Versi Bahasa Indonesia: https://indonesia.tripcanvas.co/id/bali/tempat-wisata-murah-gratis/
For those of you wanting to go on a holiday without busting a hole in your pocket – this one’s for you. Why pay for over-priced tourist experiences when you can get the real deal for free?
Swim in a gorgeous little hole in the sea, or get rejuvenated in a lovely hot spring soak at Tabanan Hot Springs. How about visiting the Village of the Deaf, or watching the ancient dramatic dance known as Gambuh?
Whether you’re interested in gorgeous sights and fun activities, or wish to experience the unique Indonesian arts and culture – these 33 free things to do in Bali are sure to let you find adventure and explore to your heart’s content.
Also read:
32 incredible things to do that prove Bali is the craziest
22 beautiful hidden natural attractions in Bali
Read on and enjoy!
Sights and Activities
1. Bask in a Sea of Gold – Desa Belok
We heard about the amazing Marigold flower fields along the roadside between Bedugal and Kintamani and simply had to add this in.
Marigolds are significant in Balinese culture as its golden colour is associated with Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa, the Supreme Balinese God.
Photo via: gusdephotography
Commonly used for daily offerings in Bali – fresh Marigolds, rice and incense make the perfect set, seen in beautiful handmade offerings everywhere.
If you’re out for scenery that’s a little different, this sea of gold is bound to have you whipping out your cameras to capture the memories of your great (free) Bali adventure.
Marigold flower fields
Location: Desa Belok
Getting There: Take a 15 to 30 minute drive from Bedugul to Kintamani, and you will find the Marigold fields by the roadside.
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2. Catch the Magnificent Waterblow at Nusa Dua
Envision majestic Indian Ocean waves crashing against rock cliffs – have you ever seen a waterblow in person? Visit the hidden rock cliff in Nusa Dua to witness one of nature’s prettiest sights.
This natural phenomenon happens when waves hit the narrow space within the rock cliff where pressure builds, and water then blows up!
Photo via: Perfect Travelling
And remember; be careful to keep a distance to avoid getting wet.
Photo via: corural
Magnificent Waterblow
Address: Nusa Dua Beach, Semenanjung Nusa Dua, Badung, Bali 80517
Getting There: Located near Hotel Grand Hyatt, find the wide grass field, then follow the path to the waterblow entrance.
Photo via: Penginapanonline
3. Feel like Royalty at the Lotus Lagoon
With a sight so grand as the Lotus Lagoon at Candidasa, you’ll be sure to feel like royalty.
Photo via: Миклуха-Маклай
One of Candidasa’s major landmarks (and one of the prettiest too!), the Lotus Lagoon boasts of a huge lake filled with pretty pink and fuchsia lotuses – along with a garden island decorated with statues right in the middle.
Photo via: Photoshelter
It’s a sight you’ll definitely want to see, and when you’re done, feel free to visit the main town temple. It’s supposedly been around since the 11th century), and is conveniently located just opposite the Lotus Lagoon!
Lotus Lagoon
Address: Candidasa, Karangasem, Bali, Indonesia 80851
Coordinates here
4. Visit the Broken Sea – Pasih Uwug
Pasih Uwug, also known as the broken sea, is one unique attraction in Nusa Penida that happens to be a cool geological phenomenon.
Why is it known as the broken sea? On first sight, you’ll see a natural arch created by the rock cliffs. The arch – or the hole in the rock cliff as some would say – actually used to be a cave!
Full image credit: ManButur Photography
The floor of the cave had collapsed, creating the arch we see today. The hole in the cliff has also allowed ocean waters to flow through – creating a gorgeous natural pool on the other side to marvel at, and even swim in!
Photo via: Polyailchenko
Pasih Uwug
Address: Jalan Batu Nunggul, Nusa Penida
5. Nothing like a Secret Getaway at the Angel’s Billabong
The Angel’s Billabong is one of Nusa Penida’s secret getaways in the form of a marvelous natural infinity pool.
