Tag Archives: Cultures

Exploring the Cultural Significance of Important Days and Events in Bali

Bali is a small island in Indonesia that is widely known for its unique culture, art, and religion. There are several important days and events that are celebrated annually in Bali, each with their own unique traditions and ceremonies. In this article, we will explore some of the most significant cultural events and dates in Bali, including their significance, dates, and future dates.

The Balinese use two traditional calendars. The main one is the Pewukon which regulates a large part of Balinese life. It superimposes various cycles over a period of 210 days. The Saka calendar, on the other hand, is inherited from the Indian system. Each month begins after the new moon, which gives rise to great ceremonies.

Read also: Must Visit Temples in Bali | You need to visit one of them at least once during your stay in Bali

Important days in Bali

Bali is a culturally rich destination that is home to several unique festivals and cultural events. These events offer visitors an opportunity to witness and experience the rich traditions, customs, and beliefs of the Balinese people. These festivals have been celebrated for generations and are passed down through oral traditions and cultural practices.

Please note that the dates may vary slightly depending on the Balinese Pawukon calendar. Many important cultural events in Bali, and visitors are welcome to observe the ceremony, but it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions.

There are many important days in Bali, as well as our cultural and events as follows:

Odalan

Every 210 days (one year according to the Pawukon calendar), the whole village comes together to commemorate the founding of the temple (the odalan). It is then the occasion to pay homage to the divinities by offerings and prayers. With more than 20,000 temples in Bali, the opportunities to attend a ceremony are very numerous!

Odalan is a traditional Balinese Hindu ceremony that is held to celebrate the anniversary of a temple’s establishment or purification.

Odalan procession
Odalan temple anniversaty procession. Balinese women dressed in traditional costume on their way to the temple. Midori, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The inhabitants wear the traditional dress and the women carry the offerings on their heads to take them to the temple. The temples are decorated with many flowers and offerings.
After the prayer, water is sprinkled on the faithful and blessed rice is distributed to them. The faithful then apply it to the temples, throat and forehead.

Tanah Lot odalan ritual
The Odalan ritual on Tanah Lot temple. Okkisafire, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Here are some upcoming Odalan dates for some of the major temples in Bali:

The dates of Odalan vary from temple to temple, as each temple has its own anniversary day according to the Balinese calendar.

  • Pura Ulun Danu Bratan:
    • 15 September 2023
    • Tuesday, 10 September 2024
  • Pura Besakih, which is also known as the “Mother Temple” of Bali::
    • Sunday, 22 January 2023
    • Thursday, 18 January 2024
    • Monday, 13 January 2025
  • Pura Tanah Lot:
    • Tuesday, 10 January 2023
    • Thursday, 12 January 2023
    • Wednesday, 8 November 2023
    • Friday, 10 November 2023
    • Monday, 8 January 2024
    • Wednesday, 10 January 2024

Please note that the dates may be subject to change, as the Balinese calendar is a complex system that incorporates several cycles and sub-cycles.

Bali Heritage, Culture and Traditions

Galungan and Kuningan

Every 210 days, Galungan celebrates the creation of the universe. The Balinese believe that the gods and the souls of the ancestors descend to the temples. Bali then comes alive to give rise to countless ceremonies and the festivities culminate 10 days later for Kuningan marks the end of this period.

These festivals celebrate the victory of good over evil and the arrival of ancestral spirits in Bali. During this time, Balinese families come together to prepare offerings, pray, and celebrate with traditional dances and music.

On the eve of Galungan, penjor (bamboo arches decorated with coconut leaves) are erected in front of the houses. The altars of domestic temples are dressed in yellow ornaments. Many shops are closed, the administration is idling but the big hotels remain open.

Here are the upcoming dates for Galungan and Kuningan in Bali:
  • Galungan:
    • Wednesday, 5 July 2023
    • Wednesday, 1 January 2024
    • Wednesday, 30 October 2024
    • Wednesday, 26 March 2025
    • Wednesday, 29 October 2025
  • Kuningan:
    • Saturday, 15 July 2023
    • Saturday, 11 January 2024
    • Saturday, 9 November 2024
    • Saturday, 5 April 2025
    • Saturday, 8 November 2025

Kuningan1
Placing offerings in a temple. Kuningan celebration at end of Galungan festival. Spencer Weart, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Saraswati

Festival dedicated to the goddess of knowledge, music, and art. The Balinese pay homage to books by sprinkling sacred water. It is the name of the goddess of knowledge. This Saraswati event is also celebrated every 210 days.

Saraswati is dedicated to the goddess of knowledge, music, art, and literature, and is celebrated by students, teachers, and artists across Bali.

As the “patron saint” of schools, she is celebrated primarily by children who pray and bring offerings to the school temple in her honor. The Balinese also pay homage to the goddess and to the books by sprinkling holy water. On this day, students, artists, and scholars offer prayers and offerings to Saraswati to seek her blessings for success in their endeavors.

Here are the upcoming dates for Saraswati day in Bali:
  • Saturday, 21 January 2023
  • Saturday, 16 September 2023
  • Saturday, 13 January 2024
  • Saturday, 7 September 2024
  • Saturday, 4 January 2025
  • Saturday, 30 August 2025

Raja Ravi Varma, Goddess Saraswati
Goddess Saraswati, Goddess of knowledge. This print from the Ravi Varma Press derived from a painting by Raja Ravi Varma follows the iconographic description of Saraswati as found in the 50th chapter of the Agni Purana. She is described in the Agni Purana as being attired in white and playing the Veena with two arms and holding an aksha-mala (a string of pearls) and a pustaka (book) in the other hands. Raja Ravi Varma, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Tumpek

Tumpek is a series of Balinese Hindu holidays that are held every 210 days in the Balinese Pawukon calendar. Each Tumpek is dedicated to a different aspect of life, such as animals, tools, and knowledge.

These holidays are a time for Balinese Hindus to give thanks and show respect to the gods and spirits who are believed to protect and bless them.

Every 35 days, the Balinese make offerings to precious goods such as iron objects (Tumpek Landep), animals (Tumpek Kandang), shadows (Tumpek Wayang), trees (Tumpek Uduh) or musical instruments , masks and other objects used during ceremonies (Tumpek Krulut).

Here are the upcoming dates for Tumpek in Bali:
  • Tumpek Landep: Saturday, 25 March 2023
  • Tumpek Kandang: Saturday, 22 July 2023
  • Tumpek Wayang: Saturday, 18 November 2023
  • Tumpek Krulut: Saturday, 17 March 2024
  • Tumpek Uduh: Saturday, 13 July 2024
  • Tumpek Kandang: Saturday, 9 November 2024
  • Tumpek Wayang: Saturday, 8 March 2025
  • Tumpek Krulut: Saturday, 5 July 2025
  • Tumpek Uduh: Saturday, 1 November 2025

Pagerwesi (Iron Fence)

This day is dedicated to spiritual strengthening, called Iron Gate, prayers and offerings are directed to save mankind. This Iron Gate has the meaning of a firm attitude of faith and knowledge possessed by humans, because without science human life will experience darkness.

It is the third most important festival in Bali after Galungan and Nyepi. The Balinese celebrate Pagerwesi every 210 days, always according to the Balinese calendar. The word Pagerwesi comes from “pager” (barrier) and “wesi” (iron) or “the iron barrier”. This day is dedicated to spiritual strengthening, to solidifying one’s strength against evil. On this occasion, we seek to save humanity, many offerings and prayers are made to ward off evil from men and the dead.

If they can, the Balinese will go to the big temples such as the Pura Besakih (national temple) or the Pura Jagatnata (large public temple which each kingdom has) or if they cannot go there, they will pray to the evening in their family temple to protect themselves from the negative elements.

Pagerwesi is closely related to Saraswati (day dedicated to the goddess of knowledge) since it is celebrated a few days later. The Balinese mainly honor Shiva on the day of Pagerwesi who transmitted his knowledge during the Sarawati festival. Therefore, it should also be seen that the Balinese also want knowledge to be protected from bad influences and abuse.

Pagerwesi future dates:
  • Wednesday, 29 March 2023
  • Wednesday, 25 October 2023
  • Monday, 13 May 2024
  • Friday, 29 November 2024
  • Tuesday, 23 September 2025
  • Sunday, 18 April 2026
  • Friday, 30 October 2026
  • Tuesday, 28 June 2027
  • Friday, 24 February 2028

Please note that the dates may vary slightly depending on the Balinese Pawukon calendar. It’s always advisable to check with local sources to confirm the exact dates for the Pagerwesi ceremony.

Melasti

Melasti is a Hindu Balinese purification ceremony that is held several days before Nyepi, the Day of Silence. During this ceremony, Hindus gather on the beach to perform rituals and prayers to cleanse themselves of impurities and sins, and to welcome the spirits of their ancestors.

An important ceremony for us Hindus is Melasti which consists of the purification of the Pratima (representations of all the gods of the village) as well as other Hindu religious symbols which are carried in procession to the sea for those living not far from it. or to the lake for mountain people.

The purpose of this ritual is to purify all impurities but above all to purify Bhuana Alit (the little world) and Bhuana Aung (the universe) from bad influences, sins and bad thoughts. Bhuana Alit (the small world) is actually the heart/mind of every individual who lives in this world.

This Melasti ritual is important because it reminds us of the value of life and how important it is and that we need a day to purify ourselves and the universe. So with this ceremony all the components of the universe have a pure spirit so that the world can survive against the threat of evil.

Melasti ceremony

This Melasti ceremony is one of the Bali heritage and culture and takes place 3/4 days before the Balinese New Year: Nyepi it depends on the rules of each village. This day we must dress in our traditional white outfits: symbol of purity.

Several men must thus carry the Pratimas to the sea or lake where they will be cleaned and then blessed, they are accompanied by gamelans who follow them during the procession, pretty umbrellas, standards, banners, barongs and rangda. One can sometimes walk for several kilometers in order to join the stream to carry out the purification of the pratimas because it is believed that these waters purify all the elements of the universe.

Sometimes during the procession it happens that some people are suddenly in a trance, it’s really an impressive thing to see and which never ceases to surprise us despite being used to it.

Many offerings were prepared for this special day as well as a beautiful traditional welcome dance for the gods.

Our advice: go to any beach that day in Bali to observe these processions.

Ritual Melasti - Bali heritage and culture
Melasti ritual is usually carried out to welcome the Nyepi day in Bali. This ritual is carried out in water centers such as lakes, springs and beaches. Imadedana, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Here are the upcoming dates for Melasti in Bali:
  • Friday, 10 March 2023
  • Wednesday, 28 February 2024
  • Sunday, 16 March 2025
  • Friday, 6 March 2026
  • Tuesday, 23 March 2027
  • Sunday, 12 March 2028
  • Friday, 1 March 2029
  • Tuesday, 19 March 2030
  • Sunday, 8 March 2031
  • Friday, 27 February 2032

Nyepi (Silent Day)

A few days before Nyepi, Melasti is celebrated all over the island. This is the great purification. The Balinese then converge on the sea to purify themselves there. On the eve of Nyepi (New Year of the Saka calendar), all major crossroads receive large offerings that are believed to exorcise evil spirits.

In the evening, large processions wander through the streets displaying the ogoh-ogoh (demonic giant dolls). Nyepi is the day of silence, no one has the right to go out in the street or turn on a light.

Nyepifest auf Bali
Ogoh-ogoh procession on the eve of Nyepi. Micnae1965, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Nyepi Day, also known as the “Day of Silence”, is a significant cultural event in Bali. It is celebrated annually on the Balinese New Year, which usually falls in March or April. On this day, the entire island shuts down, and people are expected to observe silence, meditation, and self-reflection. There are also several unique ceremonies that take place before and after Nyepi Day, including the Ogoh-Ogoh parade, where people carry large demonic effigies through the streets.

Nyepi Future dates:
  • Tuesday, 14 March 2023
  • Sunday, 3 March 2024
  • Thursday, 20 March 2025
  • Tuesday, 10 March 2026
  • Saturday, 27 March 2027
  • Thursday, 16 March 2028
  • Tuesday, 6 March 2029
  • Sunday, 24 March 2030
  • Friday, 13 March 2031
  • Wednesday, 3 March 2032
  • Monday, 20 March 2033

Ogoh-ogoh statues in front of the Puri Lukisan Museum in Ubud
Ogoh-Ogoh, demonic figures, are paraded in Bali on the eve of Nyepi (Day of Silence). Ngrupuk-Ngrupukan, also known as the Ogoh-Ogoh parade celebrated on the night before Nyepi. MagdaLena7, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Ngembak Geni Festival (marks the end of the period of self-reflection and silence during Nyepi and represents a new beginning,)

Ngembak Geni, also known as the “Day of Silence,” is a Hindu festival that falls on the day after Nyepi, the Balinese New Year. Nyepi is a day of complete silence and self-reflection, where the Balinese people refrain from engaging in any activities, including lighting fires, using electricity, and going out of their homes.

The day after the big Balinese New Year celebration, Nyepi, Ngembak Geni is an integral part of it. Bali Hindus make amends and spend the day with family. It is a day of forgiveness, reconciliation, and social gathering, where families and friends come together to ask for forgiveness and start anew.

Ngembak Geni marks the end of this day of silence and the return to normal activities.
During Ngembak Geni, the Balinese people perform several rituals to purify themselves and their surroundings. One of the main rituals involves making offerings and seeking blessings from the gods at the local temples. Balinese families come together to perform these rituals, which are believed to cleanse their bodies and souls, and bring good luck for the coming year.

Here are the upcoming dates for Ngembak Geni in Bali:
  • Wednesday, 29 March 2023
  • Monday, 18 March 2024
  • Friday, 4 April 2025
  • Wednesday, 25 March 2026
  • Monday, 15 March 2027
  • Saturday, 1 April 2028
  • Thursday, 22 March 2029
  • Tuesday, 12 March 2030
  • Sunday, 31 March 2031
  • Friday, 20 March 2032

Festival Omed-omedan Setelah Nyepi
Omed-omedan ceremony in Sesetan, Denpasar, Bali. Yohana Afrita, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Omed-Omedan Festival (a celebration of youth and love)

Omed-Omedan, also known as the “Kissing Festival,” is a unique and playful festival celebrated in the village of Sesetan in Bali. The festival takes place on the day after Nyepi, similar to Ngembak Geni, and involves young unmarried men and women engaging in a friendly kissing competition.

It is seen as an opportunity for young people to express their affections for each other in a fun and playful manner.

The festival is also believed to bring good luck and blessings to the village and its inhabitants, fostering a sense of community and togetherness. During the festival, young men and women of the village participate in a playful water fight. After the water fight, the participants gather in the middle of the street, and the unmarried ones are paired up to share a kiss. It is believed that this tradition brings good luck and happiness to the village.

The festival begins with a lively procession where the participants, dressed in traditional Balinese attire, make their way to the village’s main square. Once they gather, the young men and women form two lines facing each other, and at the signal, they start playfully pulling and pushing each other, with the aim of getting a chance to kiss their crush. It is believed that the couple who kisses will have good luck and blessings in their romantic endeavors.

Here are the upcoming dates for Omed-Omedan Festival in Bali:
  • Wednesday, 15 March 2023
  • Monday, 4 March 2024
  • Friday, 21 March 2025
  • Wednesday, 11 March 2026
  • Sunday, 28 March 2027
  • Friday, 17 March 2028
  • Wednesday, 7 March 2029
  • Tuesday, 26 March 2030
  • Saturday, 15 March 2031
  • Thursday, 5 March 2032

Hindu Gods and Goddesses in Bali | A Guide to the Most Important Deities

August 17

Bali gathers to celebrate Independence Day of Indonesia. This national holiday is important and allows everyone to remember the hardships they have gone through. Bali, as a province of Indonesia, also celebrates Independence Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirit.

On Independence Day, the national flag is raised in the morning in all government buildings, schools, and private institutions throughout Bali. Many Balinese people also decorate their homes and businesses with the red and white Indonesian flag.

On Independence Day, the national flag is raised in the morning in all government buildings, schools, and private institutions throughout Bali. Many Balinese people also decorate their homes and businesses with the red and white Indonesian flag.

Bali is a culturally rich destination that is home to several unique festivals and cultural events. These events offer visitors an opportunity to witness and experience the rich traditions, customs, and beliefs of the Balinese people. To learn more about these events and their significance, you can visit https://www.bali.com/events.html.

Sources: PinterPandai, CleverlySmart

Photo credit: AgungAtmaja via Pixabay

Bali Arts Festival in Denpasar | The Biggest Annual Cultural Event in Bali


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Museums in Bali, Inspirational Art and Culture

Bali has a rich cultural and artistic heritage, and its museums offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the island’s history, traditions, and contemporary art scene. From traditional Balinese art forms to modern and contemporary art, the museums in Bali showcase a diverse range of exhibits that appeal to a broad audience.

Many of the museums in Bali are located in beautiful settings, with stunning views of Bali’s lush landscape and traditional architecture. The museums also offer a range of events and workshops, such as artist talks, musical performances, and traditional Balinese dance and music classes.

While some of the museums in Bali may have limited space or outdated exhibits, the overall quality of the museums is quite good, and they are generally well-maintained and organized. The museums also provide visitors with an opportunity to support the local arts and culture scene by purchasing artwork or participating in cultural events.

Overall, if you are interested in art, culture, and history, the museums in Bali are definitely worth a visit. They offer a unique and engaging perspective on Bali’s rich heritage and contemporary art scene.

There are several interesting museums in Bali. Here are some examples:

The Agung Rai Museum (ARMA) – Ubud

This museum has a large collection of traditional and contemporary Balinese art, including paintings, sculptures, textiles and ritual objects.

The museum was founded by Agung Rai, a Balinese art collector and philanthropist, in order to preserve and promote traditional Balinese art and culture.

The museum is home to a large collection of Balinese and Indonesian art, including traditional paintings, sculptures, and textiles, as well as contemporary works by local and international artists. The museum is housed in several buildings, each showcasing a different aspect of Balinese culture and art.

Pintu masuk Museum Seni Agung Rai
Pintu masuk Museum Seni Agung Rai (ARMA) Ubud, Bali, Indonesia. Harditaher, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

One of the highlights of the museum is the Wayang Museum, which features an extensive collection of wayang kulit, or shadow puppets. The museum also includes a traditional Balinese house, or joglo, which has been restored and furnished with antique Balinese furniture.

The Agung Rai Museum also hosts a range of cultural events and activities, such as Balinese dance performances, gamelan music concerts, and traditional puppet shows. The museum also offers a range of educational programs, including art classes, workshops, and lectures, allowing visitors to learn more about Balinese art and culture.

Ruang depan Museum Seni Agung Rai
The front room of the Agung Rai Museum of Art. Harditaher, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

What is wayang?

Wayang is a traditional form of puppet theatre that originated in Indonesia and is most commonly associated with the island of Java. The term “wayang” refers to both the puppets themselves and the performance art of puppetry.

Wayang puppets are typically made of wood, although some may be made of leather or other materials. The puppets are intricately carved and painted, with movable arms, legs, and heads. Each puppet represents a different character, with distinct personalities and characteristics.

