How to Experience Balinese Royal Traditions Like a Local – A walk through the life of Balinese Royalty
Bali is more than just beaches and resorts. Its culture runs deep and has been shaped by centuries of royal influence. To understand Bali, you need to look beyond tourist sites and spend time where tradition still guides daily life. From temple rituals to family-run workshops, you can experience these customs if you know where to look. Let us take a look at how to best experience Balinese royal traditions and culture.
Start with a Temple Visit
Go early to a royal temple like Pura Taman Ayun as it is quiet in the mornings. If you are staying at a resort such as Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, then transport to this temple can be arranged by your hotel. Wear a sarong and sash to be respectful to the local culture. These are usually available at the entrance. You will see locals wearing them as a sign of respect. Join in the prayer if you would like to, but always ask before doing so. You should watch and follow what the locals are doing. Stay silent during offerings and do not try to interfere while taking photos.
muhd rushdi samsudin from johor + terengganu, malaysia, Pura taman ayun, CC BY-SA 2.0
Attend a Royal Ceremony
Out of all of the Ubud Bali things to do, a fun and regal activity is to attend a Royal Ceremony. You check the local calendars for temple anniversaries or royal birthdays. Another way to find out more details after arriving is to ask your host or hotel if any events are happening nearby. When attending an event, it is advisable to arrive early to find a good spot for viewing. Try not to push forward just to take photos. Instead, watch the processions from a respectful distance and do as other locals do. Notice the colours, the movements, and the way people behave.
Eat Where Locals Eat
Skip international restaurants and big chain eateries for a day and instead visit a warung near a palace or temple. You will be able to try traditional dishes like babi guling or nasi campur. Ask the locals and staff about the story behind the food, as many dishes being served and on offer are linked to royal offerings or rituals. Observe how the locals eat and follow their lead, as some food needs to be eaten in a specific way to best enjoy the flavours.
Join a Cultural Workshop
Another great way to enjoy the Balinese culture is to look for cultural activity classes that are held near Ubud or Gianyar. Learn how to make canang sari (daily offerings) or try your hand at batik painting. Some of these activities and classes are hosted by families with ties to royal culture. You will get to see the amount of detail and care that goes into each step, and it will help you understand how traditions are carried on and lived through daily practice.
Visit a Royal Palace
Go to Puri Saren Agung the Ubud Palace in Ubud. It is open to the public during the day and is a marvellous sight to behold. Walk slowly along its halls and look at the carvings, gates, and layout. If you are lucky, you might even get to see dance rehearsals in the courtyard, which usually often happen in the afternoon. Even if no events are on, the space itself tells a beautiful story.
Watch a Royal Dance Performance
Book a seat for a Legong dance or a Ramayana ballet to watch a royal dance performance. Many of these performances take place in palace courtyards. It is advisable to arrive early and sit up front. Watch the dancers closely and watch their fingers, eyes, and head movements, which all carry meaning. Most dancers begin training as children in temple compounds. Ask the locals or a guide about the significance of the dances and ask questions; you will be able to better understand the traditions that have shaped the island.