Photo via: Sarah Octova Sinaga
With its emerald hues and crystalline waters, the Angel’s Billabong is the epitome of stunning. And apparently, the green floors of this particular infinity pool are so comfortable to walk on (not slippery), it actually feels carpeted.
Photo via: patbom
Imagine that! We sure wish we were lounging around at Angel’s Billabong this very moment.
Angel’s Billabong
Address: Banjar Sumpang, Desa Bunga Mekar, Nusa Penida
Getting There: It’s not too far from Pasih Uwug (the broken sea). A half-kilometre walk from Manta Point to a nearby reef, climb down one of the sides of the edgy coral walls to swim in this surreal pool.
6. The Real Treasure of Suluban Beach
Everyone knows Suluban Beach to be a surfers’ paradise, but Suluban Cave might just be the real treasure here.
Looking almost like a movie set from the Pirates of the Caribbean series with its otherworldly glamour, Suluban Cave oozes both mystery and mystic.
Photo via: lovethesepics
Located directly under Uluwatu, the cave actually leads up to the beach near Uluwatu Temple, another incredible sea temple you should definitely visit too!
Photo via: tuulavintage
Suluban Beach
Getting There: Located at the Bukit Peninsula, Suluban Beach is connected to Kuta and Denpasar through Jimbaran by the busy Jalan Bypass Nusa Dua and this is the only route in, approximately 34 km from Denpasar. Coordinates here
7. Snorkel in Crystal-clear Waters at Nusa Penida
Forget the Maldives.
Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida boasts of a white sand beach and crystal-clear waters with stunning visibility. This slice of paradise is perfect for those looking for a lazy day by the beach.
Photo via atata_ata
Crystal Bay also happens to be a dive site famous for spotting the giant oceanic Sunfish (Mola Mola). In fact, many divers come here just to see this spectacular fish, especially between June and October.
Photo via: okdiversbali
If you’re not there to dive, you may want to slip on your snorkeling gear and get some action. As a visitor once said, Crystal Bay is a fantastic spot to just snorkel, relax and soak up the sun!
Crystal Bay
Address: West of Nusa Penida. At Banjar Penida, west of Sakti village, on the northwestern coast facing Nusa Ceningan.
Getting There: Take the only small road which heads west from the main road at Sakti village, and keep going until you hit the coast. Just outside the bay, there is a huge rock (or a small island) which can be used as a point of reference.
8. Soak in a ‘Jacuzzi’ on the Tegal Wangi Beach
Another wonder of nature that should not be missed – make your way to Tegal Wangi Beach. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by this gorgeous escape.
Ever wanted to soak in your private tub with an amazing view of the ocean? Tegal Wangi Beach gives you exactly that.
Photo via: Ragaindra
With little holes on the shore filled with seawater fresh from the ocean – you can be sure to have a comfortable soak in your beachy ‘jacuzzi’.
Photo via: Ivan Marky
A romantic place to have a lovely date at; make sure to take lots of photos to commemorate the time spent with your loved one.
Tegal Wangi Beach
Address: Jalan Pura Tegalwangi, Badung, Jimbaran
Getting There: Walk down the hill from Pura Tegalwangi. Coordinates here
9. Catch the Sunset with a Difference – Kelan Beach
One of the best places to catch the sunset, Kelan Beach is situated next to the airport.
Photo via: Made Suwita
It’s the perfect spot to capture an incredible photo of a plane flying up against the setting sun. And when you’re done , be sure to instagram this awe-inspiring photo!
Photo via: Flickr by Bandem Suandi
Kelan Beach
Getting There: Kelan beach is located next to Ngurah Rai international airport’s runway, at the northernmost section of Jimbaran Bay.
Access Kelan Beach via Jalan Segra Madu (Segara Madu Street), or walk on the beach from Kedongana via the fish market to Kelan Beach. Find your way to a spot at the end of Kelan Beach right next to the runway to increase your chances of catching a plane in your photo.
10. Sliding Down a Waterfall – Aling-aling waterfall
Visit the 35-metre tall Aling-Aling Waterfall, unique for its twin falls due to the split at the top, leaving two streams that flow at surprisingly different speeds.
