Have you ever wanted to explore the traditional culture of a foreign country? If so, Penglipuran, Bali is definitely worth a visit. This small village is located in the mountains and is known for its unique architecture and handicrafts. Even better, Penglipuran is still relatively unexplored by tourists, so you can enjoy all the beauty and charm of this authentic Balinese village without having to deal with crowds. So, if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path travel destination, be sure to add Penglipuran to your list!
What Is Penglipuran, and Why is it Unique Among Other Villages in Bali?
Penglipuran is a small village located in the eastern part of the Tampaksiring district near Bangli, Bali, Indonesia. It is an isolated settlement surrounded by rice paddies and mountains. The villagers live in harmony with nature, which was once sought out as an inspiration by many artists and intellectuals.
Penglipuran is a magnet for travelers because of its scenic beauty. There are many things to visit and enjoy, such as traditional buildings, art and artifacts, customs and traditions, an organic farm, and much more. Anthropologists visited the village to get close to true Balinese life. One Anthropologist, Gregory Bateson, described this village as one of the last remaining examples of traditional Balinese culture that still exist today.
Penglipuran’s have a high standard of living and this can be seen in their architecture, traditions, agriculture, and lifestyle. Many things make this village different and unique from others. One of these things is their houses, which are made from local materials such as wood, bamboo, and palm leaves. They also use raised Batukadas or granaries to store food.
What Are Some of The Traditional Ceremonies and Rituals That Take Place In Penglipuran?
The local people in Penglipuran still live according to their ancestral ways of life. A way of life that has remained unchanged for many centuries. One of their customs is the celebration of Nyepi. This is celebrated on New Year’s Day and the island of Bali turns off all lights and sounds, stops all traffic, and deserts all worldly activities. This is a day for the Balinese people to cleanse the island from the previous year’s misdoings and bad omens, and to establish a pure and positive year ahead. This is a day of complete silence and is an opportunity for the people of Bali to reflect on their lives and to connect with nature.
Another annual event is the “Galungan” which takes place in the village of Penglipuran, the Tondano regency of West Java province. It is celebrated every 210 days, the same number of days it takes to grow a rice field from seedlings to maturity. According to local legend, “Galan Galing” is considered the goddess of fertility who protects the village from evil spirits and diseases. The celebration is made up of several ceremonies. One of them is “ngusaba,” which means making a wish to God or Goddess in the language of Tagalog.
What role does the Penglipuran Village play in the preservation of its Bamboo Forest?
The Penglipuran village is committed to the preservation of the bamboo forest. They were even awarded by the Indonesian government in 1995 for their efforts in supporting the environment. The village is responsible for maintaining 75 hectares of bamboo forest by doing responsible cultivation. The bamboo forest is important to the village because it helps to preserve the traditions of the village and its people. For example, they keep the traditional spatial layout and buildings based on ancestral designs.
The Bamboo Forest is an important land use for the Penglipuran village because it provides them with many resources. The village uses the bamboo for fuel, food, shelter, and crafts. The villagers are also able to sell the bamboo products in order to earn money. The Penglipuran village is an excellent example of how communities can work together to preserve their environment and traditions.
What Do Visitors to Penglipuran See and Experience That They Won’t Find Anywhere Else on The Island of Bali?
When travelers come to Penglipuran, they are instantly enchanted by its unique beauty. The community is tucked away in a beautiful green valley with traditional thatched-roof houses dotting the landscape. Visitors can stroll through the rice paddies, watch the farmers at work, and learn about the unique irrigation system that has been used for centuries. There is also a beautiful temple complex, as well as a number of shrines and monuments that reflect the village’s rich history. In addition to the friendly locals, all of these factors combine to create a unique experience not found anywhere else on the island of Bali.
How Can Outsiders Learn More About Penglipuran’s Culture?
The only way for outsiders to learn more about Penglipuran’s culture is to visit the village and discover it for themselves. In addition, Penglipuran is home to a number of friendly locals who are always happy to chat with travelers and share their culture. Another great way to learn and experience the culture is by taking a Penglipuran village tour with a knowledgeable guide.
Final Take Away
If you’re looking for an unforgettable cultural experience, the Penglipuran village is a unique and special place that deserves to be experienced by everyone. This unique community has managed to preserve their traditions and values for centuries, and it’s a privilege for tourists to witness their way of life. If you have not had the opportunity to visit Penglipuran yet, make sure to add it to your bucket list!
