Bali Museum
Discover Bali's rich history and art through stunning traditional architecture and fascinating artifacts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Bali Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Bali's rich history and art through stunning traditional architecture and fascinating artifacts.
"The architecture of the buildings is the big draw, with interesting displays tracing Bali's history."
🎯 Avoid Temple Scams
Politely decline unsolicited 'guides' or sarong rentals at the temple entrance to avoid inflated charges.
🚶♀️ Don't Rush Exhibits
The museum is not extensive; take your time to appreciate the architecture and minimal displays.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Architectural Grandeur
Throughout the museum grounds
Explore the stunning traditional Balinese architecture, a true feast for the eyes. The buildings themselves are a major draw.
Historical Artifacts
Various exhibition halls
Discover ancient sculptures, intricate textiles, and archaeological finds that tell the story of Bali's rich past.
Cultural Insights
Exhibition halls
Gain a deeper understanding of Balinese culture through displays showcasing its unique heritage and traditions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Relaxed Visit
Navigating Scams and Entrance Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Avoid Temple Scams
Politely decline unsolicited 'guides' or sarong rentals at the temple entrance to avoid inflated charges.
🚶♀️ Don't Rush Exhibits
The museum is not extensive; take your time to appreciate the architecture and minimal displays.
📸 Appreciate the Architecture
The buildings are a highlight, so allow time to admire their beauty.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bali can be hot; carry water, especially if exploring the grounds. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Avoid Temple Scams
Politely decline unsolicited 'guides' or sarong rentals at the temple entrance to avoid inflated charges.
🚶♀️ Don't Rush Exhibits
The museum is not extensive; take your time to appreciate the architecture and minimal displays.
📸 Appreciate the Architecture
The buildings are a highlight, so allow time to admire their beauty.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bali can be hot; carry water, especially if exploring the grounds. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Bali Museum for its beautiful traditional architecture and serene grounds, offering a glimpse into Balinese history and culture. While some find the exhibits minimal, the overall experience is enhanced by the stunning buildings and peaceful atmosphere. Be cautious of potential scams near the temple entrance.
"The museum is not very rich in collection, some display boxes were empty not sure if the item is missing or taken!! It definitely could have been more better, more information about Bali history, ancient artifacts could have been displayed. Moreover, I didn't find my answers that I was looking for. But the buildings are very beautiful and clean yard. I saw a very sick cat, seemed like no one cares about it much. Contacted a local foundation to help, hopefully the poor kitty will get some medical attention."
Nandini Sarker
"This so-called museum is seriously overpriced for foreigners, terribly maintained and managed.
As a foreigner, you're charged 100k for entrance, but the place is smaller than a football field, with three poorly presented small exhibitions. Many of the exhibits are missing and exhibition boards in shambles. They charge foreigners so much money, yet the English introductions are barely readable.
This museum is part of a larger temple complex. You can visit the other part, but as many temples in Indonesia, you need to pay for a sarong and haggle with the guy at the door. This can be quite annoying and a deal breaker for many people. So I reckon just don't go, you don't have to go there in order to see good temples buildings.
The place has two entrances, one for tourists, the other for staff. But the one for staff is not guarded at all, which means anyone can just waltz right in and enter the museum grounds without paying!
All in all, not recommended at all, and you won't be missing much either."
Leon Li
"I was very excited to see that there was a museum nearby our home stay, because I love to learn about history and culture. Safe to say this was kind of a let down.
Having to pay 100k per person doesn’t seem so bad, but immediately after you pay there will be other people that try to become your guide for another 100k. Which seems kind of weird. Especially since their English left something to be desired.
I read online that you would learn about the history of Bali and while it isn’t exactly untrue, there was no silver lining or a sort of “story” you could follow along. It was just bits and fragments from different periods crammed together without much text to learn what these things actually mean. And the texts that were there had lots of grammatical errors, though those errors weren’t that big of an issue.
The area and temples you enter and walk through were arguably more interesting than the actual exhibit. I was able to get some nice pictures!
Overall as something I was looking forward to doing during my visit in Indonesia it fell short of what I had hoped, that being said. It was a nice change of pace of all the tourism and crowded areas since there was no waiting time and not a lot of visitors."
