Penglipuran Village and the Origin of Its Name
The straight stone-paved road between Penglipuran village with flower rows and traditional Balinese house gates. (Photo: Collected)
Penglipuran Village is located on the Kubu Plateau, Bangli District, East Bali, at an altitude of more than 600m above sea level, providing a cool, pleasant climate all year round. It is located near Mount Batur – a sacred mountain of Hindus.
The name “Penglipuran” comes from two ancient Balinese words: “Pangleng” (ritual) and “Pura” (temple), reflecting the spiritual structure of the village – four sacred temples located in the four cardinal directions, symbolizing all-encompassing protection.
Surrounded by lush green rice fields, vast bamboo forests and tropical forests, Penglipuran is almost completely isolated from the hustle and bustle of the city. That is why visitors often describe Penglipuran as Bali's "quiet oasis".
Traditional architecture and philosophy of life “Tri Hita Karana” in Penglipuran village
Angkul-angkul gate – a typical architecture at this famous Balinese cultural experience site. (Photo: Collected)
- The entire village space is planned according to the philosophy of “Tri Hita Karana” – harmony between humans, nature and gods.
- From the traditional welcome gate (angkul-angkul) to the moss-covered tiled-roof houses, every detail is consistent and harmonious.
- The straight, clean, paved roads, lined with flowers and green grass, give a sense of serenity and hospitality at first sight.
- Every household has an ancestral shrine, which is carefully tended, reflecting the deep connection between belief and daily life.
- In addition, the system of water channels and small stone bridges in front of each house gate not only serves daily activities but also balances the water and air in ancient Balinese architecture.
Penglipuran - A place to preserve unique ethical and traditional values
Galungan Festival in Penglipuran Village – a feature of Bali cultural tourism . (Photo: Collected)
Penglipuran is not only beautiful but also famous for its ethical and communal lifestyle. A very interesting point is the existence of Karang Memadu – an area reserved for men who violate the law of monogamy. Traditionally, the village strictly forbids polygamy. If anyone violates this, they are sent to live separately in Karang Memadu as a form of community education .
This is a living testament to the emphasis on family, loyalty and community values – an integral part of Balinese cultural identity .
Experience authentic Balinese culture at Penglipuran village
Tourists experience traditional homestay and learn how to fold canang sari offerings at Penglipuran. (Photo: Collected)
Participate in traditional festivals throughout the year
In Penglipuran, cultural festivals such as Galungan, Kuningan, Nyepi, Saraswati, Odalan… are held periodically, keeping traditional rituals intact and not “theatricalized”. In particular, on Galungan – the day the ancestors return – the whole village is brilliant in traditional colors with penjor (decorative bamboo), flowers and offerings.
Enjoy folk art and local products
The locals here also preserve the art of making Batik, with patterns hand-painted with melted beeswax, creating unique designs, meticulous to every millimeter. Visitors can buy brocade bags, sarongs, and conical hats, and enjoy the traditional drink Loloh Cemcem - made from cemcem leaves, which has a slightly sour taste and helps purify the body.
Walking in the 45ha sacred bamboo forest
The bamboo forest behind the village is not only an ecological symbol but also a sacred space where major village ceremonies are held. The forest has many shrines, hiking trails, and is an ideal place for meditation, photography or simply enjoying the pure freshness.
Penglipuran Village – Destination for Deep Balinese Cultural Experience
Penglipuran people sell Loloh Cemcem specialties and traditional handicrafts. (Photo: Dewi Divianta)
With its ancient space, sacred atmosphere and rare peace, Penglipuran village quickly became an attractive destination for tourists when traveling to Bali . The village was recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage since 1970, demonstrating the great cultural and historical value of this place.
Tips for traveling to Penglipuran Village
- Location: Kubu, Bangli, Bali, Indonesia
- Ideal time: June – August (dry, cool weather); Galungan festival season (210 days/time)
- Entrance fee: About 25,000 – 30,000 IDR/adult
- Getting there: From Ubud
Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/du-lich-van-hoa-bali-lang-penglipuran-v17296.aspx
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