Bali Beyond the Beaches: Cultural Discoveries

Bali is unique among Indonesian islands as the only one with a Hindu majority. This deeply spiritual culture permeates every aspect of daily life, from the small canang sari offerings placed on doorsteps each morning to the elaborate temple ceremonies that mark the Balinese calendar. Visiting Bali during a major ceremony like Galungan or Nyepi (the Day of Silence) offers an extraordinary window into a culture that has maintained its traditions for centuries despite the pressures of modern tourism.

The hill town of Ubud has been Bali's cultural heart since the early 20th century when European artists began settling here, drawn by the extraordinary creativity of the local people. Today Ubud is home to world-class art galleries, traditional dance performances held nightly at the Royal Palace, and a thriving community of artisans working in painting, woodcarving, silverwork, and batik. The Ubud Art Market is a wonderful place to find handmade souvenirs, while the ARMA Museum houses an important collection of Balinese and Indonesian art.

Bali is known as the Island of Ten Thousand Temples, and the reality isn't far from this. Every village has at least three temples, and major temples like Tanah Lot (perched dramatically on a rock in the sea), Uluwatu (set on a cliff 70 metres above the ocean), and Besakih (the Mother Temple on Mount Agung's slopes) are among Asia's most spectacular religious sites. When visiting temples, dress respectfully with a sarong and sash, which are often provided at the entrance. The best time to visit is during a ceremony when the temples come alive with colour, music, and devotion.

The emerald rice terraces of Bali are more than just a beautiful landscape: they represent an ancient irrigation system called subak that has been recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage cultural landscape. The subak system, which dates back to the 9th century, is a cooperative water management system that reflects the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, the harmony between the spiritual, human, and natural worlds. The terraces of Tegallalang and Jatiluwih are the most famous, but smaller terraces can be found throughout the interior of the island.

Balinese artistry is extraordinary in its variety and quality. In the village of Celuk, silversmiths create intricate jewellery using techniques passed down through generations. In Mas, master woodcarvers transform single pieces of wood into flowing, expressive sculptures. Batuan is known for its detailed paintings that depict mythological scenes and daily life. Taking a workshop in any of these art forms is a wonderful way to connect with Balinese culture. Many artisans welcome visitors to their studios and are happy to demonstrate their craft.