Warna Bali

Taman Ayun Temple

noreply@blogger.com (Putu Gede) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 22:48:05 PST

Pura Taman Ayun is a beautifully apointed temple, with it is own surrounding moat, in the village at Mengwi, 18 km. West of Denpasar. The history of this temple is closely associated with the begining of the Rajadom of Mengwi, in 1627 B.C. It was built in 1634 AD, at the rule of the first Raja of Mengwi. I Gusti Agung Ngurah Made Agung, who later become known as Ida Cokorda Sakti Belambangan.

As the Royal Family temple of the Raja of Mengwi, this temple is a place to worship the Royal ancestors, who find their rest in a special shrine known as the "Gedong Paibon".

Following the Pattern of most Balinese temples, Pura Taman Ayun has three connecting temple yards. The innermost sanctum is known as "Utama Mandala" (the highest circle), the middle yard as. "Madia Mandala" (the circle in between) and the outer as "Nista Mandala" (the humblest circle). The enter the main sanctum one must pass through a raised Gateway, known as the Kori Agung ( Paduraksa ) and the gateway between the outer and middle connect in a split gate, known as "Candi Bentar".

Apart from the "Gedong Paibon", dedicated to one ancestor, in the middle courtyard are other shrines dedicated to the various main temples of Bali. These shrines were built by the Raja to ensure that his Kingdom and people would be able to share in the prosperity and pertility of the nation and also to enable all the people at Mengwi; to conduct the religious ceremonies at the temple, such as "meajar-ajar, memendak sang Pitara" and to request holy water to protect the rice fields from pestilence,etc.

There is also another shrine on the middle courtyard dedicated to the Pasek Badak a famous here of bygone days from the Raja's troops. The extensive temple grounds of Taman Ayun also funtion as a resting place for the Royal Family. Covering 4 hectares of land, the temple is surrounded by a large most, which used to be full of lotus and lily flowers of all colours and around the edges of the moat can be found frangipani, cempaka, kenanga and other perfumed flowering trees as well as mangostein, durian, manggo and rambutan fruit trees.

The temple has always been strongly influenced by the ups and downs at the Rajadom of Mengwi. In 1890 here was a war between the Raja Mengwi "I Gusti Made Agung" lost the battle and had to restreat to escape with life in to the bordering eastern district. During the rule of the victorious Raja of Badung the temple was never looked after properly and the temple buildings deteriorated due to lack of care.

In the year 1911 AD, part of the Royal Family returned to their family seat at Mengwi and Pura Taman Ayun was restored. However on 20th. January 1917 a violent earth-quake damaged many of the existing buildings. Repairs have been done in stages to return the temple to its original condition.

The odalan at Pura Taman Ayun falls every 210 days on a day known as "Selasa Kliwon Wuku Medangsia". Many tourists used to visit the temple, oven before the second world war the family of Puri Gede Mengwi still mountain the temple assisted by a committee made up of the local traditional leaders, such as the village officials from the Mengwi District.

Pura Maospahit

noreply@blogger.com (Putu Gede) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 21:11:45 PST

Most important at Denpasar from an archaeologist's viewpoint is the Pura Maospahit, near the west end of Pasar Street. The pura's entrance must be reached from a side street. (The compound is backed on to a major road. Recent changes in streetnames and number reserved, the address is no 3 Jalan Tabanan.)

The name Maospahit recalls the famous East Majapahit (alternatively Maospahit) Empire. Some of the temple's earliest parts may date from that period, but the name may also refer to Batara Maospahit, representative of the modern Balinese's ancestors who introduced Majapahit civilization to Bali. After World War II the Archaeological Service gave the pura the benefit of the doubt and restored some of the early buildings. The remains of an old brick gateway were heavily damaged by the fatal 1917 earthquake, causing the loss of most of its decoration: a giant and a garuda gateway's construction resembles a 'split-gate', but originally may have supported either some connecting element or a roof. The previously restored buildings are in the backyard. Some interesting terra cotta statuettes are placed beside the entrance of one of these.

Bali Museum

noreply@blogger.com (Putu Gede) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 21:12:27 PST

The Bali Museum is situated on the east side of Denpasar's public square (aloon-aloon). It was founded by a museum society in 1931. Its architecture and decoration combine various Balinese styles. From a large number of interesting ancient and new exhibits here are only a few items of archaeological interest: a prehistoric bronze rattle for marking dance rhythm: two hemispheres to be mounted on a stick. Their dexoration points to the Bronze Age.

Early Hindu Balinese Period are numerous clay seals and stupas, only partially exhibited. Clay stupas are small replicas-varying in high from four to twenty cm-of Buddhist monuments, originally reliquaries, later on regarded as symbols of the Buddhist religion. They were made by bronze stamp seals and moulds. (Examples were found in Java and must have existed in Bali, too). In various Buddhist countries such clay objects were sold to pilgrims as amulets and religious souvenirs. Or reversely, pilgrims offered them to sanctuaries as ex voto gift. In certain sacred places large quantities of clay seals and stupas were discovered (recently, for instance, near Borobudur Java). The Bali Museum hoard was excavated from the edge of a small rivulet at Pejeng (Intaran). It may have been part of the stock in trade of some Buddhist monk or witch doctor. The clay material used was found to be of Balinese origin; the impressions were consequently locally made. some of the stupas apparently were painted over with red chalk. The stamp seals and moulds may have been imported from elsewhere, presumably India, the Holy Land of Buddhist. The lower part of the stupas contain certain tiny seals, in pairs, covered up with lumps of clay. Certain exceptionally small stupas were impressed themselves. The seals are stamped with a well-known formula of faith, the so-called ye-te formula (after the first words of either stanza line). It refers to the disintegration of the elements composing all living beings (in other words to one of the Buddha's main teachings). But in the long run the words were used as a mere magic spell. The clay objects marked by them were then regarded as amulets having an auspicious influence wherever they were kept. The text on another Pejeng tablet apparently served as an antidote against 'through the purifying power of the Buddha's.'