Wayang performances typically tell stories from ancient Javanese epics, such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The puppeteer, known as a dalang, sits behind a screen and manipulates the puppets while simultaneously narrating the story and providing voices for the different characters. The dalang is often accompanied by a gamelan orchestra, which provides musical accompaniment to the performance.

Wayang is a highly respected and revered art form in Indonesia, and is considered an important part of the country’s cultural heritage. In addition to its artistic and cultural significance, wayang has also played a role in education and moral instruction, as many stories feature moral lessons and teachings.

Today, wayang continues to be performed throughout Indonesia and has also gained international recognition as a unique and fascinating form of puppet theatre.

The museum is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm, with guided tours available for groups. Admission fees apply, with discounts available for students and children.

Overall, the Agung Rai Museum (ARMA) is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in Balinese art and culture. The museum provides a comprehensive and engaging perspective on Balinese art and culture, with a range of exhibits, events, and educational programs to suit all interests.

Address: Jl. Raya Pengosekan Ubud, Bali, 80571, Indonesia.

Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

http://villacarissabali.com/balinese-paintings-exploring-balis-artistic-schools-types-heritage/

The Puri Lukisan Museum, the Painting Museum of Ubud

This museum is one of Bali’s oldest art museums and features a large collection of modern and traditional Balinese artwork. This Balinese art museum has a collection of traditional and modern paintings, sculptures and artwork.

Terbakarnya Lontar, Museum Puri Lukisan
The Burning of Lontar by I Gusti Ketut Kobot, 1958, Museum Puri Paintings. Pinerineks, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The museum was founded in 1954 by Tjokorda Gede Agung Sukawati, the prince of Ubud, with the aim of preserving and promoting traditional Balinese art and culture.

The museum’s collection consists of traditional Balinese paintings, sculptures, and textiles, as well as contemporary works by local and international artists. The collection is divided into several galleries, each showcasing a different aspect of Balinese art and culture.

One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of works by the Ubud School of Painting, a group of Balinese artists who gained international recognition in the 1930s and 1940s. The museum also features works by other notable Balinese artists, including I Gusti Nyoman Lempad, Ida Bagus Made, and Anak Agung Gede Sobrat.

The Puri Lukisan Museum is housed in a series of traditional Balinese-style buildings, with high-pitched thatched roofs and intricately carved wooden doors and windows. The museum is surrounded by lush gardens and offers stunning views of the surrounding rice paddies and tropical forest.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Puri Lukisan Museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events. The museum offers guided tours and educational programs, allowing visitors to learn more about Balinese art and culture.

Ogoh-ogoh statues in front of the Puri Lukisan Museum in Ubud
Ogoh-ogoh statues (demonic figures) in front of the Puri Lukisan Museum in Ubud. MagdaLena7, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

History

This Museum of Fine Arts was erected in 1956 thanks to the alliance of two important figures: Cokorda Raka Sukawati, Prince of Ubud from 1910 to 1978 and the Dutch painter Rudolf Bonnet. This is the oldest art museum in Bali which specializes in Balinese paintings and sculptures. At the origin of this museum, the fear of seeing Balinese art disappear throughout the world, without keeping any trace of it within it: Ubud Bali. Indeed, Balinese art becoming world famous, paintings and sculptures began to leave for foreign countries or other Indonesian regions.

The famous Dutch painter thought that at this rate, works of art would disappear forever, scattered around the world. For this reason, in 1936, together with the prince, they created a foundation called Pita Maha. Little by little, a second foundation was born in 1953, then the first stone of the museum was laid in 1954. Prince Cokorda Raka Sukawati became the director of the museum and Rudolf Bonnet, its curator.

To supply the museum, Rudolf Bonnet began by depositing the works of art in his possession there. Subsequently, other artists donated their paintings to give this museum all the grandeur it deserved. In total, three pavilions make up this exceptional Museum of Painting.

Address: Jl. Raya Ubud, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia.

The museum is located on the main street of Ubud, 300m (984ft or 0.18 mile) from Ubud Palace and Ubud Market at the intersection of Monkey Forest Road.

Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with admission fees applying. Discounts are available for students and groups. Overall, the museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Balinese art and culture, providing a comprehensive and engaging perspective on the island’s rich artistic heritage.

The Neka Museum – Ubud

This museum houses a large collection of traditional and contemporary Balinese art, as well as works by foreign artists who have worked in Bali.

It was founded by Suteja Neka, a Balinese art collector, in 1982 with the aim of preserving and promoting traditional Balinese art.

The museum’s collection includes a wide range of Balinese art, including traditional paintings, sculptures, and textiles, as well as contemporary works by local and international artists. The museum’s collection is divided into several galleries, each focusing on a different aspect of Balinese art and culture.

One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of works by renowned Balinese artist I Gusti Nyoman Lempad. The museum also features a large collection of works by other notable Balinese artists, including Ida Bagus Made, Ida Bagus Tilem, and Ida Bagus Nyoman Rai.

The Neka Museum is housed in a traditional Balinese-style building, with a series of high-pitched roofs and intricate carvings on the walls and doors. The museum is surrounded by lush gardens and offers stunning views of the surrounding rice paddies.

The Death of Abhimanyu
The Death of Abhimanyu (Abhimanyu Gugur), a painting at the Neka Art Museum in Ubud, Bali. Late 19th century; mineral pigments, indigo, and ink on bark cloth; 100 x 106 cm. Anonymous. Kamasan, Klungkung, Bali. Mx. Granger, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

In addition to its permanent collection, the Neka Museum also hosts a range of temporary exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events. The museum offers guided tours and educational programs, allowing visitors to learn more about Balinese art and culture.

The Neka Museum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with admission fees applying. Discounts are available for students and groups. Overall, the Neka Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Balinese art and culture, providing a comprehensive and engaging perspective on the island’s rich artistic heritage.

NEKA Art Museum
NEKA Art Museum, Ubud. User: (WT-shared) Shoestring at wts wikivoyage, CC BY-SA 1.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Address: Jl. Raya Sanggingan, Kedewatan, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia.

Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Blanco Renaissance Museum – Ubud

This museum is dedicated to the life and work of the painter Antonio Blanco, who lived in Bali for several decades. It houses Blanco’s paintings, drawings, sculptures and personal items.

It was founded by the Philippine-born artist Antonio Blanco, who lived and worked in Bali for over 40 years until his death in 1999. The museum showcases a collection of his works, as well as the works of his son, Mario Blanco.

Atelier d'Antonio Blanco
Workshop of Antonio Blanco. SylvieM, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The museum is housed in a stunning building, with Balinese architecture and lush gardens. It is divided into several galleries, each displaying a different period of Blanco’s art. The galleries are adorned with his paintings, drawings, and sculptures, showcasing his distinctive style, which blends Western and Balinese artistic traditions.

Antonio Blanco Atelier
Antonio Blanco’s workshop in his museum. Taguelmoust, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Blanco Renaissance Museum also features a studio and workshop, where visitors can watch artists at work and even try their hand at painting or drawing. The museum offers a range of art classes and workshops, allowing visitors to explore their own creativity and learn more about Balinese art and culture.

In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also hosts regular temporary exhibitions, featuring the works of other artists, both local and international.

Antonio Blanco le musée
Antonio Blanco Museum, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia. Taguelmoust, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The museum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with guided tours available for groups. Admission fees apply, with discounts available for students and children.

Overall, the Blanco Renaissance Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers and those interested in Balinese art and culture. The museum provides a unique and engaging perspective on the life and works of Antonio Blanco and his legacy in Bali’s art scene.

Address: Jl. Raya Penestanan, Sayan, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia.

Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The museum houses a collection of paintings, sculptures and works of art by the Spanish painter Antonio Blanco.

Rudana Museum – Ubud

The Rudana Museum & Rudana Fine Art Gallery is a museum of contemporary Indonesian art located in the village of Peliatan in Ubud, Bali. The museum was founded in 1995 by Nyoman Rudana, a Balinese art collector and entrepreneur, and features a collection of modern and contemporary Indonesian art.

The museum’s collection includes works by some of Indonesia’s most well-known artists, such as Affandi, S. Sudjojono, and Raden Saleh. The exhibits include paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media installations, as well as traditional Balinese art forms such as Wayang Kulit (shadow puppetry) and Batuan-style paintings. The museum has a strong focus on showcasing the diversity and richness of Indonesian art and culture.

The museum’s building is a beautiful example of traditional Balinese architecture, with open-air pavilions and courtyards featuring intricate carvings and sculptures. The museum’s location on a hillside also provides visitors with stunning views of the surrounding rice paddies and tropical landscape.

In addition to its exhibits, the Rudana Museum also hosts regular events and workshops, such as artist talks, musical performances, and art classes. Visitors can also enjoy a meal or refreshment at the museum’s on-site restaurant and cafe.

The Rudana Museum is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm, and admission fees apply. Discounts are available for children and groups. Overall, the museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in contemporary Indonesian painting art and culture.

Address: Jl. Cok Rai Pudak No. 44, Peliatan, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia. It is situated about 2 km east of the central Ubud area and can be easily accessed by car or motorbike.

Open every day from 10 am to 4 pm.

There are several museums in Bali outside of Ubud, here are some examples

Le Mayeur Museum in Sanur

This museum is dedicated to the Belgian artist Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur de Merprès, who lived in Bali for more than 25 years and produced many works inspired by the island. The museum is housed in the former residence of Le Mayeur, who lived in Bali from 1932 until his death in 1958.

The museum displays a collection of Le Mayeur’s paintings, which are known for their vibrant colors and depiction of Balinese daily life. Many of the paintings feature Balinese women, whom Le Mayeur considered his muse, and showcase their traditional costumes, dances, and ceremonies. The museum also features some of Le Mayeur’s personal belongings, including furniture, photographs, and art materials.

Czesław Mystkowski Reclining nude
Reclining nude by Czesław Mystkowski. Czeslaw Mystkowski (1898-1938), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The building

The building itself is a beautiful example of traditional Balinese architecture, with an open-air layout and intricate carvings on the walls and ceilings. The museum is surrounded by a lush tropical garden, which provides a peaceful and serene atmosphere for visitors.

Museum Pasifika
Museum Pasifika. Museum Pasifika, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In addition to its collection, the Le Mayeur Museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events, such as traditional dance performances and music concerts. The museum’s location in Sanur, a popular beach resort town, also makes it a great destination for tourists looking to experience both Balinese culture and natural beauty.

The museum is open every day from 8 am to 4 pm, except on Sundays and public holidays. Admission fees apply, with discounts available for students and groups. Overall, the Le Mayeur Museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and anyone interested in learning about Balinese culture and history.

Address: Jl. Hang Tuah, Sanur, Denpasar Sel., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80227, Indonesia.

Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Except on Sundays and public holidays

Pasifika Museum in Nusa Dua

This contemporary art museum houses an impressive collection of Asian and Oceanian artwork, with a strong presence of Balinese art.

The museum is dedicated to the art and culture of the Pacific region, featuring a collection of traditional and contemporary art from various countries in the Pacific.

The museum’s collection includes artworks from Indonesia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Vanuatu, and other Pacific islands. Visitors can explore the exhibits which showcase a diverse range of art styles, including paintings, sculptures, textiles, and mixed media works. The museum also features interactive displays and multimedia installations, providing a unique and engaging experience for visitors.

One of the highlights of the Pasifika Museum is its collection of works by Balinese artist Nyoman Gunarsa. Gunarsa is known for his colorful and expressive paintings that depict traditional Balinese scenes and mythology. The museum also has a collection of works by other prominent Indonesian artists, including Affandi and Raden Saleh.

The Pasifika Museum is housed in a beautiful building that features traditional Balinese architecture with a modern touch. The museum is surrounded by lush tropical gardens, providing a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere for visitors.

2018 museum pasifika, nusa dua, Bali, Indonesia
Museum Pasifika, Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia. Lasthib, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In addition to its collection, the museum also offers cultural workshops, art classes, and guided tours. The museum’s location in Nusa Dua, a popular tourist destination, makes it an ideal destination for those looking to experience both Balinese culture and art from the wider Pacific region.

The museum is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm, and admission fees apply. Discounts are available for children, students, and groups. Overall, the Pasifika Museum is a fascinating attraction for art enthusiasts and anyone interested in the rich culture and history of the Pacific region.

Address: Complex Bali Tourism Development Corporation (BTDC), Nusa Dua, Benoa, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80363

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Bali Museum, Denpasar Historical Museum

This museum showcases the history of Bali from prehistoric times to the present day, with exhibits on the island’s art, culture and traditions.

The Denpasar Historical Museum, also known as the Bali Museum, is a museum located in the capital city of Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia. The museum was founded in 1932 and is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the cultural and historical heritage of Bali.

The museum’s collection includes a wide range of objects, such as traditional clothing, ceremonial objects, musical instruments, and paintings. The exhibits are accompanied by detailed explanations of the cultural and historical significance of each object.

In addition to its exhibits, the museum also hosts regular cultural events, such as Balinese dance performances and traditional music concerts. The museum’s location in the heart of Denpasar also makes it a convenient stop for those exploring the city.

'Human Penis' in Bali Museum in Denpasar.
The human penis in the Bali museum in Denpasar in Bali. Rudolph.A.furtado, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

The museum’s exhibits are spread across four buildings, each representing a different period of Balinese history. The first building focuses on prehistoric Bali, featuring artifacts such as stone tools and pottery. The second building covers the Hindu-Javanese period, with displays of statues, carvings, and textiles from the 8th to 16th century. The third building covers the Dutch colonial period, with exhibits on colonial life and the Balinese resistance. Finally, the fourth building covers the post-colonial era and Bali’s modern history.

Bali Museum 05
Bali Museum in Denpasar. Christophe95, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The museum was built in 1931 by architect P.J. Moojen, near the location of the former royal palace of Denpasar, which had been burnt to the ground during the Dutch intervention in Bali (1906), and used it as a model for its outside walls and courtyards.

Bali Museum 03
Bali Museum in Denpasar. Christophe95, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The building is constructed from carved teak wood, with a series of high-pitched roofs and intricate carvings on the walls and doors. The museum is divided into several pavilions, each showcasing different aspects of Balinese art and culture.

Main pavilion

The main pavilion of the Bali Museum is known as the “Tabanan Pavilion,” and it features a collection of prehistoric and historical artifacts from the island of Bali, including pottery, tools, and weapons. The pavilion also includes a replica of a traditional Balinese village, showcasing the daily life and customs of the Balinese people.

Another pavilion of the museum, the “Gianyar Pavilion,” is dedicated to Balinese art, including traditional paintings, sculptures, and textiles. The pavilion showcases the evolution of Balinese art from ancient times to the present day.

The Bali Museum also includes a special pavilion dedicated to Balinese masks and puppets, known as the “Klungkung Pavilion.” The pavilion features an extensive collection of masks and puppets, which are an important part of Balinese theater and performance.

Bali Museum inside courtyards and gates
Bali Museum, inside courtyards and gates, seen from the belvedere. PHGCOM, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Denpasar Historical Museum is open every day except on major holidays, from 8 am to 3 pm. Admission fees apply, with discounts available for children and groups. Overall, the museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Balinese culture and history.

Address: Denpasar Historical Museum: Jl. Mayor Wisnu No.1, Bali, 80232, Indonesia.

Open Tuesday to Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Mask and Puppet Museum (Setia Darma House) in Gianyar (20 minutes from Ubud)

The Mask and Puppet Museum, also known as Setia Darma House, is a museum located in the Gianyar regency of Bali, Indonesia. The museum is home to a large collection of masks and puppets from Indonesia and other parts of the world.

The museum was established in 2006 by Mr. Hadi Sunyoto, a collector of traditional Indonesian masks and puppets. The museum is set in a beautiful garden, and visitors can stroll through the grounds and admire the traditional Balinese architecture. The collection includes over 1,300 masks and over 4,500 puppets from Indonesia and other parts of the world.

The museum is divided into different sections, each dedicated to a specific type of mask or puppet. For example, there is a section for wayang kulit (shadow puppets), a section for topeng (masks used in dance dramas), and a section for masks used in traditional Balinese ceremonies. Visitors can also see traditional puppets and masks from other parts of Indonesia and other countries, such as India and China.

In addition to the museum’s collection, Setia Darma House also hosts workshops and performances, where visitors can learn about traditional puppet and mask making techniques or watch performances by local artists. The museum also has a café and a gift shop where visitors can purchase traditional Balinese crafts and souvenirs.

Collections

The museum’s collection includes over 1,300 masks and over 4,500 puppets, representing various types and styles of Indonesian and Balinese masks and puppets. Some of the types of masks and puppets on display at the museum include:

  • Wayang kulit (shadow puppets)
  • Wayang golek (rod puppets)
  • Topeng (masks used in dance dramas)
  • Barong and Rangda masks (used in traditional Balinese ceremonies)
  • Janger masks (used in the Janger dance)
  • Chinese and Indian masks and puppets

The museum is located in a beautiful garden setting, featuring traditional Balinese architecture. Visitors can wander through the museum’s grounds, admiring the exhibits and taking in the peaceful atmosphere. The museum is also known for hosting performances and workshops, where visitors can learn about traditional mask and puppet making techniques or watch performances by local artists.

In addition to the museum’s collection, Setia Darma House also has a café and a gift shop where visitors can purchase traditional Balinese crafts and souvenirs.

Overall, the Mask and Puppet Museum in Gianyar is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in traditional Indonesian culture and art, and is a great way to learn about the rich history and traditions of Balinese puppetry and mask making.

Address: Jl. Setia Budi No. 8, Gianyar, Bali 80511, Indonesia.

Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Subak Museum in Tabanan

Subak is a traditional Balinese irrigation system that has been in use for over a thousand years, providing a reliable and sustainable water supply to rice paddies and other crops.

Subak museum is dedicated to the traditional Balinese irrigation system known as subak. The museum is located in a traditional Balinese house with a beautiful garden.

The subak irrigation system is an ancient system that was developed by the Balinese farmers to ensure a sustainable and efficient use of water for irrigation. The system consists of a series of canals, weirs, and tunnels that distribute water from the rivers to the rice fields. This system has been in use for over a thousand years and is still in use today.

Jatiluwih rice terraces
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces with Subak irrigation system. Imacim, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This ingenious system is based on the principles of collaboration, conservation, and culture, and is managed by local farmers through a complex network of canals, tunnels, and water temples. Subak not only supports Bali’s agriculture but also represents an essential part of the island’s cultural heritage and identity.

SUBAK MUSEUM (Tabanan): Ce qu’il faut savoir pour votre visite 2023

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Displays

The Subak Museum displays a collection of traditional tools and equipment used in the subak irrigation system, including bamboo pipes, wooden water wheels, and traditional farming tools. The museum also has a collection of paintings, photographs, and models that illustrate the history and development of the subak irrigation system.

In addition to its collection, the museum also provides information on the culture and traditions of the Balinese people. Visitors can learn about the role of the subak system in Balinese society and the importance of water management for the sustainability of the island’s agriculture.

Overall, the Subak Museum is an interesting and informative attraction for those interested in learning about Balinese culture, history, and agriculture. It is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm, and admission is free.

Address: Jl. Kediri, Belalang, Kediri, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82121, Indonesia.

Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Their website (in Indonesian language): http://museumsubak.com

These are just a few examples of museums in Bali outside of Ubud. There are also other museums to discover according to your interests.

Please note that opening hours may vary due to local holidays and events, so it’s best to check times before visiting the museum. Additionally, it is important to respect local rules and customs when visiting these museums, especially regarding appropriate dress and respectful behavior.

Gedong Kirtya Museum and Library in Singaraja (North Bali)

Gedong Kirtya is a museum and library located in Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia. It is known for its vast collection of Balinese and Indonesian manuscripts and lontar (palm-leaf manuscripts) that document Balinese culture, history, and religion.

The museum was founded in 1928 by Gusti Putu Jelantik, a member of the royal family of Buleleng, and it was officially opened to the public in 1953. The museum was established as a repository for ancient Balinese manuscripts, with the aim of preserving and promoting Balinese culture and heritage.

museum gedong kirtya – Photo de Gedong Kertya Museum, Singaraja – Tripadvisor

Gedong Kertya Museum, Singaraja Photo : museum gedong kirtya – Découvrez les 15 photos et vidéos de Gedong Kertya Museum prises par des membres de Tripadvisor.

The collection at Gedong Kirtya includes over 4,000 manuscripts and lontar, some of which date back to the 10th century. The collection includes religious texts, histories, genealogies, calendars, and literature, all written in the Balinese script. The manuscripts and lontar are made from palm leaves that have been inscribed with a sharp tool and bound together with string.

Visitors to Gedong Kirtya can view the manuscripts and lontar in the museum’s reading room, which is open to the public. The museum also has a research library that is accessible to scholars and researchers.

In addition to its collection of manuscripts and lontar, Gedong Kirtya also has a collection of traditional Balinese paintings and sculptures, as well as a collection of antique weapons and armor.

Address: Jl. Veteran No. 23, Singaraja, Buleleng, Bali, Indonesia

Opening Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:00 am to 3:00 pm
Saturday: 8:00 am to 2:00 pm
Sunday and Public Holidays: Closed

Buleleng Museum (Singaraja – North Bali)

The Buleleng Museum is a cultural treasure located in the heart of the Buleleng region of Bali. It offers a fascinating insight into the life of the last Raja of Buleleng, Pandji Tisna, an iconic figure who contributed greatly to the development of tourism in Lovina and throughout West Bali.

Among the jewels of this collection is the Royal typewriter, Pandji Tisna’s faithful companion in writing his travel stories until his death in 1978. This object, steeped in history, testifies to his commitment to documenting and share his love for the region.

In addition to this relic, the museum houses a multitude of precious artifacts and objects that tell the rich and diverse history of Buleleng. From traditional artwork to ancient tools, each piece offers a unique insight into the culture and traditions of this community.

The Buleleng Museum also aims to be a place of education and awareness. It offers detailed information on the history of the region, enlightening visitors on the events and people who shaped Buleleng’s destiny.

To discover this cultural treasure, go to the Jl Veteran 23. The museum opens its doors Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This is the perfect opportunity to delve into the captivating history of Buleleng and its notable personalities. An unforgettable experience for history lovers and curious people eager for cultural discoveries.

Most famous Bali painter

I Gusti Nyoman Lempad (1862-1978) is considered one of the most famous painters from Bali. He was born in 1862 in Bedulu village near Ubud and lived to be over 100 years old. Lempad is known for his distinctive style, which combines traditional Balinese themes with modern influences, including elements of Art Nouveau and Art Deco.

I Gusti Nyoman Lempad Ramayana
Ramayana by I Gusti Nyoman Lempad. Museum Pasifika, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Lempad was not only a painter but also an architect, sculptor, and calligrapher. He played an important role in the development of Balinese art and culture and was influential in the formation of the Ubud School of Painting, which gained international recognition in the 1930s and 1940s.

Lempad’s work is characterized by its strong lines, bold compositions, and attention to detail. He often depicted scenes from Balinese mythology and daily life, as well as landscapes and architecture. Some of his most famous works include the mural paintings at the Puri Lukisan Museum in Ubud and the bas-relief sculptures at the Tirta Empul temple in Tampaksiring.

Today, Lempad’s legacy continues to inspire generations of Balinese artists and his work is highly sought after by collectors around the world.

Where to see I Gusti Nyoman Lempad arts?

If you would like to see I Gusti Nyoman Lempad’s art, there are several places in Bali where his works can be found.

One of the best places to see his works is at the Puri Lukisan Museum in Ubud, which has a large collection of Lempad’s paintings and drawings. The museum also houses works by other famous Balinese artists, including his contemporaries from the Ubud School of Painting.

Another place to see Lempad’s art is at the Neka Art Museum, also located in Ubud. The museum has a collection of his sketches and drawings, as well as paintings by other Balinese artists.

In addition, some of Lempad’s sculptures can be found at the Tirta Empul temple in Tampaksiring, which is known for its elaborate carvings and bas-reliefs.

Finally, there are also galleries and private collections throughout Bali that feature Lempad’s works. It’s always a good idea to do some research ahead of time or ask for recommendations from locals or art experts to find specific pieces or collections.

Photo credit: workingzen via Pixabay

Notes: It’s worth noting that some of the museums may be closed for renovations or during Balinese religious holidays.


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Trunyan Village, Unique Civilizations

Trunyan village is an ancient village inhabited by the Bali Aga who are descendants of the first Balinese, this community lives in a very different way compared to the rest of the population of Bali. The Trunyan village temple is called Puser Jagat which means vessel of the universe and its architecture is unusual and is erected in the protective shade of a massive banyan tree.

Batur 1998 04Lake in the crater of Mount Batur with Trunyan village on the shore. Bangli Regency, Bali, Indonesia. LBM1948, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Unique civilizations

Trunyan (where it stores many very unique civilizations such as a completely different burial system with tradition in the southern part of Bali). Likewise, this lake has been trained by the eruption of Mount Batur that occurred in past centuries, can now be included Lake Batur is a volcanic lake.

The villagers of Trunyan have a strange way of treating their dead. Instead of cremating the bodies or burying them they place them just below the banyan tree and the smell is mysteriously masked by the fragrance of a Taru Menyan tree growing nearby. Taru means “tree” and menyan “smelling/fragrant” the village name Trunyan also derives from this.

In Trunyan not only are the dead not cremated or buried but simply placed on the ground and surrounded by bamboo cages to protect them from animals, it seems that bones often disappear victims of monkeys that roam in the forest.

Skulls collection

A macabre collection skulls and bones are lined up on the nearby stone platform. The women of the Trunyan village are prohibited from entering the cemetery when a body is brought there. It is believed that if a woman goes there at this time, a disaster will strike the village such as a landslide or a volcanic eruption. There we also believe that if we burned the dead it would cause problems with the volcano.

11 (eleven)

The village is dominated by merus which are the mirror of the 11 bodies exposed in the cemetery. The number 11 having an important meaning in Hinduism is why there are just 11 bamboo cages with bodies in them. When all the cages are filled with the dead, the villagers then remove the oldest ones, which they move to an altar where the dead man’s head will be placed.

Namely that in Trunyan there are 3 cemeteries accessible by boat: one being intended for the deceased married or who died of natural causes who will have the right they will have their body covered with white cloth and will be at Semah Wayah, their body will be then surrounded by the famous bamboo cage.

Those who died of unnatural causes: accident, suicide murder will go to Semah Bantas and children or those who have not married will go to Semah Muda. These dead will be buried.

Bali trunyan village
Bali Aga village, inhabited by descendants of the original Balinese, who do not cremate or bury their dead, but just lay them out to decompose, bones can be found on the ground. Paracetamol, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

How to get there?

In the past, Trunyan was only accessible by boat. Today, you can go there by car, however, the road is very steep and even dangerous in places. To get there, the first step is to travel to Kintamani area, Bangli district. You then have to go down to Lake Batur and go to the end of the road (opposite bank to the natural springs).

Terunyan port (Dermaga Terunyan)

If you want to visit this civilization, from Denpasar, take the Jalan Raya Kintamani towards Bangli. After approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles), you will reach the village of Terunyan. Turn right at the main junction in the village and follow the signs for Dermaga trunyan. The port is located approximately 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) from the junction.

Pelabuhan di Kuburan Terunyan MWD 15
A dock at Trunyan cemetery. Eka343, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Here are some additional tips for getting to Dermaga trunyan:

Allow plenty of time for your journey, as the roads can be congested, especially during peak season.
Be aware that the road to Dermaga trunyan is quite narrow and winding.
If you are not comfortable driving in Bali, you may want to consider hiring a car with a driver.

THE BETURUK RITUAL

In Trunyan village another tradition that only exists there: it is a ceremony which consists of a procession of teenagers dressed in dried banana leaves and they have a sacred mask. There is no music during this dance. These young men who have been specially chosen will spend 42 days in quarantine to purify themselves. This ritual of Berutuk represents the legend of the migration of the villagers of Trunyan from the other Balinese Aga from the east of the island.

This performance requires the purification of teenagers and the appropriate offerings, prayers which will allow them to be possessed by Beraha Beturuk. While the young people run around the temples, the spectators try to steal their banana leaves which will become protective amulets, while the dancers will repel them with a whip which says anyone who gets whipped can be cured of illness. This Berutuk ceremony lasts for 3 consecutive days.

King and Queen Berutuk engage in courtship dance inspired by the movements of a common bird around Trunyan and the queen must be successfully captured by the king to ensure the fertility of Trunyan’s village and the dancer. It is only after the ritual that the young men can be officially ready to marry.

Terunyan View 02The deceased are inside the bamboo cages. Trunyan, Lake Batur, Bali, Indonesia. Anggabuana, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Barong Brutuk Dance

This is an ancient dance and art thought to have existed since Pre Hinduism.

Barong Brutuk is a pair of Balinese statues or barongs. Balinese Hindus believe that Barong Brutuk is a symbol of the rulers in Trunyan Village, Ratu Sakti Pancering Jagat (the man / in the inscription is called Ratu Datonta) and Ida Ratu Ayu Pingit Dalem Dasar (woman). Barong Brutuk imparts knowledge about their ancestors to their next generation. Barong Brutuk is also said to be a symbol of meeting women with men as a process of human life in Hinduism called Purusa and Pradana.

Tari barong brutukBarong Batuk dance in Trunyan, Bali. Kochiana, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This barong brutuk is danced by 21 young men who previously had to go through a quarantine period of 42 days which was carried out around the sacred area of the temple, during these 42 days the youth were prohibited from leaving the temple area and prohibited from having intercourse with women. The barong mask is made of coconut shells and the costume is made of dry banana leaves.

Tradisi Tari barong brutukThe Barong Brutuk Dance tradition in Trunyan Kintamani Bangli Village is held on the full moon on the Balinese calendar every 4 years. This sacred dance performance was held at Puserin Jagat Trunyan Temple for 2 consecutive days. Kochiana, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Ritual

The ritual ends when the queen is captured and the dancers bathe in Lake Batur. This ritual occurs at irregular intervals and depends on the needs of the village, however it cannot take place when there are diseases or bad harvests in the village.

The dancers are not trained in the dance of Berutuk but for the necessary prayers. It is not the dance technique but the selection and ritual preparation of the dancers that is important since they temporarily become the vessels of Bethara Berutuk: Ratu Gede Pancing Jagat.

Read also: Bali Heritage, Culture and Traditions

COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Een lijkentoren in het Baturmeer bij Trunyan TMnr 60030098A mortuary tower in Lake Batur near Trunyan. Tropenmuseum, part of the National Museum of World Cultures, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

AN ANCIENT GOD VENERE AT TRUNYAN

Since forgotten times the village of Trunyan worships an ancient god connected to the Batur volcano and the guardian of the village, Ratu Gede Pancering. In the forbidden zone of Truyan one can find a huge, neolithic statue of this god who is said to be the husband of the goddess danu Batur.

During the special initiation rites of the village flowers are offered and the statue is ritually cleaned with rainwater and a special oil, precisely as shown on an old bronze tablet (911 AD) that has been found at the Tegeh Koripan temple built in the shape of a Neolithic pyramid on Mount Penulisan, the second highest point of the Batur volcano’s caldera.

THE 3 MOST POPULAR MYTHS OF THE ORIGIN OF TRUNYAN

MYTH #1

At first there was nothing in Trunyan except a big tree called taru menyan, a kind of benzoin tree, which gave off a strong and impetuous scent. Attracted by the scent, a goddess descended from heaven and settled near the tree. One day, while working in the fields, she was impregnated by the sun and subsequently gave birth to the twins: the first born was a hermaphrodite with male characteristics and the last born a girl. The goddess subsequently returned to heaven and the twins were left alone on earth.

At the Trunyan village temple neither the goddess nor the sun have an altar dedicated to them.

Pohon Tarumenyan, Kuburan Terunyan MWD 07
Tarumenyan Tree, Terunyan Grave. Eka343, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

MYTH #2

The King of Solo, in Central Java, had four children: three sons and a daughter who was his youngest child. The four children came to Bali, attracted by the scent of the benzoin tree. They landed on the eastern coast in Karangasem, then traveled north to Gunung Batur. Arriving in the Batur area, the little sister decided to move to Pura Batur, where she still resides today as Ratu Ayu Mas Maketeg. His three brothers continued their journey to the shores of the lake. The youngest brother settled in Kedisan and the middle brother in Abang Dukuh. The eldest brother meanwhile eventually continued where the benzoin tree grew. There he saw the daughter of a goddess and a passion grew under that tree.

He then went to see her hermaphrodite brother to ask him for permission to marry his sister.

This was granted to him but under 2 conditions, the son of the king of Solo had to move with his wife and become the head of the foundation of Trunyan. Ayan accepted these conditions the couple got married, the Javanese prince thus becoming the king of Trunyan and bearing the title of Ratu Sakti Jagat Bali “the powerful root of the world of Bali” and the little sister became the titular deity of the lake bearing the title of Ratu Ayu Pingit Dalam Dasar: the sacred inner source/origin”. As for the hermaphrodite elder brother, he continued to reign as the creator of ancestral laws and customs.

MYTH #3

This myth explains the origin of the effigy of Ratu Sakti Pancing Jagat (also known as Batara Da Tonta), which occupies the main altar in the original village temple. According to this, Trunyan used to be located further south where Cimelandung is today. The site on which the Pura Desa now stands was then known as the Dalem, the place where ancient spirits go after the last purificatory rites performed after death, though the myth makes no mention of a temple only of a tree, the tantan buni, used today to hang the placenta and other substances connected with birth.

One day a local was hunting in the Dalem with his dog who found a small statue emerging from the ground. The statue then began to grow, soon reaching its present height of four meters. Eventually a holy place was built there. Originally the shrine had a roof with eleven merus which marks the highest status in Balinese society, but in the myth the growing statue broke through the roof and demolished four meru leaving only seven. Pancing Jagat Bali was built around the holy place which nowadays stands in sacred together with the wife of the creator Ratu Ayu Pingit Dalam Dasar.

Visit around Trunyan village

Lake Batur

A grandiose view of the entire caldera is offered to us, with the volcano in the center, and Lake Batur overlooked by Mount Abang (3rd highest mountain on Bali and is located on the southeast side of Batur Lake and 10.6km or 6.6 miles northwest of Gunung Agung). The latter culminates at 2152 meters (7060 ft) and is the second highest peak in Bali behind the famous Mount Agung.

Pura JatiA beautiful ancient temple located on the shores of Lake Batur, Kintamani, Bangli. The Temple provides holy water for the Pura Ulun Danu ceremony. Surya Edy GautamaCC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

On the flanks of Gunung Batur, large flows of black basaltic lava testify to past eruptions and have permanently settled in the landscape. A still active volcano whose last eruption dates back to 2000, one can occasionally observe white fumaroles escaping from its craters – there are three craters at the top of Mount Batur.

In Kintamani, many restaurants offering an extraordinary view of the entire caldera allow you to take a break to eat and drink, before descending to the lake and exploring its surrounding villages.

Penelokan village

At more than 1,400 meters above sea level, you may find it difficult to appreciate the charms of the village of Penelokan despite the beauty of the panorama that stretches out at its feet. Located on the southern edge of the caldera, this natural balcony embraces its view inside it: the lake and the Batur volcano and the Abang volcano to the east. The name of the village also means: “place where to look”.

On arrival, you have to pay for entry into the Batur area (IDR 52,000 per adult) for cameras and cameras, for parking, and, in addition, you have to endure the pressure of small street vendors, aggressive hawkers, an avalanche of small groups of women carrying baskets full of memories on their heads.

Most tourists, arriving by bus and in groups, will stay in Penelokan for lunch in one of the many panoramic restaurants in the village. Independent travellers, assailed as soon as they arrive, generally stop there for photography before continuing on their way.

Gunung Batur, Kintamani MWD 34Gunung Batur (Mount Batur), Kintamani, Bali. Eka343, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Things To Do in Bali and What to Visit, Where To Go While Vacationing in Bali? (Top Attractions)

Photo credit (main picture): Made Agus Devayana (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons

Photo description: A hut located in the middle of Lake Batur, Kintamani, Bali.

Discover the Best Hidden Gems in Bali: Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations You Don’t Want to Miss


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Bali and Religions

Seen from Bali, an island with a large majority of Hindu faith, Indonesia is not primarily this Indonesian large Muslim country that we talk about so readily: in the eyes of the Balinese, their island is small, very small, and they rather feel surrounded by a new form of colonizers, even locked up in the heart of an open-air tropical paradise. Religion in Bali occupies a considerable place in the daily life of the Balinese. Every day there are many celebrations that tourists can attend. These are more important in large cities, especially on full moon evenings. Small villages prefer more authentic and intimate celebrations.

From their Hindu religion, the Balinese believe in spirits and reincarnation. Their belief is that the dog is the worst possible reincarnation and the Balinese then most often adopt indifference for these animals.

There are a few Balinese communities that have retained pre-Hindu traditions. They are called Bali Aga. The two best known are the village of Tenganan, in the kabupaten of Karangasem, and that of Trunyan on the shores of Lake Batur.

The traditional religion of other Balinese is called Agama Tirta (“water religion”).

Balinese culture is characterized by elaborate ceremonies and rituals, including the Galungan festival, which celebrates the victory of good over evil, and the Nyepi Day of Silence. All these sacred rituals of daily life help the Balinese to achieve wholeness and spiritual happiness, harmony and peace. You cannot separate art and religion in Bali.

Reputation

The majority of Balinese people practice a unique form of Hinduism, which combines elements of Hinduism, Buddhism, and animism.

This reputation, which makes the island what it is today and what it has become in history, is held by the inhabitants. Their precious living together strongly depends on it and they do their best to respond positively to this image of authenticity.

Visitors clearly see in it the mark of the well-being and spirituality specific, according to them, to Bali, to its inhabitants and to their gods. This is also what they came here to look for when they came from so far away! It remains that in these places, paradisiacal or demonic, beliefs coexist harmoniously, Hinduism itself is indeed crossbred, mixed, infused with animist, Buddhist or shamanic elements. A very seductive sacred cocktail for the traveler!

Bali Montage
Sunset over Amed beach with Mount Agung in the background, Garuda Wisnu Kencana monument, Tanah Lot temple, view from top of Besakih Temple, scuba diving around Pemuteran, The Rock Bar at Jimbaran Bay, and various traditional Balinese people activities. File:Amed banner sunset.jpg: borntosleepFile:GarudaWisnuKencana head.jpg: SankoFile:Tanah-Lot Bali Indonesia Pura-Tanah-Lot-01.jpg: CccefalonPanorama of Bali from Besakih – Mother temple.jpg: PopaneshFile:Snorkeling Pemuteran Bali 2.jpg: Ennio morriconeFile:The Rock Bar Bali (7188376333).jpg: Simon_seesFile:Balinese Dancer (Imagicity 1248).jpg: Graham CrumpFile:Balinese vrouwen in een processie bij een festival in Ubud, -7 Aug. 2009 a.jpg: Jean-Marie HullotFile:Balinese girl with offering.jpg: John Yavuz Canderivative work: Badpuccini, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Religion in Bali

Bali is the only island in the archipelago where Hinduism is the main belief with its ceremonies and festivals specific to the Balinese tradition. 80% of Balinese are Hindus. This religion is particular because it is associated with Buddhist rites and animist cults dedicated to deities. Do not miss Galungan, a huge 3-day festival dedicated to the celebration of gods and ancestors. You will also find the famous Tanah Lot, a Hindu temple erected on a rock, offering an incredible view of one of the most magnificent sunsets in the archipelago.

Balinese Buddhists are a minority and are found in Denpasar and Singaraja. Small Catholic communities are concentrated in the west of the island. Balinese Christians practice their religion fervently. You will be able to attend the very beautiful Sunday masses given by the cathedral of Denpasar with its remarkable architecture with its red stone walls and its immaculate white interior.

Beliefs and religions in Bali

The Balinese population is mainly Hindu, but there is still the presence of other religious communities on the island. These include Christians, Muslims and Buddhists. The life of the inhabitants, particularly the Hindus, is punctuated by ceremonies, rites and festivals of all kinds. With this cohabitation of several religions, it is not surprising that Bali is nicknamed “the island of the gods”.

Hinduism

It is the dominant religion on the island. We find in Balinese Hinduism the same gods venerated by Indian Hinduism, namely Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu, with a fourth superior deity named Sang Hyang Widi whom the faithful adore.

The importance of water in Balinese Hinduism

For the Balinese, water is the source of prosperity and that is why it is used regularly in ceremonies. You should know that the water is known by several names by the faithful Hindus. On a daily basis, it is called “yeh”. When we speak of holy water, we say “tirta” and finally to designate the water which has supernatural powers, that is to say which has the capacity to cure a seriously ill person (in the terminal phase), that this is called “bitterness”.

The offerings

Not a day goes by in Bali without Hindu worshipers making offerings to the gods. Whether directly in a temple or at home, the Balinese always carry out offerings, processions and ceremonies.

Traditional balinese offerings to Gods with fruits in basket. (44134450975)
Traditional balinese offerings to Gods with fruits in basket. Bali island, village ceremony. Artem Beliaikin from Moscow, Russia, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Hindu Gods and Goddesses in Bali | A Guide to the Most Important Deities

Christianity in Bali

The majority of Christians on the island are Catholics. They are mainly grouped in the west of Bali, especially in the village of Palasari. It should be noted, however, that the particular church diocese of the Catholic Church is based in Denpasar, the Balinese capital.

Buddhism

Bali’s Buddhist community is a minority. Moreover, there is only one Buddhist monastery Bharma Asrama Vihara on the spot. It is that of Banjar which is located in the north of the island. This place is still little known to tourists, and you can attend vipassana sessions during your stay on the island. Local monks can teach you how to master breath-based meditation. Access to the site is free, but you can make small donations.

Islam

This religion is practiced by the majority of Indonesians, except on the island of Bali where it has a small minority. In the village of Pegayaman, for example, a large part of the inhabitants are Muslims and the rest are Hindus. Despite the fact that these people each follow their own religion, they have always known how to live in perfect harmony, and this for several decades.

Even during the celebration of religious festivals, whether Muslim or Hindu, unity and brotherhood have been preserved within this small village in the Kabupaten of Buleleng. Indeed, Hindus offer food to their Muslim neighbor and vice versa. This is an old tradition called “ngejot”. Since it is about giving food, people are obviously careful to respect the food taboos of their spiritual neighbor.

Important Days in Bali | Cultural and Events

Religions in Lombok

The Sasak community, settled in Lombok, is mainly Muslim. It is in the capital, in Mataram, that you will find the largest mosque Masjid Islamic Center as well as the Al Mujahidin, another mosque known for its flamboyant turquoise color. On this island, you will discover many Muslim places of worship with Arabian Nights decor. The prayer is done every Friday at noon.

Some shops, monuments and official sites may be closed for the rest of the day. Eid el-Adha, a major event taking place 70 days after the end of Ramadan, celebrates the sacrifice of the sheep.

As for Christians, they are few in Lombok and go to Sunday mass. Lombok also inherits a local animism, called Wetu Telu, only present in the north of the island. This religion combines the practices of Islam and ancestral animist rites. Indeed, this community has its own cults in parallel with traditional Muslim rites. The Nyiu, one of the Wetu Telu ceremonies, is a celebration where the Sasak make offerings 1000 days after the death of a loved one to allow the deceased to be happy.

In addition, know that on the island of Lombok, slugs are revered, embody abundance and love and are the subject of festivities.

Gods, demons, cursed places, sacred mountains nourish the daily life of the inhabitants. As you will have understood, the border between spirituality and witchcraft is very thin. Thus, we recommend that you visit the island with a great open mind in order to be able to collect the myths and legends that are told there and to awaken your imagination…

Read also: From Bali to Lombok | Complete guide to visit Lombok Island

Balinese religious festival and public holidays

Like religious ceremonies, holidays are particularly numerous in Bali. It is almost possible to party all year round.
These festivals are based on the Balinese lunar calendar and do not follow a fixed order year after year.

Like religious ceremonies, holidays are particularly numerous in Bali. It is almost possible to party all year round.
These festivals are based on the Balinese lunar calendar and do not follow a fixed order year after year.

3 main festivals are particularly important in Bali:

Galungan

This 3-day festival occurs every 210 days and represents the victory of good Dharma over evil Adharma, the creation of the universe. On this occasion, the Balinese return to their village of origin to honor the gods who would descend to the temples.

Kuningan

Celebrated 10 days after Galungan, it honors purification. On this day the ancestors leave the family temple.
Kuningan partially immobilizes the country: service in hotels is reduced and most banks and restaurants are closed. The Balinese believe that the gods and the souls of the ancestors descend to the temples. Bali then comes alive to give rise to countless ceremonies and the festivities culminate ten days later for Kuningan.

Nyepi

Nyepi means silence and celebrates the Hindu New Year. The day before, the Balinese lure evil spirits with offerings and then terrorize them at night with a din of firecrackers, shouts and other gongs, all complemented by a parade of giant monsters in the streets of the city.

The next day, the island becomes completely silent and the inhabitants are asked to stay at home. No noise is tolerated in the streets and no one should be outside. Apart from ambulances, all motorized devices are prohibited from circulation. This obligatory silence will scare away the evil spirits who will think that the island is devoid of its population.

Meditasi Nyepi Hindu
Nyepi Meditation. Hindu worshipers offer a prayer known as “Catur Bratha” which represents self-control to celebrate Nyepi, the annual day of silence that marks the Balinese Hindu new year, at Pura Agung Raksa Bhuana, in Medan on March 6, 2019. Most Balinese practice self-reflection and stay at home to celebrate the quiet holiday by meditating to cleanse and purify the soul. Albert Ivan Damanik, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Other festivals are particularly important in Bali:

Melasti

Melasti takes place a few days before Nyepi. It is a great purification. The eve of Nyepi is marked by abundant offerings placed at the main crossroads to appease the evil powers and ends, at the end of the day and throughout the evening, with popular parades. The ogoh ogoh (paper mache monsters, folk statues of demons) parading through the streets represent the negative forces of the past year. Cymbals and firecrackers accompany the parade to frighten the demons in a great cacophony. At the end of the night or in the days that follow, these statues are burned to definitively evacuate the negative forces.

The Balinese also purify their objects of worship during a procession to the sacred springs or to the sea.

Ritual Melasti
Ritual of Melasti in Bali. The Melasti ritual is usually carried out to welcome the Nyepi day in Bali. This ritual is carried out in water centers such as lakes, springs and beaches. Imadedana, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Odalan

Every 210 days (one year according to the Pawukon calendar), the whole village comes together to commemorate the founding of the temple (the odalan). It is then the occasion to pay homage to the divinities by offerings and prayers. With more than 20,000 temples in Bali, the opportunities to attend a ceremony are very numerous!

Odalan celebrates family temples in Balinese villages. It is especially celebrated in the Hindu communities of the island. The Balinese invite their Gods to visit them for three days or more by bringing offerings to the temples.

Read also: Useful Tips for Visiting Temples in Bali

It is to the celebrations of Odalan that we owe a large part of the artistic richness of the island; such as theater and Balinese dances.

Odalan is celebrated on the anniversary of a Hindu temple. For example, Odalan at the Pura Besakih temple – the largest Hindu temple in Bali – is an exceptional event in terms of its size and the number of devotees who prepare and honor it.

Odalan procession
Odalan temple anniversaty procession. Balinese women dressed in traditional costume on their way to the temple. Midori, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Saraswati

Festival dedicated to the goddess of knowledge. The Balinese pay homage to books by sprinkling sacred water. It is celebrated mainly by children, who pray and bring offerings to the school temple. The Balinese also pay homage to the goddess and to the books by sprinkling holy water.

This festival means a lot to the Balinese, especially the students. It always falls on a Saturday. The days following the Saraswati festival are also important.

Pagerwesi

This day is dedicated to spiritual strengthening, called Iron Gate, prayers and offerings are directed to save mankind.

Pagerwesi is a day of spiritual conversion, prayer to overcome the forces of evil, and offerings for humanity in peril. The faithful make offerings to ward off evil and for the deceased. For their part, the children pray and bring offerings to the school temples.

Tumpek

This celebration is dedicated to strengthening the spirit and serves to guard against the forces of evil.

Every 35 days the Balinese make offerings to different elements, objects, people, animals…

  • Tumpek Kandang: offerings for animals especially cattle
  • Tumpek Wayang: offerings for puppets and shadows
  • Tumpek Landep: homage to metal objects (knives, cars, televisions, etc.)
  • Tumpek uduh: blessing in thanks for good harvests
  • Tumpek Krulut: dedicated to all musical instruments, shows, or masks

Famous Flowers in Bali

World Kite Festival

Between the Hindu religion, the tradition and the belief of the Balinese, the kite would be one of the favorite sports of the gods.
Particularly from June to September, the windy season in Bali, the practice of “layang-layang” kite is not only a game for children but also a whole competition between villages for adults.

In July and August, the world festival takes place where huge kites can reach a wingspan of 5m.
Layang Be bean: reproducing a fish whose fins flutter in the wind
Layang Janggan: looks like a bird or dragon
Layang Pecukan: free creation but rarer because deemed difficult to steal

Read also: Bali Arts Festival in Denpasar | The Biggest Annual Cultural Event in Bali

Non-religious holidays in Bali

There are also other non-religious festivals on Bali. August 17th Indonesian Independence Day.
Schools organize competitions. Middle schoolers must show off their walking skills. You can see them training along the roads.
In July and October the buffalo races in Negara.

Art & Culture - Temple Ceremony Procession
One of ceremony procession at the Temple in Bali Perform a Rejang Dewa Dance. Puri Lumbung Cottages, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Photo credit (main picture): AgungAtmaja via Pixabay


Bali Heritage, Culture and Traditions


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Learn Indonesian, The vocabulary to know for a trip to Indonesia

It is never easy to learn a new language. Most Indonesians you come into contact with will speak some English, but the locals are much more open if you put in the effort and learn the basics of Indonesian. What luck, it’s a rather an easy language to learn Indonesian language.

Why learn Indonesian?

When traveling, it is always good to learn some basics of the language out of politeness and respect, but also to be able to manage in different situations and to be able to interact with the locals. Speaking Indonesian during a trip to Indonesia also means being less of a tourist, being able to negotiate prices and enjoying your trip better. Indonesian is a relatively simple language.

Take a small dictionary or download an application on your phone and learn a few words every day during your trip to Indonesia. You will see, when you learn Indonesian language, you will get a taste for it and your trip will be improved!

There are many other languages in the country, but everyone understands Bahasa Indonesia and you will be able to make yourself understood easily on all the islands, although you may be laughed at a little if you speak with it, accent from another island! Let’s learn Indonesian!

Read also: Religion in Bali: Cultures of Indonesia “Unity in Diversity”

Did you know?

Did you know that the Indonesian flag is the same flag as Monaco?

Animated-Flag-Indonesia
The flag of Monaco is graphically similar to the flag of Indonesia. Dave Johnston and Gambar Animasi, Copyrighted free use, via Wikimedia Commons

An easy language and rules to learn Indonesian language

Indonesian is perceived as a “very easy” language. The learning itself is a very useful experience, and you can make progress in just a few weeks. Here are the reasons put forward for this “ease”.

No time

There is no time at all in Indonesian. Instead we use time markers (yesterday, next week, etc.) and aspect markers (done, in progress, etc.).

No gender or case

In Indonesian there is no gender or grammatical case attached to the noun. That’s one less rule to learn.

Simple Plurals

The commonly accepted idea is that the plurals are really very simple to construct in Indonesian and that it consists of repeating the noun (for example the plural of buku, a book, is buku-buku, books), or of add quantitative indicators (eg several, a few, etc.) in the sentence (thus: beberapa buku → several books). A somewhat serious study quickly makes it clear that duplication has a completely different function, much more productive, than the formation of a “plural”.

A simple system of conjugation

Indonesian language has a very simple conjugation system. Unlike Indo-European languages like Spanish or French, words are conjugated to form new words based on the original. For example satu means one, and hence bersatu means to unify. This implies that there are fewer words to memorize and that it is possible, in a way, to compose from certain known words and conjugations to form one’s own words. The catch is that some words cannot be conjugated with certain prefixes or suffixes, but you’ll learn that it’s actually quite simple.

Use of the 26-character Latin alphabet

Which means that there is no need to relearn an alphabet, or to use specific software to write.

Consistent Spelling

Indonesian is very phonetic, just like Italian. Each character is spelled the same in any word, with rare exceptions. If you come across a new word, you will always be able to spell it correctly.

Tonal accent

The stress of Indonesian words typically falls on the last syllable of the word. However, no matter where the emphasis is, generally people will understand.

Sentence structure

Generally, sentences begin with a subject, followed by a verb (also called a predicate), and then an object. It’s good news that Indonesian verbs do not change depending on tense.

As in French. Indonesian is a so-called “SVO (subject-verb-object)” language, that is to say that the structure of the sentence follows a subject + verb + [complement of] object order. So you can form sentences simply.

Everything is regular

The word derivation system by prefixation, suffixation and circumfixation (combination of prefixation and suffixation) follows simple rules. In principle, you do not have too many irregularities to learn in addition to the basic rules.

Indonesian pronunciation

Indonesian is easy to pronounce for the French, indeed the letters are pronounced the same way as the language of Molière except:

C = “tch” as in child.

E = according to its position in the word, is pronounced “eu”, “é”, or “è”.

H = is aspirated, as in Arabic.

J = “dj”, which explains why Jakarta became Jakarta without changing its pronunciation.

K = in final position is not pronounced entirely, the sound must be stopped before it comes out.

R = Spanish roll

U = pronounced “ou”

W = “ou” also as in English water

The only real novelty are the nasal consonances like “ing“, “ang“, “ung“, “ong“, you should not press the g but break down “i-ng” etc…

Vowels prononciation
  • a like a in “father”
  • i like ea in “neat”
  • u like ou in “soup”
  • e like e in “mechanic”
  • e like e in “permit”
  • o like o in “ok”
  • o like o in “ton”
  • ai like ie in “tie”
  • au like ow in “how”

Lexicon and first conversation in Indonesian

Bagus: good, a word that we hear everywhere and on all subjects, which expresses admiration, joy, satisfactions.

Yes / No: Ya / Tidak (also used for the negation of verbs and adjectives)

Time

Good morning (5 a.m. to 10 a.m.): Selamat pagi
Good morning (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.): Selamat siang
Hello (3 p.m. to 6 p.m.): Selamat sore
Good evening (night greeting): Selamat malam
Good night: Selamat tidur
Welcome: Selamat datang

Goodbye: Selamat jalan (if you stay) / Selamat tinggal (if you leave)
See you soon: Sampai jumpa lagi or Sampai bertemu lagi

Politeness

Please (help): Tolong (please help me = tolong saya)
Please: Silakan (please wait = silakan tunggu or silakan duduk = please sit down)
Sorry, Excuse me: Ma’af, permisi
Thank you (a lot): Terima kasih (banyak)
How are you?: Apa kabar?
What time is it?: Jam berapa?
It’s okay: Kabar baik
My name is: Nama saya…
Is there a free room: Ada kamar kosong (empty room)

Eat, Drink: Makan, Minum
Large, Small: Besar, Kecil
Day, Night: Hari, Malam

What, Who, Why, When: Apa, Siapa, Mengapa, Kapan

Personal pronouns

I, me, my: Saya or aku (very common Javanese)

You, you, your: Kamu

He, she, him: Dia

We: Kita (inclusive, speaker included)

We: Kami (exclusive, without the interlocutor)

You (singular): Anda

You (plural): Kalian

They, they, them, their: Mereka

Basic Expressions / Common Words to know

Do you speak English: Bisa bicara bahasa Inggris?
I don’t understand: Saya tidak mengerti
Where is there a bus station: Di mana ada terminal bis?
What is this..: Apa ini..?
How much is this: Berapa harganya?
Expensive / Cheap: Mahal / Murah
You’re welcome: Sama-sama
I need your help: Saya minta tolong
I am lost: Saya tersesat
I want to go to the market. : Saya mau ke pasar
I am looking for the street: Saya mencari jalan
How long does it take to get to…: Berapa lama sampai ke…
Where can I rent a bike?: Di mana saya bisa menyewa sepeda?

