Ubud Ridge Walk

Hidden behind the hotels of Ubud’s main street you will find the beautiful Campuhan Ridge Walk, an absolute must see when visiting the town of Ubud. The rather short, but very rewarding, walkway will take you up and down a ridge along rice fields and palm trees, a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle from Ubud. In the last couple of years the Campuhan Ridge Walk has quickly become one of the most popular things to do in Ubud, so while the hike is beautiful any time of the day, we advise you to come for sun rise to avoid the larger crowds and enjoy the peace and tranquility of this location. The Campuhan Ridge Walk is only a short walk from Ubud’s centre and catching the sunrise here will be the perfect start of your day of exploring Ubud. Want to add this beautiful walk to your own itinerary? Then keep on reading to find out everything you need to know about the Campuhan Ridge Walk!

WHERE IS THE CAMPUHAN RIDGE WALK
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is located in Ubud, the cultural centre of Bali, is a place that undoubtedly will be on your Bali itinerary. Known for its lush rice terraces, stunning temples and the amounts of delicious food it is a place that is known and loved by many. And while the Campuhan Ridge Walk is located rather central, it might be a bit tricky to find it. To get a better idea of the exact location of the Campuhan Ridge Walk check out the map below.



HOW TO GET TO THE CAMPUHAN RIDGE WALK
If you are staying within the centre of Ubud then the Campuhan Ridge Walk is within walking distance, just simply go to the second part of describing how to get there. If you are staying outside of Ubud town centre read the following section first.

Staying outside of Ubud – If you feel confident enough to ride a scooter or motorbike in Bali then we would definitely recommend it. It is a cheap and convenient way to get around, you can rent scooters for roughly 3$ a day (including helmet) giving you the ultimate freedom to go and explore the surroundings of the towns and cities. Another option is to hire a taxi service for a half or full day tour, which is something that almost all accommodations can advice you on further.

From the centre of Ubud – So when you have rented a scooter or are walking, simply head to the direction of the Warwick IBAH Luxury Villas and Spa. Upon immediate entry you will see a split in the road, marked by another sign with IBAH marked on it, the left right hand side leads to the IBAH Luxury Villas, the left hand side to the Campuhan Ridge Walk, go down this road. If you are coming by scooter, you can drive the scooter down, and on the bottom of the street before the bridge you will see a parking lot, this is where we left our motorbike as this seems to be the only option in this area. Before the bridge you will see steps leading down, followed by a bridge, follow this path. The path will take you along a beautiful Balinese temple, and will the continue into the Campuhan Ridge Walk.



THE CAMPUHAN RIDGE WALK
So you have made it to the start of the Campuhan Ridge Walk. Signs indicate that it is roughly a 2km walk, but we found that depending on till where you want to walk you can make it as short or as long as you want to. Officially, the walk continues all the way to the Karsa Cafe. However, mid way the walk will take you through an area of shops and restaurants first before leading you to the last bit of rice fields (where the Karsa Cafe is located). In the end, depending on how much time you have, you can make the Campuhan Ridge Walk as long or as short as you want. I would recommend spending half an hour to 2 hours here.

The path will take you up and down hill providing you with a stunning view over the surrounding scenery, before leading you through rice fields. Although the path is situated right next to the hustle and bustle of Ubud it almost feels like a different world, so lush, so green, so quiet. We would highly recommend going in the early morning or late afternoon as it might get pretty warm during the day. We went at sunrise and were one of the few people there, allowing us to have the view to ourselves. Simply have a walk up and down the path and enjoy the peace and quietness.

CAMPUHAN RIDGE WALK – KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
The Campuhan Ridge Walk quickly became one of our favourite spots in Ubud, and with views like these you might know why. Now to make your visit to the Campuhan Ridge Walk a bit easier we have compiled a short list of things you should know before going here:
* Campuhan Ridge Walk opening hours: There are no opening hours to the Campuhan Ridge Walk. As there are no gates you are welcome to enter whenever you like! However, it is not advised to visit this path when it is dark as the path is not lid and quite uneven.
* Best time to visit the Campuhan Ridge Walk: Go early, we would even recommend sunrise early, to have this place almost completely to yourself and to avoid the midday heat. The Campuhan Ridge Walk is also beautiful around sunset, but it will often be busy around these times as it is one of Ubud’s most famous spots to watch the sun set.
* Entry fee for the Campuhan Ridge Walk: To make it ever better, there are no entry fees either to enjoy this walk, something that might seem rare in Bali as most natural sights do ask for a small entry fee.
* What to bring: Bring water as you might get thirsty hiking up and down the hills, at the end of the Campuhan Ridge Walk there are some restaurants and small shops where you could buy something refreshing if you’d like.

Saraswati Temple Ubud

Amidst the lush landscapes of Ubud, Bali, lies a sanctuary of culture and spirituality – the Saraswati Temple. This breathtaking complex, intricately crafted and steeped in history, offers not just a spiritual retreat but a feast for the senses and the soul. Let’s journey together through the serene pathways and picturesque surroundings of this Balinese marvel, exploring each aspect that makes it a must-visit destination.

The Enchanting Gateway to Saraswati Temple
As you approach the temple in the heart of Ubud Center, the first thing that greets you is its magnificent gateway, a testament to the exquisite Balinese architecture. The entrance, a masterpiece carved from indigenous stone, signifies the gateway to spiritual enlightenment and artistic awakening. The meticulous carvings and detailed sculptures narrate tales from ancient scriptures, beckoning visitors to delve deeper into the Balinese culture and spirituality.
Historical Unveiling: The Chronicles of Saraswati Temple
Saraswati Temple, also known as Pura Taman Saraswati, dates back to the 1950s, a time when Ubud was blossoming as a hub of art and spirituality. The temple was the vision of the then Ubud prince, Cokorda Gede Agung Sukawati. Entrusted to the capable hands of the celebrated artist and architect, I Gusti Nyoman Lempad, the temple blossomed into a magnificent edifice, standing as a beacon of culture and spirituality in Bali. Over the years, it has woven itself into the fabric of Ubud’s history, standing not just as a place of worship but also as a living testimony to Bali’s rich cultural past.



Architectural Splendors of Saraswati Temple
Where Stone Sings Histories: The Architectural Splendors of Saraswati Temple.
The temple complex showcases the zenith of Balinese craftsmanship. Every inch of the space echoes the genius of its master designer, Lempad, who infused the structure with elements of nature and mythology. The intricate carvings depict tales from Hindu epics, while the overall design mirrors the philosophy of ‘Tri Mandala’, a concept central to Hindu temples in Indonesia. The complex is divided into three zones – the outer sanctum (Nista Mandala), the middle sanctum (Madya Mandala), and the inner main sanctum (Utama Mandala), each representing various phases of human life and spiritual progression.

Lotus Ponds: The Heart of Saraswati Temple
Perhaps the most famous aspect of the temple is its expansive lotus ponds. These tranquil water bodies are not just visually stunning but are also symbolic of purity and spiritual enlightenment. As you walk alongside the ponds, you would find yourself lost in the tranquil surroundings, the lotus blooms standing as a serene testament to the temple’s philosophy of harmony and peace.

The Fragrant Frangipani Trails of Saraswati Temple
Adding to the temple’s enchanting ambiance is the plethora of frangipani trees scattered across the premises. These trees, with their vibrant blooms and soothing fragrance, create a pathway that seems almost heavenly. As you walk through these fragrant trails, you can feel a tangible connection with nature, an experience that calms the mind and nurtures the soul.

Cultural Tapestry: Dance Performances at Saraswati Temple
A visit to Saraswati Temple transcends mere sightseeing, morphing into a rich cultural experience. The temple has become a vibrant hub for traditional dance performances, offering visitors a glimpse into the mystical world of Balinese dance and music. The performances, held regularly in the evenings, narrate tales from ancient scriptures, with dancers adorned in vibrant costumes portraying various deities and mythological characters.

Goddess Saraswati: The Divine Patron of the Temple
At the heart of the temple lies the divine sanctum dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the deity of wisdom, knowledge, and arts. In Hinduism, she is revered as the source of intellectual pursuit and artistic inspiration. At Saraswati Temple, you would find her presence resonating in every corner, fostering an environment where creativity blossoms, and wisdom prevails.

Photographic Paradises within the Saraswati Temple Grounds
For photography enthusiasts, the temple presents boundless opportunities. Whether it’s the sunrise reflecting off the lotus ponds or the intricate details of the carvings and sculptures, every corner offers a chance to capture the beauty and grandeur of this place. As the golden rays of the sunset bathe the temple in a warm glow, photographers can capture moments that seem almost ethereal.

Spiritual Harmony: Sacred Spaces at Saraswati Temple
In the midst of the architectural splendor and cultural vibrancy, Saraswati Temple also offers corners of peace and spiritual harmony. These sacred spaces within the temple complex allow for moments of reflection and meditation, where one can connect with the divine energies that resonate strongly within the temple grounds.

