News & Updates

Bali, the fabled paradise island of Indonesia, offers a rich diversity of experiences that you’ll never forget. What are the latest news and updates about Bali?
bali tourism office strengthens levy compliance with destination inspections

To ensure the smooth implementation of the Foreign Tourist Levy, the Bali Provincial Tourism Office is conducting inspections at key tourist destinations. This initiative aims to verify that foreign visitors have completed their levy payments and hold the required levy vouchers, reinforcing Bali’s commitment to sustainable tourism. The inspections, running from March 19 to March 25, 2025, cover various iconic locations. On the first day, checks were carried out at Besakih Temple, Bali’s most revered spiritual site, as well as at a partner travel agency facilitating levy payments. The second day focused on Tanah Lot and Uluwatu, two of Bali’s most visited landmarks, renowned for their stunning scenery and cultural significance. This initiative will continue at other major attractions, ensuring full compliance with the levy policy introduced in 2024. The revenue collected from the levy directly supports environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and the overall sustainability of Bali’s tourism sector. The Bali Tourism Office encourages all foreign visitors to complete their levy payments before exploring the island. Payment can be made through official platforms, offering a seamless process that enhances the overall visitor experience. Tourism businesses and local communities also play a crucial role in this effort by spreading awareness and assisting visitors in understanding the levy’s importance. With collective participation, this policy can help protect Bali’s cultural and natural heritage, ensuring that the island remains a world-class destination for years to come.

the official statement regarding the implementation of silence day the saka new year 1947

Based on the Circular Letter of the Governor of Bali Number: 16 of 2024 dated November 13, 2024, regarding National Holidays, Collective Leave, and Dispensation for Hindu Holy Days in Bali for the Year 2025, we are the religious leaders united in the Interreligious Harmony Forum (FKUB) of Bali Province, along with the Head of the Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs of Bali Province, and with the acknowledgment of the Chief of the Bali Regional Police, the Commander of the 163/Wira Satya Military Resort Command, and the Governor of Bali, hereby announce this official statement regarding the implementation of Silence Day, The Saka New Year 1947, which falls on Saturday, March 29, 2025, as follows: 1.    The Bali Hindus conduct the implementation of Silence Day, the Saka New Year 1947 including Malis, Pengrupukan, Sipeng (catur bratha penyepian), Ngembak Geni sincerely and with deep respect. 2.    Transportation service providers (land, sea, and air) not allowed to operate during the implementation of the Silence Day, from Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 08:00 am until Sunday, March 30, 2025, at 06:00 am. 3.     Radio and television broadcasting institutions are not permitted to operate during the implementation of the Silence Day, from Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 06:00 am until Sunday, March 30, 2025, at 06:00 am. 4.    Cellular service providers are required to disable mobile data, and all television service providers must suspend broadcasting from Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 06:00 am until Sunday, March 30, 2025, at 06:00 am. 5.    People is not allowed to travel or leave their houses, set off firecrackers/fireworks, use loudspeakers or other noise-making devices, turn on lights, or engage in any activities that may disturb the sanctity of the Silence Day and public order. 6.    Accommodation service providers, entertainment service providers, and tourist attractions in Bali are not permitted to promote their businesses using Silence Day branding. 7.    Traditional Village Authorities (Prajuru Desa Adat), Pecalang, BANKAMDA, Village/Sub-district Officials, and security personnel at each place of worship are responsible for ensuring the security of the Silence Day implementation in their respective areas, in coordination with the relevant security authorities. 8.    As the Silence Day coincides with the month of Ramadan 1447 Hijra, the following provisions apply: a. Muslims conduct Tarawih prayers at the nearest mosque by walking or at their respective houses, without using loudspeakers and with limited lighting. The Tarawih prayer should be conducted from 20:00 to 21:30 pm. b. Followers of other religions conduct their worship at their respective houses. 9.  The Religious councils, religious social institutions, and relevant authorities are encouraged to disseminate this official statement to all religious communities in Bali. 10.  All members of society must comply with this official statement. This official statement is hereby issued as a guideline to be followed and implemented accordingly  Bali, March 2025                                        THE GOVERNOR OF BALI

karya piodalan at pura payogan agung gunung lebah: a tradition and culture that captivates tourists worldwide