Common Words to know (cont’d)

I am Australian: Saya orang Australia
I’m English: Saya orang Inggris
I am French: Saya orang Perancis
Left / Right / Straight: Kiri / Kanan / terus
Mr, Mrs, Miss: Bapak, Ibu, Nona

Are you already married: Sudah nikah

Where are you going: Mau ke mana? (want, towards, where)

More, Less: Lebih, Kurang
Minutes, Hours: Menit, Jam
Days, Weeks: Hari, Minggu
Month, Year: Bulan, Tahun

Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow: Kemarin, Hari ini, Besok

I’m not interested: Saya tidak tertarik
I want to rent a car: Saya mau sewa mobil

Numbers

Français Bahasa Indonesia
Zero, one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine and ten Nol, satu, dua, tiga, empat, lima, enam, tujuh, delapan, sembilan, sepuluh
Twenty, thirty, forty, fifty, sixty Dua puluh, tiga puluh, empat puluh, lima puluh, enam puluh
Seventy, eighty, ninety Tujuh puluh, delapan puluh, sembilan puluh
HundredS eratus

10 – sepuluh / 20 – dua puluh / 21 – dua puluh satu
100 – seratus / 200 – dua ratus
1000 – seribu / 2000 – dua ribu
1,000,000 – satu juta or sejuta
1,000,000,000 – satu milyar

Shops

English Bahasa Indonesia
How much is it? Berapa harganya?
It’s very cheap Sangat murah
It’s too expensive! Mahal!
Can you lower the price? Dapat mengurangi harga?
I would like to buy…this, this one! Saya ingin membelinya
I love / I hate Saya suka / Aku benci
Money Uang
I’m just watching. Aku hanya melihat

Transports

English Bahasa Indonesia
I would like to go to… Saya ingin pergi ke…
Air plane Pesawat terbang
Boat Perahu
Train Kereta api
Taxi Taksi
Bus Bis
I would like to rent… Saya ingin untuk menyewa…
Motor bike Sepeda motor
Car Mobil
Bicycle Sepeda

How much is a bus ticket for …, Berapa harga karcis bis ke …
A ticket for…: Tolong, satu tiket ke…
Where does this bus go: Bis ini ke mana
What is the bus for…: Di mana bis ke…
Turn left, right: Belok kiri, kanan
Continue straight: Terus saja

Directions

English Bahasa Indonesia
Where… ? / How to go to… ? Dimana…? / Bagaimana untuk pergi ke…?
Bank Bank
Train station Stasiun
Downtow Pusat kota
Hotel Hotel
Hospital Rumah sakit
Is it near/far? Apakah ini dekat/sejauh ini?
Straight ahead Tejus sara
Left / right Belok kiri / kanan
North / South / East / West Utara / Selatan / Adalah / Barat

Times / Dates and days

English Bahasa Indonesia
What time is it? Jam berapa?
When? Kapan?
Yesterday Kemarin
Today (morning/noon/evening) Hari Ini (pagi/siang/malam)
Tomorrow Besok
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday Senin, Selasa, Rabu, Kamis, Jum’at, Sabtu, Minggu
I’m here on vacation / traveling Saya di sini berlibur / jalan-jalan
I’m here for work / for business Saya di sini untuk bekerja / bisnis

Restaurant

English Bahasa Indonesia
I’m hungry / I’m thirsty Saya lapar / Aku haus
Enjoy your food Selamat makan
Cheers! Selamat minum!
That was delicious Itu lezat
What do you recommend me? Apa yang Anda saya rekomendasikan?
I am vegetarian Saya vegetarian
No spice! (No chili) Tanpa rempah-rempah (Tanpa cabai)
It’s too hot (chili)! Terlatu pedas
I am allergic Saya alergi
Seafood Makanan Laut
Peanut Kacang
Gluten Gluten
I would like… Saya ingin
Water Air
Tea/coffee Teh/kopi
Beer/wine Bir/anggur
Bill or check please Tolong minta bon

Health / Emergency / Security

English Bahasa Indonesia
I need to see a doctor Saya perlu untuk melihat seorang dokter
Call a doctor/ambulance Call dokter/ ambulans
Where is the hospital? Di mana rumah sakit?
I do not feel very good Saya tidak merasa sehat
I hurt here Saya sakit disini
Where is the restroom / toilette? Di mana WC?
Help! Tolong!
Police Polisi
Danger Bahaya
I’m lost Saya teresat

Read also: Important Numbers in Bali | Essential numbers and addresses + Emergency Numbers


Bali Heritage, Culture and Traditions

Photo credit: StockSnap via Pixabay


Have you booked your private villa in Seminyak center?

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Located in Seminyak Center – Bali, Villa Carissa offers a private swimming pool and enclosed garden to guarantee your privacy. You can book your private pool villa here with us.

Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on a romantic getaway, villa Carissa in Seminyak center offers the perfect base for exploring Bali’s many attractions and enjoying a relaxing vacation.

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Villa Carissa in Seminyak Center

Famous Flowers in Bali

In Bali, the symbolism linked to nature is very important. Plants and flowers are used for veneration of the gods, in temples, for the protection of a place or a person…. Most famous flowers in Bali: frangipani, heliconia, bird of paradise, magnolias, hibiscus, marigold, lotus, jasmine, bougainvillea and many more…

Some of the most famous flowers in Bali

Some of the most famous flowers in Bali include frangipani, heliconia, bird of paradise, magnolia, hibiscus, marigold, lotus, jasmine, and bougainvillea. These flowers not only add beauty to the island but also hold significant cultural and spiritual meaning.

Bali, also known as the “Island of the Gods,” is home to a diverse array of stunning flora, many of which are celebrated for their beauty and cultural significance. In Bali, the floral scents are very subtle and mix according to the plants and flowers that you see often in Bali; Magnolias, hibiscus, jasmine, bougainvillea, so many varieties of delicately scented flowers that perfume your nostrils.

The frangipani flower: an emblem of Bali

Bali has its own emblematic flower: that of the frangipani which is called here “Jepun” or “Kamboja” it projects a vision of mysticism, ancient traditions and rituals. The frangipani flower evokes the inner romance of the island, often described as magical Bali. A flower with an intoxicating smell greatly appreciated but also widely used by the Balinese in their daily lives.

The Balinese are very fond of flowers which are like an entity of nature that has a specific strength. In Hindu ceremonies in Bali the frangipani flower is always used.

Flower (6032443446)
Red Frangipani. Nick Hubbard, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This flower has 2 important roles in our religion it is a symbol of the god Shiva and is also a means to pray, it is part of the offering.

The frangipani flower is used to indicate the purity of the heart when praying Sang Hyang Widi Wasa and its sacred light but also the ancestors. In addition to the frangipani flowers other flowers are used in our prayers, their color are as follows:

– white petals to the east of the offering are for the god Iswara
– red petals south of the offering are for the fierce Brahma
– yellow petals to the west of the offering are mostly frangipani flowers and are for the god Mahadeva
– blue or green petals to the north of the offering are for Vishnu.

Plumeria (Frangipani) (10849834325)
Plumeria (Frangipani). Bernard Spragg. NZ from Christchurch, New Zealand, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

We very often find frangipani trees next to temples or houses because in this way we can use frangipani flowers at any time to pray or put them in offerings.

According to Hindu philosophy the frangipani flower when it is the fourth full moon which is a good month. This tree is considered “Sari Alam”: something that can bring enlightenment and goodness.

The symbol of the lotus in Balinese culture

This beautiful flower that is the lotus for you can only represent beauty but for us Balinese it has several meanings that we will explain to you, one of which is very important…

In Sangskrit the word for lotus is Padma. So if one day in Bali you read the name of a street: Jalan Padma (there is one in Legian) you will know that it means Lotus Street.

Saraswati and lotus

Very often the Hindu, Buddhist, Chinese goddesses are represented seated on a lotus (The Hindu goddess of knowledge for example: Saraswati). Moreover, if you visit the Saraswati temple in Ubud you will be in awe of the beauty of the place thanks to all the lotuses there, it is no coincidence given the link between Saraswati and the lotus. Lakshmi, goddess of luck and prosperity is the wife of Vishnu.

She is also often represented seated on a lotus, her traditional symbol. But in fact visually almost all Hindu gods and goddesses are represented with a lotus which serves as their seat to highlight their purity and divine status. But more than anything the lotus is the symbol of beauty, prosperity and fertility. According to Hinduism in every human there is the sacred spirit of the lotus. It also represents eternity, purity and divinity as you will have understood.

Danghyang Dwijendra: “lotus flower” of the Earth

The lotus has a close relationship with Balinese culture. Balinese scripture Danghyang Dwijendra indicates Bali as Danghyang Dwijendra: “lotus flower” of the Earth. The lotus flower is the “king” of all flowers and is mentioned in many stories. Balinese temples contain many structures and the most important is the Padmasana or lotus throne. The Padmasana is a large stone-hewn tower, with an empty stone seat or lotus throne which is reserved for Sanghyang Widi Wasa (the supreme God).

Lotus flowers (1)
Lotus flowers. Jon Sullivan, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The Padmasana is located so that it faces away from the sacred mountain: Mount Agung. In South Bali the Padmasana is located in the northeast corner of the temple while in North Bali it is located in the southeast corner of the temple. The throne in general is 2 meters (6.5 ft) high and is thus above the heads of the faithful. In much larger versions of Padmasana there are even steps leading up to the throne so that people can place offerings there. The entire structure symbolizes the entire cosmos from the underworld to heaven. Around the base there are representations such as mountains to indicate the physical world of man.

In general here is what the colors of the lotus mean:

– the white and pink lotus: purity and devotion.
– red/purple/blue lotus: have a spiritual meaning in the sense of ascension or recognition.
– a green lotus flower is a great gift for someone trying to improve their life and start good habits.

The lotus is above all symbolic for the ancient and modern world who celebrate beauty in art and in religion which have a strong cultural connection with Bali. So what are you waiting for to plant your own lotus?

Bird of Paradise Symbols

Strelitzia, bird of paradise, or crane lily.

The meanings of the bird of paradise  symbolize the notion of freedom, magnificence, and luck. The bird of paradise flower is a symbol of freedom, like a free bird in the air. This beautiful flower reminds us to let go of our worries and embark on a new adventure.

The meanings of the bird of paradise flower are multiple:
  • Freedom – The bird of paradise flower is a symbol of freedom, like a free bird in the air. This beautiful flower reminds us to let go of our worries and embark on a new adventure.
  • Success and Excellence – This flower makes a great gift for someone who has just been promoted or graduated from college or someone you want to see succeed.
  • Optimism and Joy – It is also a symbol of optimism and positive energy, especially because of its bright, bold colors and interesting shapes. This beautiful flower reminds us to always be cheerful and keep a smiling face no matter how hard life may be.
  • Loyalty – The Bird of Paradise flower is both a symbol of the ninth wedding anniversary and a great way to tell your partner that you are faithful and totally committed to them.

Bird of Paradise by the Sea-3+ (192447990)
Bird of paradise. Sheba_Also 43,000 photos, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Hibiscus is a sacred flower

The hibiscus, dedicated to Ganesha, Shiva and the goddess Kali. White flowers express purity, refinement, elegance and perfection.

The offering of its flowers is effective when one makes the “archana”, that is to say when one offers the flowers while reciting the mantras or the sacred formulas. They are supposed to make the mantras effective and to obtain the siddhis, occult powers. Hibiscus flower decoctions help purify the blood and the heart. They improve the quality of skin and hair. They are effective in problems of excessive bleeding during menstruation, it is said.

Hibiscus flower decoctions help purify the blood and the heart. They improve the quality of skin and hair. They are used to treat excessive bleeding problems during menstruation.

Red Hibiscus in Chennai during Spring
Red Hibiscus. Aravindan Shanmugasundaram, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Read also: Useful Tips for Visiting Temples in Bali

Jasmine flowers

Jasmine flowers are, as we have seen, offered during pujas or Hindu ceremonies, because of their white color and their fragrance. These are called sattwika flowers. They increase pure love and compassion.

Jasmine flowers are said to influence the psyche of humans and make the mind receptive; they help to receive and radiate the vibrations of the mantras. They combine well with sandalwood paste in most cases. It is the floral symbol of ideal love!

JasminumSambac
Jasmin Sambac or Melati Putih in Indonesian language. Taken by Fanghong, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Bougainvillea, named after the famous navigator

These shrubs with sumptuous colored bracts were brought back to Europe in the 18th century by the famous navigator Louis-Antoine de Bougainville. This is a symbol of passion, welcome and peace.

There are several species but it is mainly hybrids of Bougainvillea spectabilis and Bougainvillea glabra that are grown.

Nusa Lembongan, Bali
Bougainvillea in Nusa Lembongan. Shura from Amsterdam, Netherlands, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Marigold

Marigolds were discovered by the Spaniards in Mexico and it was the Portuguese who brought them to India and then to Indonesia.

Marigolds are considered a religious symbol for Hindus who use them as offerings to gods and goddesses in the form of a simple flower or garland.

Before entering a temple, stalls allow you to choose flowers or garlands to make an offering. In the homes of Brahmins, Marigolds are used every day in the family temple for the performance of puja, the ritual ceremony to the gods.

Tagetes (2804523)
Marigold. Pashminu Mansukhani, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Heliconia

One of the most famous flowers in Bali is Heliconia. It is native to Central and South America as well as a few South Pacific islands and was not first described until 1786. This attractive plant is now cultivated in all tropical regions of the world. However, there are 200 varieties, so he is not that alone!

The plant takes its name from the Greek mountain Helikon, on which the Muses stood. The inhabitants of this mountain always remained fresh, beautiful and young. Mount Helicon is in Boeotia, central Greece. So, if you always want to stay young and beautiful, it is essential to buy a Heliconia. And why not several, to be sure of the result.

Heliconia rostrata - Flower Photomontage
Heliconia rostrata Filo gèn’, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Anthurium

Anthuriums send a message of hospitality. It is one of the prettiest exotic flowers, it is native to Colombia and Ecuador, and is characterized by its pink color and a distinctive peak of yellow starting from the center of the flower, but also by its large reddish leaves. . If you want to find exotic flowers that will make a splash for your wedding ceremony, you will not go wrong by choosing anthuriums and your guests will remember them!

A red anthurium flower
Red Anthurium. Ezhuttukari, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Lollipop (golden shrimp plant, pachystachys lutea)

Lollipop flower in Indonesian language is bunga lilin (candle flower). It is native to the tropical regions of America (Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia and Central America). It is grown elsewhere as an ornamental plant.

The meaning of this flower is an integration of knowledge and spirituality. It helps with navigating between brain knowledge and spiritual truth. It is often planted in gardens and homes to bring good fortune to the owners.

In addition to its cultural significance, the lollipop plant is also used in traditional Balinese traditional medicine. The leaves of the plant are used to make a tea that is used to treat a variety of conditions, including fever, headache, and stomach upset.

Pachystachys lutea 2 RBGK
Pachystachys lutea. Dryas, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Magnolia champaca (Cempaka)

The Magnolia champaca, known as “Cempaka” in Bali, holds cultural significance and is often associated with various meanings in Balinese traditions.

Used in religious ceremonies, it symbolizes purity and is pleasing to the gods. Its sweet scent represents divinity and creates a spiritually uplifting atmosphere.

Its presence is believed to promote a sense of harmony and balance in both spiritual and physical realms, extending blessings and good wishes to others.

Additionally, it can signify love and beauty, and is used in funerals to guide souls. Offering Cempaka shows respect and is believed to bring harmony and blessings. Overall, the Cempaka’s importance in Bali’s cultural and religious traditions is profound.

Magnolia champaca, Champak, ചെമ്പകം
Magnolia champaca (Bunga cempaka). Renjusplace, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Allamanda (Golden trumpet)

Allamanda flowers are popular tropical plants known for their vibrant and trumpet-shaped blooms. The Allamanda flower is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, primarily found in Central and South America. In Bali, Allamanda flowers can be found adorning gardens, parks, and landscapes, adding a burst of color to the lush surroundings. These flowers come in various shades, including bright yellow, golden, and even peach-colored varieties.

This is a significant flower in Balinese culture because it is associated with prosperity, good luck, and spirituality.

The Allamanda plant is well-suited to Bali’s warm and tropical climate. Its large, glossy leaves provide an attractive backdrop to the striking flowers. Many Balinese gardens feature Allamanda as ornamental plants, creating beautiful displays of natural beauty.

Hoa Thang Giu
Allamanda cathartica. Ngocnk2, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Allamanda flowers also hold cultural significance in Bali, where flowers play an important role in traditional ceremonies and offerings. They are often used in religious ceremonies, temple offerings, and as decorations during special events.

So, if you visit Bali, you’re likely to encounter the cheerful and vibrant Allamanda flowers gracing the landscape, contributing to the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Allamanda blanchetii 1
Allamanda blanchetii. Vaikoovery, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

White buttercup (Turnera subulata or Bali Buttercup)

Turnera subulata, also known as white buttercup, is a flowering plant in the passionflower family. It is native to Central and South America, but has been introduced to many other parts of the world, including Bali.

The white buttercup is also a symbol of purity and enlightenment in Balinese culture. It is believed that the flower can help people to achieve a higher level of consciousness. The flower is also used in traditional Balinese medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including respiratory problems and skin conditions.

Turnera subulata 5
Turnera subulata. Abutorsam007, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Senduduk (Melastoma malabathricum)

This is a native plant of Bali that is commonly found in forests and along riverbanks. It is a small shrub that grows to a height of about 1-2 meters. The plant has bright green leaves and produces clusters of small, purple flowers.

Senduduk is also a symbol of purity and innocence in Balinese culture. It is believed that the flower can help people to cleanse their souls and to achieve a higher level of consciousness. The flower is also used in traditional Balinese medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including skin diseases and respiratory problems.

Melastoma malabathricum 04408
Melastoma malabathricum. Vengolis, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

It’s important to note that the specific meanings and uses of famous flowers in Bali may vary based on individual beliefs, local customs, and cultural interpretations. The list provided includes flowers that are commonly found and culturally significant in Bali. While some of them may not be exclusive to Bali, they are indeed native or well-established in the region. The white buttercup is a significant flower in Balinese culture. It is used in religious offerings, traditional medicine, art, and literature. The flower is also a popular tourist attraction.

Sources: CleverlySmart, Facts of IndonesiaMedium

Photo credit (main picture): Author: Renesis (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons

Bali Local Ecosystems | Exploring Bali’s Natural World


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Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on a romantic getaway, villa Carissa in Seminyak center offers the perfect base for exploring Bali’s many attractions and enjoying a relaxing vacation.

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Villa Carissa in Seminyak Center

Bali Arts Festival in Denpasar

The Bali Arts Festival (Pesta Kesenian Bali), held annually in Denpasar, is not only the biggest cultural event in Bali, but also one of the most significant arts festivals in all of Indonesia. The festival showcases the richness and diversity of Balinese culture through a variety of performances, including traditional music and dance, theatrical productions, and exhibitions of traditional crafts and art. Visitors from around the world flock to the festival to experience the vibrant and colorful celebration of Balinese culture.

When?

This festival is held every year from mid-June to mid-July in the park of the Institute of Arts of Indonesia in Denpasar (Indonesian: Pesta Kesenian Bali) or PKB. It allows you to discover music, dances and plays from all the islands of Indonesia. And all this for free except for certain performances that take place inside the buildings for this Bali Arts Festival in Denpasar.

Indonesian culture is undoubtedly one of the most vibrant in the world. Dance, music and theater hold a special place in the hearts of the Balinese and form an integral part of their identity. The Bali Art Festival therefore offers the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the richness of this culture among the Balinese. Authenticity guaranteed!

Indonesian culture is undoubtedly one of the most vibrant in the world. Dance, music and theater hold a special place in the hearts of the Balinese and form an integral part of their identity. The Bali Arts Festival offers the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the richness of this culture among the Balinese. Authenticity guaranteed!

Here are the upcoming dates for the Bali Arts Festival:
  • 18 June – 16 July 2023
  • 15 June – 13 July 2024

Please note that these dates may be subject to change, so it’s always best to check with the local tourism office or the official Bali Arts Festival website for the most up-to-date information. During the festival, visitors can enjoy a wide range of traditional and contemporary performances, exhibitions, and cultural events showcasing the rich heritage and artistic traditions of Bali.

