spa experience unlike any other indulgence on the island. Tucked within the lush jungle, this 3,500-year ritual combines the age-old benefits of vinotherapy with the soothing touch of Balinese tradition.
This festive season, Nandini Jungle by Hanging Gardens invites guests to embrace the warmth of Christmas and the joy of the New Year in the heart of Ubud’s lush rainforest. Far from crowds yet close to tradition, the resort transforms into a sanctuary of light, flavour, and celebration.
A true wellness retreat is not created by facilities alone—it is shaped by environment, energy, and intention. At Nandini Jungle by Hanging Gardens, wellness is deeply connected to the surrounding rainforest, offering guests an opportunity to slow down, reset, and reconnect with themselves in a natural and unhurried way near Ubud.
Nandini Jungle by Hanging Gardens is delighted to announce the addition of a brand-new state-of-the-art gym facility, further enhancing the resort’s wellness offerings for guests seeking balance, health, and rejuvenation during their stay. Nestled deep within Bali’s lush jungle, our award-winning resort has long been recognized as a sanctuary for relaxation and natural healing.
A Hidden Paradise Awaits. Nestled deep within the lush Ayung River valley, Nandini Jungle by Hanging Gardens offers more than just a stay – it’s a journey into tranquility, elegance, and nature’s embrace. Perfect for travelers who seek luxury with authenticity, our resort combines breathtaking jungle views with world-class hospitality, making every return visit even more unforgettable.
At Nandini Jungle by Hanging Gardens, yoga unfolds in harmony with the landscape. The rainforest, rice terraces, and the sacred Ayung River create an atmosphere that feels both grounding and transformative. Each movement and breath is guided by the quiet rhythm of nature, helping guests find calm and focus.
