Pura Dalem Jagaraga, History Carved into the Walls
Mentioned briefly in our travel feature on North Bali, Pura Dalem Jagaraga deserves its own story, as this temple shares insight into Bali’s colonial history and indeed typifies the distinct characteristics of the northern temples. Pura Dalem Jagaraga is found in the Sawan district of Buleleng Regency. It stands quietly on a village road, opposite
Tirta Gangga: The Water of the Ganges
On the borders of Amlapura, Tirta Gangga is one of the most distinct and recognisable places in Bali, a place where history meets leisure, and architecture meets nature. This estate, built in 1946, is the sister site to Taman Ujung, also built by the King of Karangasem. Stepping into the one-hectare water palace complex, the atmosphere
Taman Ujung Water Palace: The Garden at the End
Taman Ujung Sukasada is one of these historical sites. Often referred to as the ‘Water Palace’, it is in some ways a modern puri, or royal palace, built by the last ‘official’ King of Karangasem, I Gusti Bagus Jelantik. Serving under the title of Anak Agung Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem, the king reigned from 1908 to 1950,
Museum Gedong Arca: Clues from Prehistoric Bali
For the history buffs out there, Museum Gedong Arca in Blahbatuh, Gianyar, is a lesser-visited museum that houses ancient artefacts dating back to Bali’s palaeolithic era, including the largest collection of ancient sarcophagi. Most people’s perception of Balinese history is dominated by events of the last millennium. If we rewind the clock, we will see
Out for a Family Adventure: Best Outdoor Family Activities in Bali
One of the best things about Bali is that it offers a whole host of outdoor experiences, great for children and adults alike. With its rugged and mountainous landscape filled with verdant forests, down to the coastline where white sands and sparkling seas await, the island is one giant playground for the adventurous soul. There
Pura Samuan Tiga and the Evolution of Bali’s Temple Philosophy
The structure, philosophy and positioning of a Balinese temple is no accident. It is well thought out, imbued with symbolism and the result of history. Pura Samuan Tiga is part of that history: a temple where wise men gathered centuries ago to unite Bali’s religious sects and redefine temple planning across the island. Located in
Trans Studio Bali: Experience Bali’s Epic Indoor Theme Park
Trans Studio Bali is a destination full of surprises. Found inside the Trans Studio Studio Mall Bali, this epic indoor theme park features a whole host of activities to try, from world-class rides to family shows and immersive walk-through worlds. Providing a great indoor experience for when Bali’s weather takes a turn for the worse,
Talasi Estate: Discovering Bali’s Bounty on the Foothills of Batukaru
Situated on the slopes of Mt.Batukaru is a unique destination that invites visitors to not only explore the lush surroundings of the mountain, but to taste natural products at their origin. Talasi is a social enterprise founded by Alisjahbana Haliman. It is centred on the creation of premium quality natural products at their origin, with
7 Best Art Workshops and Painting Classes in Bali
Bali is a destination where people find inspiration through its unique, eclectic and deeply rooted art scene and industry. Whilst galleries and studios invite you to look upon the great works of local creatives, one can do more than just appreciate from a distance. Bali is filled with workshops inviting you to get real, hands-on
Tenganan Village Explained: History, Customs and Guide of an Ancient Community
Found 3km north from the popular coastal town of Candidasa, Desa Adat Tenganan Pegringsingan (Traditional Village of Tenganan Pegringsingan) is the cultural and administrative centre of the Tenganan area. This land, from the floodplains to the dramatic rolling hills of Karangasem, was said to be bestowed upon its residents by Indra, the God of War
Buckle Up for an Epic Jungle Buggy Adventure in Bali
For those who have a need for speed, racing through the lush wilderness of Bali’s highlands in an off-road buggy is just the ticket! Rev your engines with Mason Adventures’ Jungle Buggies, an adrenaline-pumping outdoor experience in Taro, north of Ubud. Located only 5 minutes away from Mason Elephant Park, get ready to feel the
Yeh Pulu Temple: Ancient Carvings of the Anonymous Ascetics
A centuries-old relief adorns Yeh Pulu, a humble but historically significant temple hidden in rural obscurity. Deep in an isolated ravine of Gianyar, these ancient stone-cut carvings give us a peek into Bali from centuries ago. Just east of Ubud is the historically rich village of Bedulu, in Blahbatuh District of Gianyar. Best known for
Explorations in North Bali: From Ancient History to Hot Springs
Bali’s vast geographical landscape has no limits when it comes to exploring. From the bustling south, the majestic mountains of the east to the wilderness of the west. However, despite once being the gateway to the island, the north Bali coastline seems the least journeyed and explored, and many wonder if north Bali is worth
