On Bali, a thread of water leads from irrigation to water temples, rituals and landscapes. The Subak water management system dates back to the 9th century; cooperative canals and weirs are part of this system. Subak thus offers a way into a cultural landscape where water and religious practice come together.
Water, Cultural Landscape and Dance
Pura Taman Ayun is a royal water temple dating from the 18th century and part of Bali’s cultural landscape. Pura Ulun Danu Batur lies on the shore of Lake Batur and is also part of Bali’s Subak cultural landscape. In the Pakerisan River area, the Subak cultural landscape is considered Bali’s oldest known irrigation system.
Rituals, offerings and artistic performances at the water temples express Tri Hita Karana. Traditional dance also reflects different cultural roles: its three genres were added to UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2015. They include sacred and semi-sacred dances, as well as dances intended to entertain the public.
Geopark, Protected Area and Marine Life
The Batur UNESCO Global Geopark highlights sunrise hikes on Mount Batur and the hot springs of Lake Batur. These offer two different perspectives on the landscape: a sunrise hike and geothermal waters by the lake.
Several habitats meet in West Bali National Park: rainforests, dry savannas, acacia scrub, lowland and montane forests, and mangrove forests. The protected area is home to the Bali starling and more than 100 wildlife species. Menjangan Island in the national park is considered a popular diving destination.
Bali’s coasts also offer a range of different experiences. Amed and Menjangan offer snorkeling on coral reefs rich in marine life; their calm, clear waters are also considered suitable for beginners. Sea conditions can vary. On the southwest coast of Nusa Penida, Manta Point and Malibu Point give divers the chance to encounter rays and sharks.
Cultural Experiences and Practical Information
In the village of Tenganan, sustainable tourism experiences include learning to handweave Pegringsingan cloth. Ubud and its surroundings are well suited to cycling; white-water rafting is offered on the Ayung River near Ubud. For spiritual experiences, the Besakih area offers programs such as meditation, trekking and Melukat.
Tanah Lot is located in Beraban village, in Kediri subdistrict, Tabanan regency, on Bali’s southwest coast. The Pujawali, or Piodalan, of Pura Luhur Tanah Lot takes place every 210 days according to the Pawukon calendar, specifically on Budha Wage Langkir. Check the exact date locally before your trip. Nyepi, the sacred Saka New Year, is observed in Bali by suspending all activities for one day. If your trip falls during this period, check the visitor regulations for that year.
Visitors to the Holy Area of Pura Agung Besakih are accompanied by a local guide during their stay. As visitor arrangements may change, check the rules in advance; you should also confirm the booking conditions for spiritual programs before your visit. Bali can be reached by ferry from Lombok. Checking the timetable can help with your travel planning.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Denpasar, Buleleng, Badung, Gianyar, Karangasem, Jembrana, Tabanan, Klungkung, Bangli, Buleleng, North Kuta, South Kuta, Melaya, Kediri, Tampaksiring, Abiansemal, Nusapenida, Seririt, Baturiti, Rendang, Tembuku, Negara, Sukasada.
For the main travel overview: Indonesia.