Pura Payogan Agung Gunung Lebah, located in the Ubud area of Bali, is not only known as a sacred place for Balinese Hindus but also as a cultural center that exudes a captivating spiritual charm. One aspect that attracts both domestic and international tourists is the recent karya piodalan, a temple anniversary ceremony that features a series of traditional rituals, showcasing the uniqueness and richness of Balinese traditions.   Piodalan: Meaning and Significance Piodalan is a religious ceremony held to commemorate the anniversary of a temple, marking the day it was first built and dedicated to the deities. During each piodalan, Balinese Hindus conduct prayers and rituals as an expression of gratitude and devotion to God, manifested in various forms of ceremonies, offerings, and prayers. The piodalan at Pura Payogan Agung Gunung Lebah was recently held with grand ceremonies, coinciding with the Purnama (full moon), which Hindus believe to be an auspicious day. The extensive series of rituals, starting with sacred ceremonies that have distinctive characteristics, makes it particularly fascinating for tourists seeking to witness an authentic and profound spiritual experience. Pura Payogan Agung Gunung Lebah: Natural Beauty and Temple Architecture Nestled beneath Campuhan Hill and surrounded by lush nature, Pura Payogan Agung Gunung Lebah overlooks the Campuhan River. The serene environment enhances the temple’s sacred atmosphere while adding to its appeal for visitors. The temple’s architecture showcases the intricacy of traditional Balinese design, with meaningful ornaments and statues that enrich the visual experience of anyone who visits. The Series of Ceremonies in Piodalan The piodalan ceremonies at Pura Payogan Agung Gunung Lebah often involve the participation of local communities who come to take part in various rituals. Each ceremonial procession is typically led by a pemangku (temple priest) or a pedanda (high priest), ensuring a solemn and reverent atmosphere. One of the unique aspects of the piodalan ritual at Pura Payogan Agung Gunung Lebah is the active involvement of the local community at every stage of the ceremony, creating a strong sense of kinship. Visitors are not only presented with sacred rituals but also have the opportunity to connect deeply with Bali’s spiritual and cultural heritage. The lengthy sequence of rituals begins with sacred ceremonies such as collecting tirta (holy water) from various temples in and outside Bali, the Melasti purification ritual, Tawur Agung Pedanan aims to balance the energy of Bhuta Kala, prevent misfortune, and purify the environment before piodalan. Through this ritual, Hindus teach balance, respect for nature, and togetherness, Mepada is a purification ritual before piodalan to balance energy or harmonize relationships with humans, nature, and sacred spirits according to the Tri Hita Karana concept, cleanse oneself spiritually, and prepare for the main ceremony to take place in a sacred and holy manner. And the peak of Piodalan, each with its own distinctive elements. One of the most captivating rituals is when the Sesuhunan (deities) descend to the market for the Memasar ritual (symbolic selling at the market). This procession draws significant attention from tourists, as it is a rare spectacle not frequently performed. This uniqueness is one of the main attractions for global visitors. Additionally, tourists can experience an atmosphere of peace and tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere. The piodalan ceremony, accompanied by traditional Balinese gamelan music, sacred dances, and the soothing scent of incense and flowers, creates an enchanting and deeply immersive experience. Conclusion With its unique karya piodalan, Pura Payogan Agung Gunung Lebah is not only a sacred place for Hindus but also a cultural gem that captivates visitors from around the world. The combination of elaborate rituals, profound spiritual significance, and breathtaking natural surroundings makes this ceremony an experience that enriches cultural knowledge while offering inner peace to all who attend. By preserving this tradition, Pura Payogan Agung Gunung Lebah continues to be a symbol of Bali’s rich cultural heritage that attracts global admiration.