The texts engraved on the seals stamped on the clay are written in a script of Northeast Indian origin, Early Nagari (pre-nagari), especially used in Buddhist circles. The bronze stamps and moulds presumably date from end 8th century. The clay imprints made with them may be either contemporaneous or (much) later. The stupas, the formulas as well as certain small clay plaques bearing Buddha and Bodhisattva figures evidence a Buddhist centre at Pejeng beside Sivaitic sanctuaries.

Among the other antiquities from early Hinduistic periods are several bronze statuettes-very scarce in Bali and several stone images, acquired i.a. from the Bratan Lakes.

Karangasem Regency

noreply@blogger.com (Putu Gede) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 21:13:34 PST

Capital - Amlapura

Highest Peak - Mt. Agung - 3'142 m.

Location: Eastern Bali

Land Area: 839'54 sq. km.

No. Of Districts - 8 (Abang, Babandem, Karangasem, Kubu, Manggis, Rendang, Selat & Sidemen)

Amlapura - Town of Karangasem - Located on the southeastern part of the Regency.

History : This regency founded in the early 1700's, was still recognized as a kingdom even after Dutch conquest of Bali in the 1900's. This regency still supports many traditions that have been in existence since the 14th century, having resisted the Javanese influence that invaded other regencies of Bali.

Amlapura Town : This regency capital changed its name from Karagasem to Amplapura 1963 after Mt. Agung erupted in the hope that a similar eruption would never again take place.

Agung Kanginan Palace - Reflecting a number of foreign architectural influences in the late 19th century by the king Anak Agung Gede Jelantik. This palace still maintains the royal bedroom with Dutch furnishings, as well as various meeting and ceremonial halls. Royal photographs of the late King and family and various clothes are also on display.

Taman Ujung Pleasure Palace - With an outstanding view to the Lombok Strait over rice paddy fields, this water palace, although barely more than ruins depicts a time of glory and glamour. Moats, pools and water gardens were the passion of the late King of Karangasem. Sadly the palace was badly damaged in both the Mt. Agung eruption of 1963 and a subsequent earthquake in 1979.

Tirtagangga Water Gardens - Built a few years later by the late King of Karangasem this water-garden plays host to bathing pools fed by cool springs, ornamental water features and a swimming pool.

Candi Dasa - Tourist Resort named after old temple on the nearby hillside. Beautiful beaches, good accommodation make Candi Dasa a good place from which to discover the eastern part of Bali. In the village you will find a Gandhi meditation centre on the edge of lotus pond just beside the beach. Offshore islets and coral reefs make it an ideal diving and snorkeling spot.

Tulamben shipwreck - a cargo ship torpedoed in 1942 consequently sunk near the coast of Tulamben and now offers divers an incredible array of marine life, still within shallow waters (between 2-10 m) and in close proximity to the coastline.

Padang Bai - The largest eastern port of Bali, where ferries & ships travel on to Lombok and beyond. Large luxury cruise liners anchor here close to the Silayukti sea temple.

Tenganan - A Bali Aga village - (Bali Aga - descendants of the Original Balinese who lived on this island before the influx of Javanese courtiers & artists of the Majapahit exodus from Java, between the 12 & 14th centuries). This immaculately kept village is 5 kms north of Candi Dasa. They are famous for weaving the geringsing a cloth that may take years to weave as the patterns of the textile are dyed to their final design whilst still in the thread stage. The conservative Bali Aga does not allow members of the village to marry outside of their community. Youngsters wishing to do so are banned from taking part in the intrinsic ceremonies. Their religious calendar is quite different to that of the rest of Bali. The villages of Tenganan & Dauh Tukad have many incredible ceremonies between June and July. See Calender of Events- Mekare, Malingan etc.

Asak & Bungaya - Two villages that are renowned for village handicrafts such as stone carving, woven crafts and traditional costumes

Manggis - A pretty village in the foothills of Mt. Agung with cooler more agreeable temperatures than the coast. A number of small hotels and villas cater to those looking for a more secluded place to stay than Candi Dasa.

Balina Beach & Yeh Malina - Balina Beach are beaches near to Manggis with white sand and clear water, good for swimming and fishing. Sunsets from this vantage point are very romantic.

Sibetan & Putung - This area is famous for the Salak or snake fruit plantations. Panoramic views of terraced rice paddy fields and the blue sea beyond afford good opportunities for avid photographers.

Bebandem & Putung - Bebandem is a pretty market town with nearby Putung offering spectacular views on a clear day.

Padangkerta - Ceremonies and rituals held at this village encompass trance dances, battles using thorny pandan leaves and all decorated with spectacular offerings.

Sideman - This village is famous for weaving brocades and the traditional Endek & Songket fabric.

