5 Extraordinary Cultural Travel Ideas to Explore in Bali

There are a lot of desirable things in The Island of Gods. Mesmerizing landscapes spread throughout the island, with various spectacular attractions and phenomenal resorts standing in between. However, these aren’t the only things that make the island of Bali desirable. This tropical haven is also blessed with rich cultures that are worthy to be experienced by all. If you are seeking a different way to spend a good time in Bali, then you would probably love our trip ideas this time. Do yourself a favor by embarking on unforgettable cultural tourism in and around Bali with these 5 activities below!

1. Experience Local Wisdom in Tourism Villages

Enjoy your vacation in a different way by spending a night at one of the many tourist villages available on the island. Village tourism provides a complete experience of the cultural, natural, as well as unique attributes of a traditional Indonesian village. One of the tourist villages you have to check out in Bali is Penglipuran village.

Situated on the south side of Bangli, this serene village can be a perfect escapade from the hustle and bustle of the city. What’s more interesting, the village still retains traditional Balinese Hindu values. Do also check out Tenganan village in Karangasem, a secluded and unique village that also preserves its cultural heritage. Inside these villages, there are a lot of things you can do. You can have a good look at numerous interesting customs and rituals, shop and learn about the village’s traditional handicrafts, and witness the stunning views around the village.

2. Learn authentic Balinese Heritage

What’s cultural tourism without learning deeply about the local culture? If that’s what you’re looking for, then you should take a look at Samsara Living Museum, a unique destination located in Jungutan village, Karangasem, Bali. In this living museum, you will be provided with a chance to partake in various traditional Balinese ceremonies and rituals. You can learn about the essence of these ceremonies and rituals while practicing them in a proper way.

Image by samsara bali

Here, you can also enjoy other extraordinary activities, such as learning how to make delightful traditional Balinese cooking and tasting them. You’ll also be able to learn how to brew a traditional Balinese alcoholic beverage known as arak. Moreover, Samsara Bali also provides an alluring Balinese traditional dance performance as well as a soul-reviving yoga, all in the company of Jungutan village’s peaceful atmosphere.

3. Embark on a spiritual journey

Another fascinating Balinese tradition that you should witness can be found within Tirta Empul, a temple featuring Bali’s sacred pool of purification.

Located quite close to the  Presidential Palace of Tampaksiring in Manukaya village, the springs of the temple is believed to have been created by The God Indra, thus possessing healing properties. Inside, you’ll be able to marvel at the stunning design of the temple complex. As the complex is quite large, it might take you about 30 minutes or more to explore all parts of the temple. Other than exploring the temple, you can witness a purification ritual that has brought the interest of many tourists from all over the world. Known as melukat, this fascinating ritual is done within the pristine pools of the temple. Local Balinese and Hindu worshippers will stand side by side to dip their heads under the pool’s water sprouts.

4. Antique hunting in the local market

Searching for unique collectibles that truly scream Balinese culture? Do a shopping spree at one of the many souvenir markets available in Bali! For this, we recommend you to set foot at Guwang Art Market, a renowned souvenir market that has been traversed by numerous local and international travelers. Bring home various handmade traditional Balinese crafts, such as paintings, weavings, accessories, jewelries, clothes, traditional trinkets, traditional fabrics, and many more! The products that are offered at this wonderful market are not only affordable but also authentic as well as exceptional in terms of quality.

5. Enjoy the aromatic local coffee

Craving for a good coffee in the middle of your cultural travel? Have a sip at Seniman Coffee Roastery & Bakery! Located right at the heart of Ubud, this attractive and cozy cafe offers a selection of fine premium coffee prepared by highly skilled baristas. Their coffee beans were extracted from coffee plantations across the country. Taste the excellent flavor of coffees grown in Sumatra, West Java, Bali, East Nusa Tenggara, Sulawesi, and Papua. Inside, you can also enjoy several scrumptious light meals such as bread and some traditional snacks to accompany your coffee drinking session.

Have you prepared yourself to experience the best cultural tourism in Bali? Keep yourself informed with the latest CHSE (Cleanliness, Health, Safety, and Environmental Sustainability) protocols, which include wearing a mask, keeping your distance, and washing your hands with soap whenever you can.