But what’s the most unique thing about this waterfall that sets it apart from the rest? The water flowing down has slowly created a natural water slide.
Photo via: ibhekti
If you’ve ever thought how great it would be to slide down a waterfall, Aling-Aling is your fantasy come true.
Aling-Aling Waterfall
Getting There: To get to Aling-Aling Waterfall, drive from Singaraja to the village of Sambangan, where there are some road signs. However, asking a local may be required as tourists rarely visit the waterfall.
11. Up for a Hauntingly Good Time? Taman Rekreasi Bedugul Hotel
Visit Taman Rekreasi Bedugul Hotel if you’re up for a paranormal adventure.
The hotel’s construction was halted after terrorists’ bomb attacks in 2002 – and being half-completed, the place has been left to slowly rot since.
Despite being almost ready for opening day with toilets, beds and more, it has never seen a single customer.
Photos via: Piet Mulder
Aptly called the ‘Ghost Palace Hotel’, go down and explore for a hauntingly good time! (Also if you’re brave enough!)
And if you’re interested in exploring other abandoned areas, check out other abandoned places in Bali!
Taman Rekreasi Bedugul Hotel
Getting There: Drive upwards to Bedugul from Kuta, Taman Rekreasi Bedugul Hotel is one and a half hour’s drive away!
12. Go on the Romantic Campuhan Ridge Walk
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is an unusually romantic short trek that will take you through rice fields, past quaint Indonesian huts and beautifully designed villas.
Photo via: Comohotels
It is best to get a head start early in the morning (preferably before the sun rises) to prevent the scorching sun from ruining this experience.
Photo via: flyingfourchette
Butterflies will accompany you on the leisurely 2-3km stroll, and you’ll be able to take a pit stop on your way back at Karsa Kafe. Make sure to stay sufficiently hydrated and drink up before you make your way back out.
Campuhan Ridge Walk
Getting There: Start the journey at the Warwick Ibah Luxury Villas & Spa on Jl. Campuhan and head towards the school where parking is available. Upon reaching the Campuhan bridge, take the pathway on the right that leads towards Gunung Lebah Temple and continue till you see a paved road. Follow the paved road, for that’s where your journey begins.
Here’s a great guide on how to get there
13. Abandoned Planes make Great Adventures
Have you heard about the abandoned planes in Kuta and Pandawa? Apparently, journeying to find these planes seems to be a popular thing to do in Bali now!
Photo via: Simon Potter, imgur
From an old Boeing 737 strangely set in the middle of residential houses in Kuta to another one in South Kuta near Pandawa beach – these abandoned planes make for truly fascinating photos.
And for those who’ve always wished to be able to touch the wing of a plane, or even walk on it – feel free to do so when you come up on these abandoned planes!
Photo via: fashionferno
Abandoned planes in Bali
Getting There: The first abandoned plane is located between Dunkin Donuts (Jl. Raya Legian Kuta) and Indo Nature Stone in Kuta. Coordinates here.
The second abandoned plane is located in South Kuta, along the Jalan Nusa Dua Selatan road. It is a 5 min drive and/or 40 min walk from Pandawa Beach. Coordinates here.
14. Instagram the Giant Banyan Tree
No, it’s not a hotel we’re talking about, it’s the actual giant Banyan Tree in the village of Gesing, in northern Bali.
Believed to be 700 years old, and at 85-metres tall (!!!), this incredible tree has a maze of roots for you to walk through and explore.
Photo via: Supriyadi
The more adventurous traveller might even want to take it a notch higher (pun unintended), and climb up the twining roots around the trunk of the giant tree.
Some food for thought – the Balinese believe spirits live in banyan trees, and according to legend, locals used to hide in the tree from the Dutch during the occupation.
Lastly, remember to make a wish on this giant Banyan Tree as it’s said to be a wishing tree!
Giant Banyan Tree
Address: Munduk, Banjar, Buleleng, Bali
Getting There: From Munduk proceed to the village of Gessing (5km away). Look for, and follow the signpost that will lead you to the giant Banyan tree.
15. What about this Mysterious Beach of Boulders?
This cool hidden beach paradise in Bali, Yeh Leh Beach, also known as Mystery Boulder Beach, is truly a spectacular find.