Besakih Temple - Bali's largest and most revered temple since the fifteenth century is built 1'000 meters (3333feet) above sea level on the slopes of sacred Mt Agung. This temple complex is entered by climbing up one of two staircases past several terraces. Each terrace contains about 30 different shrines or pagodas. Visitors are not allowed to enter the inner temple courtyards. Three main temples, Penataran Agung, Kiduling Kreteg and Batu Madeg were built to honor Siwa, Brahma and Wisnu respectively. Near the main gate is a pavilion called Pawedaan that is used by both Buddhist & Shiva priests when holding Weda recitations. Besakih enjoys many celebrations and Hindu ceremonies throughout the year and is visited by pilgrims from all over Bali.

Mount Agung - Climbing this mountain may take between 8 - 10 hours and is only recommended for the fit! Cloud cover may obscure the view from the summit. Trekkers should start at fist light and will probably make it back by dusk. A large amount of bottled water, dried fruits and sweets are very necessary is as the descent is tiring due to partial exhaustion!

Klungkung Regency

noreply@blogger.com (Putu Gede) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 21:13:47 PST

Capital - Klungkung

Location: Southeastern Bali

History : It was in this part of Bali that the fleeing royalty of the Majapahit dynasty set up their kingdom. Between the 14th and 19th centuries Samprangan, Gelgel & Klungkung were all capitals of the Klungkung Regency. Recognized by other Balinese kingdoms as the most powerful, this regency was one of the last strongholds of the Balinese during the Dutch invasion of 1900's. The Gelgel dynasty ruled in Bali for over 600 years and throughout their reign the arts flourished

Klungkung Regency Capital - This busy market town on the main route to Besakih and Amlapura is steeped in history and has some noteworthy sites, the Semara Pura Palace complex which houses the Hall of Justice and Kambang Pavilion. The market here sells interesting textiles woven in the eastern part of Bali, one thing to buy is sea salt panned from the nearby beaches.

Taman Gili Palace - Built in the Dewa Agung dynasty, by artisans of the royal court. Not much remains of this palace, destroyed during the Dutch invasion of Bali, except for the main gate and two buildings that were rebuilt and restored in the 1940's.

Kertha Gosa - Judgment Hall - A Hall of Justice which functioned as the highest seat arbitration in the kingdom. The ceiling friezes depict scenes of horror and punishment. Villains judged here were imprisoned on Nusa Penida Island.

Bale Kambang - This floating pavilion is adjoined to the Judgment Hall, the ceiling friezes here depict scenes of Buddhist folklore and astrology

Bat Cave - Goa Lawah - A cave said to house the scared serpent that guards holy Mount Agung and the cosmos. Teeming with bats, this cave has various passageways, some up to 30kms long, in fact it is said that one leads all the way to the Temple of Besakih.

Gelgel - The royal household was based in the village Gelgel in the fifteenth century. Both the Jero Agung and Dasar temples are worth visiting, the latter being reserved for ceremonies of higher caste or aristocracy of Bali.

Kamasan - A small village near Klungkung from which a style of Balinese painting originated, the Kamasan style, based on east Javanese shadow puppets or wayang.

Kusamba - A salt panning village with a black sand beach.

Lembongan & Ceningan Islands - Small islands of the east coast of Bali, with a number of caves and beaches to explore. Lembongan is a very popular one-day cruise destination.

Paksa - A village famous for re-enactments of ancestral battles. The participants re-enact these battles whilst in a trance.

Penida Island - Originally the penitentiary island for the Klungkung kingdom. The Dalem Peed Temple is associated with myth and black magic.

Nusa Penida - the largest of the three outlying islands measuring approximately 200 sq kilometers. White sand beaches, white cliffs prove that this island is not volcanic but made mainly from limestone.

Historically Nusa Penida was a penal colony for the Klungkung Regency, undesirables were sent here after having been judged in the Kerta Gosa. A very dry climate and a local myth of a ferocious giant, giving Penida a reputation as an evil place, maintains the population at about 45'000. For the most part Penidan families fish and farm for a living, with seaweed being probably the largest export of this island. The main town is Samplan, on the north east coast of the island, this and another 18 hamlets make up the extent of the residential part of Penida. Two temples, Peed & Batukuning are interesting to visit. The dive spots on Penida are very challenging as currents are strong.

Nusa Lembongan - a small low-lying island of approximately two & a half kilometers wide by 4 kms in length. This island has white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, coral reefs and is currently developing as a promising tourist destination. Cruise operators visit this island with diving, snorkeling, glass bottom and banana boat rides being the main focus of tourist attention. The main cottage industry here is seaweed farming and the seaweed gardens are well worth visiting at low tide. A unique place to visit on the island is an underground house which was supposedly carved out of the ground with a spoon! Other attractions include walking around traditional village and catching a small boat to tour the mangroves. Surfers all head over to Jungut Batu on the north east of the island.

Nusa Ceningan - the smallest of the three islands, made up mainly from a sand flat. The name comes from cenik - the Balinese word for small. Seldom visited the small islet is home to a bat cave, incredible coral and marine life.

Negara Regency

noreply@blogger.com (Putu Gede) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 21:13:56 PST

Capital - Negara

Highest Peak - Mt. Patas - 1'500 m.

Location: Western Bali

Land Area: 841'80 sq. km.

No. Of Districts - 4 (Melaya, Negara, Mendoyo, Pekutatan)

Negara's famous Bull Races are in August

Negara - District Capital of Jembrana - Located on the south-western part of the Regency.