Visitor Essentials: Dress Code and Guidelines at Saraswati Temple
To maintain the sanctity of this sacred space, visitors are expected to adhere to a certain dress code and guidelines. Modesty in dressing is encouraged, with sarongs being provided at the entrance for those who require them. It’s also advisable to speak softly and move respectfully within the temple premises, maintaining the tranquil ambiance of this spiritual haven.

Gastronomic Experiences near Saraswati Temple
After your spiritual sojourn, you might find yourself craving some culinary delights. Fortunately, the area surrounding the temple hosts a range of dining options. From traditional Balinese cuisines to international dishes, the eateries here offer something for every palate, adding a gastronomic delight to your visit.

Surrounding Attractions: Exploring Beyond Saraswati Temple
The temple’s central location in Ubud allows for easy access to several other attractions. Whether it’s the bustling Ubud market, the scenic Tegallalang rice terraces, or the Monkey Forest sanctuary, there are numerous spots to explore in the vicinity, making your visit to Saraswati Temple a starting point for a larger Ubud adventure.

Sunset at Saraswati Temple: A Heavenly Sight
As the day draws to a close, the temple transforms into a silhouette against the blazing Bali sunset, offering a sight that is nothing short of heavenly. The golden hues reflecting off the lotus ponds create a surreal ambiance, providing a perfect ending to your visit.

Carvings and Sculptures: The Artistic Side of Saraswati Temple
An exploration of the temple would be incomplete without mentioning its artistic facets. The complex houses numerous carvings and sculptures, each telling a tale of Bali’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. These artworks, some of which were crafted by the master architect Lempad himself, offer a visual feast, narrating tales from ancient Hindu scriptures and Balinese folklore.

A visit to the Saraswati Temple is not just a journey through its stunning landscapes but a walk through the vibrant culture and rich history of Ubud, Bali. Through its intricate carvings, picturesque ponds, and vibrant performances, the temple offers a multifaceted experience, where spirituality meets artistry, creating a harmonious blend that resonates with every visitor.

As you step out of the temple complex, carrying with you memories and moments captured, you realize that your journey was not just physical but also a spiritual sojourn, a glimpse into the beautiful synthesis of nature, art, and spirituality that is the essence of Bali.

Ubud Art Market

The Ubud Art Market, also called “Pasar Seni Ubud”, is located opposite the royal palace Puri Saren and is open daily from 08:00 to 18:00. The market is divided into two main areas. In the western block is the art market, the eastern block is a traditional market where you can buy food and other daily necessities.
Insiders call it the best art market in Bali, where you can buy beautiful silk scarves, light shirts, hand-woven bags, baskets or hats, statues, kites and many other handmade goods. Haggling is common at the Ubud Art Market.
Most of the goods offered at the Ubud Art Market are made in the neighboring villages of Pengosekan, Tegallalang, Payangan and Peliatan. The location of the traditional art market amidst the handicraft villages and directly opposite the Royal Palace, which is the center of Ubud, makes it a strategic shopping place for Balinese handicrafts and souvenirs.
The Ubud Art Market also served as a backdrop for the Hollywood movie “Eat Pray Love”. Actress Julia Roberts strolls through the stalls, which in real life are visited by both locals and tourists.

Stroll and marvel
Art markets in Bali are on the bucket list of most tourists. For many of them, one of their favorite pastimes is simply strolling to the heart of the city, made possible by the footpaths that pass by virtually every aspect of Balinese culture and life. One of these relaxing walks takes you from the Monkey Forest, located about a kilometer south of the market, through the Ubud Art Market to the Royal Palace.
Strolling through Ubud’s art market is not always about an actual purchase. Viewing the various items passed from one stall to another is a highlight in itself and shows the craftsmanship and artistry of the locals.
Compared to art markets in other tourist centers of Bali, for example Kuta, Ubud Art Market offers higher quality and greater variety. Although beach towels and shirts with “Bali” printed on them, woven ikat skirts, Balinese-style paintings, wood carvings and woven baskets can be found almost everywhere on the island, items such as four-color satin bohemian skirts, Moroccan-style oil lamps, quilted batik camisoles and brass Buddha statuettes are more typical curiosities of the Ubud Art Market.

Unlike the merchandise in the various stores along Monkey Forest Road, most items at the Ubud Art Market do not have a bar code or a set price. In other words, haggling is expected.
But trade in Bali is very different from haggling in Arab bazaars. In the Orient, potential customers are often harassed by the merchants or even pulled into the stalls by force. Balinese people would never do such a thing. They politely wait for the customer to make the first move and do not force them to buy immediately.
Haggling is always polite and with a smile. For Balinese, haggling is simply part of the fun of shopping, often it’s not even about getting the best price or the maximum possible profit. Still, it’s helpful to think about the most you want to pay for an item before haggling
Start with about half the asking price and increase it until you find a compromise. Don’t buy anything if it’s the first day of your vacation. Get an overview while you enjoy your first day and get used to the prices.
To admire all the goods and stalls is impossible to create in one day. If you spot an item that interests you, it’s best to come back another day to haggle and close the deal.

Good to know
If you definitely plan to buy something, you should visit the Ubud Art Market as early as possible, before the tourist rush starts around 10 am. As one of the first buyers of the day, you can usually get better prices. Many of the traders believe that the first sale of the day brings them luck. For this reason alone, they are often willing to lower their prices.
The afternoon is much more hectic. Salespeople are much more persistent in trying to keep the customer interested for as long as possible. This behavior should not be confused with aggression. For retailers, this is simply a sales tactic, even though customers may see it differently.
In the evening it becomes more relaxed again. Merchants also like to offer their goods at lower prices around closing time to make a few sales at the end of the day before going home. Anyone planning a visit to the monkey forest should go there before shopping. The macaques living there are excellent thieves and have already stolen many a purchase.

Definitely worth a visit.
Ubud Art Market offers not only high quality Balinese items, but also a universal and international assortment. Compared to other art markets in Bali, the items offered here are usually of higher artistic value. The market’s location amidst the art producing villages and in the center of Ubud makes it a strategic shopping destination for Balinese handicrafts and unusual souvenirs.
The art market is definitely worth a visit, even for non-buyers and photographers looking for colorful subjects. Stay polite while haggling and watch your valuables, because pickpockets also like to pay a visit to the Ubud Art Market. If you stay overnight in Bali, it is best to visit the market early in the morning or late in the evening.
Because the market is very large and located in the center, it is not difficult to find. The official address is Jalan Raya Ubud No. 35. Walking from the Monkey Forest to the King’s Square, you will walk right through the market.

Ubud Palace

The Ubud Palace, officially Puri Saren Agung, is a historical building complex situated in Ubud, Gianyar Regency of Bali, Indonesia.

Campuhan river junction
The palace was the official residence of the royal family of Ubud. It was on his travels that Rsi Markandya received a divine revelation that in Bali he was to bury five precious metals on a mountain slope where the mother temple of Besakih now stands today. Along with a group of followers, Rsi Markandya was magnetically attracted to a destination located in the central foothills of the island that radiated light and energy. This place was Campuhan in Ubud at a junction in the Wos River and it was here that he felt compelled to build a temple by the name of Pura Gunung Lebah.

On subsequent expeditions around Bali, Rsi Markandya built a number of other significant temples and created a shared irrigation system for the terraced landscape that is still practiced by farmers today. The formation of the banjar, which is a village council responsible for community and religious affairs, was also inspired by Rsi Markandya. In essence, it can be said that Rsi Markandya is responsible for the foundation of Balinese Hinduism in its purest form referred to as Agama Tirtha or the religion of holy water.

Since being discovered back in the 8th century, the area of Campuhan has always been highly regarded by the Balinese for its immense spiritual powers. Even the term Ubud is derived from the term ubad, meaning medicine in reference to the traditional healing properties of the array of plants that randomly grow here. Generations of Hindu worshippers have made special pilgrimages to the fork in the Wos River to mediate, bathe and collect holy water for temple ceremonies and cleansing rituals.

There had always been ties between Java and Bali, but it was the disintegration of the once mighty Majapahit Empire in the 15th century that saw a mass exodus of nobles to Bali. A new kingdom on the island’s east coast called Gelgel was consequently established and gave sanctuary to many important ruling families. They brought with them an artistic legacy and the principles of the caste system.

By the 17th century Bali invariably experienced a rapid emergence of new kingdoms, including the founding of several royal houses in Ubud. However, this period also saw much conflict between the royal clans with supremacy as the ultimate goal. A prince from Klungkung was sent to create a palace in Sukawati as a centre of great power and aesthetic beauty. Artisans came from all over Bali to help in its construction and once completed many of them chose to stay. Sukawati today is a community that strongly supports all forms of artistry as well as dance and music.

With the successful establishment of a reigning authority in Sukawati, palace retainers were then sent in the late 1700s to secure the area of Ubud. A pair of cousins formed rival communities in Padang Tegal and further north in the area of Taman. Following subsequent fighting between these neighbouring villages the king of Sukawati sent his brothers Tjokorde Ngurah Tabanan to Peliatan and Tjokorde Tangkeban to Sambahan to establish palaces with the notion to control these troubled areas.

Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest

Mandala Suci Wenara Wana, also known as Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest, is a sanctuary located in Padangtegal, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia.

Monkeys
About 1260 Balinese long-tailed macaque monkeys live in this sanctuary. They are divided into 10 groups, namely Temple Group, Selatan Group, New Forest Group, Central Group, East Group, Michelin Group, Utara Group, Ashram Group, Atap Group, and Cemetery Group.

The Ubud Monkey Forest is a famous tourist attraction in Ubud. Every month, around 10,000–15,000 visitors come to Ubud Monkey Forest. The Ubud Monkey Forest has 186 species of plants and trees in 12.5 hectares of forest. The Ubud Monkey Forest has 3 temples, namely Dalem Agung Padangtegal Temple, Holy Spring Temple, and Prajapati Temple. The forest is owned by the Padangtegal community and is managed by Mandala Suci Wenara Wana Management. The purpose of the management is to preserve the sacred place and promote the Ubud Monkey Forest as an international tourist destination.

The Monkey Forest lies within the village of Padangtegal, which owns it. The village’s residents view the Monkey Forest as an important spiritual, economic, educational, and conservation center for the village.

Mission
The Ubud Monkey Forest describes its mission as the conservation of the area within its boundaries according to the Hindu principle of Tri Hata Karana (“Three ways to reach spiritual and physical well-being”), which seeks to make people live harmoniously during their lives. The “three ways” to this goal under the Tri Hata Karana doctrine are harmonious relationships between humans and humans, between humans and the natural environment, and between humans and The Supreme God. Accordingly, the Monkey Forest has a philosophical goal of creating peace and harmony for visitors from all over the world. It also seeks to conserve rare plants and animals for use in Hindu rituals and to provide a natural laboratory for educational institutions, with a particular emphasis on research into the social interaction of the park’s monkeys with one another and their interaction with the park’s natural environment.
Physical features and facilities
The Ubud Monkey Forest covers approximately 0.1 square kilometres (10 ha; 25 acres) and contains at least 115 different species of trees. The park is heavily forested and has lots of hills, And a deep ravine runs through the park grounds, and at the bottom, there is a rocky stream. Trails allow visitors access to many parts of the park, including the ravine and stream.

The Monkey Forest grounds have a forest conservation area, a public hall and gallery, an open stage, a canteen, a first aid center, a police post, parking and toilet facilities, and a composting facility.

Temples
The Monkey Forest grounds are home to three Hindu temples, all apparently constructed around 1350:

The Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal (“Padangtegal Great Temple of Death”), also known as the Main Temple, lies in the southwestern part of the park. The temple is used for worshiping the god Hyang Widhi in the personification of Shiva, the Recycler or Transformer.
The Pura Beji, or Beji Temple, in the northwestern part of the park, is used for the worship of Hyang Widhi in the personification of the goddess Gangga. A “Holy Spring” bathing temple, it is a place of spiritual and physical cleansing and purification prior to religious ceremonies.
The Pura Prajapati, or Prajapati Temple, located in the northeastern part of the park, is used to worship Hyang Widhi in the personification of Prajapati. A cemetery adjacent to this temple receives the bodies of the deceased for temporary burial while they await a mass cremation ceremony, held once every five years.
The temples play an important role in the spiritual life of the local community, and the monkey and its mythology are important in the Balinese art tradition. The Monkey Forest area is sanctified by the local community, and some parts of it are not open to view by the public. Sacred areas of the temples are closed to everyone except those willing to pray and wear proper Balinese praying attire.

Animals

Monkeys
There are five groups of monkeys in the park, each occupying different territories; one group inhabits the area in front of the Main Temple, another the park’s Michelin area, a third the park’s eastern area, and a fourth the park’s central area, while the fifth group lives in the cremation and cemetery area. In recent years, the monkey population has become larger than an environment undisturbed by humans could support; it continues to grow, with the population density in 2013 being higher than ever. Conflicts between the groups are unavoidable; for example, groups must pass through one another’s territory to reach the stream during the dry season, and increasing population pressures are also bringing the groups into more frequent contact

The monkeys rest at night and are most active during the day, which brings them into constant contact with humans visiting during the park’s business hours. Visitors can observe their daily activities – mating, fighting, grooming, and caring for their young – at close range and can even sit next to monkeys along the park’s paths.

The monkeys have lost their fear of humans. Generally, they will not approach humans who they believe are not offering food, but they invariably approach human visitors in groups and grab any bags containing food that the humans have. They may also grab plastic bottles and bags not containing food, as well as reach into visitors’ bags and trouser pockets in search of food, and will climb onto visitors to reach food being held in a visitor’s hand, even if the food is held above a visitor’s head. The visitor will notice the interesting phenomenon of numerous obese monkeys, a testament to the almost unbounded food supply the huge number of tourists entering the forest provides.

The park staff advises visitors never to pull back an offer of food to a monkey or to touch a monkey, as either action can prompt an aggressive response by the animal. Although they generally ignore humans who they believe do not have food, they sometimes mistake a human’s actions as an offer of food or an attempt to hide food. If a human does not provide the food the monkeys demand or does not provide it quickly enough, the monkeys will occasionally bite the human.

Park personnel carry slingshots with which to intimidate aggressive monkeys and intervene quickly in confrontations between monkeys and humans. Given the monkeys’ apparently increasing aggressiveness toward humans and the risk their bites pose to human health, Balinese politicians have called for a cull of crab-eating macaques in Bali. Authorities have not formally accepted these calls.

Timor rusa deer
The Ubud Monkey Forest contains a fenced enclosure for a small herd of Timor rusa (Rusa timorensis timorensis), a type of deer native to the island of Timor. Visitors can view the deer enclosure.

Management
The Ubud Monkey Forest is owned by the village of Padangtegal, and village members serve on the Monkey Forest’s governing council. The Padangtegal Wenara Wana Foundation – “Wenara Wana” being Balinese for “Monkey Forest” – manages the Monkey Forest and serves to maintain its sacred integrity and promote it as a destination for visitors.


Aloha Swing

Aloha Swing Built on terraced landscapes, on the way to the famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud, the Aloha Ubud Swing is one of the most famous swings in Bali. It has also served as the shooting location for music videos of The Fall and Jay Chou’s Rice Field, among others. Offering spectacular views of the terraced rice paddies, the Coffee Luwak plantation and surrounding landscapes, this swing comprises 8 different types of swings. It includes 5 single person swings, 1 tandem swing as well as a romantic bed swing. You can also find 2 huge bird nests, chicken nests and a bed nest here, where you can pose for different photographs. The swings here range between five different levels, from 10 to 60 metres above the ground. You can also enjoy a free cup of tea or coffee after enjoying riding in the swings here.

Location: Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561, Indonesia

Aloha swing price costs is $35. Also, you can pay an extra $7 or $9 for pickup from your hotel in Ubud.

How to Reach:The Aloha Ubud Swing is located at a distance of only 5 kilometres from the Arjuna Statue in Ubud. You can either rent a scooter or motorbike, or take a car ride to the swing from anywhere in Ubud

Timings: 08:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m.

Gunung Kawi Temple

Gunung Kawi Temple, This unique and truly impressive temple complex from the 11th century comprises 10 rock-cut candi (shrines). They stand in 7-metre-high (23 ft) sheltered niches carved into the cliff face. The monuments are dedicated to King Anak Wungsu of the Udayana dynasty and his favorite queens.

General Information
This temple complex is thought to be the burial complex of King Anak Wungsu and his wives and favorite concubines. The area is quite large and you can walk around quite freely. So take your time and feel into this ancient and beautiful place. If you are lucky you will see a ceremony or see women preparing offerings. Gunung Kawi is still used today for ritual ceremonies.
The complex is considered as one of the oldest temples on Bali, with it’s origins dating to the times before the kingdom of Majapahit.

Location & Setting
The Gunung Kawi complex is located in the Bali’s region Tampaksiring, which is about 20km north east of Ubud.
The temple is only about 2 kilometers away from Tirta Empul. If you are physically fit enough you could decide to visit both.
To get to the temple and shrines you need to descend 371 stone steps leading you through a beautiful Balinese sawa scenery (rice fields) to the Pakerisan river. Four shrines are located on the west side of the river, five on the east side. The tenth is located in the south.

Good to Know
Take your Sarong with you. If you forget you can borrow one at the entrance. You need to walk almost 1km to reach the temple. The walk is beautiful, but not easy. Going down is one thing, but getting back up another, particularly in the hot and moist air of Bali. But, you will be rewarded for your effort.
You will see two pots filled with still water at the end of the stair case. If you are asked to wet your hair with it as a ritual, politely say no thank you. We are not all too sure about all the creatures that made this water their home.

Ceremonies
Local women carrying offering on their heads to the shrines (left picture).

