Tips for Holidays in Bali

There are a few tips to guide you during the holiday / tour on the island of Bali, a tourist attraction you should visit in Bali

CARDS identity of KTP (identity card) or driver's license (driver's license) for registration when arriving at the hotel.

Put your important stuff in the hotel safe box security place and stay.

Bring cash in an emergency situation in tourism areas / remote village in Bali, when the credit / debit cards can not be used.

Honor the entourage who are committing religious procession walked slowly. Never honk.

DO bargaining when shopping, unless the goods are sold already listed price.

DO NOT pay attention or try to neutralize those who offer goods or services (such as foot massage service at the beach) if you are not interested or do not have a plan to buy or use their services.

WHEN swim at the beach, do not swim in a restricted area that has been given a sign, because ocean currents can be very swift. Swim between the flags of yellow and red.

DO NOT take drugs.

SPECIAL for women, do not enter the temple if you are experiencing menstruation.

IF you attend a religious ritual, wear gloves and tape, do not walk in front of people praying, do not use flash when taking pictures with a camera, and never sit higher than the preacher who led the ceremony.

WHEN crossing the road, do not forget to look left-right, the car might have stopped but the motorcycle may not. So, be careful.

Have a wonderful vacation / tour you on the island of Bali.

Traditional textiles in Bali

ENDEK

Endek is a tie-dyed woven textile popular with most Balinese. Wooden hand-operated looms are used in the process of the weft-ikat method. This is where sections of the cloth are tied and then wrapped before immersing them into tubs of dye. The basic designs are irregular and soft wavy patterns. Also created are diamond designs and a zigzagging pattern. Endek is a versatile cloth for the Balinese because it can be worn for both daily use and ceremonial purposes.

Endek can be found in many traditional markets in Bali such as: • Kumbasari Traditional Market, located at Jl. Gajah Mada, Denpasar. • Sukawati Traditional Market, Located at Jl. Raya Sukawati, district of Gianyar about 11 km to east of Denpasar. • Semarapura Traditional markets, located on the center of Semarapura, District of Klungkung.

SONGKET

Songket is a brocaded silk with interweaving patterns of silver and gold thread. It is classified as the ceremonial luxurious dress of all Balinese. Often the price of a Songket is over one millions rupiah (US$110). Songket is usually worn in a wedding party. This cloth is tapestry in appearance and has various motifs including wayang Balinese traditional puppet figures, birds, butterflies, flowers and leaves. The process of weaving is done on back-strap looms.
Unfortunately, Songket can neither be machine-washed nor detergent added, for its sensitive pattern and color. Therefore, when one wears this cloth he must very careful. Otherwise, one may rent this traditional cloth in some photo studios or beauty salon around Kuta, Nusa Dua, or Ubud, especially for those wishing to at least have a picture in traditional luxurious Balinese dress. Like Endek, Songket is very easy to be found in many traditional markets in Bali.

KAIN PRADA

Decorating with silver or gold thread, Kain Prada is a lustrous fabric woven of cotton or silk. This cloth is usually applied for table cloth or curtain, or traditional banner in a ceremony or a social gathering. Kain Prada has various colors and motifs. One with lotus blossoms and swastikas as border decorations is the most common.

GRINGSING

Gringsing is one of the rarest weaving techniques practiced, and you particularly will only find this textile in the traditional village of Tenganan, East Bali. Gringsing is also known as the 'flame cloth' and in this elaborate dyeing process both the warp and weft threads are carefully bound before dyeing. This creates numerous patterns that once finished they seemingly fit together perfectly and harmoniously.
Tenganan is the only place in Bali where the double-ikat process is practiced. There are only a handful of women left in Tenganan who know this practice of weaving, a threat to the next generation. A piece of Gringsing takes up to three days to weave but the finished product is superb. When you visit the village you are welcome to have a look at this weaving process or buy this traditional cloth in a fair price. Like a songket, this cloth is very sensitive to detergent or washing machine so one must hand-wash it very carefully.

BATIK

Batik, the national cloth of Indonesia, has been both an art and craft for centuries, worn for some official events as well as traditional gatherings. There are two methods in producing Batik, Tulis and Cap.
Batik Tulis is a traditional method manually done by using melted wax (Balinese malam). The melted wax is painted on a piece of a cotton in several motifs by using traditional canting needle, a wooden handled tool with a metal cup and a tiny spout, out of which the wax seeps. The inventions of the cooper block or cap which is developed in the twentieth century make a big revolution in the batik productions. It became possible to make high quality designs and intricate patterns much faster than one could possibly do by hand painting. This method of using copper block to applied melted wax patterns is called Batik Cap.
Batik has been developed not only as traditional attire but also high quality modern paraphernalia. The main batik manufacturing in Bali is in the District of Gianyar where many factories can be found and visited. You also can find modern batik clothing in many boutiques around Denpasar or Kuta.

Bali Wayang, the Puppet Theater

Wayang means traditional puppet. It is spread over most of Indonesia as a theater show since a long time ago. Based on old manuscripts in Bali, Wayang has been performed around the ninth century. This puppet is mostly performed to entertain, but some Wayang are only performed in ritual ceremonies. Balinese Wayang can be divided into two types; Wayang Kulit and Wayang Wong.

Wayang Kulit
Wayang Kulit is made from stiffly tanned hide mounted on handles of horn or bone, each cut out in its characteristic shape and pierced with a fine lace-like pattern that allows the lamplight to reveal details of face and dress. The arms joined at the shoulders are manipulated with great expressiveness. Wayang Kulit movements are controlled by a puppeteer called Dalang. It is usually accompanied by traditional music instruments called Gender Wayang.

Based on the show time, there are two types of Wayang Kulit; namely Wayang Peteng and Wayang Lemah.

Wayang Peteng is performed in the evening only for entertaining. It is also known as a shadow theater. Wayang Peteng is performed behind a white flat screen (made from stretched cloth) which is lighted by a traditional hanging oil lamp. The Dalang (puppeteer) manipulates all the Wayang movements and also Wayang voices behind the screen. A Dalang must have ability to change their voice depending on which Wayang character, so the conversations among the characters look real. Wayang Peteng viewers watch the show in front of the screen. Though viewers can only see the shadows of puppets (the puppeteer not visible through the screen), it does not decrease the interesting aspect of the show. Wayang Peteng usually takes local stories, such as children stories, comedy, or even social-politics and bringing in many moral messages. Therefore, this puppet theater is often used as a traditional educational media.

Another type of Wayang Kulit is Wayang Lemah. Unlike Wayang Peteng which is performed in the evening, Wayang Lemah is performed in the morning or afternoon. Wayang Lemah can be categorized as a sacred show, because it is only performed in big ceremonies and tells stories about God or histories of a ritual. In Wayang Lemah it is not too different than Wayang Peteng, both having movements and voices handled by a Dalang (puppeteer) and accompanied by Gender Wayang (traditional music instrument), but in Wayang Lemah it is performed without a screen. The viewers can see the puppets and Dalang clearly. This show is believed to be able to protect a ceremony celebration from evil influences.

Wayang Wong
The name of Wayang Wong is taken from words Wayang and Wong. The word Wayang means puppet and Wong means human, so Wayang Wong means humans portraying as puppets. Wayang Wong looks like a Mask Dance. The dancers use masks which reflect characters in its story. In this dance, there are conversations among the characters. The difference between Mask Dance and Wayang Wong is about the story told. Unlike Mask Dance which mostly takes a story about history of a ceremony, Wayang Wong takes it story from the Babad just like Wayang Kulit. It also takes stories from the Ramayana and Mahabarata. Wayang Wong is rarely performed because it can only be performed by special dancers. The dancers are chosen by local priests through a ritual. The famous villages which perform Wayang Wong regularly are Tejakula (district of Singaraja), Sukawati & Mas (district of Gianayar), Marga (district of Tabanan), and Bualu (Badung).