History : This regency is thought to have been established in the early 1400's, although civil war broke out and the regency became part of the Badung regency. In the 17th century, sparsely populated Jembrana was not of much interest to the other royal Balinese kingdoms and for a time it was ruled over by a prince from Sulawesi. Jembrana was one of the first kingdoms to surrender to the invading Dutch in the 1800's.

Negara Town - A small town on set along the main road between Denpasar & Gilimanuk. Negara itself does not have many tourist sites although it is famous for the bull races, held every year in October. Domesticated water buffalo races and horse races attract a number of tourist as well as many Balinese. Jegog - the giant bamboo gamelan (orchestra) - is typical of Jembrana and is seldom heard outside the regency.

West Bali National Park - This Park is home to the rare Java Deer, the rarer Bali Starling and many other animals such as the Boss Javanicus, or wild bull.

Medewi Beach - Famous for surfing, the long left handers are best in the morning before the wind gets up. The beach itself is not fantastic. Tourist accommodation ranges from guesthouses to smarter hotels with pools.

Gilimanuk - Bali's most western town, this is the ferrying point for people wishing to cross to Java. The tranquil bay is good for water sports and it is the closest place to stay if you wish to visit West Bali National Park. Cekik - A village just south of Gilimanuk, with prehistoric remains (Circa 1000BC). The headquarters of the National Park and visitors centre are located here.

Palasari Dam - The dam is good for water sports and the nearby village of Palasari is one of the few Catholic communities in Bali. The church is quite distinctive.

Candikusuma Beach - Large wide beach with views to Java. Very popular at weekends and holidays with the local community.

Baluk Rening Beach - This beach comes alive in August when the annual Jukung races take place. A western facing beach with good sunset views.

Perancak - A small village in which Bali's renowned Buffalo racing is performed for tourists. A reptile park and a riverside temple are other Perancak sites.

Delod Berawah Beach - A popular beach with the occasional bull and horse race.

Rambut Siwi - One of Bali's major cliff-top temples and the largest in west Bali. It was built in the 1500's by the same priest that built both the Uluwatu and Tanah Lot temples. The sunset from this vantage point is outstanding.

Bunut Bolong - A sacred banyan grows over the road, or rather the road goes through this very large tree, up into the foothills of west Bali and towards Pupuan. The surrounding area is tropical forest and has many impressive trees

Pengambengan - The biggest fishing port on Bali, not an actual port but the here seas are at their calmest and there are no dangerous reefs.

Buleleng Regency

noreply@blogger.com (Putu Gede) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 01:08:00 PST

Capital - Singaraja Location: North & North Western Bali

Important Phone numbers:

Direct Enquiries - 0363 22108

Villages, sites & temples of Buleleng Regency are: Singaraja - capital of regency; (sites are listed from west to east). Deer Island (Menjangen), Teluk Terima, Pulaki Temple, Gondol, Banjar Hotsprings, Banjar Tega's Buddhist Monastery, Temukus War Monument, Sing Sing Waterfalls, Lovina, Banyuning, Beratan, Sangsit, Jagaraja, Sawan, Kubutambahan, Air Sanih, Ponjok Batu, Julah, Sembiran, Gitgit Waterfall, Pancasari, Munduk.

Singaraja - Bali's chief port in Dutch colonial times, this town received many influences from the foreign traders. Singaraja has a number of Chinese Temples and colonial buildings. The Gedong Kertya Library houses a unique collection of Lontar (palm leaf) scriptures written in Balinese covering many issues including traditional literature, medicinal formulas, black magic and many more. There are a number of old books in English, Dutch and Ancient Javanese (Kawi).

Buleleng Harbor - this historical but unused harbor is located along the north coast. Old warehouses, an ancient jetty and an arched bridge are all that is left of this one time major seaport. Here a monument has been built in commemoration of Bali's struggle to defeat the Dutch.

Singa Ambara Raja - A famous town landmark is the winged-lion statue located on Jl. Veteran, near the Tourist Office and opposite the office of the Governor of Buleleng, which symbolizes the heroic spirit of the people of Buleleng.

Pura Agung Jagatnatha - One of Bali's biggest & newest temples; an outstanding feature is the Padmasana, a shrine that symbolically represents the three parts of the Balinese Universe.

Deer Island (Pulau Menjangan) - 79 km west of Sinagraja. One of the most famous marine parks in the world, and part of the West Bali National Park. Rare and protected Java Deer inhabit this small island, however visitors usually come for the diving and snorkeling.

Labuhan Lalang - a small port where divers and visitors may catch a boat to Deer Island.

Teluk Terima - 76 kms west of Singaraja. Also known as Jayaprana's grave; this site remembers the sad love story between a prince wishing to marry a country girl, however the king also wished to marry the girl and so had the prince killed. On dreaming of the happenings the girl killed herself rather than marry the wicked king. A panoramic view to the north makes this a site well worth visiting.

Banyuwedang - 60 km west of Singaraja. Natural Hot Springs with supposed curative powers near a temple. In need of upkeep.

Pulaki Temple - 53 km west of Singaraja. A large temple on both sides of the road part is perched on craggy rock looking out to sea, the other part climbs into the hills, both parts house monkeys that are keen on eating almost anything in sight! Balinese women sell fruit to tourists and it seems that grapes are their favorite.

Gondol - 50 km west of Singaraja. A Government-run fish breeding project. Turtles, shrimp & prawns are included in the program.