Ancient Monuments
The carved shrines are 7 meters tall. When standing in front of them look around and imagine how this place looked like more than a 1000 years ago. No stairs, no land clearing, no pathways; only jungle, rocks, and a river deep down in a valley.

Satria Coffee Plantation

The Satria Coffee Plantation is a perfect stop to add on a day trip to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces or Tirta Empul.
It a pleasant surprised trip to Satria, because it felt almost similar to the experience of wine tasting in Napa Valley.

The experience first starts with a walk through a beautiful garden, containing trees, shrubs and herbs that feature Bali’s most popular indigenous fruits, vegetables and spices. it always love seeing how produce and spices are grown, so this is very fun for everyone.

Once you pass through the garden, you are greeted by a large cage structure housing the famous Asian palm civet, whose intestines are responsible for creating the popular Luwak Coffee. The Luwak Coffee is made from coffee beans that, when in their original cherry form, fall from the tree and are eaten and partially digested by the civet. Coffee growers then harvest these cherries to make the Luwak coffee.

Before you head to the bathroom to vomit, its comforting to know that the coffee cherry naturally has two outer layers. When digested by the civet, only the outer layer is metabolized by the process. A second, inner layer remains that protects the actual coffee bean from said poo. Coffee growers are able to wash the beans and then remove the outer layer prior to roasting.

At a small shed, the Satria team explains this process, complete with some authentic civet poop in a display case. A very old woman asa staff will be demonstrating the roasting process they use, which is achieved via a roasting pan over an open flame (almost like a sauté of the beans). Then, they put the roasted beans into an enormous mortar and pestle to grind them for serving.

After you see how the sausage is made, your host takes you by a Hollywood-style sign that says “Cat-Poo-Chino.” This is a great photo opp to capture your excitement before sampling the famous coffee yourself.

An open air gazebo then greets guests, who are seated and instructed to wait on the host to bring a sample of Satria’s coffees and (bonus!) teas. Guests have the option to try the Luwak coffee for an extra 50,000 IDR ($~3.50 USD). The spread of coffees and teas is really impressive and creates the Napa Valley feel that mentioned earlier.

Now, for the Luwak coffee. you can order this after all the hype, so I coughed up the extra 50,000 IDR. The way of making the Luwak Coffee is in the traditional Balinese style, where they place the fine coffee powder in the cup and just add water. You’re supposed to wait about 3 minutes for the sediment to fall to the bottom, and then you drink.

Open Hour:
Everyday at 08.00 AM-18.00 PM.

Location:
Jln Raya Tampak Siring, Desa Manukaya, Kecamatan Tampaksing, Gianyar.

Cretya Alas Harum

Cretya Ubud is an idyllic destination located in the heart of Tegallalang, Bali at Alas Harum (about a 20 minute drive north of central Ubud). This tropical paradise spans over 8 hectares and boasts stunning rice terraces, perfect for those looking for a relaxing and tranquil getaway.

For a memorable experience, visitors can explore the breathtaking natural wonder above Ubud’s signature rice terrace. This day club truly offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, immersing guests in the excitement that nature brings; while sipping on cocktails by the pool. The lush greenery and stunning views create an ambiance of serenity, perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating.

Food lovers will delight in the distinguished dining destination located right inside Cretya Ubud. The Yudhistira, Arjuna, and Bima Lounge provide the perfect setting for a relaxed, casual dining experience, surrounded by enchanting pools in the middle of a lush jungle. Here, guests can indulge in international favorites ranging from classic American breakfast to Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The culinary team even shares secret recipes and ingredients to make the dining experience even more special.

For those who want to slow down and indulge in the serenity of their surroundings, the Jungle day club is a must-visit. With three-layered pools (that are, oh so Instagrammable) and special Crowned Angels cocktails crafted by professional bartenders, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. The DJ booth provides music beats to complement the ambiance, creating a luxurious and chilled atmosphere.

At Cretya Ubud, visitors can take their time to soak up the natural surroundings and indulge in a relaxed, fun-filled day out. The experience is one that stimulates all the senses, from the lush greenery to the exquisite cuisine, refreshing pool, and the mesmerizing sounds of the DJ booth. It is a perfect destination for those seeking a serene day out in the hood!


Open Hours:
Everyday 08.00 AM-21.00 PM.

Location:
Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561, Indonesia.

Phone:
+62 812-3802-1174

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Bali is almost synonymous with pearly beaches and jungle-covered volcanic mountains.
But that’s not all, the island is also packed to the brim with sprawling landscapes punctuated by layers of rice paddies that offer visual treats that captivate even the most apathetic traveler.
Nestled in the verdant valleys of Bali, Tegalalang Rice Terrace is one of the most popular attractions in Ubud thanks to its photogenic ambiance.
Although the iconic rice paddies are a top tourist destination, Tegalalang gives a glimpse into the traditional Balinese irrigation system that support the livelihood of the locals to this very day.

Tegalalang rice terrace history
Tegalalang is known as one of the most popular rice fields in Ubud and deeply entrenched around a popular Balinese traditional mode of irrigation named Subak, dating back to the 9th century.
The system embodies the Tri Hita Karana philosophy on life and like many other Bali’s rice terraces, Tegalalang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Weather at Tegalalang Rice terrace.
The weather at Tegalalang Rice Terrace is pleasantly warm throughout the year and with Bali being approximately 890 km from the equator, it’s easy to see why.
Bali province boasts two seasons; a wet and a dry season. The temperatures are mild (averaging 26°C / 79°F), so there’s no need for jackets even during the coldest month of the year (January).
Be sure to stay hydrated and pack some sunscreen if you’re traveling in May, it’s the warmest month with an average temperature of 26°C / 82°F.

One of the perks of a temperate climate is that you can visit during the wet season and still fall in love with the tranquillity.
However, if it rains in Bali, it pours so get those raincoats and umbrellas ready! If you’re visiting during the wet season you should expect the weather to change in an instant – quick spews of rain and sunbeams in between.

Tegalalang rice terrace open hours.
Technically, Tegalalang is open 24 hours, however, it makes sense to visit in the daytime to truly appreciate the allure.
Anytime between 8 AM and 6 PM (official opening time) would be ideal, especially if you want to take a bite at the on-site restaurant overlooking the rice paddies.

Tirta Empul Temple

Tirta empul or Holy spring Temple, One of the busiest water temples in Indonesia, Tirta Empul is a temple considered sacred by Balinese Hindu community. The temple has several holy springs which are said to have been created by The God Indra and believed to be blessed water that could purify those who bathe there.
Tirta Empul is dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu God of water. In the Balinese language, Tirta Empul loosely translated means water gushing from the earth, which for this reason Tirta Empul is regarded as a holy spring. The Tirta Empul Temple includes shrines to Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma, as well as one for Indra and Mount Batur. It is considered one of the five most holy temples in all of Bali and is considered one of the holiest water sources in Bali. You can also find other holy water temples in Bali such as Pura Ulun Danu at Lake Beratan, Pura Tirta Tawar at Gianyar, Pura Tirta Harum at Bangli, Pura Tirta Taman Mumbul at Badung, and many more.

Tirta Empul was founded in 926 A.D and is still being actively used to this day. Although it is a sacred place of worship to the locals, tourists from all over the world are welcome to experience the beauty and participate in the purification rituals. In 2017, the former US President Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, and daughters Malia and Natasha, made Tirta Empul one of their selected sites to visit and experience.

If you’re planning to visit Tirta Empul, here’s what to know more about this sacred temple:

The inside of Tirta Empul

The Tirta Empul Holy Water Temple is located in the village of Manukaya, near the town of Tampaksiring, not far from Ubud, in the Gianyar Regency, the cultural heart of Bali. The temple is situated just below the Presidential Palace of Tampaksiring. Built-in 1957 by Indonesia’s first president, Soekarno, the beautifully built palace itself is an important landmark of the island and the country. Together with the Presidential Palace, the Tirta Empul Holy Water Temple provides some of the most fascinating views you will ever see.

As a petirtaan or bathing center, Tirta Empul is quite a large temple complex and it takes at least 30 minutes to an hour to explore the entire site. Just as at other temples and sacred sites around the island, you will need to put on a ‘sarong’ before entering the premises. The sarongs are available at the temple’s entrance and can be rented for a small donation.

As soon as you enter the temple, you will walk through the large stone Balinese gate (locally known as candi bentar) and arrive in the outer courtyard of the temple. This area of the temple is called jaba sisi. At the end of the courtyard is another candi bentar built into the wall that leads to the central courtyard. This gate is guarded by smoothly carved huge statues of two Dwarapala or guardians given a brush of golden colors. At the top of the gate is a carving of Kala which is quite different from other Kala carvings elsewhere since it has fangs that stick upwards and a pair of hands with open arms.
Entering the inner courtyard, you will arrive at the jaba tengah area which is the main area of the temple. The holy springs here bubble up into a large, crystal-clear pool within the temple and gush out through 30 waterspouts into the two sacred purification pools. Local Balinese and Hindu worshippers stand in long lines in the pools waiting to dip their heads under the waterspouts in a purification ritual known as melukat. Bathers start in the pool on the left side standing in the pool to the waist under the first water spout. Once they have cleansed themselves under the first spout they join the next queue. This process is continued until they have cleansed themselves under each waterspout. However, there are two spouts that are meant only for cleansing the dead and are prohibited to be used by the living for the melukat ritual.