Bali Dance

Traditional Balinese dances are the oldest form of performing arts in Bali. Traditional dances can be divided into two types, sacred dance called Wali and entertainment dance called Bebalihan. Wali (sacred dance) is usually performed in some ritual ceremonies only because it has strong magical powers and only can be performed by specific dancers. Bebalihan are usually performed in social events. In addition to entertain, Bebalihan also has other purposes such as: welcoming guests, celebration of harvests, or gathering crowds. Bebalihan has more variations than Wali.

WALI (Sacred Dance)

Pendet Dance
The original Pendet dance is performed by 4-5 young girls (before their puberty) in temple yards. Pendet dancers bring flowers in small Bokor (silver bowls for keeping flowers in a ceremony). They spread the flowers around the temple. This dance is a symbol of welcoming God in some ritual ceremonies in Bali.
Pendet actually has simple dance movements. These movements are the basic dance movements of Balinese dance. Pendet has undergone later development with variations and now is not only performed in ritual ceremonies but also in some social events. Pendet since has been known as a welcoming dance.

Rejang Dance
Another sacred dance for welcoming God in ritual ceremonies is Rejang. Like Pendet, Rejang is also strictly performed by females. The number of Rejang dancers is more than Pendet, over 10 dancers. Rejang dancers make long lines which surrounds the temple. The leader brings holy water called Tirtha which is spread around for purifying the temple. Depending on the cloth used by the dancer, Rejang can be divided into: Rejang Oyopadi, Rejang Galuh, and Rejang Dewa. Rejang can only be found performing in some ritual ceremonies in Bali.

Sanghyang Dance
Sanghyang dance is an inherited form from pre-Hindu culture which is still preserved in some places in Bali. This dance is believed to be potent of curing illnesses. The dancer has the ability to communicate with divine natural powers; performed by male and female trance dancers. This dance is accompanied by a song called Gending Shangyang, and in Sukawati this dance is also accompanied by the traditional Balinese instruments. Gending Sanghyang is believed to summon the powers of nature.
There are three steps in this dance, called Nusdus, Masolah, and Ngelinggihang. Nusdus is the first step in Sanghynag dance. In this step, the dancer’s soul is cleared by using holy smoke so they can communicate with the powers of nature. The second step is called Masolah. This step is when the powers have entered the dancer’s body. The dancer will move naturally in trance. The closing step is called Ngelinggihang. In this step, the natural powers have left the dancer’s body and the priest sprinkles holy water on the dancer. There are six types of Sanghyang dances, they are: Sanghyang Dedari, Sanghyang Deling, Sanghyang Bojog, Sanghyang Sampat, Sanghyang Celeng, and Sanghyang Jaran.

Tari Topeng (Mask Dance)
Originally Tari Topeng / Mask Dances in Bali are sacred, even at this time the creativity of Balinese dancers has developed Mask Dance to entertain as well. The sacred Mask Dances are usually performed by a single dancer or a group of male dancers in large ceremonies. They have a purpose for telling viewers about the historical background of why a ceremony must be held or to deliver Hinduism wisdom through simple conversation among dancers. It is also believed that it can protect a ceremony from evil interferences. The famous sacred Mask Dance is Topeng Pajegan.
Topeng Pajegan was based on a legend about an old priest named Sidhakarya. Sidhakarya actually is the brother of the king of the Gelgel kingdom who hailed from Java. He was chased away by the king of Gelgel (kingdom located in district of Klungkung) without clear reason. Before he left Klungkung, he cursed the king that every ritual ceremony proposed by the king will not run well. It became true. Finally the king realized his mistake and tried to apologize. For respecting the priest and neutralizing the curse, a mask dance must be performed before a ceremony is started, the Topeng Pajegan. So that is why Topeng Pajegan is always performed prior a big ceremony.

Topeng Pajegan is only performed by male dancers who use some masks. The main mask is called Sidhakarya. This dance tells us about Sidhakarya’s journey to Bali until he met the king and was chased away. Balinese people believe that the mask is the same as the Sidhakarya priest’s face. This dance is also believed to cure illnesses.

BEBALIHAN (Entertainment Dance)

Creativity of Balinese artists makes the development of Bebalihan in Bali to never cease. Many new Bebalihan are created yearly or even monthly. These dances are categorized as Kontemporer or contemporary dance and usually performed in social events. Below are some classic Bebalihan usually performed in local or international events.

Baris Dance
The name of Baris was taken from Balinese word Bebaris which means groups of soldiers. This dance describes Balinese soldiers in the warring arena. The dancers hold weapons, such as: Tumbak (spear), Keris (dagger), etc. for supporting their soldier characters. Baris dance is performed by 8-40 male dancers. According to the different weapons, clothes and accessories, Baris has variations, such as Baris Tumbak, Baris Panah, Baris Tamiyang, Baris Bedil, Baris Jangkang, etc. This dance is often performed in many social events in Bali. Baris Gede is only performed in ceremonies. This dance is performed by a boy (before puberty). Baris Gede belongs to sacred dance and has purposes like Rejang.

Barong Dance
Barong looks like a big puppet moved by 1-2 people. Barong was born by mixing Balinese and Chinese culture from around the 11th century. The shape not too different from the Chinese Barong Sai, the Balinese Barong mostly takes animal shapes, such as: Barong Ket (lion), Barong Macan (tiger), Barong Bangkung (pig), etc.
In development times of the Barong in Bali, it is performed as a dance which mostly takes its plot from Hindu legend in Java called Calonarang. This dance is symbol of the balancing positive and negative powers called Rwa Bhineda. Barong dance looks like a drama but without conversation and has two main characters; Barong Ket (symbol of positive power) and Rangda (symbol of negative power).
The main point of Calonarang is a battle between a priest and his student against a queen, who has evil powers, and her soldiers. The priest changes himself into a Barong Ket to battle against the queen who changes herself to be a monster called Rangda. Some characters in Barong dances use masks. These masks are believed to have spirits and usually get an offering by the dancer before the show starts. You will see dancers in trance in this dance, especially when the students of the Barong attack Rangda by their unsheathed keris. The amazing fact is that the dancers do not bear marks and are unwounded.

Belibis Dance
Belibis is another welcoming dance. It is performed by 5 or more girls in beautiful costumes. The movements are adopted from swan movements, thus it is also known as the Swan dance.

Gebug Ende Dance
Gebug Ende is from the district of Karangasem. This dance is performed by 2-16 male dancers. Every dancer wields a shield, made from rattan, called Ende and a rattan stick. They dance while hitting the Ende (shields) of the other dancer by rattan sticks. Gebug Ende means ‘hitting the Ende’.

The dance is quite unique as it has certain rules that have to be followed by the participants. Led by a referee, this dance starts with two dancers, while the rest sit in a circle, cracking jokes and singing, while waiting their turns. The jury decides which of the two contestants loses the game and has to leave the stage. Then they will call the next men to the stage. This continues until all have had a turn. Sometimes the fight becomes very fierce and the dancers get thrown off the stage from the blows of the rattan sticks. Bruises and wounds are common.

A long time ago, Gebug Ende was performed to call for rain. Now this dance has become a very unique entertainment not only for locals, but also foreigners.