Banjar Tegah Hot springs - 18km west of Singaraja. These slightly sulphuric hot springs are well worth visiting. Set slightly back in the hills, dragon fountains fume hot water into the tiered bathing pools. A number of souvenir shops and a restaurant cater to tourists. A number of local visitors and schools visit at weekends and holidays.

Banjar Tegah Buddhist Monastery - Bali's largest Buddhist monastery set in beautiful valley scenery.

Temukus War Monument - 15 km from Singaraja. Built by the Dutch and destroyed by the Balinese during the Independence struggle. It was rebuilt by the local Government in 1992. The monument affords an extraordinary view of Lovina and the coastline.

Sing Sing Waterfall - 13 km west of Singaraja. Gushing falls in the wet season the water may no run as swiftly in the dry season. The falls are well signposted.

Lovina - 10 km west of Singaraja. Buleleng's main tourist area. Black sand beaches fringed with palm trees open onto a calm sea where travelers can view dolphins, snorkel, dive, sail, fish and swim. A resort area with a full range of accommodation.

Singaraja - Buleleng's capital, see start of Buleleng Province for more info.

Banyuning - 1 km east of Singaraja. A village known for pottery and ceramics.

Beratan - 1 km south of Singaraja. Famous for gold and silver works of a unique style.

Sangsit - 8 km east of Singaraja. Pura Dalem (the temple of the ancestors) is famous for its unique and amusing stone carvings and Pura Beji, a temple dedicated to the Goddess of Rice, is also a recipient for these extraordinary carvings.

Gitgit Waterfall - 11 km south of Singaraja. An impressive waterfall cascades into a small lagoon in a plantation of coffee and clove trees.

Kubutambahan - 12 km east of Singaraja. The Maduwe Karang Temple is renowned for carvings of a very imaginative nature. One such carving is that of a Dutch colonialist riding around on a bicycle whose tires are made entirely of petals!

Jagaraga - 13 km south east of Singaraja. Another northern temple that has amusing carvings, some of the carvings depict the Dutch colonialists getting drunk, an armed robbery and a wartime dogfight between aero planes.

Sawan - 16 km south east of Singaraja - The villagers are traditional makers of gamelan gongs and other gamelan instruments. The Batu Bolong temple is quite distinct looking.

Air Sanih - 18 km east of Singaraja. A cool natural spring-fed pool borders the beach.

Pancasari - 24 km south of Singaraja. A mountain village known for the golf course, Bali Handara Kosaido Country Club and two of Bali's lakes, Buyan and Tamblingan.

Ponjok Batu - 25 km east of Singaraja. The Ponjok Batu Temple (ponjok batu meaning pile of stones) perches on a rocky cliff next to a beach. A fresh water spring bubbles forth right on the beach.

Julah - 29 km east of Singaraja. It is said that this is the oldest village in North Bali.

Sembiran - 30 km south east of Singaraja. Probably a megalithic village, the culture, dialect and rituals are quite different from the rest of Bali.

Munduk - South west of Singaraja - Bali's ecological village. This scenic village, located in the mountains, is an ideal place to stay and escape from the heat. Foggy afternoons, fields of blue hydrangeas and numerous waterfalls make it an ideal place to go hiking.

Bangli Regency

noreply@blogger.com (Putu Gede) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 21:15:33 PST

Bangli Regency

Capital - Bangli

Highest Peak - Mt. Abang - 2'152m.

Location: Central - Eastern Bali

Land Area: 520'81 sq. km.

No. Of Districts - 4 ( Bangli, Kintamani, Susut, Tembuku)

History :

As Lake Batur located in the Bangli Regency, was a major source of irrigation water for south & east Bali, the regency was greatly fought over by neighboring rulers. Bangli became the capital of this Balinese kingdom in the year Balinese Icaka year of 1204.

Bangli Town - Located in the southern part of the regency, on the foothills of the Batur volcanic range. The ancient Kehen Temple (Pura Kehen) in Bangli, is famous for having been built under an enormous Banyan tree. The walls are inlayed with pieces of chipped porcelain and the upper sanctuary has 11 tapering merus (resting places of the gods). There is a small museum (Saison Buddha Bangle) nearby. Every 3 years the Kehen temple celebrates a unique festival, in which offerings tower high in the courtyard and ritual Baris Warrior Dances are performed utilizing different weapons. The nearby Sasana Art Centre also organizes the occasional art & dance performance. The view beyond the town of Bangli, from Demulih Hill (Bukit), offers and astounding view. (* These trees -fiches benjeminica or religiosa-, visible all over Bali, can grow with or without aerial roots. They are of special significance to the Balinese who believe that they are the dwelling place of spirits. They are usually sashed around the trunk, with a chequered black & white cloth, and are the recipients of many daily offerings.)

Bamboo Forest nr. Kubu : Located 5kms. From Bangli; many different types of bamboo, such as Petung and Bambu Talang grow in this forest, the sound of the wind blowing through the bamboo is quite unique.

Dusun Kuning Waterfall - 6 kms. South of Bangli; near to Dusun Kuning village is a 25 m. high waterfall that flows into the Melangit River to the south. The cool and shady clove-tree forest that surrounds these falls is home to hordes of monkeys.