Behind the purification, pools are the final section of the Tirta Empul Holy Water Temple, called the jeroan. Mostly overlooked by tourists, the jeroan or inner courtyard is a pleasant place where people come to pray. The front part of the courtyard is dominated by the large water spring that feeds the purification pools. The spring is filled with green algae and small fish swim among the reeds. Behind the springs are large Hindu shrines. This part of the temple is nice to quickly explore. The shrines are brightly decorated, which contrasts with the starched white clothing of the Balinese who come here to pray.

As you exit Tirta Empul you pass through a large pool filled with koi fish. This section of the temple is walled off on all four sides from the rest of the complex, which gives it a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Fat koi swim lazily in the pond waiting for their next meal.

The Legend of Creation
Based on a manuscript called Usana Bali, the creation of Tirta Empul involves the myth of an epic battle between a powerful yet wicked king named Mayadenawa and a God, Bhatara Indra. The king did not believe in God, and forbade his subject from worshipping God. He was also dangerous. He possessed a spiritual power but was too drunk with his power and carelessly used it for black magic. Seeing the chaos, a priest named Sang Kulputih prayed to Bhatara Indra to put an end to the evil king.
Later, Bhatara Indra and his warriors came to attack Mayadenawa and dethroned him. Mayadenawa and his troops fled to the north of a village which is now known as ‘Tampak Siring’. At night, when Bhatara Indra’s army were deep asleep, Mayadenawa snuck into their camp and created a beautiful but poisonous spring that the army would drink from upon waking up. When Mayadenawa crept into the camp, he walked on the sides of his feet so as not to leave footprints–this is believed to be the origin of the village’s name, ‘Tampak Siring’, which translates as ’tilted footprint’.

In the morning, Bhatara Indra awoke to find his men were poisoned to death. It was then, through his power as a God that he pierced the ground with his staff, creating a sacred healing spring of holy water. The water was sprayed onto the dead army and they came back to life. This water source which is believed to have healing properties and a source of life came to be known as Tirta Empul.

Knowing that his plan had failed, Mayadenawa tried to transform himself into all sorts of different beings but to no avail, since Bhatara Indra continued to chase him. When at last he transformed himself into a boulder, Indra shot an arrow through it, and eventually killed the evil king. The blood of Mayadenawa that gushed from the boulder is believed to have formed the Petanu River, and for over a thousand years, the river was cursed making rice grow rapidly, but having an awful reek of blood. The Balinese Hindu people commemorate the death of Mayadenawa every 210 days in the Balinese traditional calendar as the day when Virtue triumphs over Evil in the ritual and ceremony called Galungan.

Goa Gajah Temple

Goa Gajah Temple, or the Elephant Cave Temple, is one of the most sacred and interesting places in Bali.
It’s a living temple where people continue to worship to this day, and you can find it on a visit to the heartland of Bali near Ubud.


History
Our guide to Goa Gajah will tell you what you can expect to find at this spiritually enlightening place.
Although the exact origins of the cave are uncertain, it is believed to have been built as a place for spiritual meditation. One folklore relates that it was created by the fingernail of the legendary giant Kebo Iwa. However, examining its style, the sanctuary was probably dated from the 11th century Bali Kingdom. The complex contains both Hindu and Buddhist imagery, as the cave contains lingam and yoni, symbols of Shiva, and the image of Ganesha, while by the river there are carved images of stupas and chattra, imagery of Buddhism.
The cave was rediscovered by Dutch archaeologists in 1923, but the fountains and bathing pool were not discovered until 1954.

Site description
The temple is characterized by menacing faces that are carved into the stone – whose purpose is assumed to be the warding off of evil spirits. The primary figure was once thought to be an elephant, hence the nickname Elephant Cave. Other sources state that it is named after the stone statue of the Hindu God Ganesh (characterized by having the head of an elephant) located inside of the temple.[4] The site is mentioned in the Javanese poem Desawarnana written in 1365. An extensive bathing place on the site was not excavated until the 1950s.[5] The entrance of the cave is accessed only by walking down a long flight of stairs.[6] The inside of the temple is small and usually has trails of white smoke from the incense burning.[7] Visitors wearing shorts will be issued a sarong to tie around the waist before entering the courtyard. The complex also contains 7 statues of women (out of which 1 has been destroyed due to an earthquake) holding water pitchers that depict seven holy rivers of India: the Ganga River, Sarasvati River, Yamuna River, Godavari River, Sindhu River, Kaveri River, and Narmada River.

This site was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List on October 19, 1995, in the Cultural category,[8] but was pulled out along with 11 other sites on 2015.

Tegenungan Waterfall

Tegenungan Waterfall is located rather in the south of Bali. It is one of the most famous waterfalls in Indonesia and can be an unforgettable experience of your vacation.

What is there to see?
The waterfall is located on the sacred Petanu River and is close to the artists’ village of Ubud. It is about 13 meters high and very bulky and wide. So if you are vacationing in Ubud or exploring the town for a day trip, a visit to Tegenungan Waterfall is worthwhile for everyone.

From the parking lot you first walk along a small path where there are some stores. These sell food and drink as well as clothes and souvenirs. There is also a restaurant overlooking the beautiful scenery around Tegenungan. Here you can drink a fresh coconut and watch the river from the observation deck.

Down at the waterfall you can then swim in the shallow water and enjoy the nature around the lake. If you don’t want to explore the area on your own, you can also book a guided day tour with a local guide. Often these tours are paired with other attractions such as to the Rice Terraces or the Monkey Forest in Ubud.

Useful tips
On a trip to the popular waterfall, you should definitely think about a change of clothes and swimwear. On the way to the waterfall does not have to climb, but still you can sweat quite a bit due to the heat in Bali. Then down near the waterfall there are changing rooms with shower and lockers
Directly at the waterfall you can then swim. Behind the waterfall there is even a cave where you can swim. This is certainly not something that will be forgotten in a hurry.
You can not take a shower under the waterfall. There is even extra waterfall security that whistles back anyone who swims over the perimeter. This is for the safety of the guests. For beautiful photos is suitable not only the waterfall, but also the way to it. Here many spots were prepared for photos.
It is best to visit the waterfall in the morning hours, as the tourist attraction is not quite as crowded at this time. The waterfall opens for visitors already at 6:30 am.

The arrival
Tegenungan Waterfall is very centrally located and therefore easy to reach. From Ubud it takes only 20 minutes by scooter or cab. From Sanur about 35 minutes and from Kuta or Nusa Dua a little over an hour.
Plan about 1-2 hours for the stay and arrange directly on arrival when a cab driver can pick you up if necessary, since they are rather little represented at the waterfall.

For whom is a visit to Tegenungan Waterfall suitable?
In principle, a visit to this sight is suitable for everyone. Families who depend on a stroller, however, should carefully consider whether they want to take the somewhat arduous route.

Optionally, you can also admire the waterfall only from the viewing platform, then you do not have to take on the descent with children and / or strollers.

Bali Zoo

Bali Zoo – Bali’s first and only zoo is an amazing place to learn the way more than 450 rare and exotic animals do in a luxuriant tropical environment. A park where you can take part in a fascinating animal adventure, some of which in Indonesia are uniquely unique.

Whether the Bengal tiger is being fed closely and personal, the elephant safari over the friendly Sumatran pachyderm, dining a couple of meters away from King Jungle and his pride, having an orangutan breakfast, or having a part in Bali Zoos Mahout trademark for a day.

The Bali Zoo is located in the center of the Bali’s Gianyar Collection in the vicinity of Kuta, Sanur, Seminyak and Nusa Dua tourist resorts, just a 15-minute drive from Ubud. The islands were founded in 2002 by the only private zoo belonging to Balinese as the first and only zoological park that still stands today.
In Bali Zoo, on 22 acres of lush landscaping of the Singaporean art village, there is a variety of animals, the majority of which is natives of Indonesia, including Sumatran Elephant, Sumatran Tiger, Orangutan, Sun Bear and Binturong. In this region there is also a collection of 350 exotic animals.

Bali Bird Park

Bali Bird Park is a 2000 square meter park located in Gianyar Regency and offers various educational activities about the animals inside the park. In addition, the visitors can also interact closely with the birds.
Meet 1000 birds, 250 species in 1 unforgettable day! Bali Bird Park is divided into several areas that mimic the natural habitat of the birds, complete with native plants. In addition to being a tourist spot, this park also plays an important role in protecting and conserving endangered Indonesian wildlife.
Bali Bird Park has successfully bred many species of birds here, including The Rare Pesquet’s Parrot and starlings, which are cared for release to the wild. There are over 40 species of birds accommodated here, a number that continues to grow under the care of Bali Bird Park’s professional staff.

