Bali is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and luxurious resorts, but beyond the tourist hotspots lies a deeper, more authentic experience traditional Balinese villages that have preserved their customs, architecture, and spiritual way of life for centuries. Exploring these villages offers a rare glimpse into Bali’s rich cultural heritage and provides visitors with a more profound connection to the island and its people.

In this guide, we take you on a journey through three of Bali’s most culturally significant traditional villages Penglipuran, Tenganan, and Trunyan where you can immerse yourself in ancient traditions, learn about unique customs, and gain a better appreciation of Balinese heritage.

1. Penglipuran Village - The Most Beautiful and Cleanest Village in Bali

History and Significance

Located in Bangli Regency, Penglipuran Village is famous for its well-preserved Balinese architecture, clean environment, and community-driven lifestyle. The village is recognized as one of the cleanest villages in the world, thanks to its residents’ strong commitment to maintaining cleanliness and environmental sustainability.

Unique Customs and Traditions

• Traditional Balinese Houses: Penglipuran follows a unique village layout, where houses are built in uniform alignment along the main road, featuring traditional Balinese gates and intricate carvings.

• Adat System (Customary Law): The village follows an ancient Balinese customary law known as "Awig-Awig," which governs social and environmental practices.

• No Motorized Vehicles Allowed: To maintain peace and purity, the village bans motorbikes and cars inside its residential areas.

What to See and Do

• Walk through the village and admire the traditional Balinese compound designs.

• Visit Penglipuran Bamboo Forest, a serene natural sanctuary.

• Participate in a Balinese cultural workshop, such as traditional weaving or cooking.

Visitor Etiquette

• Dress modestly and respect local customs.

• Do not litter—Penglipuran is famous for its cleanliness.

• Ask for permission before taking photos of residents.

2. Tenganan Pegringsingan - The Ancient Bali Aga Village

History and Significance

Located in Karangasem Regency, Tenganan Pegringsingan is one of the oldest villages in Bali and home to the Bali Aga people, the island’s original inhabitants. The villagers of Tenganan have preserved their pre-Hindu traditions, distinct from the rest of Bali’s Hindu-influenced culture.

Unique Customs and Traditions

• Double Ikat Weaving: Tenganan is famous for producing Gringsing, a rare and intricate textile made using the double ikat weaving technique, which takes years to complete.

• Perang Pandan (Mekaré-Karé): An annual ritual combat event, where men engage in friendly duels using thorny pandanus leaves to honor the god Indra.

• Strict Marriage Rules: Tenganan villagers follow a unique marriage tradition, where locals are only allowed to marry within the community to preserve their lineage.

What to See and Do

• Watch the double ikat weaving process and purchase authentic Gringsing textiles.

• Witness the Perang Pandan ritual (held in June-July).

• Explore the ancient village layout, featuring stone pathways and traditional Balinese homes.

Visitor Etiquette

• Follow local rules and avoid disrupting rituals.

• Ask before entering homes or taking pictures of villagers.

• Support the local economy by buying handicrafts directly from artisans.

3. Trunyan Village - The Mystical Village of Bali’s Unique Burial Tradition

History and Significance

Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Batur, Trunyan Village is one of Bali’s most mysterious and unique communities. Unlike other Balinese villages that cremate their deceased, Trunyan follows an ancient burial tradition, where bodies are left in the open to decompose naturally under the Taru Menyan tree, which neutralizes the smell.

Unique Customs and Traditions

• Mepasah Burial Tradition: Instead of cremation, the deceased are placed in bamboo cages without burial or cremation, allowing nature to take its course.

• Taru Menyan Tree: This sacred tree, found only in Trunyan, emits a fragrance that prevents the decomposition smell from spreading.

• Isolation from Other Balinese Communities: Trunyan villagers follow ancient animist beliefs that predate Hinduism.

What to See and Do

• Take a boat ride across Lake Batur to reach the village.

• Visit the Trunyan Cemetery and learn about the Mepasah burial practice.

• Enjoy the breathtaking views of Mount Batur and the lake.

Visitor Etiquette

• Do not touch or disturb the remains in the cemetery.

• Respect local customs and avoid loud behavior.

• Engage with a local guide to learn about the village’s history without being intrusive.

Exploring Bali’s traditional villages offers a unique opportunity to experience the island’s rich cultural heritage beyond the tourist attractions. Whether you walk through the clean pathways of Penglipuran, witness the sacred traditions of Tenganan, or uncover the mysteries of Trunyan, each village tells a story of Bali’s diverse cultural landscape.

By visiting these villages respectfully and responsibly, travelers can gain a deeper understanding of Bali’s past, present, and spiritual essence one that continues to thrive despite modernization. If you want a truly authentic Balinese experience, be sure to include these must-visit traditional villages in your itinerary.