bali: consistency in earning recognition as a world tourism destination in 2025

Bali has long been recognized as one of the most captivating destinations for travelers seeking a blend of nature, culture, and meaningful experiences. Its stunning landscapes, from lush rice terraces to pristine beaches, paired with its deep cultural heritage, make Bali a unique and attractive place for visitors from all over the world. This rich combination of natural beauty and cultural significance has earned Bali yet another prestigious recognition in 2025, reaffirming its position as a top tourism destination. In 2025, Bali received notable awards from TripAdvisor, solidifying its status as one of the world’s most celebrated tourist spots. The Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best awards, based on the reviews and opinions of travelers over the previous 12 months, are some of the most prestigious honors in the travel industry. The award categories are highly competitive, and only the top 1% of destinations are recognized. Bali’s success in this year’s awards highlights the island’s consistent ability to captivate and inspire visitors from all corners of the globe. 1. Best Tourist Destination in the World: Runner-Up Bali’s distinct charm and sustainable tourism efforts earned it the runner-up spot in the prestigious "Best Tourist Destination in the World" category. Competing against global icons such as Paris, Rome, and Barcelona, Bali emerged as a clear favorite among travelers. This recognition underscores the island’s ability to maintain its appeal year after year, thanks to its unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality, and a commitment to preserving its environment and culture. Bali's ability to balance modern tourism with sustainability continues to draw travelers seeking an unforgettable experience. 2. World's Best Cultural Tourism Destination: Winner Another outstanding achievement for Bali in 2025 was securing the first place in the "World’s Best Cultural Tourism Destination" category. Beating well-established destinations like Hanoi and London, Bali stood out for its deeply rooted cultural heritage, which offers visitors an authentic and enriching experience. The island is known for its vibrant art scene, traditional ceremonies, and rich history, which provide tourists with a deeper connection to the place. Whether it's exploring ancient temples, attending cultural performances, or learning about local crafts, Bali's cultural tourism is unparalleled, offering travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in its traditions and stories. 3. Best Honeymoon Destination: Runner-Up Bali also earned second place in the “Best Honeymoon Destination” category, making it a top choice for couples looking to celebrate their love. Competing with world-renowned honeymoon destinations like the Maldives, Santorini, and Phuket, Bali's appeal as a romantic getaway remains strong. The island’s exotic tropical setting, complete with its serene beaches, scenic rice terraces, and luxury resorts, creates the perfect backdrop for romance. In addition to its natural beauty, Bali’s welcoming atmosphere and cultural charm make it a place where couples can forge unforgettable memories and experiences. Bali’s Continued Success in the Global Tourism Landscape These awards further cement Bali’s position as one of the most desirable destinations worldwide. The island’s consistent ranking in multiple categories showcases its enduring popularity, not only for its stunning landscapes but also for its cultural depth and meaningful experiences. Bali has proven that it is not just a destination to visit but a place where memories are made, deep connections are formed, and personal journeys are enriched. In conclusion, the recognition Bali received in 2025 is a testament to the island's continued excellence in tourism. It is a place where visitors can experience the perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation, making it a destination that will undoubtedly remain at the top of travelers' lists for years to come. Bali’s consistency in delivering unforgettable experiences makes it a true gem in the world of tourism, offering something special to everyone who visits.

les tourism village at a glance, the winner of indonesia best tourism village 2024