Instead of the typical sandy shores, Yeh Leh Beach presents a weird and wonderful decoration of thousands of boulders lying on the shore.
Covered in algae, or washed clean by the waves, no one knows where or how these rocks have come to rest on the shores of Yeh Leh.
Photo via: Kirana Photography
Go down during low tide to see the crazy amazing view, and if possible, make sure to catch the sunset – which lights up every shining rock on the shore.
Mystery Boulder Beach
Getting There: Yeh Leh Beach is located in Jembrana, just off the Denpasar-Gilimanuk highway.
16. Vintage Car Lovers, Welcome to Paradise
Apart from abandoned planes, a different type of transportation awaits in Kuta – vintage cars and scooters. Think Plymouth Deluxe 1951, Australian 1961 Ek Holden, Classic VW Kombi Vans, vintage Vespas, and more.
According to David from Balithecreativesojourn who spoke with us about the vintage car scene in Bali, “Aside from Vespas and old Italian scooters, there seems to be well-established clubs dealing with VW Kombi vans and Australian Holden cars. It’s surprising what you find in Bali.”
Photo via: balithecreativesojourn, exoticridesbali, heinkelscooter
We fully agree! Who would’ve thought we’d be able to find vintage treasures such as these all the way in Bali, especially in Kuta? Not too shabby, Bali, not too shabby at all.
If you are interested to have an exotic ride, please contact: info@exoticridesbali.com
Phone: +62 361 237008
Official Website
17. See Nature in all its Balinese Splendour
When in Bali, one must definitely check out the amazing rice paddy fields. The splendor of the rice fields, especially Tegallalang Rice Terraces in particular, will amaze you with its beauty.
Set on high slopes, Tegallalang is one of the three most beautiful terraced landscapes in Ubud.
Photo via: cilelecile
The perfect place for painters, artists and nature lovers, you may even head to the many art stalls and cafes nearby – and get a piece of art/Bali to bring back home with you.
Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Address: Between Tegallalang and Ubud, Ubud, Bali 80517
Coordinates here
18. No Ninja turtles here! – TCEC
For a family-friendly outing, the turtle centre on Serangan Island will make everyone happy, adults or kids alike.
The Turtle Conservation and Education Centre (TCEC) offers a good deal of activities, from watching baby turtles hatch at the hatchling centre and holding juvenile turtles; to seeing turtles of different sizes in observation pools, and more – a must-visit in Bali if you love animals.
Photo via: Jule, April Ferguson, Amir Azahari
If you’re lucky enough to come during feeding time, your kids will definitely have fun watching the feeding frenzy.
Before you leave, don’t forget to sign the guestbook and get some souvenirs!
TCEC
Address: Tukad Wisata No. 4, Link. Pojok-Serangan, Denpasar Selatan, Bali 80229
Contact: +62 813 3849 0357
Getting There: To get that experience during turtle breeding season in May, June and July, from Denpasar, head to the east of the city and get to Turtle Education and Conservation Center (TCEC) in the island of Pulau Serangan. This island is interconnected to the main island of Bali by road and still belongs to the municipality of the capital city of Bali, Denpasar. You can take a motorbike, a car or a boat to get there. No public transportation available.
19. Want a Free and Ultra Luxurious Hot Spring Soak?
Apparently, the sacred Banjar Hot Springs is renowned for its magical healing waters.
Surrounded by lush greenery, the hot spring is fed through water pouring out of the mouths of stone-carved mythical dragon-like creatures – almost looking like a scene out of Game of Thrones. (Khaleesi, your bath is ready?)
Photo via: morgane
Frolic and soak in any of the three pools available, filled with sulphuric spring water at 37 degrees Celsius. This ‘magic’ water is also believed to cure skin disease.
Photo via: thatsofarahz
Whether you believe in the magical properties of Banjar Hot Springs, a soak in these pools will surely relieve some of the tensions in your body, and leave you feeling refreshed and light as air.
Banjar Hot Springs
Address: Jalan Banjar, Banjar, Lovina Beach Area
Getting There: Access the pools through the village of Banjar. (Arrive before 10am if you want to beat the crowd!)
20. The Marvel of Tamblingan Lake
Kept largely untouched, Tamblingan Lake, which means spiritual medicine, is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a place of serenity and stunningly scenic views.
Photo via: yandeardananaphotography
Breathe in the fresh cold air, and trek through the rain forest full of flora and fauna, there’s much to be seen and done at Tamblingan Lake.
If you wish, you may even rent boats for fishing, or simply to row around the magnificent lake.
Photo via: Ari Amphibia
As you walk around the area, you will also find many seating areas for you to relax and have a hearty chat with your travel companions.
Tamblingan Lake
Address: Desa Munduk, Kecamatan Banjar, Bali. Coordinates here
21. A Floating House in the Middle of a Lake?
Lake Batur certainly provides a strangely romantic sight in the form of an abandoned half-submerged house in the middle of a lake.
Probably abandoned after a flood, the house is now home to Lake Batur’s watery residents. Photographers also love journeying down just to snap some intriguing shots of the scene.
Photo via: Agoes Antara
And if you didn’t already know, Lake Batur is a crater lake situated on the active volcano Mount Batur. With its clear reflective waters, it is definitely one of the many places you may go to get the best views of Bali.
A Floating House in Lake Batur
Getting There: You can either take a 30-minute drive to Lake Batur (in Kintamani) from Ubud or join one of the many private tours to Lake Batur and Mount Batur. Tourist shuttle buses between southern Bali and Lovina stop off at Kintamani.
Coordinates here
22. Of Pretty Colours on the Ocean
Make your way to the shores of Sanur and catch a unique glimpse of the local fishermen sailing in colourful traditional boats.
These boats are known as ‘jukung’ and come in a plethora of colours that would make a rainbow jealous.
Photo via: balisuryadivecenter
The fishermen sail away in the evening and come back before dawn with their catch to sell at the seafood markets.
However, if you’re looking to go surf and snorkel at offshore reefs and islands nearby, the jukung are also available for hire!
Shore of Sanur
Address: Sanur, Denpasar, Bali
23. The Unique Water Palace of Dreams – Ubud Water Palace
By day, the Ubud Water Palace is majestic. And by night, it morphs into something more magic than majestic.
Walk down the bridge through the expansive lotus ponds and make sure to check out the statues and architecture around. Walking through the Ubud Water Palace is almost like walking through an ornate art masterpiece.
Photo via: divergenttravelers
You’ll notice how detailed each intricately stone-carved feature is, from the dragon-like gargoyles guarding the bridge, to the stone-carvings adorning the palace.
And if possible, make sure to drop by Café lotus for an indescribably amazing break amidst the lotus ponds.
Ubud Water Palace
Address: Jl. Raya Ubud, Ubud, Bali
Coordinates here
Culture and the Arts
24. Travel to the Village of the Deaf
Bengkala, also known as the Village of the Deaf (or the village with a heart, or so we think), can be a life-changing experience.
This hidden gem, despite its name, only has less than 50 deaf people (known as kolok) in a village of 2,000 people.
However, the entire village makes it a point to make their deaf feel the sense of belonging through language. The deaf villagers are given proper education, and use a unique sign language, the Kata kolok (deaf talk) to communicate.
And Bengkala’s Kata Kolok is distinct from Balinese language and any other sign language in the world.
(If you take a trip to the village, which is currently funded by private charities, and donate or sponsor a deaf child, you will be helping to give them more opportunities to education too.)
Village of the Deaf
Address: Bengkala, Kubutambahan, Buleleng, Bali
Address: Travel to the northern region of Bali by bus to the city of Singaraja then proceed to the village of Jagaraga. From there you can walk all the way to Bengkala (10km), you will find the welcome sign. For more convenience, hire a motorbike or a local with transport to bring you directly to Bengkala.
25. Balinese Batik-making and Weaving
If you want to learn more about the intricate craftsmanship of Balinese batiks, then you’ll have to see it for yourself.