Ghopala Dance
Ghopala has the purpose of thanking God for a good harvest. It is usually performed by 5 or more couples in the harvesting month. The male dancers will take place first and after some minutes followed by female dancers. Ghopala dance movements are very unique, relaxed, and funny. At this time Ghopala has become one of the favorite entertainment dances in Bali and is often performed in social events.

Janger Dance
Janger dance is an entertainment dance performed by the Balinese youth. It tightens relationship among them. Janger is performed by couples in social events, such as: wedding parties, celebrations of harvest, etc. Dancers not only dance but also sing. It is accompanied by melodious music instruments called Batel / Tetamburan which makes for a very merry scene. Every place in Bali has their own style of the dance which makes it different among them.

Jegog Dance
The name is taken from the bamboo instrument which accompanies the dance called Jegog. Jegog comes from district of Jembrana. Jegog is performed by a female dancer and accompanied by the sounds of a Jegog (a bamboo instrument). The beautiful movement and melodious instruments make this dance performed not only in social events around Jembrana, but also in other places in Bali, such as Denpasar, Klungkung, and Gianyar.

Joged Dance
Joged is among the favorites, where one or more female dancers are accompanied by bamboo instruments. Unlike Jegog which is performed by female dancers from the beginning until the end of the performance, joged dancers usually invite male audiences as their partner even they are not dancers. Do not be worried when you are chosen by the dancer because you have not to be an expert to accompany their moves.

Kecak Dance
Kecak Dance has been regarded as a fantastic performance in Bali since a long time ago, not only by Indonesians but also many people around the world. Kecak is performed by a group of male dancers and usually performed in the evening. Kecak dancers sit on the ground surrounding a big torch while singing. They sing as though Balinese instrument sounds and are not accompanied by any music instruments whatsoever. The movements only use the hands and head.

Kecak was performed for the first time in 1930 as an entertaining pastime dance among Balinese males. At that time, Kecak were only played in small celebrations such as during the harvest month or village anniversary.

The development of drama in Bali, especially Sendratari, brought a changed to this dance. Kecak and Janger dances started to enter Sendratari’s scene which mostly performs classical stories such as Ramayana and Mahabratha. It is now usually performed regularly at Tanah Lot (in the Tabanan district) and Batubulan (Gianyar district). Kecak dance is also performed in many national and international events held in Bali.

Legong Dance
Legong dance is a very classical entertainment and welcoming dance. The name was taken from the word leg meaning ‘beautiful movements’ and Gong meaning melodious sound from the traditional Balinese music instruments. Therefore, Legong means beautiful movements accompanied by instruments. This dance is one of the most difficult dances to learn because it has very complex movements and the dancer should have sensitivity to Gong sounds.
Legong dance is performed by female dancers, usually consisting of three dancers. Legong dancers wear luxurious costumes. They are accompanied by special Gong called Gamelan Semar Pagulingan. Gamelan Semar Pagulingan is smaller than the other traditional instruments and has specific sounds.

The development of Legong dance made way to some new dances which have the same basic movements plus different variations of movement, such as: Andir/ Nandir (district of Tabanan) or Sahyang Legong (Ketewel village located in the district of Gianyar). The famous one is Legong Keraton. This dance is often performed to greet special guests who come to Bali.

Mekare-Karean/ Pandan War
Makare-karean is also known as Pandan War. It is a combination between dance and ritual. It is performed in Tenganan village only (a traditional village in district of Karangasem) during the village temple anniversary. This old tradition has the purpose for invoking bravery among male youth of Tenganan and respecting the temple God.
Mekare-karean is performed by male dancers using thorny pandanu leaves and rattan shields as their main gear. Before performing, the dancers undergo some ritual to ensure they will be all right during the show. The show is started by the groups of young men surrounding the dance arena where an older man as an umpire is ready. Then, two young men, who bring the thorny leafs and rattan shields, take stance in the arena. Next, they attack one another. There is no winner or loser in this battle. The umpire will stop the action when the one’s body has bled. This process is continued until all dancers have got the chance.

Even though they bleed, they never feel hurt. They will be healed by traditional medicine made from turmeric. The medicine is usually prepared by the females. If you want to see this dance, you must go to Tenganan village around the months of June-July.

Mresi Dance
Mresi is another dance which comes from the Tenganan village. This dance is performed by male dancers who have not married yet. Mresi dance is believed to help the dancer find his soul mate. The dancer brings Keris (dagger) as symbol of courage and power. Mresi is accompanied by special instruments called Gamelan Selonding. The combination of dance movements, Keris, and sounds of Gamelan Selonding make this dance look masculine.

Oleg Tambulilingan Dance
Oleg Tambulilingan is an entertainment dance created by Balinese artist Mario in 1952. This dance is one of the couple dances which have very beautiful movements. Oleg Tambulilingan was inspired by a couple of bumblebees flirting in a flower garden. Tambulilingan means bumblebee in English.

The show is started with a female dancer in beautiful costume entering the stage. After several minutes, the male dancer enters. This dance has a long duration and is accompanied by melodious sounds of the Gamelan. Oleg Tambulilingan is often performed in formal events in Bali.

Puspanjali Dance
Puspanjali was created in 1989 by two Balinese dancers; Swasthi Wijaya and I Nyoman Windha. Puspanjali is one of the welcoming dances which has dynamic and beautiful movements. The name Puspanjali was taken from the word Puspa meaning flower and Anjali meaning respecting or greeting. Thus, Puspanjali means ‘greeting with flowers’. This dance is performed by 5-7 female dancers. The dancers bring flowers in Bokor or flower garlands which will be given to the guests in the end of the dance sequence. If you are invited in some events in Bali you may be able to see this dance.

Bali Drama

Drama in Bali is usually derived from a local chronicle called Babad. Drama is estimated to first emerge in 1820. The art rose in the golden era of the Klungkung kingdom at the reign of I Dewa Agung Sakti. At that time, it is known in the form of Arja. Arja later developed into some drama forms in Bali, namely Prembon, Sendratari, and Drama Gong.

Arja
Arja is Bali’s oldest drama form, performed for the first time in 1820. The name was taken from Sanskrit, Reja, meaning ‘something beautiful’. This was due to the beautiful combination of dancing, singing, and traditional instruments used in this drama. Arja players usually don beautiful dresses decorated in gold, silver, and flowers.
Arja is performed not only for entertainment but also for education as there are many moral messages showed through this drama. Comedy, heroism, to the history of Bali can be expressed through Arja. The conversations among characters are done by using Macepat (traditional singing technique in Bali). There are three types of Arja according to the number of players and the traditional instruments used:

• Arja Doyong: performed by one person without instruments.
• Arja Gaguntangan: performed by two to ten persons with traditional instrument called Gaguntangan.
• Arja Gede: performed more than 10 persons with traditional instruments.

New type of Arja rose around the 20th Century called Arja Muani. Arja Muani is performed by males only, even for the female characters in the drama. Arja Muani is performed for entertainment because the story only regards comedy. This type of Arja is the favorite among the Balinese, usually performed in most social events in Bali.

Prembon
Development of Arja and mask dances in Bali created a form of Drama called Prembon in 1942. Similar to Arja, this drama also shows stories from the Babad. The differences between Prembon and Arja seem from the masks used by the players. Arja players do not use masks, but in Prembon all the players wears masks. The masks aim to more explicitly express the character in Prembon, such as a king, common people, priest, etc. Though wearing masks, the Prembon players converse among them.