The ceremonial of Anugerah Desa Wisata Indonesia (ADWI) 2024 had finished on 17 November 2024, which this ceremonial aimed to give the appreciation to the best tourism village in Indonesia. The ceremonial was participated by the total of 6.016 tourism villages and 50 the best tourism villages in Indonesia chosen by juries.  After conducting evaluation to the candidates, Best Tourism Village in 2024 was given to Les Tourism Village, that located on Tejakula, Buleleng, Bali.  What is the reason of choosing Les Tourism Village to be the winner in this year?  Therefore, we must know the profile of Les Tourism Village first. Les Tourism Village, Profile and its Tourism attraction Les Tourism Village located in Tejakula subdistrict, Buleleng, in the north of Bali, this village area is about 769 hectares. The distance to this village is around 90 kilometres and can be taken 2.5 to 3 hours from Denpasar. Les village also has many types of tourism attraction, because of its location that between the mountain area and also near to the beach. Therefore, tourism attractions that tourists may be visit on Les Village as follows; ·       The hidden gem Marine tourism in Les Village, Les Beach Les beach offers a beautiful and magnificent view that combined a black sand and clear sea water, tourists can do many activities like relaxing at the side of the beach and also doing snorkelling to enjoy the beautiful coral reefs. ·       Trekking at Yangudi Hill Trekking spot in Yangudi Hill is a spot that isn’t popular among the tourists who go to Bali. Therefore, with two hours total until reaching the top of Yangudi Hill even with rocky and challenging track, the view when we do trekking is still beautiful, because tourists can see a view of tropical jungle across the road, and the tourists can also learn more about any kind of plants that lives at Yangudi Hill, and furthermore, we can see the Gastronomy attractions when people who lives nearby making a palm sugar with traditional ways. When we reach the top, then we can get the best view of Les Village from the top. ·       Relaxing spot, Yeh Mampeh Waterfall Yeh Mampeh waterfall is one of the highest waterfalls in Bali with 30 meters high. This waterfall offers a refreshing and calming vibes for the tourists, and this waterfall also has the pool under the waterfall which they can swim and relieve their stress. ·       Other activities at Les Tourism Village Les village has many unique locations as a destination and education like the process of making a salt with traditional ways, the production of silver accessories, Sugar palm making with traditional ways, and also arak, traditional booze from Bali. Furthermore, Les Village also has the unique restaurant which called Dapur Bali Mula, this restaurant only serves a food which their ingredients based on the availability on that day, like Fish products, vegetables, and others. The visitors can’t choose what they want to eat, but if the visitors have their several allergies to some product, they can tell it first to the waiter.   All of destinations and tourism attractions of Les Village that we know previously, it can’t be denied that Les Village could be the winner for the Best Tourism Village in this year, because of the many variations of the destinations from its natural tourism like Yangudi Hill, Yeh Mampeh waterfall, and Les beach and also many activities to do for the tourists, like trekking, snorkelling, swimming, learning and etc. Those are the reasons of Les Village can give the “full packages” of tourism activities and give great experiences for the tourists.

jatiluwih tourism village, bali titled best tourism village by un tourism 2024

Jatiluwih Tourism Village, a hidden gem in Tabanan Regency, Bali, has attracted the global attention by winning the prestigious title of Best Tourism Village, in the UN Tourism 2024 event. It is stunning natural charm, especially the iconic rice terraces, is a magnet for tourists. However, it is not only offering beautiful scenery, but also rich in preserved cultural heritage. The traditional subak irrigation system which was recognized by UNESCO served as the heart of the local community. The philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, which strive to maintain harmony between man, nature and God, which has been integrated into various aspects of life. In addition to the beauty of the rice terraces, Jatiluwih also offers a diverse natural panorama. It is surrounded by towering green mountains, the village provides cool air and refreshing views. When the sunrise or sunset, the beauty of Jatiluwih appears with a stunning colour gradation. This pristine nature provides a serenity and freshness that is hard to find in the other places. For travellers who love adventure, Jatiluwih provides a variety of interesting activities. Trekking along the trails through the terraces and forests is one of the popular options. In addition, leisurely cycling while enjoying the natural scenery is also an unforgettable experience. For those who want to capture beautiful moments, many interesting photo spots can be found around the village. Delicious Balinese culinary specialities are also a special attraction for visitors. The success of Jatiluwih in winning international awards is driven by the strong commitment from community to promote sustainable tourism. By involving the active participation of the community in the management of the tourism village, Jatiluwih has managed to maintain a balance between economic, social and environmental aspects. This award has a positive impact, not only for the Jatiluwih community, but also for the development of tourism in Bali and Indonesia as a whole. Jatiluwih emerges as a real example of how tourism can play a role in preserving cultural heritage and improving the quality of life of the community. The success of this village is a motivation for other tourism villages to continuously innovate and expand the utilisation of their potential. For tourists who want to visit Jatiluwih, there are some tips which need to be considered, namely the best time to visit is in the morning or afternoon, in order to enjoy a cooler atmosphere and sunlight. Jatiluwih will provide an unforgettable holiday experience with all its charm.

