Bali’s enchanting Penglipuran Village is gearing up for an influx of visitors in the coming week.
This surge in tourism coincides with the Lunar New Year festivities, showcasing why this award-winning village is one of the province’s top cultural attractions.
A Flood of Visitors Expected for Lunar New Year Celebrations
Situated in Bangli Regency, Penglipuran Village is preparing to welcome an impressive 10,000 tourists daily during the Chinese New Year celebrations. Can you imagine the vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter, music, and the tantalizing aroma of traditional dishes wafting through the air?
Wayan Sumiarsa, the village’s General Manager, shared some fascinating statistics with the media: “If we compare it to February 2024, the number of daily visitors was around 8,000 at this time. However, we’re already seeing projections for this year indicate a rise to about 10,000 visitors!”
Penglipuran Village: A Cultural Gem
Over the years, visits to Penglipuran Village have flourished, particularly among domestic tourists. This village serves as a vital landmark, not just for Balinese culture but for Indonesian heritage as a whole. Picture cobblestone pathways lined with traditional family compounds and lush bamboo forests—it’s a feast for the senses!
This charming village is one of the last fully pedestrianized areas in Bali, and it’s nestled amongst protected bamboo forests and agricultural lands. Sumiarsa excitedly stated that in addition to their regular weekly events, they are planning new activities specifically for the Lunar New Year to cater to the influx of visitors.
Engaging Cultural Performances
Throughout the next week, visitors can look forward to mesmerizing barong landing performances, presented by the village’s talented youth. The barong, a mythical creature and protector in Balinese culture, plays a vital role in storytelling through dance. Imagine watching dancers gracefully depict the epic battle between Barong and the demon queen Rangda—it’s both thrilling and steeped in tradition.
This performance also draws connections to many traditional Chinese folklore stories, making it a fitting tribute to the Chinese New Year celebrations.
Tips for Enjoying Penglipuran Village
If you’re planning a visit to Penglipuran Village, you’ll be pleased to know that it usually attracts more domestic tourists, making it a vibrant spot steeped in community spirit. If you happen to be among the international visitors, trust me, skipping Penglipuran would mean missing an unforgettable experience!
To dodge the crowds, try arriving at the ticket office right at opening time, allowing you to explore before the tourist buses arrive. Alternatively, visiting in the late afternoon is a great option, as the sun starts to set and the heat eases, giving you a peaceful stroll through the enchanting paths.
For those seeking a more personal experience, consider an overnight stay at one of the cozy community homestays available in the village. Not only does this provide a unique glimpse into daily life in Penglipuran, but it also enables you to enjoy special experiences, like dining under the stars during a communal meal on the main street.
During the Chinese New Year, the village’s traders and hosts don their best traditional Balinese attire—sarongs, kabaya, and udeng—making this a wonderfully immersive experience. Many visitors choose to wear traditional clothing too, enriching their cultural journey through the village.
Exploring Beyond the Village
Visitors often stop by Penglipuran Village as part of a half-day tour, but why not extend your adventure? Bangli Regency is brimming with stunning sights. From breathtaking waterfalls like Krisik and Goa Giri Campuhan to Mount Batur and Lake Batur, you’re in for some spectacular views!
If chasing waterfalls isn’t your scene, coupling your visit to Penglipuran Village with a day in Kintamani will complete your Bali experience in the most magical way possible. The stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences await you.