Sendratari
Sendratari is one of the drama forms in Bali which emerged around 1960. Like the other drama forms, Sendratari is also a combination of traditional dancing, singing, and instruments but this drama is closely associated with modern drama forms. Every scene is managed to portray clearly the characters (main character, second, antagonist, etc).
Sendratari was created by Balinese artist I Wayan Beratha, categorized as large drama because it is performed by 10-150 players. For the first time, Sendratari in Bali only told stories from the Babad but in later developments, Sendratari took every classical story in the world like Ramayana and Mahabaratha. Now, this drama can be viewed at the annual Bali Arts Festival, around June-July in Bali.

Drama Gong
Drama Gong is the youngest form of drama in Bali, estimated to emerge 6 years after Sendratari, around 1966. Drama Gong mostly brings comedy and is usually performed for entertainment. Unlike Sendratari which needs many players in luxurious dresses, Drama Gong is necessarily less in players and some use funny clothes or accessories. Drama Gong also has fewer scenes than Sendratari.
Drama Gong is performed in many social events in Bali. It has been one of the favorite shows among the Balinese. The golden era of was reached in 1980. Even as the popularity of drama slightly decreased, many groups still exist, such as: Drama Gong Bintang Bali Timur, Drama Gong Duta Budaya Bali, Drama Gong Dewan Kesenian, Drama Gong Dwipa Sancaya, etc.

Tourist Object in Bali - Places

Denpasar Municipality

1. PEMECUTAN PALACE
Pemecutan palace was built in the 17th century in the era of Pemecutan Kingdom in Denpasar. It is one of the palaces which are opened for visitors. Managed by the modern, last king of Denpasar, Ida Cokorda Pemecutan, the royal house is completed with accommodation facilities, allowing the best way a visitor could get to get in touch with palatial atmosphere or and learn the long history of Denpasar.
Location: Pemecutan Palace is located at Jalan Thamrin No.2 Denpasar, nearby Kumbasari traditional market.
Facility: Simple tourist accommodation with an array of food stalls available just outside of the palace.

2. SATRIA PALACE
Satria Palace is located 2 km west of the Pemecutan Palace. Rebuilt in 1930, the palace boasts a big stage where Balinese dances are performed regularly and a collection of kris traditional daggers used in the 1906’s Puputan Badung War against the Dutch colonial army. A royal temple in palace area holds a regular ceremony every 210 days according Balinese calendar, featuring special dance only performed on the stage in this auspicious day.
Location: Satria Palace is located at Jalan Veteran Denpasar. Near the palace is a popular pet market Pasar Satria.

3. JRO KUTA PALACE
Jro Kuta Palace has the most complete buildings compared to Pemecutan or Satria, since it managed to escape from the Dutch invasion. It consists of nine buildings each has different function accordingly. The are Ancak Saji, Semanggen, Rangki, Pewaregan, Saren Raja, Saren Kangin, Paseban, Pemerajan Agung, and Pekandelan. Uniquely enough, there are several colonial statues portraying the Balinese warriors fighting against the Dutch occupants.
Location: Jro Kuta Palace is located in Jalan Kumbakarna, Denpasar. There is famous Maospahit Templenearby.

District of Klungkung

1. TAMAN GILI KERTA GOSA
Taman Gili Kerta Gosa is a wide garden consisting of several buildings. Until 1686 under King Dewa Agung administration, Klungkung Palace was the biggest in Bali. Unfortunately the massive building was almost totally destroyed by Dutch invasion in 1908, except the gate and Taman Gili Kerta Gosa. There are four buildings and a museum within this fortunate complex. On the southern side visitors still can observe the remnant of the palace gate called Pemedal Agung, over 10 meter high. To the north of this garden is a tall building called Bale Kul-kul, housing a big traditional Balinese alarm wooden bell called Kul-Kul. To the east is a building surrounded by a pool and water lilies, called Bale Kambang, designed as a summer house for the royal family members. The jurisdiction building is located on the north east side. Semarapura Museum is right west of this complex.
Location: Taman Gili Kerta Gosa is located on the heart of Semarapura, the capital of Klungkung, 40 km east of Denpasar.
Additional facility: Traditional art market selling souvenir, food, or drink is located just across the palace.

District of Karangasem

1. KARANGASEM GRAND PALACE
The uniquely designed Karangasem Grand Palace was built by the end of the 19th century by the first king of Karangasem, combining Balinese, Chinese and European architectural styles. Most of the buildings are set as if each floats above the pool water, with small bridges connecting one another, like a Chinese palace in general. The European influence can be seen from the design of main building, the guarding post at the front of the palace, and vast veranda called Maskerdam. The Balinese style can be seen from the entrance gate, built from red bricks with puppet, describing religious stories, as the ornaments. This combination has never been found in other palaces in Bali.
Location: Karangasem Grand Palace is located at the heart of Amlapura, the capital of District of Karangasem, 78 km from Denpasar. Accessible by public transport from Denpasar.

District of Buleleng

1. SINGARAJA PALACE
The historical Singaraja Palace is known among local as Puri Agung or Puri Gede. The old palatial library, Gedong Kirtya, is the most referred building, now designed as a literacy museum. It has the most complete collection of manuscripts about Buleleng and Bali history. This museum is located at the very front of the Palace.
Location: Singaraja Palace is located in Jalan Patih Jelantik, Singaraja, accessible by various kinds of public transports.

Tourist Object in Bali - Lakes & Volcanoes

Lakes

LAKE BUYAN

Description: Buyan is surrounded by evergreen forest and vegetation. Its fresh air gives pleasant and comfort to the visitors. Here, visitors usually rent a traditional yacht (Perahu in Balinese) to enjoy some activities, such as fishing or lake crossing. Other attractions include groups of tamed monkey in the forest around the main road.

Location: Buyan Lake is located at the district of Sukasada, about 21 km south of Singaraja at an altitude of 1000 meters above the sea level, making it always fresh and cool.

Facility: parking area, traditional yachts for rent, some bungalows and restaurants.

LAKE BERATAN

Description: Beratan Lake is located on the eastern side of Buyan Lake. Here, visitors also can enjoy similar activities as in Buyan. There is a massive temple called Pura Ulun Danu in the west side of the lake. The local Hindus believe this temple is the realm of the God of Prosperity, Sang Hyang Dewi Danu.

Location: Beratan Lake is located in the edge of Catur Mountain, Candikuning Village, sub-district of Baturiti, Tabanan. The Bedugul Botanical Garden and Amusement Park is located nearby the lake.

Facility: private villas, bungalows, traditional market and restaurants.

LAKE TAMBLINGAN

Description: The view at Tamblingan Lake is breath-taking with Lesong Mountain (1860 m) at the background, creating the silhouette on the water looks like a big crystal. Here, there are many historical temples which record the development of Balinese culture.

Location: This Lake is located at Munduk Village, sub-district of Banjar, Singaraja. Lake Tamblingan is on the western side of Buyan Lake, separated by only few hundreds meter of green forest.

Facility: Lake Tamblingan is an appeal for nature lovers. There is no modern facility, only several traditional bungalows and restaurants.

LAKE BATUR

Description: Lake Batur must be formerly the caldera of Mt. Batur, before it rose to its current peak, just nearby the lake. This caldera was caused by the most terrifying eruption of Batur Mountain in 1926. There is a holy spring the water of which is believed to be able to rinse human soul, the location of which Hindu’s ceremony regularly is celebrated. Near the lake is Batur Temple, one of the six Hindu main temples in Bali (Sad Kahyangan).