Travel through the village of Tohpati and you will find a few large batik factories where you may visit to watch the artists at work.
Watch as they draw designs on the fabric with pencil and then wax, and paint before they boil and dry the fabric to crisp batik perfection.
Photo via: maestrobali, balidriverinfo, suryanathatours, allbalitourservice
And once they’re done, feel free to purchase the batik to bring home. Check out
Batik Popiler II, one of the recommended shops in Tohpati village.
Balinese Batik-making and Weaving
Location: Coordinates here
26. Stone-carving, Wood-carving or Mask-making for you?
Other interesting things to see along the village of Batuan are the scores of stone-carving workshops.
As you make your way through Batuan, you’ll pass by these workshops with many completed stone-carved statues on display, along with the stone-carvers working away.
Photo via: tropicalholidaydeals, mailasail
If you’d prefer wood-carving or mask-making, then Mas is the place you want to be.
Photo via: icbali
Located in the main road from Denpasar to Ubud, Mas Village is famous for its distinct style of wood-carving. A particular place you may want to check out is the Mas Carving Centre.
Watch as the artisans work their magic with wood, and masks, and as usual, feel free to purchase one to bring home with you!
Stone-carving: Batuan Sukawati, Gianyar Regency, Bali. Coordinates here
Wood-carving and mask-making: Mas Villages Ubud, Bali. Coordinates here
27. The Famed Jewellery Workshop of Celuk
Owned by a Balinese family of silversmiths whose ancestors even created ceremonial items, Prapen is a well-known jewellery workshop and showroom.
Situated in the traditional metal-smithing village of Celuk, Prapen boasts of jewellery created using secret techniques that have been passed through the families over centuries of generations.
Photo via: Jakartapost, Travelinggrandparents
In the open workshop full of workers, you may watch as they go about the tedious, yet extremely rewarding process of crafting up these exquisite Balinese baubles.
If you want, you may even learn how to make your own jewellery and bring it home too (for a price, of course)!
The Famed Jewellery Workshop of Celuk
Address: Jalan Jagaraga 66, Celuk, Gianyar, Bali
Phone: +62 361 291 333
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 8:00 am – 11:00 pm
Official Website
28. In the Village of the Artists…
One must definitely visit the art galleries. Ubud is home to many galleries and as we promised, here are some art galleries you may visit without having to pay an entrance fee.
First up, Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets. This interesting museum was created to build a greater awareness for the traditional art form of masks and puppets.
Photo via: clubrunner blob core windows
Accordingly, it houses the world’s largest collection of masks and puppets, with over 6000 pieces kept in five joglos (traditional Javanese teak houses)
If that’s not enough, head down to renowned Balinese painter I Gusti Nyoman Lempad’s home. Despite being more of a family home than a museum, you will be able to see Lempad’s works, along with the works of other artists.
Photo via: liliputp
Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets
Address: Jalan Tegal Bingin, Mas, Ubud, Gianyar Sub-District, Bali
Contact: +62 361 8987 493
Official Website
Lempad’s House
Address: Jalan Raya Ubud, Ubud
Getting There: It’s on the main street, and is opposite Nomad restaurant. (Do be respectful when you visit to see the works, as Lempad’s family still live there!)
Opening hours: 8am to 10pm
29. Learn how to Make Salt from Seawater
At the sea salt farm in the fishing village of Amed, you will get to watch as traditional salt farmers process seawater into salt.
We know, we know, it’s not a skill you’ll need since you can simply purchase salt off the shelves off your local mom-and-pop store.
However, watching the salt farmers at their work can be truly fascinating and educational especially for the kids.
Photo via: Whatisabean, nomadiceats
First, seawater is sieved and filtered, then poured into hollowed coconut tree trunks and dried under the sun.
Next, when the seawater has evaporated, farmers will harvest the crystallized salt by scraping it out with a pair of bamboo ladles. And the best part? You may even get samples as souvenirs!
Getting There: Amed sea salt farm can be reached along Jalan Abang, not far from Selang Beach. One of the recommended one to visit is behind Warung Ole. Coordinates here.
