Adresse: Jl. Raya Ubud 8, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar
To contemplate one of the richest examples of Balinese architecture, with its refined exotic stylings, just head to the Palace of Ubud, the ancient residence of the royal family. Adjacent to two temples, Puri Saren Agung and Pura Marajan Agung, it awaits visitors in the bustling heart of Ubud. Legend has it that a holy man from Eastern India, Rsi Markandeya, was moved by a vision to found, in the area of Campuhan, on the bank of the Wos River in Ubud, a series of temples. It would be this territory, considered sacred, to host the royal palace. The building, constructed between 1800 and 1823 during the reign of the sovereign Ida Tjokorda Putu Kandel, was passed on over time to the heirs of the dynasty, reaching our times in excellent condition. Today, its simple architectural styles, a classic example of well-preserved Balinese architecture, seduces the public along with its splendid gardens that surround the palace and the statues of its courtyard. Today, the Puri Saren Ubud Palace - as it is also known - is also an important cultural home for art, Balinese dance, music and literature. Its internal halls and its stage are used for international events while the courtyard hosts evening concerts and dance performances.
It is one of the sacred dances of the of Bali Island, with a mystical meaning. The ceremony is intended to ask for salvation from a catastrophe or epidemic. The Sanghyang Dedari is different from other Balinese dances, because Sanghyang requires the dancer's body to be possessed.
From a traditional drink to a true national symbol, arak is so important in Bali that it is used not only on intimate and less official occasions such as moments of joy in the family and in conversations between friends, but also in religious ceremonies.
Located within a large forest of nutmeg trees, Pura Bukit Sari was built in the 17th century as a meditation temple by the son of the King of Mengwi. It is certainly an evocative place, especially at dawn, when the monkeys come down from the trees to feed while the rays of the early morning sun filter through the tree canopy.
Chinese New Year welcomes the arrival of the Year of the Dragon
Although predominantly Hindu, Bali is home to an important Chinese community which on the occasion of the New Year organizes uniquely aesthetic events with a mix of Chinese traditions, Balinese charm and fusion cuisine.