Penglipuran Village: An Authentic Bali Aga Village Treasure Centuries in the Making
Indonesian Name: Desa Penglipuran
Penglipuran Village, Bali | Image: Arie Winaya (pictured visiting the village)
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Visit with a tour
Introduction
Welcome to Penglipuran Village, a unique Balinese heritage site located just outside of the town of Bangli. This picturesque village is nestled in lush rainforest and features traditional Balinese architecture that has been preserved for hundreds of years. This place isn't just a beautiful tourist spot; it's also a living museum that tells the stories of the island's past.
In October 2023, Penglipuran Village won the "Best Tourism Villages by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)". This Village in Bangli Regency was selected from 260 candidates from more than 60 registered countries.
Visitors to Penglipuran can explore the winding paths, dine at local restaurants and experience traditional customs such as ceremonies, dances and temple visits. The tranquil atmosphere provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life and gives travelers a glimpse into what makes Bali so special.
The village is best known for its perfectly organized streets, which divide the area into symmetrical blocks with small pathways connecting them all. Each block consists of several houses adorned with intricate wood carvings and colorful paintings, giving visitors a sense of the spiritual history behind this place.
Penglipuran is also home to many local businesses including fabric stores, souvenir shops, art galleries and more - perfect for those looking to take something home from their travels. There are also plenty of activities for visitors including bird-watching tours, hikes through nearby nature reserves and cycling around the village itself.
This enchanting village offers something for everyone: from history lovers seeking out tales from ancient times, to adventurers looking to get off-the-beaten path and explore something new - Penglipuran has it all. So do consider a visit and discover why this beloved Balinese treasure has been captivating hearts of visitors since its beginnings centuries ago.
Address
Jl. Penglipuran, Kubu, Kec. Bangli, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80611, Indonesia. (See on Google Maps)
Location
Penglipuran Village is located in the Bangli Regency of Bali and can be reached by car or public transport.
Address & Phone Number of Nearest Hospital for Emergency
The nearest hospital to Penglipuran Village is Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah (RSUD) Bangli which is located at Jl. Diponegoro No.1, Kecamatan Bangli, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80613. The emergency number for this hospital is +62 366 91234.
Remember to organise Bali travel insurance before you leave home.
Three Key Reasons To Visit
Experience Traditional Balinese Culture: Penglipuran is a traditional Balinese village located in the highlands of central Bali, approximately two hours away from Denpasar. It offers tourists the unique opportunity to experience an authentic Balinese lifestyle that has been passed down through generations. Here, visitors can explore terraced rice paddies and quaint temples while strolling along pathways paved with black volcanic stones.
Admire Breathtaking Landscapes: Located at an altitude of around 850 metres above sea level, Penglipuran’s views are simply spectacular. Whether you’re looking for lush green rice fields or breathtaking sunsets over majestic mountains, this serene village provides it all.
Uncover History: The village of Penglipuran is full of rich history and culture. It's believed to have been founded in the 18th century and is regarded as one of the oldest villages in Bali still intact today, meaning there are plenty of fascinating stories to uncover about its past inhabitants and traditions.
History, Myths and Legends
Penglipuran Village is a traditional Balinese village located in the Bangli Regency of Bali, Indonesia. It is known for its unique architecture and culture, which has been preserved since the 18th century. The village is also steeped in history, myths, and legends that have been passed down through generations.
One of the most popular myths associated with Penglipuran Village is that it was founded by a powerful king who had magical powers. According to legend, he used his powers to create a beautiful village surrounded by lush green rice fields and forests. He also created a temple dedicated to the gods and goddesses of Bali. This temple still stands today and is visited by many people each year.
As Don Silcock notes in his excellent blog post, Penglipuran gets its label from Balinese words meaning "Pengeling" (remember) and "Pura" (temple or ancestral land). Put together, the phrase translates to "remember the origin," which is in connection to the Balinese Hindu philosophy of Tri Hita Karana. This philosophy is built on three principles of balance with the many Hindu deities, balance amongst people, and most notably balance with nature and the environment.
The Balinese people strive to achieve harmony with their gods through rituals and offerings. They also use gotong-royong (mutual cooperation) for inter-personal harmony.
Nature and the environment are seen as essential for the island’s prosperity, which is supplied by the rich volcanic soil, sunshine, and water. The Balinese manage all these resources sustainably.
Sustainability can be described as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the future.” Penglipuran village and its nearby bamboo forest demonstrate this idea in action.
What To Expect When Visiting
Visitors to Penglipuran Village can expect a unique and tranquil experience. This traditional Balinese village, located in the mountainous region of Bangli, is filled with winding pathways lined with thatched-roof houses and lush green rice paddies. Here visitors can take in the sights, sounds and smells of the local culture and get a glimpse into what life must have been like for generations past.
The village is surrounded by ancient temples and shrines, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore some of Bali's spiritual heritage. The views from here are stunning - from the rolling hills of beautiful greenery to distant volcanoes on the horizon.
