Penglipuran Villages is a traditional Balinese village located in the hills of Bangli Regency, Bali. Penglipuran Villages is known for its clean, eco-friendly atmosphere and devotion to old customs, offering visitors a fascinating cultural experience that highlights Bali’s past. Whether you’re staying at Hotel Nikko Bali Benoa Beach or elsewhere in Bali, this village provides an enriching journey back to simpler times and a better grasp of Bali’s cultural core.

Penglipuran Village is approximately 60 kilometers from the luxury Hotel Nikko Bali Benoa Beach. The travel takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, making it an ideal day trip for guests. A visit to Penglipuran Village can be an ideal cultural getaway, allowing guests to experience the tranquil, traditional side of Bali before returning to the hotel’s relaxing beachfront environment.

What Penglipuran Village Offers?

Traditional Architecture and Village Layout

Penglipuran Village is known for its distinct and well-preserved architectural style. The village’s layout revolves around a single stone-paved walkway surrounded by traditional Balinese dwellings. Each house gate, known as a “angkul-angkul,” is decorated with elaborate carvings and adheres to stringent criteria to ensure uniformity and authenticity. Locals are frequently kind and eager to share information about their everyday life, habits, and rituals with visitors. Walking through the village feels like stepping back in time, since the ambiance and building have been preserved over generations.

Sacred Temples and Spiritual Sites

Penglipuran Villages is home to several old temples that are important to the community’s spiritual life. The most noteworthy of these are Pura Desa, the community’s major temple, and Pura Puseh, a smaller but equally renowned shrine. The village temples conduct a variety of Balinese Hindu ceremonies throughout the year, with especially lively celebrations around festivals like Galungan and Kuningan. Visitors can respect these ceremonies while learning more about Balinese spiritual practices from skilled local guides. 

Exploring the Bamboo Forest

A magnificent bamboo grove may be seen just beyond Penglipuran Villages main residential areas. The forest, which covers around 75 hectares, not only provides a peaceful environment for a leisurely walk, but it also acts as a vital resource for the inhabitants. The tall bamboo trees supply raw materials for traditional crafts and house construction in the village. This forest is particularly popular with photographers because the sunlight streaming through the dense bamboo produces a lovely, surreal mood. For those looking for a calm vacation, the bamboo grove in Penglipuran Village is a must-see.

Savor Traditional Balinese Cuisine

Foodies will appreciate Penglipuran Village, where some local houses provide traditional Balinese food created with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Popular dishes include sate lilit (seasoned minced fish skewers), lawar (Balinese salad), and klepon (sweet rice cake with palm sugar filling). This dining experience not only helps the local economy, but also allows travelers to immerse themselves in Balinese cuisine. Lunch at Penglipuran Villages is a fantastic opportunity to try local foods and see cooking techniques passed down through generations.

Cultural Performances and Art Exhibitions:

Penglipuran Village hosts traditional dance and music performances on significant festivals and holidays to exhibit Bali’s rich cultural heritage. These shows feature local dancers dressed in elaborate costumes who perform to traditional Balinese instruments such as the gamelan. These events, which are frequently accompanied by art exhibitions, let visitors have a better knowledge of Penglipuran Village’s cultural foundation. Although performances are not organized on a daily basis, guests can ask local guides about upcoming events during their stay.

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Visitor Guidelines on Penglipuran Villages

To maintain the cleanliness, order, and respect of this revered village, Penglipuran enforces specific guidelines for all visitors:

• Dress Modestly: Visitors planning to enter the temples should dress respectfully. Traditional sarongs are usually available at the entrance, but it’s recommended to bring one if possible.
• Respect Local Traditions: Penglipuran Village holds its customs and religious practices in high regard. For example, women are requested not to enter temple areas if they are menstruating, in line with Balinese Hindu customs.
• No Smoking Policy: Penglipuran Village has a strict no-smoking policy within its boundaries. This rule is part of the village’s commitment to promoting a healthy and clean environment, distinguishing it as a smoke-free zone in Bali.
• Dispose of Waste Properly: Trash bins are conveniently located around the village, and visitors are encouraged to minimize waste. Bringing a reusable water bottle is highly recommended to help reduce plastic waste.
• Be Mindful of Property and Offerings: As you walk through Penglipuran Village, you may notice small offerings placed on the ground, particularly near doorways and sacred sites. These are part of daily Balinese rituals, and visitors are asked not to touch or disturb these offerings as a sign of respect.

Amenities and Visitor Information

• Entrance Fees and Operating Hours:
  A modest entrance fee applies to all visitors, which goes towards supporting the village’s conservation efforts. Penglipuran Village is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM, although opening hours may vary on certain religious holidays.
• Guided Tours and Self-Guided Options:
  Local guides are available at the entrance to provide tours, offering a wealth of knowledge about the village’s history, culture, and architecture. Self-guided audio tours are also available for those who prefer a more flexible exploration pace.
• Parking and Restroom Facilities:
  Ample parking is available near the village entrance, with separate areas for cars and motorbikes. Clean restrooms are conveniently located, ensuring a comfortable experience for visitors.
• Souvenir Shops and Local Handicrafts:
  Visitors can support the local economy by purchasing souvenirs from Penglipuran’s artisan shops. Handcrafted items such as woven baskets, bamboo crafts, and wooden carvings are popular choices, with each piece reflecting the unique artistry of the local community.

Source: Unsplash

Ready To Visit Penglipuran Villages? Enjoy It!!

A visit to Penglipuran Village takes you on a tour through Bali’s traditional way of life, showing generations of preserved architecture, culture, and customs. This is an enriching day trip for Hotel Nikko Bali Benoa Beach guests, allowing them to discover Bali’s cultural riches before returning to the luxury and comfort of their hotel.

After a day immersed in Balinese culture, relax in the tranquil beachside setting of Hotel Nikko Bali Benoa Beach, which offers world-class amenities and great culinary options. The hotel offers everything from superb spa treatments to fine dining experiences. Giving a relaxing end to a culturally enriching day. Whether you’re looking to relax by the beach or indulge in culinary delights, Hotel Nikko Bali Benoa Beach promises a memorable and rejuvenating stay.