About twenty years ago, the innovative Bali Bird Park entered the eco-tourism scene in Bali. This park is dedicated to the protection, conservation, and breeding of exotic birds from all over the world, not only Indonesia. Each section of Bali Bird Park has a replica of the region’s native flora and fauna and a variety of bird species native to that area. Join us as we go on a fantastical adventure over the continents of Indonesia, South America, Africa, and Australia. Stop by the relaxed outdoor eatery (appropriately named after the stunning Bali Starling) for a break and some delicious food. Visit the Rainforest Café for some handmade ice cream or a refreshing tropical drink.
Check out our air-conditioned, 4D theater if you’re looking for something a little bit different to see. Take in one of the avian-themed, 5.1-surround-sound flicks playing here.

The Bali Bird Park has a long history of breeding success, with species ranging from the rare Pesquet’s parrot to large numbers of Bali Starlings, all of which are used in local release programs. Almost 40 species of Indonesian birds are housed at the park, many of which are successfully reproducing thanks to our staff’s efforts.

Bali Bird Park Show Schedule:
There are several shows and rides at Bali Bird Park with a certain schedule. You can access the Bali Bird Park official site for the full schedule or see the schedule directly on the spot.

Facilities at Bali Bird Park
• Restaurant
• Rainforest Cafe
• 4D cinema
• Parking area



Batuan Village

Batuan (alternate: Batoeon or “Baturan”) is a village in Bali, Indonesia. It is noted for its artwork and style of painting which originated in the village in the 1930s and has since emerged into a major Balinese artistic style, known as a Batuan painting. It is a major painting center and contains a number of art galleries and cooperative art societies which have played a key role in promoting the art of Batuan. The village is also known for its performance of the ancient Gambuh dance, performed every Full Moon day.

There are two temples on the western part of the village which are known as Pura Puseh and Pura Dasar. These temples are built in classical Balinese temple architecture style with elaborate carvings. Visitors are given vermilion sarongs to wear during visit to the temples. The town is also popular for carved teak wood furnishings. The village also has a “fat Buddha statue” (called the “Fat Baby Statue”) at the cross road from Sakah to Blahbatu facing east.

Geography
Batuan is located in central Bali about 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) south of Ubud and about 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) northeast of Denpasar contiguous to northern Sukhawathi village, another well-known art center. The land in this part of Bali is very flat. The area covered by the town excluding agricultural lands is 6 square kilometres (2.3 sq mi). The town is bounded by streams flowing through chasms or gorges, which provide water supply to the town. Apart from the streams that flow through the town, there are also irrigation canals sourced from upstream dams which provide irrigation facilities to large tract of paddy fields that surround the village, which was the back bone of the sustenance economy in the past; economy is now largely dependent on tourist influx and the town is now part of “World Economy.” By 1995, the village had paved roads.

The town has a number of temples hidden in the labyrinth lanes and by lanes of the town but two temples are prominent on the main road. In addition, there are now concrete paved performance pavilions in the town with high roofs where dance performances are held by many dance groups, which have got established now to cater to the tourism in the town; one such pavilion is in front of the Pura Desa Batuan temple. The Hindu and Indian influence in the region in the village is evident from the carvings and temples. In the 17th century, Batuan and southern Bali were controlled by the royal family until a priest’s curse led to their losing their control; eventually they dispersed to various parts of the country. During the period of 1947–1949, most of the Batuan people remained loyal to the Gianyar Regency and opposed nationalism.

History
Batuan is mentioned in historical records as far back as 1000 years.The Hindu and Indian influence in the region in the village is evident from the carvings and temples. In the 17th century, Batuan and southern Bali were controlled by the royal family until a priest’s curse led to their losing their control; eventually they dispersed to various parts of the country.During the period of 1947–1949, most of the Batuan people remained loyal to the Gianyar Regency and opposed nationalism.

Culture
Balinese art forms are primarily classified under three major categories of which Batuan Style (distinct from the Ubud Style) which originated in Batuan is one style which has absorbed the traditional art form to the present dynamic art styles; the other two Bali art styles are the Ubud style of Ubed and the Sanur style which have been further supplemented by a “Young Artists” style of 1960s of Penestanan (the artists village) origin influenced by the Dutch artists. In the Batuan style of painting, the emphasis is adoption of sombre colour, generally in black and white with preponderance of mystic Balinese religious ethos related to sorcery and witchcraft. They are also famous for the miniature painting with great attention paid to detailing. The artists have an eye for detail as they paint with great patience. Vegetation is drawn in a stylised format, but each leaf is painted and shaded. The patterns, even in batik sarongs, have the minor figures drawn very carefully. Even the open space is filled with pulsating marks. Scenes emerge from the canvas and retreat into the vegetation such as a dog fight, a love affair, a group of gamblers, all shown in a corner of the canvas.

Batuan village gave its name to a style of painting which evolved in the 1930s after a group of local villagers, Ida Bagus Made Togog and Ida Bagus Made Wija began experimenting with ink-washed paintings on black backgrounds. These are popular to this day. The black and white background was said to evoke the supernatural.[8] Artists in Batuan later changed to gouache and acrylics. In the early years of the Batuan genre art, Batuan artists explored subjects that concerned themselves rather than creating tourist art. While anthropologists Margaret Mead and Gregory Bateson had a special relationship with Batuan artists, they avoided influencing them and were careful in what Western pictures they were to show to the Batuans. Batuan artists depicted only a traditional world in their pictures, avoiding objects such as automobiles, until at least the late 1980s. Anthropologists also interpret that the paintings made by artists of Batuan are visual texts which represent the “Balinese Character”.

Another notable feature is, unlike the Ubud style, the Batuan style also imbued daily life scenes in its depictions, deviating from the traditional. The depiction is of factual scenes but camouflaged in the form of masks. The colours used by the famous artists of Batuan were more bold than those used in Ubud paintings, with green and maroon being the dominant shades used for depicting human beings. Daily life with a complex variety of activities is depicted in great details. However, the painting canvases still adopted the three space formula with the bottom part devoted to daily human activities, with ritual activities in the middle section and with the upper section devoted to the realms of gods.

A Batuan painting by Ida Bagus Rai
The Batuan painters belonging to the Pita Maha Painters group also created aesthetically elegant paintings combining Buddhist mythology with vivacious and inventive Wayan-style images. These paintings have also been described as “naïve style works –almost caricatures – that depict daily life with humour.”

The village is now dominated by galleries of various artists. Of major note is I Wayan Bendi Gallery, which is named after a notable contemporary artist in the style and sells expensive paintings, mostly over $200. Many paintings of the artist I Made Buli are located here. I Wayan Bendi of Batuan created the paintings as “craft for tourist painting” with himself as the central figure surrounded by tourists in various modes of life and this format has now become a flourishing art form.

Dance
One of the popular and ancient dance forms, which is performed in Batuan and many other villages, frequently, is known as the Gambuh. It is a theatrical dancing art form which reportedly evolved in the 15th century which is a fusion of singing, drama and visual art forms. It is performed during the festivals of Full Moon day and also on occasions of marriages and other ceremonies, locally known as the Odalan, Manusa Yadnya and Pitra Yadnya (Ngaben). However, this dance form is stated to be on the decline.

Ethnography studies indicate that tourism has become integral to the economy of Batuan, particularly since the 1930s. So much so, that in the 1970s a frog dance was devised for the tourists which became a part of Balanese social life, as such dances were performed as part of wedding receptions.

Batuan Temple Or Pura Puseh
The most notable landmark is the village temple, known as Pura Puseh, an ancient structure dated to the 11th century, embellished with intricate stone carvings. It is located in the northern part of the village, 200 metres (660 ft) off the main road. The temple also has an inscription that testifies to the date of founding of Batuan in 1022 AD. The temple underwent restoration in 1992. It is a five-tiered gateway tower, clearly influenced by Indian religious architecture. Its icons and decorations, however, are typically Balinese in style. Notable depictions include a Bhoma head overlooking the main gateway, the god Wisnu astride a bull, great elephants on the central stairway balustrade, and Siwa standing amongst skulls. The roof of the temple is made of the fibre of chromatic black palm tree. The maintenance of the temple is done by the residents of the village. The temple is situated on the main road from Denpasar to Ubud.



The entry gate to the temple appears as a split gate as if it was formed once as one gate that was split into two parts. This gate leads into a courtyard which has a garden and a galaxy of statues fixed at various locations. From the courtyard, there is another gateway spanned by an intricately carved arch with bass relief on the inset and intertwined with vines and a closed door. The entry to the sanctum is again through two gates. The sanctum is where the gods are enthroned during festival time through a special invitation to “come down into this world.” The gods invited during the festivals are venerated with deep devotion and offerings. A sign post at the temple says:

Pr Puse Pr Desa
Desa Adat Batuan
Saka 944

The first line makes mention of two temples – The Pura Puse and the Pura Desa – the second line defines the organization responsible for the temple and the last line ‘saka 944’ is in Indic and is equivalent to 1022 CE.

