Indian Tourist Swept to Death by Wave at Bali’s Infamous ‘Death Trap’ Cliff as Wife Looks On

A horrifying accident at Bali’s notorious Angel’s Billabong took the life of Indian tourist Nilesh Mukhi, 59, as he was swept off a cliff by a massive wave while taking photos.

Mukhi, a father of two from Kolkata, visited the dangerous tourist hotspot on the island of Nusa Penida with his wife, Kavita, and friends on Wednesday when the incident occurred.

Nilesh Mukhi was killed when a giant wave hit him and his wife while they took a picture at Angel’s Billabong in Bali. ViralPress

According to witnesses, the couple had been posing for photos at the edge of the natural infinity pool despite warnings from their driver, who cautioned them about the rough conditions brought on by the full moon.

Since it was a full moon, the notoriously dangerous tourist spot was susceptible to big waves. ViralPress

“Mukhi and his wife, Kavita, stood very close to the edge to be photographed,” Amin Asghar, President of travel agency Skal International, shared with ‘The Times of India’. “Before they could move back, a large wave struck, sweeping Mukhi into the sea.” The wave also hit Kavita, but she was rescued, suffering only minor injuries.

A search effort was launched by local police and the Indonesian Navy, culminating in the recovery of Mukhi’s body on Thursday morning in Nusa Dua, approximately 12 miles from the site of the accident.

Angel’s Billabong, accessible by a short boat ride from Bali’s mainland, is famed for its breathtaking views and crystal-clear waters, attracting many tourists. However, the location’s extreme and unpredictable waves have led to multiple incidents, making the area a “death trap.”

Mukhi’s body was discovered roughly 12 miles away from where he drowned. ViralPress

Past accidents underscore the dangerous nature of the cliffside. In 2018, Chinese tourist Qiuwei Anhui, 46, also drowned after being swept away while taking a selfie.

Another tragic incident occurred in 2016 when a powerful wave hit Australian newlyweds Brad and Lestari Williams. Lestari was carried away and later found washed ashore.

Mukhi, a travel agent for Skal International, leaves behind two sons, Gaurav and Yash. His tragic death serves as a sad reminder of the dangers present at Angel’s Billabong. It has reignited calls for more extraordinary safety measures and awareness at the popular but hazardous location.