Location: Batur Lake is located in the sub-district of Kintamani, Bangli, 65 km from Denpasar.

Facility: accommodations, traditional boats, souvenir market, restaurants.


Volcanoes

POHEN MOUNTAIN

Description: Pohen Mountain is one of the most beautiful mountains in Bali. On the slope of this mountain lies Bedugul Botanical Garden with a collection of original Indonesia plants and imported one. Visitors usually enjoy the beautiful view of Lake Beratan from this slope.

Location: Pohen Mountain is located in the sub-district of Baturiti, Tabanan.
Facility: accommodations, souvenir market, restaurants

Mt. CATUR

Description: Mt. Catur (2096 m) is located side-by-side with Pohen Mountain, a great place for nature-lovers and adventure seekers. Similarly, visitors can enjoy the beautiful view of Lake Beratan from this spot. No tourism facility is available here, so visitors must bring their own food and water. The popular Gitgit Waterfall is located on the northern side of the peak.

Location: Mt. Catur sits on the eastern side of Lake Bratan, sub-district of Baturiti, Tabanan, about a 2 hour-drive from Denpasar.
Facility: various tourist facilities can be found on the southern bank of the lake and also in Candi Kuning.

Mt. BATUKARU

Description: Mt. Batukaru (2,276 m) is the island’s second tallest, located on the last true section of jungle, south of Pohen Mountain. Here visitors usually hike in a group, enjoy the spectacular 360 degree of the whole Bali from atop the peak. Some people like to camp up there, which would be a wonderful experience.
On the edge of this mountain sits a wonderful temple named Pura Luhur Batukaru, one of the six main temples in Bali (Sad Kahyangan). The temple is crowded by thousands worshipers once a year when the Hindu’s ceremony is celebrated here because Balinese from across the island come here.

Location: Mt. Batukaru is located on northern area of Tabanan, three hours drive from Denpasar.

Mt. BATUR

Description: Mt. Batur (1,412 m) is the island’s most active volcano. It has one of the biggest calderas in the world (van Bemmelen, 1949), measuring 13.8 x 10 km in size, with Lake Batur dominating the eastern half. Visitors can see the liquid sulfur of various colors here. On the edge of this mountain lies a millennium aged Trunyan Village where the original Balinese people, called Bali Aga, live with their very unique tradition where the dead is neither cremated nor buried, rather laid down beneath the Trunyan tree. Nearby the lake there is Pura Batur Temple with a holy spring believed to have the power to clean the soul.

Location: Kintamani is located in the District of Bangli, 65 km from Denpasar.
Facility: Modern or traditional accommodations, transportation, souvenir markets and various restaurants.

Mt. ABANG

Description: Mt. Abang (2,153 m), or Mt. Red, offers a sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, heavily forested in one side and lightly barren on the other, with many beautiful flowers of various colors along the way. People may find this more enjoyable climbing during the light hours to get shade from the searing sunlight. Nearby the top of this peak lie old temples such as Pura Munggu, Pura Manu Kaya, Pura Puncak Tuluk Biu.

Location: Mt. Abang is located in the sub-district of Kintamani, Bangli. To get to the trailhead at Gunung Abang you should look for Penelokan on the way to Kintamani. About 4 km south of Penelokan is a right turn heading for Suter. Take this road and do not turn right off of this road. Follow the road until it becomes a dirt track that follows the crater rim; ask locals as often as you need.
Facility: Visitors must prepare their own requirements here. No facility is available.


SERAYA MOUNTAIN

Description: Opposite of the slope, on the edge of Seraya Mountain is Tirta Gangga or Gange Water, a 1930’s water park built by Prince Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem, a respected statesman as well as self-educated architect. A temple inside the park provides a spring believed to be able to heal many diseases. Visitor can submerged, or swim in this spring.

Location: Seraya Mountain is located in the sub-district of Abang, Karangasem, 17 km from the capital Amlapura.
Facility: Accommodations, restaurants, souvenir shop


Mt. LEMPUYANG

Description: Mt. Lempuyang is the island’s easternmost peak located in the heavily forested area, with forest animals like monkey and various birds.
Balinese Hindu often set a regular pilgrimage (Tirta Yatra) to the Temple at the top of this mountainous peak. The temple has 1174 stairs. Balinese Hindu believes that once in their life they must pay a visit to this important temple.

Location: Mt. Lempuyang is located north-eastern of, not far from, the capital city Amlapura.
Facility: On the edge of this mountain, only traditional accommodations and shops are allowed, because the government set to maintain the holiness of the existing temple.


Mt. AGUNG

Description: Mt Agung (3,142) is an active volcano with an enormous and very deep crater that occasionally vents out smoke and steam. The highest point is on the southwest part of the rim, a barren and rocky hill of fine volcanic rock. The summit area is above the tree line, due to the high winds and sterilizing effects of recent volcanic activity. The surrounding rainforests is almost always cloudy, and the potentially awesome view of the entire island spread out beneath you is extremely beautiful.

On the edge of this island’s tallest peak is the biggest Hindu temple, Besakih. Thousands of Hindu followers from around the world made a pilgrimage here every year for praying. The unique, multi-layered architecture of the temple shows the traditional social structure of Balinese people.

Location: Mt. Agung is located in Rendang sub-district, Karangaesm, a three-hour drive from Denpasar.
Facility: Traditional or modern accommodation, restaurant, public transportation, local guides, and others tourist facilities can be found here.

Tourist Object in Bali - Traditional Villages

District of Badung

1. MENGWI VILLAGE
The Mengwi Kingdom administration born in 1634 grew to be among the island’s most powerful political power until 1891, where a disastrous war dissolved the palace, but the temple survives. Today visitors can observe the wonderful temple complex, Taman Ayun, built during the Mengwi heydays, with its massive garden and pool. A museum called Manusa Yadnya, human rites of passage, nearby has a collection of works depicting a complete set of Hindu ceremonies since a baby is carried in the mother womb until he dies.
Location: This village is located in North Badung, 15 km north of Denpasar.
Facility: traditional food stalls, souvenir shops, and public transports.

District of Gianyar

1. BATUBULAN VILLAGE
The term Batubulan, moon rock, was taken from a stone shaping like a moon, discovered by Dewa Agung Kalasan, an adopted son of a local king, when he cleared a jungle to build his palace. He decided to name this area Batubulan. Now the stone is well kept at the royal temple nearby the palace. Batubulan is worth noted for their dances and sculptures. The famous Kecak and Barong dances are performed daily.
Located: Batubulan belongs to the sub-district Sukawati, Gianyar, 10 km east of Denpasar.
Facility: Traditional food stall, painting and handicraft galleries.

2. MAS VILLAGE
In the thirteenth century Mas was governed by an evil king Sri Aji Astasura Ratna Bumi Banten, and so did his followers. The evil practice lasted in the following centuries until Java’s powerful army arrived. A new king, Manik Mas, was installed. To make the area free from the bad past habit, a purification ceremony was administered, Punyan Tangi tangi tree was planted. The tree still survives today in the inner court yard of Pulemas Temple Mas villagers are mostly sculptors, producing ones from stone, wood, and porcelain.
Location: Mas Village is located in Gianyar, 20 km east of Denpasar.
Facility: visitors can buy kinds of statue or the other handicraft in the art galleries around the village.