Cakepung-5
Cakepung performed at the Bali Arts Festival, accompanied by a drama dance. Dinas Kebudayaan Kabupaten Karangasem, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

The aim of this festival

The aim of the Bali Arts Festival is to preserve and promote Balinese cultural values. The festival was founded in 1979, during the governorship of Ida Bagus Mantra, to promote and sustain Balinese culture. The festival is a must in Indonesia because it is a unique opportunity to discover the extent of the local culture. Indeed, during the festival tourists and Balinese will admire the richness of the performing arts of Bali through parades, musical performances and dance performances.

Important Days in Bali | Cultural and Events

Where to see this festival? (venue)

1. Werdhi Budaya Arts Center in Denpasar (Taman Werdhi Budaya Art Centre)

Go to the Taman Werdhi Budaya Arts Center in Denpasar to find the main events there. Admire new performances every day that highlight sumptuous works of art but also traditional and contemporary dances. The festival presents more than 200 artistic performances. Discover traditional music with instruments such as “gamelan”.

Taman Budaya Arts Centre
Traditional music performance at Taman Werdhi Budaya Art Centre. Djep, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Enjoy the Wayang Kulit Badad puppet show based on themes such as justice, wisdom and courage all inspired by Badad stories. Enjoy Sendratari, a traditional theatrical show that mixes traditional dances and music. The city also organizes screenings of Balinese films which take place at the Ksirarnawa auditorium.

2. Bajra Sandhi Monument (Monumen Bajra Sandhi)

Monumen Bajra Sandhi is a historical monument located in Denpasar, the capital city of Bali, Indonesia. It is a symbol of Balinese struggle for independence from Dutch colonial rule. The monument’s name, “Bajra Sandhi,” translates to “Bajra” meaning “bell” and “Sandhi” meaning “union” or “unity.”

Monumen
Bajra Sandhi monument. Anis Fridasari, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This monument stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Balinese people during the struggle for independence. It consists of a large, impressive building with a beautiful park surrounding it. Inside, you can find various dioramas and exhibits that narrate the story of Bali’s fight for freedom. It’s not only a place of historical significance but also a place of reflection and remembrance. Visitors often come to learn about Bali’s history and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere in the park surrounding the monument.

3. Indonesian Institute of the Arts, Denpasar (Institut Seni Indonesia Denpasar)

The Indonesian Institute of the Arts (Institut Seni Indonesia or ISI) in Denpasar is a prominent institution of higher education dedicated to the arts. Located in Bali, this institute focuses on nurturing and promoting artistic talent and cultural preservation. It offers a wide range of academic programs in various art forms, including visual arts, performing arts, music, dance, and theater.

ISI Denpasar plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Bali’s rich cultural heritage. Students receive comprehensive training and education from skilled artists and educators, allowing them to hone their craft and contribute to the vibrant artistic scene of Bali and Indonesia as a whole.

Agem Keraton Lasem
The persistence of the traditional Legong Keraton Lasem dancers in carrying out agem movements accompanied by interactions between dancers makes it look expressive and interesting. Taken at a dance performance at the Indonesian Arts Institute, Denpasar, Bali. Kresnanta, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The institute is not only a center for artistic learning but also a hub for cultural exchange and collaboration. It hosts numerous cultural events, exhibitions, and performances, which provide students with opportunities to showcase their talents and connect with the broader artistic community.

ISI Denpasar’s commitment to nurturing artistic excellence and preserving traditional Balinese arts makes it an essential institution in the realm of Indonesian arts and culture. It continues to inspire and produce talented artists who contribute to the cultural vibrancy of Bali and beyond.

Famous Balinese Paintings: Exploring Bali’s Artistic Heritage

Art performances during Bali Art Festival

Here are some performances that you can see during Bali Art Festival

The parades

The beginning of the festival is marked by the famous opening parade which starts in front of the Bajra Sandhi in Denpasar. The parade brings together more than 1,000 artists who present different artistic performances. Indeed, the artists come from the all provinces of Bali but also from different countries such as China and India. The various artists present their works and their talents.

During the event, many art schools compete to offer the best artistic performances. Enjoy photo session with beautiful exotic backdrops and participate in painting and craft competitions. The big festival introduces Balinese art and preserves Bali as the main tourism destination in Indonesia. Aside from parade, various competitions will be held in this event, such as literature competition, handy craft, painting and other parades such as culinary, fashion, ngelawang, ramatari, gong kebyar, and traditional dance performances.

The festival usually ends with a ceremony which features a traditional ballet dance known as ‘Sendratari’ and takes place on the Ardha Candra stage.

Live an unforgettable experience by discovering one of the most vibrant cultures in the world during the Bali Arts Festival.

Gamelan Orchestra

When we arrive, the change of scenery is direct. We find ourselves in the middle of a crowd of locals animated by popular fervor. The first show we have the chance to attend is a Balinese orchestra called “Gamelan“. This traditional music is sometimes called “Gong” in Bali. The musicians dressed in colorful costumes and their eyes made up of black settle down in front of their instrument: xylophones, gongs, drums, etc. Their appearance is already impressive! When the first instruments come alive and the orchestra slowly comes to life, silence falls in the crowd. Then comes to our ears this music so characteristic of Indonesia.

Lestarikan budaya tari dan seni gamelan bali
Gamelan orchestra. This group consists of Balinese gamelan players and one female dancer in the center of the stage. Balinese Gamelan is one of the types of Gamelan in Indonesia. Andika Panendra, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Bewitching dance “Legong”

The repetitive rhythm of the music is already bewitching. But, when the dancers and dancers are added, it becomes magical. This dance called “Legong” is very different from what we are used to seeing in our Western societies. The dancers represent deities in colorful and golden costumes decorated with a headdress. The emotion transmitted is then almost hypnotic. The dance mobilizes the whole body from head to toe with eye games and finger movements. Everything may seem jerky and messy when in reality it is quite the opposite. This undoubtedly requires unfailing control and concentration.

Balinese dance Legong in Ubud, Ramayana performance, 20220823 1933 0502
Performance of a fragment of the Ramayana, with the accompanying Legong dance, by Bina Remaja Troupe group, Ubud. Jakub Hałun, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Trance

It is easy to get carried away by the frenetic rhythm of the music and the dance. Besides, we are not the only ones, because some locals join the dance. It seems so strong to them that most of them pass out when they leave the stage. As if the music put them in a trance. They are caught each time by other people so as not to collapse on the ground. The last dancer finishes the dance in the same way accompanied by spasms. It’s super impressive!

A Kecak Chant In Ubud (167517755)
The Kecak is a traditional Balinese trance ritual accompanied by a male chorus. Its modern form, incorporating a dance portraying the Ramayana epic, was developed in the 1930s. Ilya Yakubovich, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Topeng: theatrical masked dance

After a short intermission which allowed us to visit the park and discover certain culinary specialties, we return to observe the next performance. It is a theatrical dance called Topeng. In this type of representation, the actors wear masks and in our case, they are only men. I don’t know if it’s a tradition for this type of show.
The show starts with the music of the gamelan orchestra accompanied by a flute. Then, the curtain at the back of the stage begins to move to gradually reveal the different members of a first character. Several characters thus make their appearance, before starting to discuss as in a play.

Tari Topeng Bali
Balinese mask dance (Tari Topeng Bali). Johannnindito Adisuryo (Yohanes Nindito Adisuryo), CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

UNESCO Sites and Geopark in Bali | Discover World Heritage Wonders and Natural Beauty

Sources: Bali Cultural Services (in Indonesian)

Photo credit: Gijsvanbilsen via Pixabay

Bali Heritage, Culture and Traditions


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Located in Center Seminyak – Bali, Villa Carissa offers a private swimming pool and enclosed garden to guarantee your privacy. You can book your private pool villa here with us.

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or with family, Villa Carissa’s three-bedroom villas offer comfortable and luxurious accommodations in the heart of Seminyak center. With modern amenities and beautiful Balinese design, the bedrooms at Villa Carissa are the perfect place to relax and unwind during your stay in Bali.

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Villa Carissa in Seminyak Center

Useful Tips for Visiting Temples in Bali

With more than 50,000 temples (including those present in houses, caves, shops, restaurants, nightclubs (!), hotels, markets…), Bali deserves its nickname of “the island of the Gods”. Here are useful tips for visiting temples in Bali.

Some consider the island to be a high place of spiritual energies in Indonesia! So much so that many expats-dressed-in-sari will tell you that Bali is located at a point of convergence of particularly powerful energies!
So “spiritual energy” and “particularly powerful energies”, sincerely, I don’t know, but on the other hand what is certain is that the island is located in a very active seismic and volcanic zone and for once very powerful !

Finally, in any case, a visit to Bali would be incomplete if you failed to visit some of its temples. Indeed, the main religion on the island – Hinduism – is an integral part of the Balinese soul. It is so rooted in the culture that it is what gives rhythm to the life of the island, from the offerings placed in the early morning, to the processions to the temples at the end of the day…

And one of the strengths of the Balinese is their deep respect and attachment to religious traditions.
So much so that Bali is today the only place on earth where, for 36 hours, the inhabitants remain cloistered at home, just like tourists who are prohibited from leaving their hotels. The streets – like the beaches, mountains and rice paddies – are deserted. The island finds itself isolated from the world: no plane lands or takes off from the airport, no boat enters or leaves the ports.
And absolute silence reigns over the island…
This unique event in the world is called Nyepi: it is the Balinese New Year.

Read also: Tanah Lot Bali | Temples Bordering the Indian Ocean

It is also impossible to open a business without celebrating a blessing beforehand (as explained in this article: Blessing Urbi and Bali); or in any case, it is not recommended at all!

Finally, for many visitors visiting a temple in Bali (or “temples” for that matter, it’s true… why restrict yourself?) is one of the best things to do during your stay (it’s also widely recommended by the Lonely Planet guide) and you should read this useful tips for visiting temples in Bali.

Besakih Bali Indonesia Pura-Besakih-03
Seen from the temple of Besakih at the foot of the Mount Agung. Photo by CEphoto, Uwe Aranas (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons

“The Pura”: The Temple in Bali

Pura Uluwatu, Pura Ulun Danu, Pura Tirta Empul… So you guessed it: “Pura” (pronounced “Poura”, rolling the “r”) is therefore the name for the Temple in Bali.

Of Sanskrit origin, the word literally means “space surrounded by a wall”.

And while many temples are visible (and again, “many” is an understatement), their construction and meaning are no coincidence because, as with many things in Bali, many small details reveal big symbols.

Thus, the temple is always oriented along a mountain-sea axis; the part facing the mountain contains the sacred heart of the temple, while on the opposite (so, if you follow correctly: facing the sea) is the entrance to the temple.

The mountain they face is Mount Agung, Bali’s sacred volcano.

The temple, like the conception of the Universe in Balinese culture (note also that the houses follow the same architectural scheme), is organized in 3 levels with, from the outside to the inside:

1 > The “Jeroan”

Facing Mount Agung, it is the highest, holiest and holiest (hence the most important) part of the temple. It represents the World of the Gods, or Superior World (“Swah”).
It is here that the ceremonies are organized, that the Balinese come to pray and place the offerings on altars.

2 > The “Jaba Tengah”

Separated from the Jeroan by a large door (“Kori Agung”), this central part of the temple symbolizes the world of Men; the Intermediate World, or Center of the World (“Bwah”), therefore situated between that of the Gods and that of the Demons.
It is in this part of the temple that the Balinese meet to prepare the ceremonies.
Under the “Balés”, the beach (the Balés are a kind of shelter on stilts covered with a roof of tiles or palm leaves), the women make decorations and offerings which will then be deposited in the “Jeroan” during ceremonies.
There is also cooking, and secondary ceremonies can take place there.

3 > The “Jaba Pisan”

Separated from the Jaba Tengah by a door called “Candi Bentar”, it is the part which symbolizes the Lower World (“Bhur”), that of the Demons, outside the temple (although it is inside the walls…). It is therefore the part facing the sea and the lowest part of the temple.
In this area, there are mainly flower gardens, free areas that can be used for religious dances and Bale.
The Balinese also gather there to have lunch together, to play and to organize cockfights (even if they are officially prohibited).
Thus allowing to pass from one part of the temple to another, the different doors (“Candi Bentar” and “Kori Agung”) thus serve as a symbolic passage between the different “worlds” and represent the separation between the material world and the spiritual world.

The Candi Bentar gate would be a representation of Mount Meru, which would have been separated into 2 symmetrical parts by the God Shiva, thus becoming Mount Agung and Mount Batur (the 2 volcanoes of Bali).

The interior walls of the door being smooth, the Candi Bentar door would crush the demons who would like to enter the sacred part of the temple…
– Do you know the story of “Paf le Demon”?
– Uh no…
– So, it’s the story of a demon who wanted to enter the temple and bang the demon” (Balinese variant of “Bang the dog… here, here, here… Sorry!”).

Thus, the most sacred temples are built on the highest parts of the island, therefore in places corresponding to the Swah, or the World of the Gods.

And thanks to the trees, the flowers, and the various offerings placed, the temples are very colorful and fragrant. Symbol carriers, parasols and various fabrics add a little more color. Symbols of the Hindu trinity, 3 colors dominate moreover:

Red, which represents Brahma, the creator God of the universe
Black, which symbolizes Vishnu, the guardian God, the one who maintains and protects the universe
White, which is the color of Shiva, the destroyer God of the world but obviously also of recreation and fertility.
There is also Yellow, to symbolize the God Iswara (it is he who would have given birth to Vishnu, according to Hindu mythology… but at this level, I am a little lost in their Gods and their roles).

Throughout the temple, there is an interwoven black and white checkerboard fabric, the “Poleng”.

Decorative, the Balinese use it to surround, among other things, trees, altars, temples… This motif symbolizes the fact that in life, good and evil, splendor and evil are closely intertwined.

And so for harmony to reign, it is important to maintain a balance between the 2 forces.

Finally, there are also many umbrellas whose color is just decorative white.

Parasols and yellow and white sheets in a temple

Originally, the temples were built of red bricks and white stones. For a long time they were maintained using the same materials. But techniques, materials and technologies are evolving… But now red bricks and white stones are being replaced by new materials: lava stones! These have the significant particularity of being much more resistant to time. But they are also much darker (the aesthetics of the temple is therefore not the same, while the symbolism remains the same).

This is also part of a founding principle of the Hindu religion: construction – maintenance – and destruction (to then be rebuilt)… A symbolism carried by the 3 Gods.

The Meru (towers) of the Temple

In addition to the altars, one of the most important buildings of the temple, and particularly visible (often from outside the temple) is the Meru (pronounced “Meru”, yes, like the fish).

Located in the most sacred part of the temple, the Jeroan, it is a wooden tower erected on a square base built of bricks. Like an arrow pointing towards the sky, the tower is made up of multiple overlapping roofs, made of palm fibers. It symbolizes the mythical Mountain of the Gods of the Hindu religion: Mount Meru.

The number of roofs is always odd and varies according to the importance of the God or the person to whom it is dedicated. This goes up to a maximum of 11 floors. It is located at the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple and is dedicated to Mount Agung – the Sacred Volcano of Bali – and to Shiva (while the Gods Brama and Vishnu are only entitled to 9 floors).

In temples, the Meru is therefore dedicated either to the Supreme Gods of the Hindu pantheon, or to a deified local personality. According to the Balinese, the Meru serves as a “temporary palace” for the gods when they visit for certain ceremonies. However, one does not find in the temples of the statue of the God, or the Goddess, venerated.

Finally, because of its sacred character, the construction is erected on a very, very solid base to prevent the Meru from blowing up (yes, I know, I already made that joke in a previous article, but I got involved in an ecological approach: I recycle the jokes…)!

And as “life is a celebration and a disaster” (Jean d’Ormesson) and the temples in Bali are considered as living beings, each temple celebrates its “semi-anniversary” every 6 months. This is the Odalan ceremony, during which multiple activities celebrate the descent to earth of ancestors from the Odela (uh… beyond, sorry!).

In addition to family temples, each village has 3 types of temples:

1. The Temple of Origins (Pura Puseh), the most important, dedicated to God Brahma (the Creator God) and to the founders of the village. It is located towards Mount Agung.
2. The Village Temple (The Pura Desa), dedicated to Vishnu (the Protector God) is located in the heart of the village; the inhabitants come there to venerate the spirits who protect the community.
3. The Temple of Death (the Pura Dalem), located at the end of the village, towards the sea. It is also the temple of “evil” spirits (not those who make jokes in bad taste) and demons. Indeed, the Balinese also respect the demons in order to maintain a balance between positive and negative energies. It is dedicated to Shiva, the destroyer and regenerator God.

Surprisingly, temples in Bali never have a roof that covers the entire structure. Indeed, the temple is a link between the beyond and the world of the living: it therefore allows the Gods and ancestors who would like to visit the living, to come directly from the beyond. Where a roof would therefore cut communication…

There are also more important temples: some are located in the mountains (like the temple of Besakih, called the “mother” temple, because it was built on one of the slopes of Mount Agung) and others located by the sea (like by example Uluwatu, or even Tanah Lot), which therefore create a kind of spiritual protection that encircles and protects Bali.

The temples in Bali are therefore important places for the life of the village: well decorated, adorned with flowers and trees, they are places of rituals where daily processions take place. Through the various temples and the offerings deposited daily, the Balinese thus attract the good graces of the Gods and also appease the Demons.

The Human Body as a Temple

In the Balinese-style Hindu religion, the Human Being is an integral part of the Cosmos, of which he is both a constituent element and a mirror.

Just as the cosmos is divided into 3 parts, the human body is therefore also (and like the temple) divided into 3 parts:

The Head (directed towards the sky, therefore the Gods; the Swah), therefore the purest (this is why it is recommended not to touch someone’s head);
The Trunk (intermediate zone), “neutral” part;
From the Waist to the Feet (directed towards the ground, therefore the Demons, the Bhur), the impure zone (this is the reason why it is recommended to hide one’s legs during visits).
In Balinese culture, the Universe (and therefore the world) is considered as a living whole.

The material (feminine principle) and spiritual (masculine principle) elements are linked there within an eternal transformation process that unifies 3 forces:

– those of creation (via the God Brahma),
– that of balance (the God Vishnu)
– and that of destruction (the Goddess Shiva).

We also find this balance in a symbol very present in Bali: the swastika, or Hindu swastika.

Still according to Balinese belief, the condition of the human being evolves during cycles of reincarnations, conditioned by karma. These cycles of transmigration of the soul, succession of birth, death, then rebirth (the soul finds itself linked to the body) are called: “Samasara”.

In this way, the human being is fully integrated into the process of transformation of the Universe.

The incarnation is therefore experienced as a condition of suffering that man must strive to overcome, to reach the “Moksa”, namely the ultimate deliverance – or revelation – (the equivalent of Nirvana among the Buddhists): soul and body then return in peace to their cosmic equivalent.

The practice of Yoga, meditation and the respect of certain rules would make it possible to reach this awakened state.

