Often called as the island of Gods, Bali is one of the most well-known tourist destinations which offers stunning natural beauty like white-sandy beach with crystal-clear water, lush rice terrace, volcanic mountains and the most renowned of Bali is of course their rich cultural heritage that is infused into the local’s daily life.

Balinese Culture is full of uniqueness and fascinating, where Hinduism is the dominant region, but it’s also got heavy influence by Buddhism and animism that can be seen on the Temples architectures as well as the offerings, Balinese traditional dances and performances, the traditional festivals and the healing practice by the Balinese people.

Now that you know how rich Bali is with its cultural heritage, not it is time for you to know where you get to experience various cultural attractions in Bali. Here Traveloka has listed down several cultural attractions that you might want to add to your list.

As what people have known, Bali boasts over a thousand temples with each having their own distinctive features and unique architectural style. Here are some of the most famous temples around Bali that you must visit during your stay.

One of the most famous and important landmarks in Bali, which is known for its unique offshore setting and stunning sunset backdrop. In this beautiful place you will be welcomed by the magnificent temple that stands on top of an outcrop, accompanied by a constant crashing waves under, it is truly a sight to behold.

Tanah Lot itself has the meaning of Lans in the Sea, it is actually portrayed as the name says. Being surrounded by the sea you might mistake it as a castle surrounded by the crystal-clear waves and is believed to be the work of one religious figure in Bali, Dang Hyang Niratha since the 16th century.

Another one of the iconic temples in Bali which hold a nickname as the “Mother Temple of Bali”, which is one majestic temple located on the slopes of the sacred Mount Agung and a must-visit for those of you who want to experience more about Balinese Hinduism.

Besakih Temple holds the title as the most important temple in Balinese Hinduism which it’s considered as the spiritual center of the island as well as an holy island. The temple is spread over a massive land which houses over 22 separate temples, where each of the temples honors specific deities or aspects of Hinduism teaching.

One of the most efficient ways for you to learn and immerse yourself into the authentic cultural life of Bali is by visiting the traditional villages spread around Bali.

Penglipuran Village is a beautiful and well-preserved traditional village that is often referred to as a “living museum” which offers a glimpse into the authentic Balinese way of life, where the ancient traditions and customs are still practiced and passed down from generation to generation.

Here, visitors are able to awk around and get immersed in that traditional atmosphere while being surrounded by numerous traditional architectures with neat rows of traditional houses which will make you feel as if stepping back in time.

A traditional village that is known for its stone carving and traditional dance performances which become one of the most popular stops for many tourists who would like to experience various dances and performances of the Balinese culture.

In this village you could also participate in various cultural activities such as Stone Carving traditions which is also well known for being the speciality of this particular village, where people would use the technique that are passed down from generation to generation to create a masterpiece out of volcanic rock from the nearby Mount Agung.

The other thing is as what has been mentioned above, in this village you will get to witness the grand and majestic Balinese Traditional dance and performance such as the Barong dance and Keris dance.

There are several museums that you can visit to explore more about the history of the cultures in Bali, and see for yourself the architecture design, artistic masterpiece made from the authentic Balinese traditions that are shown on their design and painting.

The Bali Museum is like the house for all history and cultural things in Bali which are all shown under one roof. It houses various collections of artifacts and artwork for centuries which offer an understanding of Balinese history and cultural development over the years.

The collections that you can find here from the prehistoric artifact such as traditional tools and pottery, Hindu and Buddhist sculpture which represents the strong influences on various Balinese arts, and last but definitely not least is the traditional paintings and textile from the detailed wayang style to contemporary world produce by the local artists.

If Bali Museum is more focused on history and the development of culture and arts in Bali, then Agung Ngurah Rai Museum of Art which is also known as ARMA is more focused on preserving and promoting Balinese art and culture that offer a place which will immerse any visitors in the artistic world of Bali.

Besides showcasing various artwork of Bali, the museum also provides a stage to perform where visitors can witness the traditional Balinese dance such as Kecak Dance and Legong Dance in person. They also offer opportunities where visitors can participate in their workshops and cultural activities such as painting, wood caring, or even batik making.

Bali is rich in culture, thus it houses a wide variety of traditional dance and performance that is held throughout the year. Here are some examples of the most famous traditional Dance of Bali.

The most popular traditional dance and performance that is situated in Bali is of course, the Kecak Dance or also known as Ramayana Monkey Chant is a dramatic and enchanting performance that has been held throughout the years which is deeply rooted in Balinese culture.

The dance is held by making a circle with over 50 bare-chested men sitting around surrounding the pit of fire placed in the middle and chanting “cak,cak,cak” in a specific pattern. Even from the viewer's perspective, you would be able to feel the energy of the collective voice that creates a powerful and almost hypnotic atmosphere.

Nowadays, Kecak Dance has become one of the most anticipated performances for tourists that can be experienced in various locations throughout Bali, especially in cultural villages and temples.

Another iconic vibrant and lively performance which was filled with energetic movements and playful interactions with the audience. The Brong Dance itself is believed to symbolize the balance and harmony between Barong and Rangda that again represents the constant struggle between good and evil in the world.

As the name of the dance, Barong is one of the most essential that represents the goods, a mythical lion-like creature that is decorated in dazzling creations, fur and details as well as tinkling bells that create a mesmerizing sound in every move. While the Rangda represents its opposite which embodies evil, malevolent forces, and brings chaos to wherever it went that are shown through its costume from a fiery red hair, bulging eyes and sharp teeth.

You can experience this exceptional traditional dance in some of the traditional villages such as Batubulan Village in Ubud, and various temples around Bali.

Here are all the recommended cultural attractions in Bali, where each of them has their own uniqueness and speciality. If you would like to visit Bali soon, Traveloka would gladly help you in booking the flights, hotels, and numerous tourist attractions and activities mentioned above with the best price! Traveloka often offers a combo, promotion and discount which will make your trip feel much more enjoyable and unforgettable!