Bali’s timeless allure never ceases to captivate travelers, drawing them back to this stunning island year after year. With its traditional villages steeped in generations-old customs and traditions, Bali is a veritable treasure trove of cultural beauty. Among these traditional villages, Penglipuran Village has become a popular tourist destination for locals and foreign visitors. Nestled in the scenic Bangli Regency, Penglipuran Village offers many unique Balinese cultural experiences for tourists to discover.
Embracing the Tri Mandala Concept
The Tri Mandala concept, a temple layout divided into three distinct parts, represents itself in Penglipuran Village. This division comprises Utama Mandala, Madya Mandala, and Nista Mandala. Utama Mandala is a sacred temple building where the local community gathers to worship. Madya Mandala is a residential complex where houses made of bamboo or bricks. In addition, clay-based paint walls adorn it and form a harmonious whole. Meanwhile, the final component, Nista Mandala, serves as the village cemetery. The villagers of Penglipuran Village do not practice ngaben (Hindu traditions of burning corpses) but rather opt for burial.
Karang Memadu, a Reminder to Respect Women
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One of the distinctive customs of Penglipuran Village is the strict prohibition of polygamy. The society forbids married men from having more than one wife, and severe consequences await those who violate this rule. The society exiles offenders to Karang Memadu, a designated area in the southern part of the village compound. As a result of their transgression, they are barred from participating in traditional ceremonies, entering the temple, or even crossing the village intersection in the north. Moreover, other members of the community are encouraged to shun these offenders.
The Cleanest Village in the World
Penglipuran Village has been bestowed as the Cleanest Traditional Village in the World by ISTA (Indonesia Sustainable Tourism Award). Moreover, it is ranked among the Sustainable Destinations Top 100 by Green Destinations Foundation. One of the key factors contributing to this achievement is the village’s strict transportation policy, which has prevented pollution from permeating the fresh air of the village.
Additionally, the village has thoughtfully provided trash cans every 30 meters to encourage proper waste management. This action inspires residents and visitors alike to dispose of garbage in the designated receptacles. These concerted efforts reflect the villager’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of their cultural heritage while preserving the natural beauty of their surroundings.
Learning Local Culture
As a popular tourist destination, Penglipuran Village offers various captivating activities for visitors. Beyond strolling through the village and admiring its charm, travellers can engage in many enriching experiences that showcase Balinese culture.
For instance, short classes on traditional practices such as crafting gebogan (fruit offerings) and canang sari (flower offerings). You can also learn the intricate movements of Kecak Dance, donning traditional Balinese attire, and observe the art of coffee-making are readily available. These immersive activities allow visitors to delve deeper into the vibrant heritage of the village and gain a firsthand appreciation of its unique customs and traditions.
Penglipuran Village Festival
Annually, Penglipuran Village hosts a grandiose festival as a spectacular exhibition of Balinese culture. The villagers take pride in organizing cultural performances, including traditional Balinese dance, barong, and live performances of Balinese music. Additionally, Balinese cultural competitions motivate the villagers to participate actively, showcasing their skills and creativity.
Indulging in a getaway to Penglipuran Village presents an opportunity to delve into the multifaceted world of Balinese culture. Moreover, it is providing an enriching and unforgettable experience during your visit to Bali. By exploring this traditional village, you can discover the authentic and unique customs of the local community.
To make your journey to Penglipuran Village more convenient and comfortable, consider staying at The Lavana Collection, located near the village. With easy access to this gem, you can immerse yourself in the wonders of Balinese traditions and discover the beauty of this enchanting island. Make your reservations through The Lavana website and embark on an unforgettable journey that will leave you in awe with the richness of Balinese culture.