bali is the new paradise for south korean travelers, air busan and jeju air facilitate travelers' dream vacation

The Island of the Gods, Bali, is increasingly shining and capturing the attention of international tourists, particularly from South Korea. Bali's exotic charm has successfully captivated travelers from the Land of Ginseng, amidst the fierce competition of global tourist destinations. Recent data shows a significant increase in the number of South Korean tourist visits to Bali, indicating that Bali has successfully become a dream destination for South Korean travelers.   This success is closely linked to the increasingly easy access provided by direct flights from various airlines, such as Jeju Air, which launched its inaugural flight in Indonesia on the Incheon - Bali - Incheon route on Sunday (October 27, 2024), and will operate daily using Boeing 737-NG and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. Following Jeju Air, Air Busan also commenced operations in Bali, with flight number BX601 landing at Ngurah Rai Airport on Wednesday (October 30, 2024) on the Busan - Bali - Busan route, using an Airbus 321 aircraft.   The availability of direct flights with more frequent schedules and competitive ticket prices has made it easier for South Korean tourists to reach Bali. This improved flight connectivity is one of the main factors driving South Korean interest in visiting Bali. With more flight options and affordable ticket prices, a vacation to the Island of the Gods has become easier and more budget-friendly.   What makes Bali so attractive to South Korean tourists? One of the main attractions is its exotic natural beauty. White sandy beaches, green hills, and unique temples offer a distinctive charm. In addition, Bali offers a wide range of exciting tourist activities, from surfing and diving to trekking. For adventure lovers, Bali is an irreplaceable paradise. The rich flavors in Balinese cuisine also serve as a special draw for tourists. The combination of spicy, sweet, and sour flavors in each dish successfully delights the palates of travelers.   Beyond natural beauty and cultural diversity, Bali also offers a serene atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle of big cities. For travelers seeking peace and relaxation, Bali is the perfect place to unwind. Many South Korean travelers choose Bali as a honeymoon destination or a place to spend time with family.

ubud adorned with beautiful penjor for the piodalan agung at pura desa ubud

Ubud, a village renowned as Bali's center for art and culture, is once again radiating its unique charm through the celebration of Piodalan Agung at Pura Desa Ubud. One of the most striking features during this celebration is the beautiful penjor adorning every corner of the village. Penjor, tall bamboo poles decorated with coconut leaves, flowers, and produce, serve not only as offerings to the Divine but also create a visually captivating scene for both locals and tourists. Piodalan Agung is a celebration held in every Balinese temple to mark the temple's anniversary or founding day. Pura Desa Ubud, a sacred site with deep significance for the Ubud community, observes Piodalan Agung with great reverence. During this celebration, Balinese Hindus gather at the temple to perform various religious rituals, pray, and present offerings as a form of gratitude to God and their ancestors. One of the hallmarks of Piodalan Agung is the presence of penjor lining the roads around Pura Desa Ubud. These penjor are not mere decorations; they are expressions of respect and gratitude to the Divine, especially to Dewi Sri, who is revered as the goddess of fertility and prosperity. Carefully crafted with natural materials like coconut leaves, flowers, fruits, and rice, each penjor symbolizes abundance and blessing. The penjor lining Ubud’s streets are uniquely beautiful, showcasing the creativity of the Ubud community in their arrangements. The towering bamboo poles, adorned with colorful decorations and spiritual symbols, create a sacred yet enchanting atmosphere. The row of penjor also forms a beautiful path leading to Pura Desa Ubud, the central site where the ceremonial processions are held. Beyond being a place of gathering for Balinese Hindus, the Piodalan Agung at Pura Desa Ubud also draws the attention of tourists visiting Bali. They can enjoy the blend of Bali’s natural and cultural beauty in this religious ceremony. The beautiful penjor along the roads have become a popular photography subject for tourists eager to capture this memorable moment. Additionally, they can experience the serenity emanating from an event filled with prayer and gratitude. During Piodalan Agung, activities at Pura Desa Ubud involve not only prayer processions but also a series of other ceremonies, such as traditional dances, offerings, and mecaru, a purification ceremony for self and surroundings. The entire Ubud community participates in these rituals with a strong sense of togetherness, reflecting the deep spiritual connection and respect for Bali’s long-standing traditions. Through the celebration of Piodalan Agung and the presence of beautiful penjor decorating Ubud, this village reaffirms its identity as a cultural center rich in spiritual values. Ubud, with all its beauty, is not only a popular tourist destination but also a place where Bali’s traditions and spirituality remain vibrant and enduring. This celebration serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining harmonious relationships among people, nature, and the Divine, and it fosters a profound sense of gratitude for all of life’s blessings.