3. BELEGA AND BONA VILLAGES
Both Belega and Bona Villages are well known for their bamboo craftsmanship, including table, chair, wardrobe, musical instruments. Bona has a nightly Kecak dance performance for tourists.
Location: Belega and Bona Villages belong to sub-district of Blahbatuh, Gianyar, 30 km from Denpasar.
Facility: art galleries displaying bamboo handicrafts

4. SEBATU AND PUJUNG VILLAGES
The name of Sebatu, according Usada Bali manuscript, is taken from a legend called Mayadenawa. The self-proclaimed god, Mayadenawa made all the people to worship him until he was defeated by god Indra and ran away into a jungle, transforming himself into various kinds of creatures until he slipped on a stone and died. The location was then called Sauhbatu, or Sebatu as it is known today (sauh for slip and stone for batu).
Most Sebatu villagers are sculptors and farmers. Most sculptors work in their front yard and sell the statues directly to customers. Beautifully arranged rice fields dominate right and left side of the main road leading to a village temple with a bathing spring nearby.
Location: Sebatu and Pujung Villages are north of Ubud, 38 km from Denpasar.

5. PELIATAN VILLAGE
Another art village, the densely populated Peliatan is home to famous artists such as Wayan Gandra, Made Lebah and Rudolf Bonnet along with several painting museums and many art galleries. Traditional dance or gamelan orchestra classes are available. An afternoon walk along the pristine village is a good past time.
Location: Peliatan Village belongs to the sub-district of Ubud, Gianyar, 22 km from Denpasar.

6. CELUK VILLAGE
Celuk is the right destination for gold and silver lovers, where its main road is adorned with many gold or silver galleries in traditional or modern buildings. Good quality gold or silver accessories in unusual designs and fair pricing, some even made to your order, if you have your own design.
Location: Celuk village is located in main road five km East of Denpasar

District of Bangli

1. BATU KAANG VILAGE
The name of Batu Kaang, meaning hill of rock, refers to the location it was built. The village is perched 1,150 meters above the sea level on the rocky hill. Batukaang villagers keep their pre-Hindu megalithic rituals along with the modern Hindu’s culture, a cultural mix. A beautiful view from atop with mild temperature.
Location: Batukaang Village belongs to the sub-district of Kintamani, 35 km from Bangli.

2. TRUNYAN VILLAGE
The name of Trunyan, from Taru means tree and Menyan means substance of good smell, was taken from the sweet smelling Banyan tree occupying its cemetery. Trunyan village is squeezed tightly by the Batur Lake and the outer ridge of Mt. Batur. Trunyanese were indigenous Balinese who were “driven out” to this present location as modern Balinese arrived from Java’s Majapahit empire, themselves were driven out by the arrival of Islam.
Unlike modern Balinese who cremate a dead body, Trunyanese simply arrange them under the Banyan trees, the smell of which prevents the bad odor from the decomposing remains. After awhile, a certain ceremony follows and the skull of the dead is joined with others on the altar nearby.
Location: Trunyan village is located across of Lake Batur, sub-district of Kintamani, Bangli, 65 north of Denpasar. Visitors usually rent a boat or traditional yacht which can be found around Batur Lake

District of Klungkung

1. TIHINGAN VILLAGE
Tihingan Village is known as the producer of Gamelan, traditional music instruments made from bronze or copper, used for escorting Balinese dances and some ritual ceremonies. The villagers are descendant of Pande family, those experts in metal related business. Tihingan’s gamelan is a well-known brand nationwide, for its special tone and appearance. Visitors can learn to play it at Gamelan studio around nearby the village temple.
Location: Tihingan Village belongs to the sub-district of Banjarangkan, Klungkung, 3 km west of the capital Semarapura.

2. KAMASAN VILLAGE
Kamasan Village is known from its puppet paintings and silver and chopper handicrafts. The Balinese puppet, Wayang, is a media for religious education as well as mode of entertainment, through its epic stories. The Dutch colonials discover this painting technique as unique for its natural color and distinct style, never been found in any other art village on Bali. Egg paintings were first developed here. Kamasan also produce silver or chopper households engraved with puppet painting characters.
Location: Kamasan Village is located 1, 5 km south of Semarapura. Traditional horse-drawn chart Dokar is a popular transport in this village.

District of Karangasem

1. TENGANAN VILLAGE
Tenganan is one of two indigenous locally known as Bali Aga, the beginning of Bali, driven into the mountainous interiors when modern Balinese arrived from Java by the end of the fourteenth century. Tengananese developed their distinct culture, combining pre-Hindu megalithic tradition with the Hinduism. Most houses are made from concrete bricks roofed with dry grasses called Somi. Girls must marry a local boy. A married man carries Keris traditional dagger whenever he goes outside of their housing compound as a symbol a family guardian.
Tenganan is also known for the distinct double ikat weaving, kain grinsing, and the annual celebrated friendly yet bloody battle Perang Pandan, usually held in June.
Armed with a handful of pandanus thorny leaves, two fighters enter the ring with a singe aim, wounding his opponent body as much as it causes “blood to drops on the dance floor”. This dance prepares young lads to be strong guardians for their village, which they believe a sacred land compared to the rest of Bali. An elder man acting as a referee will only stop the fight when a fighter is wounded and blood runs down falling to the ground.
Located: Tenganan Village accessible from Candidasa, a popular destination in Karangasem, about 70 km east of Denpasar.

Tourist Object in Bali - Temple

T E M P L E S

DISTRICT OF BADUNG

ULUWATU TEMPLE
Uluwatu Temple is perched on a cliff of a rocky hill on the southernmost part of Bali. Balinese believe the shrine was the result of the metamorphosis of the God’s holy water. This temple was built and chosen by one of Hindu’s most respected priest, Danghyang Nirartha to unite with God Almighty, moksa. Uluwatu Temple is surrounded by trees and bushes occupied by tamed army of monkeys.
Location: Uluwatu is about 30 km south of Denpasar, about one hour driving from Kuta or Ngurah Rai International Airport
Facility: Souvenir shops, traditional food stalls and an amphitheater staging daily Kecak dance around sunset.

TAMAN AYUN TEMPLE
Taman Ayun Temple is a royal shrine built in 1634 at the height of the Mengwi Kingdom, one of the island’s most powerful political hubs disappearing by the end of the nineteenth century. It is about 300 meter east of the former palace of Mengwi . This temple is surrounded by many water lilies. The temple yard is always green and fresh with well cared flowers and grass. Across the temple is ‘Museum Manusa Yadnya’, the museum of human ceremony, housing collections describing human life cycles, especially the rituals that follows since one is carried in mother’s womb until he dies off.
Location: Taman Ayun Temple is located in Mengwi, Badung, about 19 km north of Denpasar.
Facility: On the west side of this temple is a descent restaurant inside a building called Wisata Mandala. Public transportation is available nearby the building.

PUCAK MANGU TEMPLE
Pucak Mangu Temple was built in 1633 by the first king of Mengwi at the very top Mt Mangu. Surrounded by massive green foliage, virgin rainforest, the temple is an ideal finish point for someone fond of hiking while enjoying spectacular vista above the Bratan Lake and the historical temple at the center of the peak.
Location: Puncak Mangu Temple is located in the sub-district of Petang, Badung, about 48 km north of Denpasar.

DENPASAR MUNICIPALITY

JAGATNATHA TEMPLE
The uniquely designed Jagatnatha Temple located at the very heart of Denapsar was built in 1968. The temple is especially observed for religious ceremony during full moon. Next to the temple is the mayor office of Denpasar and Puputan Badung Park, the site of a suicidal battle costing over 3,000 souls in September 20, 1906.
Location: Jagatnatha Temple is located at Jalan Mayor Wisnu, Denpasar

MAOSPAHIT TEMPLE
Maospahit is better known as an archaeological remain, often visited by the academic society for its terracotta statue which reminds one to the time of Java ‘s Majapahit Kingdom around the fourteenth century.
Location: Maospahit Temple is located at Dr. Sutomo Street, Denpasar, about 750 meters west of Jagatnatha Temple, next to traditional market Pasar Badung.