On the 1st and 15th of each month, the Gambuh, an ancient court dance performance, is staged at the temple. Owing to the success of tourism in Bali, a plot has been built next to the temple to put on a daily morning barong dance for tourists, enacting a fight between the good, a shaggy haired lion-like creature, and an evil widow-witch named Rangda. In the evenings, the dance troupe puts on a Kecak dance and a fire dance.

“Fat Buddha” statue
In the northern part of the village can be found a stone Buddha statue of considerable girth which marks the Sakah road to Blahbatuh, pointing east.

Nearby tourist attractions include the Santi Mandala and Spa, Balifunworld, and the Bali Zoo.

Mas Village


Mas Village is one of the most famous Bali Places of Interest located very close to Ubud and is therefore of a similar landscape but Mas is not as developed in to the tourism market as Ubud and retains a traditional charm and feel. Mas is famous in Bali as being one of the main arts and crafts villages on the island. Where Ubud is the village of the painters, Mas is the village of the carvers where some of the most incredible woodcarvings are produced and have been produced for hundreds of years. If you wish to buy the balinese woodcarvings you may buy here with variable price between USD15 until USD100 for standard size products and USD10-USD10000 for big size products.

Carvings range from very small pieces that can be perfect gives up to larger ornaments and furniture and on to incredible elaborate pieces that can be as large as 25 square meters and even more such as murals ad great door arches that are traditionally reserved for temples and stately homes of the Balinese Royalty and wealthy. Mas Village is located in the same area as Ubud and therefore it can be included as part of a Ubud holiday and is a wonderful place to drop by at and look round the markets and take in the beauty and quiet that the village Mas entails.

Mas Village is located at around and hour and a half drive from the international Airport and is easily accessible from the south of Bali using the by pass road that leads through Sanur. Mas is located in the highlands and hill that lead up towards the mountains of the central of Bali and has some of the most amazing views of the island with many large and steep rice padi terraces and tropical woodlands that extend down towards the plains of the south, when looking north the huge impressive mountains are more prominent then anywhere else on the island.

This scenery coupled with the incredible culture of the area and low tourist presence makes for an ideal location to take some time out and there are some amazing traditional bungalows that extend into the 5 star class to do this from. The carving of Mas Village first began when the Royal Balinese families moved into Ubud and those who seek work wit them tried to offer to sell them goods. The royals then only started to buy and do business with the very best carvers from Mas and the best painters of Ubud. And soon all of the islands best craftsmen moved to their prospective villages creating subcultures orientated around there talents.

The carvings them selves differ between representations of the Balinese people often as farmers and in situations that the average Balinese worker can relate to, to amazing decorative carvings for the rich and then also some legends, myths representations of aspects of the Balinese religions and the stories that they entail. Today there is much to see and enjoy and many surrounding areas of interest in Mas Village and it can be worth staying to enjoy this area without the crowds on your doorstep. Whether you are an art lover or a couple looking to some time out, Mas Village will provide.

Related Tours
Mas Village is a pivotal stop on various Bali tours, including the Ubud Tour, Rafting Ubud Tour, Elephant Ride Ubud Tour, and the scenic Kintamani Tour. These curated packages offer a holistic experience, combining the cultural immersion of Celuk with the natural beauty and adventure that Bali has to offer. Explore the island’s diverse facets through these thoughtfully designed tours and create lasting memories.

Celuk Village

Celuk Village is a traditional village in Gianyar Regency, nestled amidst Bali’s vibrant cultural tapestry. Embark on a cultural odyssey as you step into the enchanting realm of this village. This artistic enclave has earned its reputation as the Silversmith Center of the island, weaving a narrative as compelling as the intricate craftsmanship that defines its essence. As you wander through the narrow lanes, the air is imbued with the legacy of silversmithing, a craft deeply embedded in Celuk’s history.

Celuk’s artistic nuances extend beyond its silver mastery, captivating visitors with the village’s distinct charm. Explore the intricate workshops and studios that line the streets, where skilled artisans pour their creativity into exquisite silver creations. The allure of Celuk lies not only in its tangible silver treasures but also in the intangible essence of a community dedicated to preserving and evolving the art form. Discover the cultural heartbeat of Celuk Village, where tradition meets innovation, making it a compelling and must-visit destination in Bali.

ABOUT CELUK VILLAGE

General Information
Celuk Village, situated in the Gianyar Regency of Bali, is a testament to the island’s mastery of gold and silver craftsmanship. This small village has earned a global reputation for its talented silversmiths, who transform raw materials into exquisite jewellery and art pieces. The sparkle of precious metals and the rhythmic symphony of hammers shaping dreams into reality will welcome visitors.

History
The history of Celuk Village dates back several centuries, with its roots deeply embedded in the art of gold and silver. Originally a centre for agricultural pursuits, the village transitioned into a hub for skilled silversmiths, passing down age-old techniques from generation to generation. Celuk’s artisans continue to create timeless pieces, preserving the village’s cultural legacy.

Silversmith Center
Celuk is synonymous with its Silversmith Center, where skilled artisans craft intricate jewellery and ornamental pieces. Wander through the narrow lanes and discover workshops adorned with gleaming silverware. Visitors have the unique opportunity to witness the meticulous process of moulding, engraving, and polishing that transforms raw materials into wearable works of art.

The Highlights
The highlight of Celuk lies in its unparalleled craftsmanship. Each piece tells a story, blending traditional Balinese motifs with contemporary designs. Whether it’s a delicate silver bracelet or an elaborate gold ornament, the village’s creations showcase the dedication and expertise of its artisans. The allure of Celuk is not just in the products but in the artistry and passion infused into every design.

Other Tourist Attractions Nearby
Celuk’s charm extends beyond its craft, connecting visitors to nearby attractions. Explore the woodcarving traditions of Mas Village, witness the mesmerizing Barong Dance in Batubulan Village, and visit the ancient Batuan Temple. For those seeking sun-soaked shores, Sanur Beach awaits, and the cultural haven of Ubud Village is a short journey away. Find other tourist attractions nearby, such as Puri Saren, Ubud Art Market, Ubud Monkey Forest, Puri Lukisan, and Tegenungan Waterfall.

Related Tours
Celuk Village is a pivotal stop on various Bali tours, including the Ubud Tour, Rafting Ubud Tour, Elephant Ride Ubud Tour, and the scenic Kintamani Tour. These curated packages offer a holistic experience, combining the cultural immersion of Celuk with the natural beauty and adventure that Bali has to offer. Explore the island’s diverse facets through these thoughtfully designed tours and create lasting memories.

Batu Bulan Village

All you need to know about Batubulan Village history, Barong Dance performance, Kecak Dance, Stone Carving Sculpture and local culture

Batubulan village has been known as a center for the art of sculpture and carving in Bali, whose name has been worldwide. This carving art by the artist of Batubulan village, Gianyar is so highly admired and in demand by foreign and domestic tourists. Not only being a center for producing various types of carvings and sculptures, Batubulan Village also offers other tourist attractions, which is a place for performing arts in Bali such as Barong Dance, Kecak Dance and Legong Dance at Barong Dance which are seen by many tourists.

The History
The history of Batubulan Village apparently started from a story of a Great Prince Kalesan. He was the adopted son of the King of Badung who in his adulthood was given a gift by the king to build a palace for him in the middle of the forest. Well get the mandate, then he went with his followers to a forest area in the eastern part of the Badung Kingdom. But a strange thing happened when he and his followers arrived at the border of the forest, they saw a lump of glowing stone (batu) that looked like the moon (bulan). Well from that incident, finally the Great Prince Kalesan established a palace at the location of the place and named the area as Batubulan.

About Batu Bulan
Batubulan Village stands on an area of approximately 6,422 km2 and administratively belongs to the Sukawati District, Gianyar Regency, Bali. Led by a Batubulan Village Head call Prebekel, for those of you who want to send letters to relatives or business relations, the Batubulan Postal Code is 80582. Batubulan Village itself is divided into three traditional sub villages (Desa Adat), namely Tegaltamu Traditional Village, Jero Kuta Traditional Village, and Dlod Tukad Traditional Village.

Each traditional village is further divided into several banjars which function to manage agricultural activities in their respective regions. Not only that, there are also several banjars in Batubulan, Gianyar, which function as places to stage various artistic attractions, such as Balinese dances such as the Kecak Dance and Barong Dance. Jambe Barong Dance Stage at Banjar Tegehe (in Dlod Tukad Traditional Village), Barong Dance at Puseh Temple of Banjar Denjalan (in Jero Kuta Traditional Village) and Sahadewa Barong and Kecak Dance at Pegambangan Village.


Interesting at Batu Bulan
One of the uniqueness of this village is the skill of it’s citizens in mastering the art of carving and sculpting statues from generation to generation. It’s no wonder that along the Batubulan Village road in Sukawati, Gianyar, it’s easy to find various galleries or art shops, You can go in there, see and buy a collection of statues or other artistic works of art as Balinese souvenirs to display at home.