30. Finding Culture at Morning Markets
As any seasoned traveller would say, local markets remain one of the best ways to integrate into the local scene – giving you the opportunity observe the unique things that make Bali, Bali.
Whether you’ll be shopping or not, you’ll have an immersive experience with the Balinese culture; through the discovery of food, trinkets, clothes, souvenirs, and more available.
Photo via: Travelling Bali, Lonely Planet, Jakartapost
And finding all things uniquely Balinese at local markets is exactly what makes travelling worth the travel.
For a start, Pasar Badung in Denpasar is open 24/7 and provides a large variety of goods – groceries, Balinese and Javanese clothes, ceremonial items, traditional wood kitchen crafts, and even raw materials like Batik fabrics.
Near Pasar Badung in Denpasar, Pasar Kumbasari offers even more goods in a more artsy form such as sarongs, woodcarvings, paintings and much more.
We especially like that these markets offer ‘local’ prices and are extremely value-for-money!
Pasar Badung – Jl. Sulawesi No.1, Dangin Puri Kangin, Bali 80233
Pasar Kumbasari – Jalan Gajah Mada, Denpasar, Bali
31. Be at Peace in the Tranquility of an Anand Ashram Ubud
If you are in need of some peace, perhaps visiting a place flowing with good spiritual energy might be just the thing for you.
A visit to an ashram (spiritual retreat) will allow you to experience indescribable tranquility. Have you been to a spa and heard the type of music spas love to play while customers get pampered?
An ashram gives you the real thing. Imagine the calming, lulling strains of birdsong, flowing waters, and even the sonorous chime of bells. Make your way to Anand Ashram Ubud and wander away.
Photo via: theglobalsponge
Wandering around an ashram may not only be a soothing balm to your soul – you may even find yourself considering staying a day or two just to enjoy and luxuriate in the utterly peaceful atmosphere.
Anand Ashram Ubud
Address: Jl. Sriwedari Km. 3, Ubud, Bali 80571
Getting There: Anand Ashram Ubud is 600 meters after the Tegal Lantang Temple
Contact: +62 822 3709 4865
Official Website
32. Discover Balinese History through an Ancient Temple – Pura Alas Jagasari
Up for a little historical tour? Explore one of Bali’s most important and ancient temples, Pura Alas Jagasari.
Consisting of three mud brick temples, each a representation of the head, body and feet, Jagasari Temple is the first Hindu Temple in Bali, hailing from the 8th century.
Photo via: mutiaramedia
Other little historical things to note, Jagasari has a temple gate that is shaped according to the kingdom of Kediri in East Java during during the 10th to 11th century.
And interestingly, within the temple stand ancient statues also of the 11th century, believed to be the likeness of King Wharmadewa and Empress Mahendradatta.
Pura Alas Jagasari
Address: Penempahan Village, Manukaya, Tampaksiring, Gianyar, Bali
33. Watch Ancient Balinese Dance Drama
On the 1st and 15th of every month at Butuan Temple, the Gambuh Desa Batuan Ensemble (when in Bali) presents a Gambuh performance.
Accordingly, Gambuh is Bali’s oldest surviving performance art with its music, literature, acting and dance originating from Java during the Majapahit era (1292 to 1527).
The Gambuh orchestra utilises drums, gongs, bells and flutes to create dynamic musical structure that underlay nearly all Balinese music.
Photo via: gambuhdesabatuanensemble
Several performances include The Stabbing of the Horse, a tale of finding love lost, and healing; Bali Jewels, a performance that interestingly enough, finishes with a warped version of Shakespeare’s Hamlet; and others.
If you’re around on the 1st or 15th of the month, do head down to Batuan Temple for to catch the Gambuh Desa Batuan Ensemble in action. (That’s if they’re in Bali at that time!)
Ancient Balinese Dance Drama
Location: Jalan Raya Batuan, Indonesia. Coordinates here. Batuan is located in central Bali about 10 kilometres south of Ubud and about 15 kilometres northeast of Denpasar.
Email: I Wayan Bawa (bawa_77zamrud@yahoo.com)
Phone: +6281936233066
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 8:00 am – 11:00 pm
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