Some Tips before Visiting a Temple in Bali | Useful tips for visiting temples in Bali

When visiting temples in Bali, remember that these are sacred places, and that the Balinese consider them to be “alive”. In addition, remain silent during ceremonies, respect water sources (basins, fountains), offerings or any religious artifacts, because religion is extremely sacred for the Balinese and you should read useful tips for visiting temples in Bali.

In order not to offend the Balinese, here are some rules of good conduct and ethics to follow, whatever the temple:
  • Shoulders and upper arms covered (therefore: no bare torso or “marcel”),
  • Knees covered, either by trousers, or otherwise wearing a sarong tied at the waist (no shorts above the knee therefore). The sarong is a kind of sarong to tie around the waist. You can easily buy one in Bali, otherwise you can always rent one at the entrance of the temple (if you don’t mind that it has been worn by several people before you…).
  • Ideally, tie a scarf or shawl around your waist (like the belt of Balinese outfits: the “sash”)
  • Wear shoes or flip flops, but don’t go barefoot.
  • Do not step on the offerings placed on the ground.
  • Of course: do not spit, do not throw your waste on the ground, do not smoke, do not shout or swear.
  • Do not walk in front of the faithful during prayers, to avoid disturbing them and disrespecting them.
  • So stay back, or to the side.
  • Do not place yourself above the priest during the ceremonies, because to put yourself higher than him is a singular lack of respect.
    Finally, if you are a woman, two more specific rules apply to you:
    • During periods of menstruation – which is considered impure (risks inducing an imbalance of the world, according to the Balinese) – it is possible that access to the temple is simply forbidden to you (so calculate your shot ladies to visit the temples at the right period… or in any case between 2 periods!).
      You cannot enter a temple compound if you are pregnant.

Note: during ceremonies and processions, Balinese men cover their heads with an “udeng”. A sort of hat, or turban, it prevents hair from falling and thus defiling the temple.

I hope this information concerning the useful tips for visiting temples in Bali will be useful to you in order to visit the temples in Bali while respecting the beliefs of its inhabitants.

And in a future post we will list my favorite temples, those that I consider essential during your stay in Bali!

Sources: CleverlySmart, PinterPandai, Bali Holiday Secrets

Photo credit: Author: Sean Hamlin from Wellington, New Zealand (CC BY 2.0) via Wikimedia Commons

Photo description: the Mother Temple of Besakih, or Pura Besakih, in the village of Besakih on the slopes of Mount Agung in eastern Bali, is the most important, the largest and holiest temple of Agama Hindu Dharma in Bali, Indonesia and one of a series of Balinese temples.

Best Temples in Bali | You need to visit one of them at least once during your stay in Bali


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Tirta Gangga Palace | The Royal Baths in Bali

Tirta Gangga Palace is a former royal palace located in East Bali, between Candidasa and Amed (30 minutes drive from Amed). From Seminyak to Tirta Gangga you need 2 hours 30 minutes drive. It is particularly known for its water palace. Try to visit the water gardens of this palace during our stay in Bali and spent a small part of the afternoon there.

Original: an accessible swimming pool within the royal palace Tirta Gangga!

As you walk around the aquatic garden, you will notice an entrance fee (IDR 15 000 /person or USD 1). It gives access to a small swimming pool whose water comes directly from Mount Agung. What an original experience to swim in this historic place!

Not knowing the existence of this “public swimming pool” before going to Tirta Gangga, we were a little frustrated not to take advantage of it. Only a few locals were peacefully splashing around in the pool… with a view of the aquatic garden. A king’s bath, the best!

Where is Tirta Gangga located?

Tirta Gangga is a village located in eastern Bali, near Mount Agung. Our stay in Bali was based on “star” trips from the villas or hotels we had rented. We visited the eastern part of the island for one day, going back and forth from Kuta. This day also included the visit of the temples of Besakih.

This place is also known by the English name of Tirta Gangga Water Palace. It is under this name that you will find it on Google Maps.

Very quiet place, and a very beautiful architecture. Allow 1 to 2 hours for the visit.

This region of the island is also famous for its beautiful rice fields.

History of Tirta Gangga Palace

Tirta Gangga Palace is a water palace built between 1946 and 1948 by the then ruler of Karangasem. Karangasem is a kubapaten (administrative subdivision in Indonesia) of Bali. It bears the name of an ancient kingdom of Bali. For information Indonesia has about 400 kubapaten, including 8 in Bali.

The springs of Tirta Gangga are considered sacred. The village bears this name because it refers to the sacred river of the Hindus: the Ganges. Indeed, in Hindu, Tirta Gangga means the “water of the Ganges”. This sovereign also appreciating the aquatic environment, therefore decided to build this palace by including some basins. As well as luxurious gardens, many statues, and fountains.

Read also: Places to Visit in Ubud | What to do in Ubud – Bali?

The palace was built on a plot of approximately 1 hectare. Unfortunately almost all of the palace was destroyed in 1963 during the eruption of the nearby Agung volcano. It was subsequently renovated and then opened for visits.

Tirtagangga 8
View from the lower part to the upper part of Tirta Gangga water palace. Manuae, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The walk in the gardens

When you are in the park you will immediately notice that water occupies an important place. And in particular the central element that immediately emerges from the decor: a magnificent 11-storey fountain. In addition to this sculpted fountain, the park is also planted with dozens of Balinese statues.

The different basins have some particularities. There are those in particular in which you can contemplate very beautiful aquatic flowers, or carp. We can thus discover water lilies and lotus flowers. There are also those with a slightly more playful aspect, such as this basin near the entrance to the park, on which flat stones are placed. It is then possible to walk on the basin, stepping over these stones.

Note that a pool is also intended for swimming. You can also meet locals there, and it is not forbidden to enjoy it either if you wish…

The gardens are open daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. For the price it is around one euro per person… Note also that this park is not a temple, therefore is not a religious site. It therefore does not require the wearing of the sarong. Count an hour for the walk, because the gardens are still not very big.

Sources: PinterPandai, CleverlySmart, Wanderers & Warriors

Photo credit (main picture): Author: S A B R I N A B A L I (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons


Have you booked your private villa in Seminyak center?

Located in Seminyak Center – Bali, Villa Carissa offers a private swimming pool and enclosed garden to guarantee your privacy. You can book your private pool villa here with us.

Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on a romantic getaway, villa Carissa in Seminyak center offers the perfect base for exploring Bali’s many attractions and enjoying a relaxing vacation.

Carissa villa in seminyak
Villa Carissa in Seminyak Center

Tanah LotThe Rich Bali Heritage and Culture

Bali’s rich cultural heritage and traditions have helped make it a unique and fascinating place to visit. From its intricate art and music to its traditional ceremonies and rituals, Bali is an island that celebrates its past while embracing the present. Bali heritage and culture remains extremely lively, coexisting and/or adapting to the new tourist situation, and that’s good!

The island’s culture is deeply rooted in Hinduism, with many traditional ceremonies and rituals taking place throughout the year. Visitors can witness these ceremonies and learn about the island’s customs by attending a temple ceremony or visiting a cultural museum.

Bali may well receive more than 3 million tourists each year, but it has not been distorted. Everywhere on the island – except perhaps around Kuta – you can attend processions, ceremonies or traditional shows. Bali is more than just a tourist destination; it is an experience that touches the heart and soul. The island’s natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality make it an authentic paradise that visitors will never forget.

Dances and musics

Bali is well-known for its traditional dances and music which are an essential part of the island’s rich culture. Balinese dance is often accompanied by gamelan music, which features a unique blend of percussion, gongs, and xylophones.

Dances

Balinese dance is an important aspect of the island’s culture, and it is an expression of the island’s religious beliefs. These dances are usually performed during temple festivals and ceremonies and tell stories of gods and goddesses.

The Balinese dance is one of the most famous art forms in the world. It is a beautiful blend of traditional dance and drama, with intricate movements and colorful costumes. Balinese dance is performed in temples, ceremonies, and festivals, and it is a vital part of Balinese culture.

They are one of the finest and best-known expression of this cultural vitality. There are some 2,000 troupes on the island, which perform in temples, because dance in Bali is linked to the divine and the sacred: many shows are inspired, for example, by the Hindu epic Ramayana.

Under no circumstances miss a performance of legong or kecak (very spectacular): bewitchment guaranteed to the haunting sound of the gamelans (traditional instrument). Another show to discover: the wayang kulit puppets.

Balinese Kecak dance with Legong dancers
Balinese Kecak dance with Legong dancers. Raymonst3, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Musics

Music is also an integral part of Balinese culture. Gamelan music, which is a traditional Indonesian ensemble, is played during ceremonies, dances, and other important events. The music is made up of gongs, drums, and other percussion instruments.

Read also: Bali Arts Festival in Denpasar | The Biggest Annual Cultural Event in Bali

The beautiful traditional dance costumes of leak dance
The beautiful traditional dance costumes of leak dance from Bali. Mufidqa91, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The people

The Balinese people are an ethnic group native to the island of Bali in Indonesia. They make up the majority of the island’s population, with over 4 million people identifying as Balinese. Balinese culture is rich and diverse, with a unique blend of Hinduism, animism, and indigenous traditions.

The Balinese people are a vibrant and resilient ethnic group that resides in the Indonesian island province of Bali. Known for their distinct culture, art, and way of life, the Balinese have a rich heritage that has withstood centuries of political, social, and economic changes.

Ethnic group

The Balinese people are an ethnic group native to the island of Bali in Indonesia. They are part of the wider Indonesian-Malay ethnic group and speak Balinese, a distinct Austronesian language.

Despite facing numerous challenges throughout their history, including Dutch colonialism and the devastating effects of natural disasters, the Balinese people have remained resilient and adaptable. They have managed to maintain their cultural traditions and way of life while embracing modernization and technological advancements.

Today, the Balinese people are a thriving community, with a population of over four million people. They continue to preserve their cultural heritage through their art, music, dance, and religious practices

Traditional Lifestyle

Historically, the Balinese people were primarily farmers and fishermen, with a strong connection to the land and sea. Traditional Balinese houses were built using local materials and featured open-air courtyards, reflecting the importance of community and family in Balinese culture.

The Balinese people have a long and complex history that dates back to the prehistoric era. The earliest evidence of human habitation in Bali dates back to around 3000 BC. Over the centuries, the Balinese people have been influenced by various cultures, including Indian, Chinese, and Javanese, which have left their mark on Balinese art, music, religion, and way of life.

Family and Community

Family and community are important aspects of Balinese culture. The Balinese practice a form of Hinduism that emphasizes the importance of community and social harmony. Family members often live together and work together, with older generations passing down traditional skills and knowledge to younger generations.

Bratan Bali Indonesia Balinese-family-after-Puja-01
Bratan, Bali, Indonesia: Balinese family after the Hindu worship service (“puja”) in Pura Ulun Danu Bratan. The wet rice grains on the foreheads are called “Bija”, meaning “God has blessed us”.
Photo by CEphoto, Uwe Aranas (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons

Traditional Fashion

Bali has a rich tradition of clothing and textiles, with a variety of styles and fabrics used in traditional Balinese fashion. Some examples of traditional Balinese clothing include:

  • Kebaya: A fitted blouse with a traditional batik or songket sarong worn as a skirt.
  • Sarong: A long piece of fabric wrapped around the waist and worn as a skirt by both men and women.
  • Udeng: A headband worn by men, made from a long piece of cloth that is tied around the head.
  • Songket: A traditional fabric made from silk or cotton, with intricate patterns and designs woven into the material.
  • Endek: A hand-woven fabric made from cotton or silk, with a distinctive pattern of squares and rectangles.
  • Batik: A method of dyeing fabric using wax to create intricate patterns and designs.

Many of these traditional clothing items can still be seen in Balinese culture today, particularly during religious ceremonies and festivals. They can be found in local markets and boutiques throughout Bali, and are often used as inspiration for modern fashion designs.

Art & Culture - Bali Traditional Fashion
One of Bali traditional fashion styles. Puri Lumbung Cottages, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Balinese Architecture

The Balinese architecture is another example of the thriving Balinese community. Balinese temples and buildings are famous for their intricate carvings, statues, and pagodas. The traditional Balinese house, known as a “compound,” is also a beautiful example of Balinese architecture. It is characterized by a blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences, with elements of traditional Javanese architecture as well.

Balinese temples and buildings are adorned with intricate carvings of mythical creatures, gods, and goddesses. The carvings often depict scenes from Hindu epics, such as the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

Kori Agung, TMII Bali Pavilion
Kori Agung or Paduraksa, also known as kori is a type of gateway covered with towering roof that can be found in the island of Java and Bali, Indonesia. This architectural feature is commonly found in buildings from the classical Hindu-Buddhist period of Indonesia. Arsonal, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Another prominent feature of Balinese architecture is the use of pagodas, which are multi-tiered towers that serve as a symbol of religious and spiritual significance. Pagodas are often found in Balinese temples and are used to house statues of deities.

Water is also an important element in Balinese architecture, and many temples and buildings are built near rivers, lakes, or the ocean. Pools and fountains are often incorporated into temple designs, and water is used in purification ceremonies.

Bedroom 2 villa carissa
The second bedroom at Villa Carissa in Seminyak is adorned with a beautifully crafted wooden Buddha statue and a traditional Balinese wooden headboard. The alang-alang natural roof, made from woven grass, adds a touch of traditional charm, creating an atmosphere of artistic elegance.

Temples and ceremonies

Temples, or “pura” in Balinese, are scattered throughout the island and are a critical aspect of Balinese culture. Bali is also known for its traditional ceremonies and rituals. One of the most important ceremonies is the Galungan, which is a celebration of the victory of good over evil. During this ceremony, families visit temples, decorate their houses with bamboo poles and offerings, and share traditional dishes.

Temples are the other major expression of Balinese cultural vitality. Throughout the year, even every day, ceremonies take place there. Tourists can attend with respect and discretion.

Cremations (in public) or Ngaben in Balinese are among the most amazing ceremonies in the eyes of Westerners. Generally taking place 6 weeks after the death, they take on a certain splendor, as they constitute a crucial rite of passage for the deceased towards the afterlife.

Another surprising ceremony: the filing of teeth, which marks the adolescent’s entry into the adult world. Finally, there are lots of religious festivals throughout the year, bringing villages and temples to life, but also games, such as cockfighting, bird singing or kite flying competitions…

Another important ceremony is the Nyepi, also known as the Day of Silence. On this day, the island comes to a complete stop, with no lights or sounds, and people are encouraged to stay indoors and reflect.

Ngaben di Nusa Penida
Ngaben is a profound and sacred ritual deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of Bali. This ancient ceremony serves as a poignant farewell to those who have passed away, guiding their souls towards a realm of eternal peace. The serene island of Nusa Penida, situated within the Klungkung Regency of Bali, holds Ngaben ceremonies in high regard, reflecting the profound spiritual connections that bind the community together. Imadedana, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Some of the most famous temples in Bali include:

  • Pura Besakih: Known as the “Mother Temple,” this complex is the largest and most important temple in Bali, located on the slopes of Mount Agung.
  • Pura Tanah Lot: This temple is situated on a rocky outcrop in the sea and is one of Bali’s most photographed sites.
  • Pura Ulun Danu Beratan: Located on the shores of Lake Beratan, this temple is dedicated to the goddess of water and is renowned for its stunning reflection on the lake’s surface.
  • Pura Luhur Uluwatu: This temple is perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean and is known for its spectacular sunset views and traditional dance performances.

Best Temples in Bali | You need to visit one of them at least once during your stay in Bali

Ceremonies in Bali

Ceremonies, or “upacara” in Balinese, are an integral part of Balinese culture and religion. These rituals are held to honor the gods, ancestors, and spirits, and they can range from small family gatherings to elaborate island-wide festivals.

Some of the most famous ceremonies in Bali include:
  • Galungan: A ten-day festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. This festival celebrates the victory of good over evil and is held every 210 days. Balinese families decorate their homes with “penjor,” tall bamboo poles adorned with offerings and decorations.
  • Nyepi: This is the Balinese Day of Silence, which falls on the day after the new year according to the Balinese calendar. On this day, all activity on the island comes to a complete halt, and the Balinese people spend the day in quiet contemplation.
  • Odalan: This is a temple anniversary celebration held every 210 days. The temple is decorated, and elaborate ceremonies are held to honor the gods and ancestors.
  • Kuningan: This festival marks the end of the Galungan period and is celebrated with offerings, dance performances, and traditional Balinese cuisine.

Visiting temples and witnessing ceremonies in Bali is a unique and awe-inspiring experience. It offers visitors a glimpse into the island’s ancient culture and religious traditions and allows them to participate in the island’s vibrant community celebrations.

Pictorial and culinary arts

Bali is also renowned for its painting, and in particular its naive paintings in an easily recognizable style, combining vegetation, animals and humans.

Balinese cuisine is unique and flavorful, with a mix of spices, herbs, and fresh ingredients. The Balinese dishes such as Babi Guling (suckling pig) and Nasi Goreng (fried rice) are famous all over the world. Balinese cuisine is also known for its use of traditional cooking methods, such as grilling over coconut husks.

Finally, last but not least, Balinese cuisine will delight gourmets: try the traditional babi guling (stuffed suckling pig cooked on a spit), urab and bebek betutu (duck). From warung to trendy designer restaurant, the island offers a very wide range, within reach of all budgets! Read also: Balinese food and specialties | Emblematic dishes not to be missed under any circumstances during your stay

The peaceful and relaxed life in Bali

Nicknamed the Island of the Gods, this Indonesian island is perfectly suited to locals and foreigners eager for cultural heritage, respect for traditions, water sports enthusiasts, scuba diving enthusiasts, adventurers of all kinds as well as retirees in search of calm and tranquility, Bali is intended as much for shopaholics as it is for lovers of relaxation.

Bali Montage
Sunset over Amed beach with Mount Agung in the background, Garuda Wisnu Kencana monument, Tanah Lot temple, view from top of Besakih Temple, scuba diving around Pemuteran, The Rock Bar at Jimbaran Bay, and various traditional Balinese people activities. File:Amed banner sunset.jpg: borntosleepFile:GarudaWisnuKencana head.jpg: SankoFile:Tanah-Lot Bali Indonesia Pura-Tanah-Lot-01.jpg: CccefalonPanorama of Bali from Besakih – Mother temple.jpg: PopaneshFile:Snorkeling Pemuteran Bali 2.jpg: Ennio morriconeFile:The Rock Bar Bali (7188376333).jpg: Simon_seesFile:Balinese Dancer (Imagicity 1248).jpg: Graham CrumpFile:Balinese vrouwen in een processie bij een festival in Ubud, -7 Aug. 2009 a.jpg: Jean-Marie HullotFile:Balinese girl with offering.jpg: John Yavuz Canderivative work: Badpuccini, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Traditional philosophy

Tri Hita Karana is a traditional philosophy of life on the island of Bali, Indonesia. The literal translation is roughly the “three causes of well-being” or “three reasons for prosperity.”

The three causes referred to in the principle are as follows:

  • Harmony between humans
  • Harmony with nature or environment
  • Harmony with God
Culture value

By implementing Tri Hita Karana steadily, creatively and dynamically, a harmonious life will be realized which includes the development of a complete human being who is devoted to God Almighty, loves the environment and is in harmony and peace with others.

Sustainable-Development-goal-Kura Kura bali
Illustration of the Tri Hita Karana using the Sustainable Development Goals. Furyanto, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Subak, a traditional Balinese irrigation system that has been in use for over a thousand years

Subak, the traditional Balinese irrigation system, has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012, highlighting its importance not only to Bali’s agriculture but also to its cultural heritage. This ancient system, which was developed by Balinese farmers over a thousand years ago, is not only a marvel of engineering but also a prime example of sustainable water management.

Jatiluwih rice terraces
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces with Subak irrigation system. Imacim, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Subak Museum in Tabanan, which showcases the history and importance of Subak and its role in Bali’s agricultural traditions. The museum also offers workshops and training programs to local farmers on sustainable agriculture practices, such as crop diversification and water-saving techniques. Their website (in Indonesian language): http://museumsubak.com

By preserving the Subak system and promoting sustainable agriculture practices, these local sustainability projects in Bali are helping to safeguard Bali’s unique cultural heritage and environment. With the UNESCO recognition, the importance of the Subak system has been highlighted on a global scale, encouraging further efforts to conserve and promote this vital piece of Balinese heritage for generations to come.

Origins of Subak

The exact origins of Subak are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have started in Bali around the 9th century during the era of Bali’s ancient kingdoms. The development of Subak was an innovation by Balinese farmers who faced the challenge of supplying water to their rice paddies, which were located at different elevations and distances from water sources.

Batukaru1
Balinese altar at Rice terraces of Gunung Batukaru. Arabsalam, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The farmers developed a system of water management based on the principles of collaboration and cooperation, which became the basis for Subak. Over time, the Subak system evolved to include water temples and irrigation networks that are managed by a democratic organization of farmers known as Subak. Today, Subak remains an integral part of Bali’s agricultural practices and cultural identity, reflecting the island’s history and the ingenuity of its people.

Religion and Festivals

One of the most distinctive aspects of Balinese culture is their unique Hindu religion, which is a blend of Hinduism, Buddhism, and animism. The Balinese believe in a complex system of gods and goddesses, with each deity having a specific role and function in the universe. Balinese religious ceremonies and rituals, which are often accompanied by music, dance, and colorful costumes, are a fundamental part of Balinese culture and identity.

Balinese Hinduism combines elements of Hinduism, Buddhism, and indigenous animism, and is characterized by elaborate rituals and ceremonies. Read also: Religion in Bali: Cultures of Indonesia – Unity in Diversity and Important Days in Bali | Cultural and Events

Offerings in Bali

It is a must in Bali, one of the first things you notice on the whole Island of the Gods. Everywhere in the streets, we see sorts of small baskets filled with flower petals. These small colorful baskets, made of coconut or banana leaves, are called “Canang Sari“.

The Balinese Hindu custom consists of depositing daily offerings everywhere. It is in a way a ritual to give back, to share, what has been given by the Gods…

This ancestral Balinese rite has existed for several centuries and continues to this day. These pretty colorful offerings are not created for the pleasure of tourists. They are an integral part of local culture and beliefs. For the Balinese, these offerings help preserve and maintain balance and peace in the world.

Canang sari
Offerings for prayers in Bali with: flowers, fruits, food, perfume scent. Canang sari is one of the daily offerings made by Balinese Hindus to thank the Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa in praise and prayer, as a form of thanking for the peace had given to the world; it is the simplest daily household offering. We will see them in the Balinese temples (pura), on small shrines in houses, and on the ground or as a part of a larger offering. The philosophy behind the offering is self-sacrifice in that they take time and effort to prepare. Canang sari is not offered when there is a death in the community or family. Dennis Sylvester Hurd, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Segehan, the offerings to the Demons

These offerings are simply placed on the ground to appease the demons. Unlike the “Canang Sari” which will always be placed high up to thank a deity.
Indeed, the Balinese think that if they pay homage to the Gods, they must also be careful to satisfy the demons! Belief in evil spirits therefore remains as important as belief in benevolent spirits.

It is therefore to maintain the “balance” of these forces and not to offend them that, every day, they place offerings on the ground.
Segehan can contain spoiled food. Indeed, the demons, very voracious, do not even know the difference with good food, unlike the Gods, who are very delicate! Some will tell you that the Segehan are less pretty than the Canang Sari, a matter of taste…

Demons, named Bhuta and Kala, are monsters. Through the offerings presented, the goal of the Balinese is not to make these demons disappear. Indeed, it is impossible since they are part of the universe. All they want is for them to be happy enough and avoid coming forward, to let the population live in peace.

To sum up, you will have understood it, it is enough to walk in the streets in Bali to find yourself in a completely different universe… Here, approximately 90% of the population is Hindu and, consequently, the occasions for celebrations and processions remain endless for Bali heritage and culture…
You have to come to the Island of the Gods to understand this atmosphere and this very special atmosphere. You will see how rituals and temples punctuate the daily life of the majority of Balinese.

Art & Culture - Segehan
Segehan is one of many kind of offering in Balinese Hindus. Puri Lumbung Cottages, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Temples in Bali, an ancestral cultural heritage.

More than 10,000 Balinese temples, including the very famous Pura Batukaru Temple, located on the southern slope of the mount of the same name, surrounded by lush vegetation, bordering a lake.

According to the inhabitants, it is a Paradise, nothing is more wonderful than getting up early for a visit to the temple in order to start a magnificent day.

The Balinese tradition imposes appropriate clothing for visiting the temples, the body must be covered with a sarong, this makes it possible to keep the body intact. sacred side of the place. Read also: Useful Tips for Visiting Temples in Bali

Balinese Superstitions: A Glimpse into the Beliefs of a Unique Culture

Crafts, arts and shopping in Bali

Balinese art is another important aspect of the island’s culture. The island is known for its intricate wood carvings, which are used to decorate temples, houses, and other buildings. Balinese paintings are also famous for their vibrant colors and intricate designs.

The center of Ubud is the ideal place to discover Balinese art and the wealth of local crafts.
Bamboo work, household furniture, traditional clothing, Sarongs, toys, artistic paintings, everything that Indonesian craftsmanship can produce can be found in the Ubud market.
Visitors take the opportunity to admire the royal palace located a few steps from the center, where the royal family usually resides.

Famous Balinese Paintings: Exploring Bali’s Artistic Heritage

The most interesting works of art are in the Puri Lukisan Museum, which has a remarkable park.

Rattan craftman
Rattan craftman. Wiaskara, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Crafts and Arts in Bali

Bali’s arts and crafts scene is rooted in its rich cultural heritage, and many traditional crafts have been passed down through generations.

Balinese handicrafts are a significant part of Balinese culture. Balinese artisans create beautiful carvings, paintings, and textiles using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Balinese handicrafts are sold in markets and shops all over the island, and they are popular souvenirs for tourists.

Some of the most popular crafts and arts in Bali include:
  • Batik: Batik is a traditional technique of wax-resist dyeing that is used to create beautiful textiles. In Bali, batik is often used to make clothing, bedspreads, and other decorative items.
  • Woodcarving: Balinese woodcarving is known for its intricate designs and attention to detail. The island is home to many talented woodcarvers who create everything from statues to furniture.
  • Silver and Goldsmithing: Bali is known for its beautiful silver and gold jewelry, made using traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations.
  • Painting: Balinese painting is a unique style that blends traditional and modern techniques. Many local artists sell their paintings in galleries and markets throughout the island.

Balinese Kris (Dagger) The Fascinating World of Keris: Symbols of Power and Mystique

Shopping in Bali

Shopping in Bali is a unique experience, with many markets and boutiques offering a range of locally made goods.

Some of the best places to shop in Bali include:
  • Ubud Market: This bustling market in the heart of Ubud is known for its colorful textiles, beautiful woodcarvings, and intricate jewelry.
  • Sukawati Art Market: This market is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a range of Balinese crafts and art at reasonable prices.
  • Jalan Raya Seminyak: This street in Seminyak is lined with boutique shops selling everything from high-end fashion to unique souvenirs.
  • Kuta Beachwalk: This shopping complex offers a range of high-end brands and local designers, along with restaurants and cafes.

Read also: Shop till You Drop: Best Places to Go Shopping in Bali

The ancestral culture of rice

In the most mountainous regions of the island, the cultivation of rice is a curiosity, terraces are laid out on the sides of the hills allowing the main agricultural activity of rice. Tourist attraction that fascinates apprentice photographers who park their vehicle as close as possible to the summit and thus enjoy the idyllic setting of the rice fields with the valley in the background.

Bar, cafe and restaurants offer exotic dishes made from rice which among the Balinese is the equal of a goddess very appreciated by the population of Bali.

Battage du riz
Threshing rice and harvest in Bali. Eric Bajart, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Bali and its beaches

The most famous beach in Bali is of course Kuta Beach, which is often overcrowded, it is nice to know that a few steps from Kuta Beach is Seminyak Beach, which is less popular and therefore less crowded with tourists.
If you have a vehicle or scooter, Sanur beach, known for offering magnificent sunsets, is half an hour away, for peace and quiet, Nusa Dua beach, for privacy, the beaches near Kuta less accessible but delicious, Seminyak beach is glamorous, water sports enthusiasts will find themselves on the beach of Tanjung Benoa where water activities are numerous.

The Best Beaches in Bali | Most famous beach during your holiday

Traditional Balinese dishes

Balinese gastronomy is particularly rich and varied. The national dish is nasi goreng, made from fried rice with pieces of meat, vegetables and eggs. In bakmi goreng, rice is replaced with fried noodles. Sates are small skewers of meat, grilled over a wood fire.

Read also: Balinese food and specialties | Emblematic dishes not to be missed under any circumstances during your stay

They are usually drizzled with a sauce made from peanuts. We also eat fresh tuna, crab, lobsters, avocado salads, as well as babi gugling [roast suckling pig], bebek betutuh [honey duck] which are the specialties of the island. The fruits are plentiful and tasty: mangoes, pineapples, papayas (which make excellent juices!), guavas and lychees can be found along the busy streets or in the markets.

Nasi campur bebek 2
Duck nasi campur. The Balinese version of this dish may contain grilled tuna, fried tofu, cucumber, spinach, tempeh (fermented soybeans), beef, curried vegetables, corn and chili. Midori, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Traditional Balinese clothing

Bali an island full of colors. You will never cease to be in awe of the Balinese wearing their most beautiful traditional outfits to go to religious ceremonies or attend a wedding, for example, etc.

For women, or little girls, the hair is important. The favorite hairstyle is the chignon which is reminiscent of that of the pretty princess Drupadi, the wife of one of the Pandawa brothers, in the Mahabharata. Women who have short hair often add false locks in order to be able to wear it. But it is important that those with sufficient length of hair tie it up and be neatly combed so that the strands of hair do not fall into the temple area and the sanctity of the temple is maintained. And for special events, such as their wedding, their teeth filing, or when they dance, a multitude of gold metal flowers are stuck in the girls’ hair, it’s very pretty, but it’s very heavy!

A long time ago, to dress themselves, women wrapped a long piece of cloth called sabuk all around their bust. It was narrower than the saput, but much longer, measuring more than three meters. Dancers and brides today still wear it, but other women wear kebaya. They are very beautiful long-sleeved shirts, mostly in colored and transparent lace and under corsets. Nowadays the fashion is to have our shirts at elbow length or even shorter). They then wrap around their waist a sarong, it is a piece of cloth about two meters long, usually in printed batik that extends to the ankles. And finally, above, they tie a belt: selendang. The set is very colorful, but still well matched. Children dress like adults, but there are ready-made outfits for them bought in the markets, where the sarong is replaced by a long skirt, which is much more practical!

Until the 1930s Balinese women went to ceremonies topless but this changed because of the Dutch who managed to convince them to cover up

COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Een vrouw draagt offers op het hoofd Bali TMnr 10003317
A woman carries offerings on her head, Bali. Tropenmuseum, part of the National Museum of World Cultures, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Weefster Bali TMnr 10014459
Woman weaver (a person who makes fabric by weaving fiber together) in Bali. Tropenmuseum, part of the National Museum of World Cultures, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Normally women should be dressed simply and correctly to go to the temple, but in recent years there has been a change in fashion in the traditional outfits of women who wear kebaya with mid-length or very short sleeves. This is starting to bother some who take a dim view of this change considering that it almost becomes a beauty contest to go to the temple and it’s too sexy. For example, at the Shiva temple in my village, it has been forbidden for a few months for women to wear kebaya with sleeves shorter than the elbow.

Colors of the kebaya

As for the colors of the kebaya originally, we expect them to be the color of purity and glory: white which symbolizes purity and yellow which represents triumph and prosperity.

During cremation the Balinese will wear black or dark colored kebaya, the highest castes can sometimes wear white if they wish.

Unfortunately in Bali times are changing and from now on the Balinese do not pay too much attention to the meaning and philosophy of all this. Today it’s more about fashion trends, luxury etc. and sometimes there are differences in social status.

Three Balinese girls wearing kebaya
Three Balinese girls wearing kebaya. Anne-Mette Jensen, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Balinese rites of passage

From its conception until its death, many ceremonies punctuate the life of a Balinese. Existence is a succession of lives and deaths. The newborn (reincarnation of an ancestor) must not touch impure soil before its 42nd day. On his first birthday (oton – 210 days), a ceremony marks his entry into the community. The filing of the teeth then marks the entry into adult life. This ritual is generally performed at puberty, when the front teeth are filed to counter the animal side in humans.

Marriage represents a sacrifice to lower spirits in order to purify the sexual act. Cremation, on the other hand, allows the soul to reincarnate. It is a question of freeing the soul by destroying the carnal envelope which imprisons it. It is the most important ceremony in the cycle of life which gives rise to great celebrations.

Hindu Gods and Goddesses in Bali | A Guide to the Most Important Deities

Important days and events in Bali

The Balinese use two traditional calendars. The main one is the Pewukon which regulates a large part of Balinese life. It superimposes various cycles over a period of 210 days. The saka calendar, on the other hand, is inherited from the Indian system. Each month begins after the new moon, which gives rise to great ceremonies.

Odalan

Every 210 days (one year according to the Pawukon calendar), the whole village comes together to commemorate the founding of the temple (the odalan). It is then the occasion to pay homage to the divinities by offerings and prayers. With more than 20,000 temples in Bali, the opportunities to attend a ceremony are very numerous!

Odalan procession
Odalan temple anniversaty procession. Balinese women dressed in traditional costume on their way to the temple. Midori, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The inhabitants wear the traditional dress and the women carry the offerings on their heads to take them to the temple. The temples are decorated with many flowers and offerings.
After the prayer, water is sprinkled on the faithful and blessed rice is distributed to them. The faithful then apply it to the temples, throat and forehead.

Tanah Lot odalan ritual
The Odalan ritual on Tanah Lot temple. Okkisafire, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Galungan and Kuningan

Every 210 days, Galungan celebrates the creation of the universe. The Balinese believe that the gods and the souls of the ancestors descend to the temples. Bali then comes alive to give rise to countless ceremonies and the festivities culminate ten days later for Kuningan.

On the eve of Galungan, penjor (bamboo arches decorated with coconut leaves) are erected in front of the houses. The altars of domestic temples are dressed in yellow ornaments. Many shops are closed, the administration is idling but the big hotels remain open.

Kuningan1
Placing offerings in a temple. Kuningan celebration at end of Galungan festival. Spencer Weart, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Saraswati

Festival dedicated to the goddess of knowledge. The Balinese pay homage to books by sprinkling sacred water. It is the name of the goddess of knowledge. This event is also celebrated every 210 days. As the “patron saint” of schools, she is celebrated primarily by children who pray and bring offerings to the school temple in her honor. The Balinese also pay homage to the goddess and to the books by sprinkling holy water.

Raja Ravi Varma, Goddess Saraswati
Goddess Saraswati, Goddess of knowledge. This print from the Ravi Varma Press derived from a painting by Raja Ravi Varma follows the iconographic description of Saraswati as found in the 50th chapter of the Agni Purana. She is described in the Agni Purana as being attired in white and playing the Veena with two arms and holding an aksha-mala (a string of pearls) and a pustaka (book) in the other hands. Raja Ravi Varma, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Tumpek

Every 35 days, the Balinese make offerings to precious goods such as iron objects (Tumpek Landep), animals (Tumpek Kandang), shadows (Tumpek Wayang), trees (Tumpek Uduh) or musical instruments , masks and other objects used during ceremonies (Tumpek Krulut).

Pagerwesi

This day is dedicated to spiritual strengthening, called Iron Gate, prayers and offerings are directed to save mankind. This Iron Gate has the meaning of a firm attitude of faith and knowledge possessed by humans, because without science human life will experience darkness.

If they can, the Balinese will go to the big temples such as the Pura Besakih (national temple) or the Pura Jagatnata (large public temple which each kingdom has) or if they cannot go there, they will pray to the evening in their family temple to protect themselves from the negative elements.

Pagerwesi is closely related to Saraswati (day dedicated to the goddess of knowledge) since it is celebrated a few days later. The Balinese mainly honor Shiva on the day of Pagerwesi who transmitted his knowledge during the Sarawati festival. Therefore, it should also be seen that the Balinese also want knowledge to be protected from bad influences and abuse.

Important Days in Bali | Cultural and Events

Melasti

An important ceremony for us Hindus is Melasti which consists of the purification of the Pratima (representations of all the gods of the village) as well as other Hindu religious symbols which are carried in procession to the sea for those living not far from it. or to the lake for mountain people.

This Melasti ritual is important because it reminds us of the value of life and how important it is and that we need a day to purify ourselves and the universe. So with this ceremony all the components of the universe have a pure spirit so that the world can survive against the threat of evil.

Melasti ceremony

This Melasti ceremony is one of the Bali heritage and culture and takes place 3/4 days before the Balinese New Year: Nyepi it depends on the rules of each village. This day we must dress in our traditional white outfits: symbol of purity.

Many offerings were prepared for this special day as well as a beautiful traditional welcome dance for the gods.

Our advice: go to any beach that day in Bali to observe these processions.

Ritual Melasti - Bali heritage and culture
Melasti ritual is usually carried out to welcome the Nyepi day in Bali. This ritual is carried out in water centers such as lakes, springs and beaches. Imadedana, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Nyepi

A few days before Nyepi, Melasti is celebrated all over the island. This is the great purification. The Balinese then converge on the sea to purify themselves there. On the eve of Nyepi (New Year of the Saka calendar), all major crossroads receive large offerings that are believed to exorcise evil spirits. In the evening, large processions wander through the streets displaying the ogoh-ogoh. Nyepi is the day of silence, no one has the right to go out in the street or turn on a light.

Ogoh-ogoh statues in front of the Puri Lukisan Museum in Ubud
Ogoh-Ogoh, demonic figures, are paraded in Bali on the eve of Nyepi (Day of Silence). Ngrupuk-Ngrupukan, also known as the Ogoh-Ogoh parade celebrated on the night before Nyepi. MagdaLena7, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

August 17

Bali gathers to celebrate Independence Day. This national holiday is important and allows everyone to remember the hardships they have gone through.

Sources: PinterPandai, CleverlySmart

Photo credit: Mikhsan via Pixabay

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