PETILAN PENGEREBONGAN TEMPLE
Petilan Pengerebongan is famous for its very unique ceremony ‘Ngerebong’, where the angel reflecting Barong fights against the evil Rangda and an army of male trance dancers, stab themselves with their dagger ‘Keris’. This ceremony is held every 210 days according to Balinese Calendar.
Location: Petilan Pengerebongan is located in Kesiman Petilan, East Denpasar, about five km east of the capital. Public transport is available from the main bus station. The temple is easily reached about three km north Sanur.

SAKENAN TEMPLE
Sakenan Temple was built in the sixteenth century by the last arriving Hindu prophet Dang Hyang Nirartha, when the last groups of Hindu-Buddhists arrived in Bali. Sakenan Temple is located in a small island south of Denpasar. Dubbed the Turtle Island, Serangan is heavily surrounded by mangrove forests. It has a very unique architecture, combining Hindu and Buddhist architectural design with coral stone as the foundation.
Location: Sakenan Temple is located in Serangan Island, south of Denpasar, 30 minute drive from Kuta.
Facility: souvenir shops and food stalls around the temple.

DISTRICT OF GIANYAR

PENATARAN SASIH TEMPLE
Penataran Sasih is one of the oldest temples in Bali, housing a collection of pre-Hindu objects. The famous one is Nekara, locally known as the Pejeng Moon, the Asia’s biggest bronze drum, measuring two meter long by 160cm of diameter. Special temple festivals are held in the 9th month of the Balinese calendar.
Location: Penataran Sasih Temple is located in Pejeng, Gianyar, eight km west of Gianyar, or 27 km west of Denpasar.
Facility: There are handicraft and painting galleries and traditional food stalls across the temple.

KEBO EDAN TEMPLE
Kebo Edan, literally means crazy buffalo, temple is believed as the shrine to worship the god of death, Siwa. There is a statue of the god dancing above dead bodies known as Ciwa Bhairawa. Kebo Edan statue, measuring 3.6 meter high, is believed as the representative of a giant who has six penises and is a hard-follower of God Ciwa. Beside him stand many horrified male effigies.
Location: Kebo Edan Temple is located in Pejeng, Gianyar, near Penataran Sasih Temple, about eight km west of Gianyar.

PUSERING JAGAT TEMPLE
Pusering Jagat Temple is located in north of Kebo Edan Temple, showing how god creates human being, depicting ‘Purusha and Pradana’, male and female sex organs. Another statue depicting a big basin called ‘Sangku Sudamala’ is believed as the water container to keep holly water falling from the house of gods.
Location: Pusering Jagat Temple is located in Pejeng, Gianyar, eight km west of Gianyar

MANGENING TEMPLE
Mangening Temple shows us the course of human creation, with sculptures portraying male and female sex organs yet in different shapes called Lingga-Yoni. The temple surroundings are full of green trees and various kinds of flowers.
Location: Mangening Temple is located in Tampaksiring, about 15 km from the capital Gianyar, 37 km west of Denpasar.

PENGULINGAN TEMPLE
This Hindu-Buddhist temple was discovered in 1983, with several Buddhist stupas. The biggest one is located in the center. Pengulingan Temple is observed by local Buddhist followers.
Location: Pengulingan temple is located in Manukaya Village, Tampaksiring sub-district, 16 km from Gianyar, 38 km from Denpasar.

GOA GAJAH (ELEPHANT CAVE) TEMPLE
The name Goa Gajah Elephan Cave is not definitely known derived from certain source of origin. It was said when the cave was first unearthed, its entrance’s upper part was mistakenly believed as an elephant trunk, so did the name stick. Goa Gajah is a temple inside a cave. This temple is believed as the center for yoga and meditation during Hindu-Buddhism era. A ganesha statue reflects a Buddhism side, while its Ciwa statue portrays the Hinduisms counterpart. On the west corner of this cave lays Buddha and Harito statues. Goa Gajah temple is surrounded by green rice fields along the River Petanu.
Location: Goa gajah Temple is located in Bedulu Village, sub-district of Blahbatuh, Gianyar, 26 km east of Denpasar.
Facility: An arrays of food stalls and souvenir shops.

DISTRICT OF BANGLI

KEHEN TEMPLE
Kehen Temple records the virtual history of Bangli from its ancient age. The word Kehen is
i derived from Keren flame. Formerly, it was known as Hyang Api fire god temple. Three small Nekara bronze drums suggest fire god Hyang Api was observed here in the past. The grand ceremony is held every three years on Buda Kliwon Shinta, the fifth full moon according Balinese calendar, or around November.
Location: Kehen Temple is located on the southern slope of Bangli hill, two km from the capital.

PUNCAK PENULISAN TEMPLE
Puncak Penulisan Temple is located on the top of Mt Penulisan, the peak which divides Bangli into two main parts, east and west. The temple houses various items from megalithic era. Its millennium-aged design is seen from the composition of the 11 terraces. These terraces reveal the continuation of the pyramidal styles from the Megalithic age, a unique look.
Location: Puncak Penulisan Temple is situated at 1,745 meter above the sea level, about three km from the sub-district of Kintamani, 30 km from Bangli.

BATUR / ULUN DANU TEMPLE
Batur temple is located 900 meter above sea level, known as one of the six main temples, Sad Kahyangan. Legend says Mt. Batur was brought by the God from the top of Mt. Mahameru in India. Sang Hyang Dewi Danu, the god of prosperity, is believed to reside here. Near the temple is the breath-taking Lake Batur, formed by the massive caldera of Mt. Batur.
Location: Batur Temple is located in Kintamani, about 23 km north of Bangli, 65 km north of Denpasar.

DISTRICT OF KLUNGKUNG

TAMAN SARI TEMPLE
Taman Sari is one among the beautifully-set temples with vast garden and surrounding pool. Various species of indigenous flowers and trees of Bali surround the beautifully arranged meru storey-roofed shrines, eleven and nine stories respectively. Each of the meru was built above two big turtle statues twisted by a dragon statue called Ananthaboga. It depicts a story of the gods fighting the devils while searching for holy water.
Location: Taman Sari Temple is located in Sengguan Village, Klungkung, 500 meter northeast of the capital Semarapura.

WATU KLOTOK TEMPLE
One of the six main temples in Bali, Watu Klotok Temple is located on a black sandy beach south of the capital Semarapura. Watu Klotok is believed as the shrine to purify human soul, the small world, and the entire universe, the big world. A special ceremony was administered here right after the blast in Kuta, aimed at cleansing the world from the evil spirit. Piodalan ceremony or Pujawali is held every Anggara Kliwon Julungwangi, once in seven month, and Ngusabha, once a year.
Location: Watu Klotok Temple is located on the shore of Klotok beach, five km south of the capital.Semarapura.