the spiritual meaning and life philosophy behind the kuningan day celebration in balinese hindu tradition"

Kuningan Day, also known as Tumpek Kuningan, is one of the important celebrations for Hindus in Bali. Kuningan is celebrated every 210 days, specifically 10 days after Galungan Day, which marks the victory of Dharma (righteousness) over Adharma (unrighteousness). This celebration holds deep meaning, filled with life philosophy, and serves as an important moment for spiritual reflection and an expression of gratitude to Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa, God in the form of Sang Hyang Parama Wisesa. The word “Kuningan” comes from the term meaning “spiritual attainment through introspection,” symbolizing efforts to avoid misfortune and achieve inner peace. The Balinese believe that Kuningan Day is when their ancestors return to heaven after visiting the earth during the Galungan celebration.   The significance of Kuningan extends beyond the spiritual; it touches on various aspects of life. One of the most fundamental symbols is the victory of truth over falsehood. In daily life, it serves as a reminder for Hindus to uphold values of goodness, honesty, and virtue. Additionally, this celebration is a moment to express gratitude for all the blessings bestowed by God. During the Kuningan procession, Hindus offer offerings known as ‘banten,’ which typically include yellow food (ajengan kuning), symbolizing prosperity and blessings. This symbolizes thankfulness for the gift of life and serves as a prayer for continued blessings in the future.   Kuningan is also an opportunity for self-purification, both physically and spiritually. Through the rituals, Hindus pray to God for forgiveness of their trespasses and sins, seeking guidance for living a righteous life. Furthermore, Kuningan emphasizes the importance of maintaining harmony in life—with others, nature, and God. This principle is reflected in the concept of Tri Hita Karana, which underlines that a harmonious and balanced life can be achieved when humans maintain their relationships with God, nature, and fellow human beings.   The Kuningan procession is carried out with great reverence, beginning in the morning. Hindus prepare offerings, perform prayers, and pray to the gods and their ancestors, who come to receive the offerings. Notably, Kuningan is only observed until 12:00 p.m. According to their beliefs, the gods and ancestors stay only for half a day during the Kuningan ceremony, after which they return to heaven or their origins. For this reason, the processions must be completed by noon, symbolizing the conclusion of the spiritual rituals. The timing also reflects the principle of a balanced life. The morning until midday is considered a time full of positive energy, and Hindus believe that prayers during this period yield the best results. After midday, the energy is thought to wane, which is why the main ceremonies are concluded by then. Although Kuningan does not last the entire day, it remains rich in spiritual values.


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This exciting feature goes live on the sweetest day of the year – February 14th, 2024!

Love Bali Application as the Implementation of Bali Province Regional Regulation Number 6 of 2023 concerning Levy for Foreign Tourists for the Protection of Balinese Culture and Natural Environment.