When visiting Penglipuran Village, it is best to plan for an early arrival as there are often large crowds throughout the day. Be sure to dress appropriately for your visit; warm clothing is recommended for cooler days or those who will be walking around exploring all that this site has to offer. Finally, don't forget to bring your camera – you won't want to miss capturing these amazing views.
Photo Opportunities and Tips
Penglipuran Village is an ideal destination for photography. The village offers a variety of beautiful scenes to capture. Many visitors recommend visiting the traditional homes, which feature beautiful Balinese architecture. For great pictures, it is best to visit in the morning as the light is more vibrant during this time. Another suggestion is to explore the cobbled streets of the village and take photos of locals going about their daily lives.
What Visitors Say They Liked About Visiting
Many travelers have praised Penglipuran Village for its timeless charm and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors say they enjoyed exploring the traditional homes and observing local culture in action. People also love seeing how well-preserved nature has been throughout the area, including the surrounding hills and rice paddies. Many people also appreciate that there are minimal tourist attractions in this area, allowing them to enjoy an authentic experience without large crowds or overcommercialization.
What Visitors Say They Did Not Like About Visiting
Although most visitors enjoy their time in Penglipuran Village, some feel that it could use more tourist-friendly amenities such as maps or transportation options to make navigation easier. Some travelers have also noticed a few shops that seem outdated or not maintained properly, although this does not detract from the overall experience too much. Additionally, visitors should be aware that prices in some places may be slightly higher than average due to its popularity among tourists.
How Accessible is it for The Elderly, Children and Those With Mobility Issues?
The Penglipuran Village is generally accessible for the elderly, children, and those with mobility issues. The village is located on a flat terrain and has wide pathways that are easy to navigate. There is also a paved road leading up to the village entrance. However, some of the pathways may be uneven or have steps, so it is important to use caution when walking around the village. Additionally, there are no elevators in the village, so those with mobility issues may find it difficult to access certain areas.
Overall, visiting Penglipuran Village can be an enjoyable experience for all ages; however, those with mobility issues should take extra care when navigating around the area and consider bringing someone along who can assist them if necessary.
Safety Tips When Visiting
It is important to be aware of safety tips when visiting Penglipuran Village. To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, please keep the following safety tips in mind:
Wear Appropriate Clothing: Dress to respect local cultural values, for both men and women. Avoid wearing anything too revealing or provocative, such as shorts and tank tops. Dress conservatively and cover your shoulders and legs. Wear shoes with good traction so you don’t slip or trip on any uneven surfaces.
Stay On Pathways: When exploring the area, stay on paths and sidewalks to avoid disturbing the vegetation surrounding the area. There may also be hidden obstacles or landmines that could cause injury.
Be Aware Of Wildlife: Be aware of the wildlife in the area; do not touch or bother any animals you may encounter while exploring the village, as they may be dangerous if provoked.
Respect Local Customs: Respect local customs by refraining from public displays of affection or taking photographs without permission from the people involved. Other acts of disrespect may also offend some locals; it is always best to remain polite when interacting with anyone from the community during your visit.
Typical Amount of Time to Allocate for a Visit
Visiting Penglipuran Village usually takes about half a day. Depending on your level of exploration and interest, you may need more time if you would like to explore the village in greater detail. Visitors can easily spend an hour or two wandering around, learning about the local culture and customs, exploring the traditional Balinese architecture or admiring the amazing view of Mount Agung in the distance. For those who are interested in taking photos, they will also want to take some time to capture all the beauty that this village has to offer.
Penglipuran is also known for its traditional handicrafts and souvenir shops, so it's worth spending some time looking for handmade items and other knick-knacks that make great souvenirs. Although most visitors choose to stay for only a few hours, there is plenty to do here and it can easily take up an entire day if desired.
Food and Drink Options Nearby
There are several food options nearby Penglipuran Village and many Balinese dishes available throughout the area. Warung Bali is one of the most popular spots near Penglipuran for local cuisine, serving delicious dishes such as nasi campur (mixed rice), grilled fish and sate lilit (minced meat skewers). The prices are very affordable and it's a great place to get an authentic taste of Balinese food.
For drinks, there are several warungs selling freshly made juices, smoothies or coffee in addition to cold beers which can be enjoyed while taking in views of Mount Agung from Penglipuran Village. There is also a small cafe located within the village itself where visitors can enjoy fresh snacks or light meals along with hot drinks such as tea or coffee.
Conclusion
Penglipuran Village is a delightful, ancient village located in Bangli, Bali, Indonesia. It offers an unforgettable experience of traditional Balinese culture and architecture that remains largely unchanged since the 17th century. Visitors can explore the many sites, move around on foot or bicycle, and visit the local shops and restaurants to experience traditional Balinese cuisine. With its stunning landscape, historic charm, and friendly people, Penglipuran Village is a must-see destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Balinese culture.
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