Culture & religion
Temples, offerings, ceremonies, names and the story of the island.
A Short History of Bali in 5 Minutes
Kings who walked into gunfire rather than surrender, a volcano that erupted during the island's holiest ceremony, and a culture that outlived the empire that created it: Bali's past is far more dramatic than its beaches suggest.
Barong and Rangda: The Story Behind Bali's Most Famous Dance
A lion-like guardian, a fanged widow-witch and men turning daggers on their own chests: the Barong dance looks like pure spectacle, but it is really a lesson in how Bali keeps the universe in balance.
Is Tirta Empul Worth It? A Step-by-Step Guide to the Water Purification Ritual
Tirta Empul is where Balinese Hindus have bathed in holy spring water for more than a thousand years. Go at the right hour, follow the ritual properly, and it is one of the most moving mornings you can have in Bali.
Ngaben: A Guide to Balinese Cremation Ceremonies
A painted tower spinning at a crossroads, a life-size bull in flames and a crowd that sounds more like a festival than a funeral: in Bali, cremation is the joyful moment a soul is finally set free.
Nyepi in Bali: What Happens on the Day of Silence as a Tourist (2027 Guide)
Once a year, Bali switches itself off. On Nyepi the airport closes, the streets empty and the whole island falls silent for 24 hours, and if you happen to be here, you are part of it.
Temple Etiquette in Bali: Dress, Rules and Respectful Behavior
Bali has more temples than it has villages, and every one of them is an active place of worship, not a museum. A few simple rules, now written into official government guidelines, let you visit with confidence and respect.
What Are the Little Baskets Everywhere in Bali? Canang Sari Explained
You will see them within minutes of landing: small palm-leaf trays of flowers and incense on doorsteps, shrines and even car dashboards. They are canang sari, and every one of them is a prayer.
Why Are Balinese People Called Wayan, Made, Nyoman and Ketut?
Your driver is Wayan, your guide is Wayan, and so is the woman at the warung. In Bali, a name usually tells you one thing above all: in what order someone was born.