PANTI TIMBRAH TEMPLE
Panti Timbrah Temple has a very unique ritual called Perang Jempana the battle of deities, held every 210 days on Kuningan day. The sacred rite begins with a bathing ritual in the Unda River in the morning. The main event is held in late in the afternoon, involving dozens of young men carrying the deities’ effigies on jempana palanquins. Each palanquin is beautifully decorated with yellow and gold colored cloths, flower and leaves.
An army of young men in a trance carry each Jempana, running around the temple ground, chasing and crashing each other. The high spirited gamelan orchestra helps create a frenzied atmosphere. Often a group from a huge crowd of onlookers which gather on the temple ground fall into a collective trance, adding a timid shade to this rare ceremony. After several hours of fighting Perang Jempana is stopped by sprinkling holy water to the entranced bearers and the deities’ effigies are taken out from the palanquins and returned to the temple.
Location: Panti Timbrah Temple is located in Pasekbali Billage, sub-district of Dawan, three km north-east of the capital Semarapura.

GOA LAWAH TEMPLE
Goa Lawah Temple is located inside a cave occupied by bats, so as it gets its name, lawah, the nocturnal. This is the shrine to worship the god of sea Bhatara Tengahing Segara or Bhatara Baruna. This temple is a must observed temple especially by those fulfilling Ngaben cremation ceremony, as the ash of the cremated about to be drifted to the sea. Across the temple is Kusamba, a used-to-be port village now turning a into traditional salt making facility.
Location: Goa Lawah temple is located in the sub-district of Dawan, Klungkung, 49 km from Denpasar or 10 km east of the capital Semarapura.
Facility: Traditional food stalls, souvenir shops, public transports.

DISTRICT OF KARANGASEM

BESAKIH TEMPLE
Perched on the slope of the island’s highest peak of Mt. Agung, the mother temple of Bali, Besakih, is by size the biggest temple. Historical accounts say the temple was built by Maharesi Markandya in the eleventh century in a quest for god blessing upon a devastating disease striking the majority of Bali, including his faithful students. The word Besakih comes from Basukihan means safety and prosperity. Thousands of Balinese Hindus pay a pilgrimage to this temple thus thanking for their prosperous lives.
Location: Besakih Temple is located in Rendang sub-district, Karangasem, about two hours drive from Denpasar.
Facility: Accommodations, food stalls, public transportations, souvenir shops.

DISTRICT OF TABANAN

ALAS KEDATON TEMPLE
As it name suggests, Alas Kedaton, forest palace, the temple is located inside of a jungle. From the historical and archeological point of views, this temple can be classified into two main parts. The first shows the pre-Hindu or Megalithic age and the other one the initial era of Hindu influence. Tamed monkey and giant bats are the kings of the forest kingdom.
Location: Alas Kedaton Temple is located in the sub-istrict of Marga, Tabanan, 25km north-west of Denpasar.
Facility: Traditional food stalls, an array of souvenir shops

RAMBUT SIWI TEMPLE
The name Rambut Siwi is closely related to the holy journey of Hindu prophet Danghyang Nirartha in the sixteenth century. On his spiritual voyage from West to south Bali the spiritual leader gave his flock of hair to be worshiped by the people of the neighborhood, so the temple was called Rambut Siwi (rambut means hair). Rambut Siwi temple is located on the shore of black sand sea west of Tabanan. Visitors can see traditional salt making facilities not far from the shrine.
Location: Rambut Siwi Temple is located on the southwestern beach of Bali, sub-district of Mendoyo, Tabanan, 78 km west of Denpasar.

ULUN DANU / ULUN DANU BERATAN TEMPLE
Ulun Danu is a beautifully positioned temple built above small projecting land on Lake Beratan, thus it is known as Ulun Danu, a power or head of the lake. The power refers to goddess of prosperity, Sang Hyang Dewi Danu. Visitors can explore the temple from a distance by renting traditional yacht. Regular temple ceremony is executed every six months called Piodalan, on a day called Anggara Kliwon Julungwan, and the bigger one called Piodalan Agung every 12 months.
Location: Ulun Danu Temple is located in Lake Beratan, sub-district of Baturiti, Tabanan, a close distance from Bedugul Botanical Garden.
Facility: restaurants, souvenir shops. Accommodations can be found around the main road, about 500 meters from the temple.

DISTRICT OF BULELENG

BRAHMA VIHARA-ARAMA
Brahma Vihara-Arama is also known as Banjar Buddhist, the island’s biggest Buddhist monastery. The temple was built in 1969, occupying an area of 1,000 square meters of ocean facing hilly land. The building design and the ornaments reflect typical Balinese architecture, with big stupa on the center and a Buddha statue one side. People call this temple as the miniature of Java’s largest Buddhist temple of Borobudur.
Location: Brahma Vihara-Arama is located in Tegeha Village, sub-district of Banjar, Buleleng , about 22 km west of the capital Singaraja.

MEDUWE KARANG TEMPLE
Meduwe Karang Temple is one of the very unique temples in Bali—as its name suggests the material made for—sea coral. Additionally, there are a total of 34 coral statues depicting the characters from the Indian epic Ramayan. Uniquely, the temple is observed mostly by the surrounding farming community, for their green, prosperous rice fields.
Location: Meduwe Karang Temple is located in Kubutambahan Village, Buleleng, 12 km east of Singaraja.

BEJI TEMPLE
As the shrine of the god of rice, Dewi Sri, Beji Temple is observed most by the farming communities. Uniquely enough, each part of this temple is adorned with plants and flower. Beji temple is built within Majapahit Kingdom era, around the XV century. Beji Temple is the inspiration for the traditional agricultural system called Subak.
Location: Beji Temple is located in Sangsit Village, sub-district of Sawan, Buleleng, eight km east of Singaraja.

DALEM JAGARAGA TEMPLE
Dalem Jagaraga Temple belongs to Pura Kahyangan Tiga, three of the main temples in a village. This is the shrine to worship the god of death Ciwa or Durga so that when someone dies, his/her soul will depart for the heaven, not meandering on the earth. No definite source as reference about when the temple was built, most people believe that it was built during the Dutch colonial era, as displayed here on the relief carve, showing the war between the local fighters against the Dutch in an epic called Perang Jagaraga, battle of Jagaraga.
Location: Dalem Jagaraga Temple is located in Jagaraga Village, sub-district of Sawan, Buleleng, 11 km east of Singaraja.

PULAKI TEMPLE
Pulaki Temple is one of the temples in Bali which was built on the cliff of coral hill. This temple is dedicated to worshiping one Hindu’s holy virgin girl Cri Patni Keniten. Pulaki is set on the beautiful view of Bali northwestern beach, with tamed army of monkeys guarding around.
Location: Pulaki Temple is located in Banyupoh village, sub-district of Grokgak, Buleleng, 53 km west of Singaraja.
Facility: Accommodation are available in Pemuteran village, few kilometers to the west.

PONJOK BATU TEMPLE
Ponjok Batu temple was built by King Cri Waturenggong (1460-1515). Ponjok Batu means Stoney Cape. This temple was in respect to the wandering priest Dang Hyang Nirartha, during his spiritual journey to teach Hinduism by the turn of the sixteenth century. From the temple vicinity, visitors can enjoy the beautiful view of Jawa Sea. A holy spring near the temple provide bathing facility and source of holy water for ceremonies.
Location: Ponjok Batu Temple is located in Pacung village, sub-district of Tejakula, Buleleng, 24 km east of Singaraja.
Facility: traditional food stalls on the parking area

DALEM SANGSIT TEMPLE
Something worth seeing from this temple is a stone relief describing the famous legend called Bima Swarga, the spiritual journey of Bima and to heaven after he departed his life, observing those who enjoyed their life for their good deeds and those punished for their wrongdoings, a “slide show” of heaven and torture.
Location: Dalem Sangsit Temple is located in Sangsit Village, eight km east of Singaraja.