Mt. Batur -1'750m. Last active 1926. The Batur complex has been described as one of the largest and finest calderas in the world, (caldera being a volcano with a lake in the centre of the crater). Lake Batur, is a major source of irrigation water for both south & east Bali. On the western shore is Toyah Bungkah; surrounded by a stark volcanic landscape is an ideal spot for fishing and swimming. A hot spring, with supposed curative powers, is worth a visit. Terunyan village - Located on Northeast shore of Lake Batur, and only accessible by a 30 minute boat trip, departing from Kedisan village, located on the southern side of the lake. (The name of this village is derived from the words Taru & Menyan - the smell of the fragrant tree of incense growing in this village). One of Bali's most famous sites, this village's immaculately kept houses, streets and grass verges are reminiscent of what Bali might have looked like in days gone by. This Bali Aga village does not perform the ngaben, or usual cremation ceremony, that Bali is famous for, but uniquely preserves it's deceased by leaving the bodies, (although covered in shrouds, the face is left uncovered) under the fragrant & magical, incense tree. This method of 'embalming' is called Mepasah. Trunyan's temple is the Pancering Jagat Temple (or navel of the world temple) and houses a 4 meter high statue known as Arca da Tonta. The Barong Brutuk dance is staged here on the full moon of (Purnama) Sasih Kapat. Masked dancers whip bystanders & spectators in this totally unique land fertility dance.

Penglipuran - A traditional, picturesque Balinese village, with a population of 750. The Penglipuran Heroes Monument was built here in commemoration of Cpt. Anak Agung Gde Mudith and his troops.

Pengotan Village - A traditional pre Majapahit village with different traits and customs than other villages in Bali. Many unique dances are staged at Pura Penataran during temple festivals. The Papah 'war', various Baris dances and even the manner in which they bury their deceased is completely different to that other Balinese villages.

Penulisan - Picturesque village with panoramic views. Nearby in the village of Tegeh Koripan, a temple with a long flight of stairs is often shrouded in mist giving it a magical appearance.

Pura Dalem Balingkang - Pinggan Village (located in the northern part of Lake Batur)originally built as a palace, this unique temple has a delightful mix of Balinese and Chinese influences. Picturesque mountain scenery.

Puncak Penukisan Temple - This temple located on Penulisan hill, the dividing line between north and south Bali, consists of 5 different temple complexes situated on various terraces. Stone statues in the fifth complex are believed to be from the megalithic era.

Pura Ulun Danu Batur - 990m above sea level - in Kalanganyar, Batur Village, Kintamani District. These surviving shrines of this temple were relocated to its present location after a devastating eruption in 1917.An anniversary ceremony (Ngusaba Ke Dasa) is held each year. This temple houses an impressive Gong Gede (large gong) which is used to accompany the sacred Baris & Rejang dances which usually take place around the third week of March.

Tamanbali - Raja - A large water garden temple built by King Sang Anom. Ponds and water features with a vast array of tropical flora surround this temple.

Bangli's Arts & Crafts

Article Village

- Palm Leaf Handicrafts - Cempaga, Tanggahan, Peken, Susut, Kayubihi, Undisan, Throughout Bangli

- Gold & Silver

- Bamboo Handicrafts

- Wood Carving(Furniture & temple)

Tabanan Regency

noreply@blogger.com (Putu Gede) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 13:55:19 PDT

Tabanan is a regency has an area of 839.33 km2, population of 400,850 (2005) and capital city Tabanan. The highest peak is Mt. Batukau with 2'276 metres above sea level.

Founded in the 14th century Tabanan had a mixed history with numerous conflicts, mainly with the neighboring kingdom of Mengwi. By the end of the 1700's Tabanan had managed to claim part of the Mengwi kingdom however lost it back to the Mengwi Royal household by the mid 1800's. By 1906 the Dutch having conquered Tabanan, imprisoned the king and his son.

Tabanan - District Capital of Tabanan - Located on the south eastern part of the Regency. It has an area of 839.33 km2, population of 400,850 (2005). A very large, clean town with wide-open streets. The Subak Museum dedicated to rice cultivation, and the Gedong Marya theatre, dedicated to the famous dancer Mario, are the only real tourist sites in Tabanan, however the rest of this fertile region has many diverse attractions.

Here are some have to visit in Tabanan:

Alas Kedaton Temple - Near the village of Kukuh, an ancient temple is located in this12 hectare forest that houses both monkeys and large bats.

Abiantuwung - This village stages many dance performances, both old and new. It is also boasted the Whrahatnala School of Dance, which has now sadly shut down.

Batukaru - With the highest peak at 2'276 metres above sea level, this volcanic massif has three small nature reserves on and around the three smallest peaks, Lesung, Tapak and Pohen.

Bratan Lake - Japanese caves on the west shore and a pleasure park on the southern shore of the lake and the cool mountain air make this a pleasant place to spend a day. Various water sports are available at the pleasure-park.

Botanical Gardens - Raya Eka Karya Gardens - With a land area of 129.2 hectares the Botanical Gardens maintains up to 650 species of tree and approximately 450 species of orchid.

Bedugul - A cool, mountain, market town that supplies much of the fruit, vegetables and flowers that Bali consumes. One thousand five hundred metres above sea level, Bedugul is on the shores of Lake Bratan, the crater-lake of Mt. Bratan

Jatiluwih - Famous for the view over endless rice terraces stretching as far as the eye can see. Here, at 850 metres above sea level, temperatures are cooler.

Kediri - A small village near Tabanan that stages an interesting cattle market every three days.

Kerambitan - Puri Gede, Puri Anyar Baturiti, are two 17th century palaces of the former Tabanan royal family. Interesting stone carvings and antique Chinese porcelain plates embedded in the walls of the gong pavilions are amongst the various items of interest.

Marga - National Monument of Margarana, built to commemorate the bravery of I Gusti Ngurah Rai and his followers in Indonesia's struggle for independence against the Dutch.

Pura Luhur Batukaru - A royal ancestral temple, with a seven-tiered pagoda, built on the foothills of Mt. Batukau. Not as easily accessible as others, this temple remains off the beaten track its forest surroundings have an abundance of flora and fauna.

Pujungan Waterfall - Near the village of Pujungan. Coffee plantations can be seen en route to this waterfall, which plunges down between narrow white cliffs.

Soka Beach - A wide, quiet, white sand beach with a few kiosks and colorful fishing boats.

Tanah Lot - This famous temple sits on top of an eroding sentinel rock and high tides cut it off from the mainland. Underground caves are said to house sea serpents that guard this temple. This is probably Bali's most photographed temple, and is renowned for stunning sunsets.

Ulun Danu Bratan Temple - A 17th century temple, dedicated to Sang Dewi Danau, goddess of the lake. Part of the temple just out into the lake and a Buddhist stupa near the outer courtyard bears witness to this temple's Hindu- Buddhist roots. Early mornings are the best time to visit, as clouds or mist soon roll in.

Yeh Panas & Penatahan Hotsprings - These hot springs are located on the banks of the River Ho. The bubbling water contains sulphur and sodium and is said to cure skin problems. Tourist accommodation is available.

Gianyar Regency

noreply@blogger.com (Putu Gede) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 13:50:04 PDT

The Gianyar regency, which is adjacent to Denpasar, Bangli and Klungkung is rich with inspirations for art and cultural development. It is believed that music, dance, fine arts, craft and various other genres of the arts have been originally developed from Gianyar. The fact that Gianyar was used to be the center of administration during the transitional period of before and early Majapahit era is assured to have big influence to the development of art and culture in the island. The villages of Bedahulu and Pejeng on the north side of Gianyar was historically a centre of administration before Majapahit era while Samprangan village on the east of Gianyar was used to be the centre of administration during the reign of Majapahit in Bali. During the Dutch colonization as well as Indonesia's independence day,Ubud Peliatan. Mas and the surroundings have been strongly designed to be center of the development of art and culture.Thus, the region of Gianyar has been closely tied with art and culture throughout the times. Occupying an area of 36.800 Ha with a population of around 354.530 according to a survey of the year 2001, Gianyar is not so much densely-populated region. Different from Denpasar which functions as a center of trade with high population rate in the downtown area. Gianyar is more populated around the suburban areas that are major tourist spots, such as in Ubud village. From Sayan to Payangan village, which are located on the west side of the regency, there have been developed lots of boutique hotels which promote privacy while pensions and homestays are flocked around Ubud village. Other areas in the region of Gianyar, which are not included as the tourist accommodation center, supports tourism with their handicraft industries. The whole areas of the Gianyar regency are likely to support each other and shape Gianyar as a center of culture and tourism.

Badung Regency

noreply@blogger.com (Putu Gede) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 13:50:26 PDT

Badung Regency, covering the areas of Nusa Dua, Tanjung Benoa, Jimbaran, Kuta, Legian and the airport, is the richest regency with tourist facilities and activities.

Nusa Dua is the first resort developed in Indonesia with very careful planning. The implementation of Balinese traditional philosophy and international health and environmental preservation standard makes Nusa Dua one of the very view modern resorts with traditional, cultural touches for leisure and business purposes.

On the Southern most tip of Badung is Uluwatu Temple built on top of a steep cliff on an elevation of some 100 meters above the sea level. Uluwatu is one the main temples in Bali. There are a small number of monkeys living in the premises. Uluwatu is recommended for sunset viewing.

Serangan is not very far from Nusa Dua, is known as the turtle island, and for its Sakenan Temple. During Kuningan Day the temple is visited by thousands of pilgrims with colorful dresses crossing the narrow strait in small canoes. Tanjung Benoa is a good place for water sports.

A drive to northern part of Badung offers interesting places places to visit. Taman Ayun Temple is the royal family temple of Mengwi, then was an important kingdom of Bali.

Sangeh, a village some 15 minutes away from Taman Ayun is noted for its monkey forest and Bukit Sari Temple. There exist two gropes of monkeys who are not in good term "as neighbors". It is advisable to be careful with the monkeys as sometimes they may turn naughty.

Last but not least, Kuta area is an International village. The long white sanded beach, the big waves, many accommodations, close to the airport, night lives and all that, make Kuta one of the most popular resorts in particular for the younger generations.

Australians and Japanese perhaps are the majority among the visitors staying in Kuta. Visitors are requested to swim only within the safe areas marked by the flags as the sea is directly exposed to the Indonesia Ocean with very strong undertows.

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Denpasar City

noreply@blogger.com (Putu Gede) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 13:50:44 PDT

The capital city of Bali is Denpasar which has many community temples called "Pura". One of them is Pura Jagatnatha which is dedicated to the Supreme God, Sang Hyang Widi Wasa. Inside the area of the Temple, there is a Museum. The Museum offers a fine variety of prehistoric and modern art, whereas its architectural design resembles that of a palace. The Art Center, "Werdi Budaya" presents a yearly art festival between June and July, with performances, exhibitions, art contest and so on.