Stan de Roo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bali Museum is located in Denpasar. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing apps like Gojek or Grab, or by renting a scooter. It's a central location, making it accessible from most parts of the island.
Yes, there is usually parking available for cars and scooters near the museum entrance.
From Ubud, you can hire a private driver, take a taxi, or use a ride-sharing app. The journey typically takes around 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Depending on your starting point in Denpasar, it might be walkable. However, it's advisable to check distances on a map as Denpasar can be quite spread out.
Public transport options within Denpasar can be limited and less convenient for tourists. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are generally the most straightforward options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for adults is typically around 100,000 Rupiah. Prices can vary, so it's always a good idea to check the latest information upon arrival.
Generally, you can purchase tickets at the entrance. Advance booking is usually not required for the Bali Museum.
The museum is typically open daily, but hours can vary. It's best to confirm the current opening times before your visit, as they may change seasonally.
Discounts are not commonly advertised, but it's worth inquiring at the ticket counter if you are a student or part of a group.
While the museum focuses on history and art, children might find the architecture interesting. However, the exhibits themselves may be more suited for older children or adults interested in cultural learning.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Bali Museum features exhibits on Balinese art, history, archeology, and culture, including sculptures, textiles, and ancient artifacts. The traditional Balinese architecture of the buildings is also a significant highlight.
A visit to the Bali Museum typically takes about 1-2 hours. It's not an extensive museum, so you can explore it at a relaxed pace without feeling rushed.
The Bali Museum is generally not as crowded as some other major tourist attractions in Bali. Visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours can ensure a more peaceful experience.
Official guided tours might be limited. However, some individuals may offer unofficial tours, but be cautious and aware of potential scams.
Wander through the different buildings and courtyards at your own pace. Pay attention to the architectural details and the historical context of the artifacts displayed.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most areas of the Bali Museum, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions within certain exhibition rooms.
The traditional Balinese architecture, intricate carvings, and the serene courtyards offer excellent photo opportunities. The overall aesthetic of the museum grounds is very photogenic.
Drone photography is typically not permitted in and around cultural sites like museums to respect the heritage and avoid disturbing visitors.
Yes, selfies are generally allowed, especially in the outdoor areas and courtyards. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways.
A camera with good low-light capabilities and a versatile lens would be ideal for capturing both the architectural details and any indoor exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more engaging for younger ones, consider focusing on the visual aspects – the intricate carvings, the different building styles, and perhaps any displayed weaponry or ceremonial items that might spark their interest. It's advisable to prepare them beforehand about what they might see and to keep the visit relatively short to maintain their attention.
🏛️ Culture Enthusiasts
Beyond the artifacts, the museum's architecture itself is a testament to Balinese craftsmanship and spiritual design. Exploring the different pavilions provides a comprehensive overview of the island's heritage. It's a place to immerse yourself in the nuances of Balinese culture, away from the more commercialized tourist spots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of the Bali Museum
Exploring the museum is like stepping back in time, with each building offering a glimpse into Bali's past. The Puri Kerta Mandala pavilion, for instance, houses a collection of ancient Balinese weaponry and ceremonial objects. The Puri Arja Wiwaha pavilion displays traditional Balinese dance costumes and musical instruments, offering insight into the island's vibrant performing arts. The sheer artistry in the stonework and the layout of the complex are often highlighted by visitors as a primary reason to visit.
While the displays themselves might be considered minimal by some, the overall experience of the Bali Museum is deeply enriched by its stunning environment. It’s a place where you can appreciate the artistry of Balinese craftsmanship and the historical significance of the island's cultural evolution. For those interested in Balinese history and architecture, the museum provides a valuable and visually rewarding experience.
Navigating Bali Museum: Tips from Travelers
When it comes to the exhibits, reviews suggest that while the displays are informative, they are not extensive. Many visitors find the architectural beauty of the buildings and the serene atmosphere of the grounds to be the main attractions. Therefore, it's recommended not to rush through the museum but to take your time appreciating the details of the structures and the historical context of the artifacts.
For photography enthusiasts, the Bali Museum offers numerous picturesque spots. The intricate carvings, traditional doorways, and tranquil courtyards provide ample opportunities for stunning shots. While photography is generally permitted, it's always a good practice to check for any specific signage indicating restricted areas.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit