Take one step closer to appreciating the beauty of Balinese culture by being on the island to witness the way they celebrate the victory of dharma over adharma. This signifies the time when ancestral spirits visit the Earth. Learn more about what to expect and how you can immerse yourself in this unique celebration as a tourist;
What is Galungan?
Honoring the Almighty God and Creator of the entire universe (Ida Sang Hyang Widhi) as well as the victory of Virtue against Evil, the Hindu followers on the island of Bali conduct the 10-day religious festivals of Galungan. “Galungan is a big, happy celebration where people connect with God, eat lots of Balinese food, and dress up in traditional clothes to visit the temples and their families.”
Why Visit During Galungan?
To see the traditional decorations, rituals, and festivities done in Bali temples and all around. “As one of the most important religious activities on the island, Galungan provides the best opportunity to observe the most fascinating part of Bali’s unique culture. A visit to Bali during the festival will surely be an unforgettable experience for all the senses.”
How Can Tourists Be Involved?
Every village in Bali celebrates Galungan and visitors are always welcome to participate as long as they show respect for Balinese cultures and traditions. “The Galungan holidays are a beautiful opportunity for visitors to dive deeper into the cultural heritage of Bali and interact with the local community. The Balinese are very welcoming and it is very likely that you will be invited to join a temple ceremony and receive some fruit and cakes from the offerings.”
Activities To Expect
- See the Penjor (typically installed during Galungan along the front of a house)
- Best tourist spot with Penjor is at Penglipuran Tourism Village
- Can also explore Penglipuran and make Penjor with the help of locals
- Cook/Taste Lawar (Balinese Cuisine famous during this holiday)
- Made from coconut shavings, meat, veggies, and herbs
- Tourists can cook or taste at Paksebali Village (authentic culture and nature and can provide cooking class)
- Make Canang and Balinese snacks
- A tradition 1 day before Galungan, where Balinese women are busy making canang and Balinese snacks
- Tourists can make these at tourism villages such as the Catur tourism village, Tista tourism village, and Central Singapore tourism village
- See people praying together in big temples in Bali
- Praying with family is the main activity of Galungan where they pray to the temple to celebrate the victory of Dharma (goodness) against Adharma (evil)
- Tourists can see this activity in big temples in Bali, such as Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Besakih Temple, Tanah Lot Temple, Uluwatu Temple, Batur Temple, Lempuyang Temple, and Goa Lawah Temple.
- Watch the Barong Lawang show
- Day after Galungan is the Umanis Galungan, where locals typically visit family or take a vacation. This is when tourists can easily see the Barong Lawang show danced on the road and into people’s homes
Top Reasons Why Tourists Enjoy Galungan
- Experience Bali culture in a unique and life-changing way
- Observe a traditional Balinese festival
- Enjoy the celebrations, food, and joyful gatherings
- Interact with the kind and welcoming Balinese locals
- To visit traditional Bali villages while Galungan is ongoing (for the decor and festivities)
- Participate first-hand in ceremonies and traditions with the guidance of locals.
Where to Stay: Private Canggu Villas
Villa Kavya
- Located in Canggu
- 4 bedrooms, 8 pax
- Walking distance to Trattoria Canggu, Berawa Beach, and Finns Recreation Club
- Two swimming pools: 17m lap pool and kid’s pool
Villa Nedine
- Located in Canggu
- 4 bedrooms, 8 pax
- Walking distance to Echo Beach and located close to Batu Bolong Beach
- Outdoor 12m swimming pool
Villa Boa
- Located in Canggu
- 3 bedrooms, 6 pax
- Walking distance to Kayu Putih Beach, Cafe Del Mar, and Batu Belig Beach
- 16m private pool with lounge chairs