Right in the middle of Village there is huge Banyan Tree, foot ball field, Batubulan Palace, Bale Budaya (culture hall) and local government office building. The foot field and culture hall use for sports and art events (PORSENI Pekan Olahraga dan Seni) every year around August to celebrate Indonesian Independent Day 17th August. There were 6 sports competitions and 7 art competitions. Among them, football, badminton, volleyball, tug-of-war for men and women, table tennis, barong competition, Balinese song karaoke competition, baleganjur competition at Batubulan youth level.

Batubulan Village also has famous 3 arts college school including SMK Negeri 1 Sukawati, SMK Negeri 2 Sukawati (SMIK) and SMK Negeri 3 Sukawati (KOKAR). These 3 college school learning how to play orchestra (Balinese Gambelan), learning Balinese Dance, how to be painter, wood carver, stone carver, silver smith and other product handy crafts.


Barong Dance
The Barong Dance is a type of traditional Balinese dance that is played by one to two people wearing costumes and masks of four legged animals. Then along with its development, Barong Dance is also manifested with two-legged animals. Barong dance is said to be an art that is part of the repertoire of pre-Hindu culture in Bali besides the Sanghyang dance. Both are religious and sacred in nature which were originally performed as a means of religious ceremonies. This dance depicts the battle between dharma (Virtue) and adharma (Ugliness). In this battle, the Barong dancers manifested virtue, meanwhile, the figure of Rangda, who looks creepy with two pointed fangs in his mouth, plays virtue. The famous one is Sahadewa Barong Stage located at Jalan SMKI, Pegambangan, Batubulan, the show starting from 9.00AM – 10.00AM.


kecak Dance
The Kecak Dance is typically performed by about forty to eighty men wearing only loincloths; their upper bodies are left bare. They form concentric circles, in the middle of which is a traditional Balinese coconut oil lamp. First they move their bodies rhythmically to the left and to the right, chanting the words “chak ke-chak ke-chak ke-chak” continuously, in slow rhythm. Gradually the rhythm speeds up and by turns they lift their hands, trembling, into the air. The kecak dance is performed for dance-dramas and the story presented is taken from the Ramayana Hindu epic. The Kecak Dance perform every day at Sahadewa Barong only from 6.30PM – 7.30PM.


The street of Batu Bulan
Batubulan village has been known as a center for the art of sculpture and carving in Bali, whose name has been worldwide. This carving art by the artist of local people from Batubulan village, Gianyar is so highly admired and in demand by foreign business tourists and domestic tourists. The street full with varieties stone carving located at Tegaltamu Village between Barong Dance Statue junction till up to Bali Bird Park. The stone carving made from sand stone the grey color, pualam stone the white one and lava stone the black one.

Buddha statues of various sizes are also in great demand by consumers from Japan, France, Germany and other European countries. Padas stone statues made of antique types are still entering the export market and even increased in number earlier this year. Stone statues in the form of various forms of animals such as frogs, horses, in addition to ancient humans, are widely used for decoration in gardens, guest rooms and workplaces.

Many statue perform as Dwarapala, the figure who guards the gate in the temple. Each of these statues is named Nandiswara which is located on the right (left of the gate) and Mahakala which is located on the left (right of the gate). The existence of both is associated with the power of Lord Shiva as one of the manifestations of God in Hinduism.

Interesting Place nearby
Some other places located near Batubulan Village is Bali Bird park, Bali Zoo Park, Butterfly Park, Puseh Batuan Temple, Celuk Silver Village, Sukawati Art Market, Mas Village, Traditional Balinese House, Tegenungan waterfall, Denpasar City, Denpasar Traditional Market, Sanur Beach,

To visit Batubulan Village and these places above can reach by take Full Day Tours and Half Day Tours or combine with Adventure Tours.

If you are staying in Ubud will take about 30 minutes drive by car local Ubud Driver or motor bike and from Kuta area will take about a hour drive by car local Bali Driver or motor bike. There is no entrance ticket to explore Batubulan Village, except if you would like to watch Barong Dance or Kecak Dance.

Ubud

Ubud is a town on the Indonesian island of Bali in Ubud District, located amongst rice paddies and steep ravines in the central foothills of the Gianyar regency. Promoted as an arts and culture centre, it has developed a large tourism industry. It forms a northern part of the Greater Denpasar metropolitan area (known as Sarbagita).

Ubud is an administrative district (kecamatan) with a population of 74,800 (as of the 2020 Census)[1] in an area of 42.38 km2. The central area of Ubud desa (village) has a population of 11,971 and an area of 6.76 km2, and receives more than three million foreign tourists each year. The area surrounding the town is made up of farms, rice paddies, agroforestry plantations, and tourist accommodations. As of 2018, more tourists visited Ubud than Denpasar to the south.

Streets
The main street is Jalan Raya Ubud (Jalan Raya means main road), which runs east–west through the center of town. Two long roads, Jalan Monkey Forest and Jalan Hanoman, extend south from Jalan Raya Ubud.

Buildings
Puri Saren Agung is a large palace located at the intersection of Monkey Forest and Raya Ubud roads. The residence of Tjokorda Gede Agung Sukawati (1910–1978), the last ruling monarch of Ubud, is still owned by the royal family. Dance performances and ceremonies are held in its courtyard. The palace was also one of Ubud’s first hotels, opening its doors back in the 1930s.
Some Hindu temples exist, such as Pura Desa Ubud, which is the main temple, Pura Taman Saraswati, and Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, the temple of death. The Gunung Kawi temple is the site of the royal tombs. Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave, is located in a steep valley just outside Ubud near the town of Bedulu.
The Moon of Pejeng, in nearby Pejeng, is the largest single-cast bronze kettle drum in the world, dating from circa 300BC. It is a popular destination for tourists interested in local culture.

Transportation
Like other towns popular with tourists in Bali, it is not permitted to order a metered taxi or ride-sharing service for pickup within Ubud. Instead, a taxi and price must be negotiated with a member of the local taxi cooperative. This protectionist system ensures the driver is from the local area, and also keeps the fares inflated to up to 10 times the rates available elsewhere.

Economy
The economy of Ubud is highly reliant on tourism which focuses on shopping, resorts, museums, yoga, and zoos. There is a strong focus on sustainable economy regarding the retail industry in Ubud, with many Bali-grown brands favoring materials and ingredients that would not cause much waste to the environment. From home and living amenities to tropical clothing brands, Ubud has quite a unique array of retail selections that have proven attractive to tourists from around the world.

One of the initiatives that have boosted Ubud as another popular tourist destination in recent years is the Ubud Food Festival (UFF). Happening in less than a week every April, this festival brings fellow restaurateurs and restaurants in Ubud together to create either special menus or particular promotions that may not be available in other months.

In contrast to the tourist area in southern Bali, the Ubud area is less densely populated by locals. However, tourists far outnumber locals, with the Gianyar regency seeing 3,842,663 tourist arrivals in 2017 – 1.3 million alone visiting Ubud Monkey Forest.

Culture
The town and area have some art museums, such as the Blanco Renaissance Museum, the Puri Lukisan Museum, the Neka Art Museum, and the Agung Rai Museum of Art. The Museum Rudana in Peliatan is nearby. Galleries promoting local and overseas crafts are abound, too, in Ubud. Some often hold exhibitions focused on stimulating a dialogue between both local and international artists, and less about selling artworks. One of the primary examples is BIASA ArtSpace, founded by art enthusiast and fashion designer Susanna Perini.

The Tek Tok is a traditional Balinese dance that is accompanied by the musical sound of mouth ‘Tek Tok’ altogether with various combinations of body movement and other sounds. The story Draupadi Parwa told in the Tek Tok Dance tells a moral message, when a woman who embodies the values of patience, sacrifice, compassion, devotion, and holy sincerity is disrespected, then disasters and calamities will befall a kingdom or state. This story also conveys the message that truth, virtue, devotion, and genuine compassion will always be protected by God. The Tek Tok dance performance is held regularly at the Bali Culture Center (BCC) in Ubud four times a week. Ubud Writers and Readers Festival (UWRF) is held every year, which is participated by writers and readers from all over the world.

Many Balinese dances are performed around Ubud including the Legong by the Peliatan Dance Group, the first troupe to travel abroad.

Nature
The Mandala Suci Wenara Wana is known to Westerners as the Ubud Monkey Forest. The grounds contain an active temple and are located near the southern end of Monkey Forest Street. This protected area houses the Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, and as of June 2017, approximately 750 crab-eating macaques (Macaca fascicularis) monkeys live there.

The Campuhan Ridge Walk is a hill in nearby Campuhan, from where one can see two rivers, Tukad Yeh Wos Kiwa, and Tukad Yeh Wos Tengen, merge. A one-meter wide paved-block track runs about two kilometers to the top of the hill which is a popular spot to watch the sunset.

Goa Gajah: Also known as the Elephant Cave, Goa Gajah is an archaeological site with intricate carvings and a tranquil meditation cave.