Sanur Beach has long been a popular recreation site for people from local people. The palm-lined beach curves from the Bali Beach Hotel toward the south, facing the Indian Ocean towards the east. Sanur offers many good hotels, restaurants, shops and other tourist facilities. It is only a short distance from Denpasar. Public transportation to and from the city are easily available until well into the night.

Kuta Beach. Once is a lonely village on the road from Denpasar toward the Bukit Peninsula. Kuta is now a thriving tourist resort, popular mainly among the young. It is a beach for surfing although currents make it less suitable for swimming. Coast guards, however, are on constant duty during the day. Kuta faces toward the west offering beautiful sunsets. Accommodation ranges from international hotels to home stays.

The village abounds with restaurants, shops, discotheques and other tourist facilities. It is easier to find regular performances of Balinese music and dance in Kuta, staged specially for tourists, than anywhere else in Bali. Some performances are staged nightly. The village is ideal for meeting and mixing with other people, locals as well as visitors from abroad.

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Bali Weather

noreply@blogger.com (Putu Gede) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 13:51:00 PDT

When visiting Bali it's vital to take the weather conditions into consideration. Although the Bali weather is thought to be sunny skies and cool breezes this is only half the story. The weather in Bali isn't divided into four seasons but rather into 2. There is the dry season and the wet season, with the temperature remaining pretty constant throughout the year. The averages temperature in Bali is 28C all year and even in winter you can expect it to drop to only 24C.

The hottest time to visit Bali is during the dry season which lasts from Apr to Sep, with June to Sep being the peak season. There's very little rain at all thru these months and you can expect to have 99% of the time you spend in Bali with sunny blue skies. There is slight rainfall during this time, but it is usually in the afternoon, and although if can be a heavy downpour, only last a little while and then the sun comes out again.

The other, less popular season to go to Bali is in the wet season, typically from October to March, due to the very wet conditions. During this time of year you can expect very heavy rain for days if not for weeks at a time. It is this season that give Bali its dense tropical rain forests that it is known for. The high rain volume during the wet season gives the trees and plants masses of moisture to grow at an awesome rate.

During the full year you can expect to have a high humidity which is at its peak in the wet months and can reach as high as 90% which if you are not used to it can be very stifling. When coming to Bali and you are not used to living in a humid climate it is essential that you book a hotel that has air-con for you to acclimatize. The humidity is felt more inland where the coast gives way to a higher altitude and some areas are so dense with vegetation that some folks can find it difficult to breathe.

The winds that blow in Bali are light to moderate and you don't get the major monsoons and gales that are associated with many Indonesian countries. There are some extraordinary storms that are awe-inspiring to experience, but apart from landslides there isn't any danger if you visit Bali during this time. Many folks still come to Bali in this time as you may find the Bali accommodation is less crowded and you'll be capable of finding much better rates.

With Bali being such a little island that is renowned for its sea life and amazing scuba diving areas it doesn't really matter when you come to visit if you are curious about diving. Even during the heavy rainy season you are still guaranteed of some sunny days, it is simply that when it rains it really rains and you will have to remain in the hotel in the heaviest of the rain or spend some time doing some Bali shopping.

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Balinese People

noreply@blogger.com (Putu Gede) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 13:51:13 PDT

The Balinese population of 3.0 million (1.5% of Indonesia's population) live mostly on the island of Bali, making up 89% of the island's population. There are also significant populations on the island of Lombok, and in the eastern-most regions of Java (eg. the Municipality of Banyuwangi).

Origins

The origins of the Balinese came from three periods: The first waves of immigrants came from Java and Kalimantan in the prehistoric times of the proto-Malay stock; the second wave of Balinese came slowly over the years from Java during the Hindu period; the third and final period came from Java, between the 15th and 16th centuries, at the time of the conversion of Islam in Java, aristocrats fled to Bali from the Javanese Majapahit Empire to escape Islamic conversion, reshaping the Balinese culture into a syncretic form of classical Javanese culture with many Balinese elements. The Balinese people generally got a large proportion of theirancestry from there.

Culture

Balinese culture is perhaps most known for dance, drama and sculpture. The culture is noted for its use of the gamelan in music. The island is also known for its form of Wayang kulit or Shadow play/Shadow Puppet theatre. It also has several unique aspects related to their religions and traditions. Balinese culture is a mix of Balinese Hindu religion and Balinese custom.

Religion

The vast majority of the Balinese follow one religion - A Shivaite sect of Hinduism that is mixed with pre-Hindu mythologies. The Balinese from before the third wave of immigration, known as the Bali Aga, are mostly not followers of the Balinese Shivaite Hinduism, but their own animist traditions.

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Bali Island

noreply@blogger.com (Putu Gede) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 13:51:31 PDT

Bali is a land of contrasts: a tiny island of white as well as black-sand beaches, active volcanoes, thick forests and lust terrain blanketed in rice fields.

But it may be the spiritualism and creativity of Balinese that leave the strongest impression. Hindu temple festivals occur nearly daily in villages large and small, their colorful pageantry providing an outlet for the devout to express themselves through dance , art and music. Creative expression plays a role in secular life, too, with many Balinese earning their livelihoods as artisans. Spiritual catharsis is alive and well here, infusing life with a sense of calm that is rare in modern times.

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