The Ancient Archaeological Sites of Bali
Bali’s archaeological sites seem to stand outside and beyond the reaches of time. Traces of the old Hindu civilisation can be found in many corners of the island, and the excitement one feels when strolling along their ancient pathways is indescribable. PURA KEBO EDAN Before we get started, here’s a quick lesson in Bahasa Indonesia:
Tihingan, The Village of Musical Craftsmen
Tihingan is where the music on the island comes from, a rare gem even in the artsy, culturally rich Bali. Indeed, the traditional Gamelan orchestra is one of Bali’s unique characteristics. From a simple celebration on the island’s rural villages to grand temple ceremonies, the orchestra is always played as an integral part of the
Bali’s Beguiling Chinese Temples
Here and there around Bali are gorgeous Chinese temples. Known as klenteng they are mostly old and have seen their share of history and hard times. Indonesia and Bali have long had contact with China. Trade started centuries ago and after time, these traders established small communities which then needed to have a place of
The Holy Spring Temple
Thousands of steps lead down, down, down, through pristine jungle. Along the way, shrines are decorated with fresh offerings, although because we are very early, there is no sign of human life anywhere. We are heading to the holy springs of Sebatu, a little known place that is right off the tourist trail, but well
Temples of Tampaksiring
The major archaeological sites in Tampaksiring seem to stand outside and beyond the reaches of time. Traces of the old Hindu civilisation can be found in many corners of the area, and the excitement one feels when strolling along their ancient pathways is indescribable. The name Tampasiring is derived from the words “Tampak”, meaning foot,
Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets
Featuring masks used in shamanistic practices, communal rituals, and theatrical performances, this Sukawati gem speaks of the human impulse to transform one’s identity. Celebrating cultures, traditions, by housing over 1,300 masks and 5,700 puppets from across the Indonesian archipelago, China, Europe, Latin America, and Africa, the Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets is an
Tirta Empul: Bali’s Hidden Heritage
Locked way in the vicinity of Tampaksiring, Tirta Empul is one of a series of ancient and holy temples that draws the crowds every day of the year. The name, which means “holy water spring”, is bestowed on this source of holy water, which feeds a series pools and fish ponds. A group of temples
Temples by the Sea
The coastlines of Bali are home to many of the island’s ancient Hindu temples. With grandeur architecture and captivating ocean backdrops, quite a number of these temples are some of the most photographed objects due to their exquisite designs, luring visitors to the island to come and pay a visit to complete their Bali travel
Tirta Gangga and The Palaces of East Bali
Karangasem in East Bali was once a powerful kingdom with captivating landscapes, fascinating history, boisterous traditional markets, and grand palaces. Today, a visit to the regency allows travellers to step back in time as they wander through the beautiful, manicured gardens of Karangasem water palaces. If the walls at these Bali palaces could talk, they
A Cleansing Ritual at Tirta Sudamala
The melukat cleansing ceremony is an important part Balinese ritual, and at Tirta Sudamala holy springs, you too can be purified the Balinese way: More than half of our bodies are made up of water. This essential liquid is needed by the brain to manufacture hormones, it helps to deliver oxygen to our body parts, regulate our
Sacred Sites By The Pakerisan River
Locked between the stands of verdant jungle, the pure waters of the Pejeng and Pakerisan streams gurgle their way over rocks and convoluted water courses. These two rivers form a holy rectangular area that is home to many ancient monuments. This area was once alive with monks and seers. “Rishis” or holy men came from
Pura Luhur Candi Narmada
Bali is known as the island of a thousand temples. I couldn’t agree more as temples might be the easiest thing to find on the island. For a start, every Hindu family on the island has a sacred compound with shrines inside; shrines where the spirits of their ancestors reside, shrines for the spirit of
Prayers at Pura Kehen
Exploring Bali is always a rewarding venture and it is so nice to get out of the fervid south and see what it is that makes this island special. Recently we got word that there was a big ceremony on at Pura Kehen in Bangli – always a great thing for those photographically inclined. Anyone
