Cultural Sites

Tucked deep in the ravines of Campuhan Valley, Ubud, at the confluence of two rivers, Pura Gunung Lebah is a spiritual cornerstone of the region. Its founding is tied to the arrival of one of Bali’s most important historical figures, and was part of the earliest waves of sacred Hindu sites being upon the island.

Although the majority of Balinese today practice Hinduism, Bali was once a significant centre where both Hinduism and Buddhism flourished. This shared history is evident in many temples across the island that exhibit Buddhist influences. One such temple, located in Tampaksiring, represents a unique fusion of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs, a convergence that dates back

Named after the Balinese lunisolar calendar, SAKA Museum is a cultural destination found within the verdant and expansive AYANA Bali, Jimbaran. Set inside a breathtaking building, this one-of-a-kind museum welcomes all who are curious to learn about specific aspects of Balinese culture and traditions with their themed exhibitions and displays. SAKA Museum stands surrounded by

Take a peek into Bali’s local food markets, where chaos and colour, intense smells, sights and sounds provide an authentic experience of the food culture. A journey into a Bali market is the best way immerse oneself into everyday life on the island! Markets anywhere in the world are great places to catch a glimpse

When we speak of Balinese royalty, we would normally associate this with the Hinduism and indeed the puri temples we are accustom to here. However, in Denpasar, there is proof of a princess that married into the Madura kingdom and converted to Islam. Sadly, her faith led to tragedy following a grave misunderstanding upon her

Featuring masks used in shamanistic practices, communal rituals, and theatrical performances, this gem speaks of the human impulse to transform one’s identity. The Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets presents a treasure trove of heritage quite unlike anything else. Celebrating cultures and traditions by housing over 1,300 masks and 5,700 puppets from across the

Naga, or dragon, is a renowned mythical creature and found in lore across the world. It also plays a significant role in many of Bali’s renowned myths and legends—one of which is Naga Besuki in the legends of Pura Besakih. However, there is one temple in Belimbing Village that has its history intertwined with not

Chinese New Year is a time when all the temples are decked out in fresh coats of paint, bright red Chinese lanterns, sashes and bows. Apart from being a time to feast and reunite with family, Chinese New Year is a festivity accompanied by a large array of customs and rituals. There are quite a

Dupa or incense, is ubiquitous across the island, found wafting in every temple in Bali. That is, except for one. This is Pura Dalem Kahyangan Kedaton, also known as Pura Alas Kedaton, founded in the depths of a monkey-populated forest. According to an inscription in Sading Village, Mengwi, Badung Regency, the temple was built by

Found along the roadside in the village of Pejeng is said to be one of the oldest temples in Bali. It is home to a relic from the Bronze Age, a bronze drum, believed to have illuminated the village of Pejeng in ancient times. This is Pura Penataran Sasih, which was founded in 1266 AD

A unique custom takes place in one of Bali’s mountain villages, whereby the placentas of newborn babies are placed inside coconuts and hung on trees. Setra Ari-ari, or the placenta graveyard, is certainly one of Kintamani’s more obscure destinations. Bayung Gede village is neatly tucked into one of the gaping valleys of Kintamani. It is