Bali Penglipuran Village
A Traditional Balinese Village Untouched by the Modernization Era
Nestled approximately 6 kilometers from Bangli and 1 kilometer from Kubu village, Bali Penglipuran Village is a captivating traditional settlement that has remained remarkably untouched by the modern era. Home to 700 inhabitants (per the 1999 census), this unique village in the Kubu sub-district of Bangli regency boasts a distinct character and meticulously preserves its ancient customs and architecture. Perched 700 meters above sea level, it offers visitors and villagers alike a refreshingly cool atmosphere. The village's charm lies in its remarkably consistent building shapes and traditional materials, providing an immersive step back in time. As a designated cultural tourism site, Penglipuran offers an enchanting experience, with its well-preserved rural landscape, green pathways, and beautifully maintained homes, allowing visitors to witness a living testament to Bali's rich heritage.
Notes
- **Location:** Situated in Kubu, Bangli sub-district, approximately 6km from Bangli city and 45km (a 2-hour drive) from Denpasar. It lies at an altitude of 700 meters above sea level, at the foot of Mount Batur.
- **Village Structure & Topography:** Features a unique topography where the main, higher area houses sacred temples (Penataran, Puseh), gradually descending downstream. Village corridor roads are exclusively for pedestrians, lined with uniform traditional buildings featuring soil walls and split bamboo roofs.
- **Etymology:** The name 'Penglipuran' is primarily believed to derive from 'Pengeling Pura' (remembering the temple or ancestors), signifying profound respect for ancestors from Bayung Gede village. Other interpretations include 'Pelipur Lara' (place of comfort) or 'Pangleng Pura' (surrounded by temples).
- **Official Recognition:** Officially designated as a tourist village by Bangli Regent decree no. 115 on April 29, 1993.
- **Customary Rules:** Strict customary rules govern village life, including a ban on motorized vehicles within the village to preserve air quality, a prohibition on polygamous marriages, and a community predominantly belonging to the Sudra caste.
- **Cultural Heritage:** Villagers diligently maintain ancestral temples (Pura Bale Agung, Pura Puseh, Pura Dalem, Pura Dukuh) and preserve traditional practices such as the Baris Dance.
- **Visitor Facilities:** The village provides a large parking lot, clean toilet facilities (by modest donation), small shops offering snacks and cold drinks, and souvenir stalls selling local crafts.
- **Transportation:** Bali Tour offers convenient car charter services for visitors wishing to reach the village.