Tenganan Ancient Village
Step into Bali's ancient past at Tenganan, a living village preserving the unique Bali Aga culture and intricate double ikat weaving traditions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Perang Pandan ceremony
Tenganan Ancient Village
Best Time
Perang Pandan ceremony
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into Bali's ancient past at Tenganan, a living village preserving the unique Bali Aga culture and intricate double ikat weaving traditions.
"A real glimpse into Bali's heritage, with welcoming locals and inspiring traditions."
🎯 Donation for a Cause
Your donation supports local kids' education & temple upkeep. Guides often come with donation! :moneybag:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking through village paths, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Perang Pandan (Pandan War)
Tenganan Village
Witness a unique ritual battle using thorny pandan leaves, honoring the god Indra. A vibrant display of Bali Aga tradition.
Double Ikat Weaving
Artisan workshops
See skilled artisans create intricate double ikat textiles, a heritage craft unique to Tenganan.
Traditional Bali Aga Architecture
Village pathways
Explore the village's unique layout and traditional houses, offering a glimpse into Bali's original inhabitants' way of life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Donation Culture
Respect Local Traditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Donation for a Cause
Your donation supports local kids' education & temple upkeep. Guides often come with donation! :moneybag:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking through village paths, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Respectful Photography
Always ask permission before taking close-up photos of people or their homes. :camerawithflash:
🛍️ Support Local Artisans
Consider buying unique double ikat textiles directly from weavers. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Donation for a Cause
Your donation supports local kids' education & temple upkeep. Guides often come with donation! :moneybag:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking through village paths, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Respectful Photography
Always ask permission before taking close-up photos of people or their homes. :camerawithflash:
🛍️ Support Local Artisans
Consider buying unique double ikat textiles directly from weavers. :shopping_bags:
🐶 Be Mindful of Animals
The village has many free-roaming dogs and cats. Be aware of your surroundings. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tenganan Pegringsingan Village is highly praised for its unique cultural authenticity and the preservation of Bali Aga traditions. Visitors appreciate the welcoming locals, informative guides, and the opportunity to witness heritage crafts like double ikat weaving. Some minor issues noted include occasional dog waste on pathways, but overall, it's considered a highly recommended and enriching experience.
"Tenganan Pegringsingan Village is a very unique and culturally rich place to visit. The traditional houses, weaving demonstrations, and overall atmosphere give you a real glimpse into Bali’s heritage. The villagers are welcoming but not pushy, which made walking around feel relaxed.
One thing to note is that while the environment is generally well kept, I did notice a few spots with the smell of dog poop here and there, which can be a little distracting at times. It’s not overwhelming, but just something to be aware of while exploring the pathways.
Overall, it’s worth visiting for the authenticity, history, and local crafts, definitely a highlight of the area, with just a few small things that could be improved for comfort."
Choirib Mahendra
"Amazing experience learning culture of original Balinese people here. It's quite an eye opening experience to see what the people here have to offer and their way of life. I like the entrance fee is based on donation instead of standard charge rate, it's earnest and doesn't make the village feel like money making zone. The locals are welcoming and friendly, they're willing to share their history and handcraft skills . It's amazing"
Ifix things
"Lovely cultural experience.
When you arrive they ask you for a donation, this money goes towards the children's education and construction of the new temple. From what we saw, people donated roughly $50-100k, but it's up to you
Once you donated, a guide (ours spoke excellent English) will take you through the village and explain their local customs, religion, and the significance of their culture to you. He'll take you to his house and offer you the chance to purchase their wares (our guide had a wife that weaves, so they offered us a chance to buy their heritage listed fabrics). You're not pressured to buy, though it's nice if you do.
Overall the tour was very informative, the people were very friendly, and we ended up visiting the local honey farm too and buying some local honey while learning more about the black bees narrative to this region. Great way to learn more about the original inhabitants of this island and their culture."
Cynthia Raici
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tenganan Ancient Village is best reached by private car or scooter. From Ubud, it's about a 1.5-hour drive, and from Seminyak, around 1.5-2 hours. Taxis or ride-sharing apps are also options, though negotiating a round trip might be more cost-effective. Some travelers opt for guided tours that include transportation to Tenganan Village Bali.
Yes, Tenganan Village Bali is well-signposted once you get closer to the East Bali region. GPS navigation on your phone or a hired driver will easily guide you to the entrance.
Absolutely! Renting a scooter is a popular and flexible way to explore Tenganan Village and the surrounding East Bali areas. Ensure you have an international driving permit if required.
Public transport directly to Tenganan Ancient Village is limited. Hiring a private driver or joining a tour is generally recommended for convenience and efficiency.
If you have a private driver, it's easy to combine a visit to Tenganan with other nearby sites like Tirta Gangga or Lempuyang Temple. Scooters offer flexibility for independent exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tenganan operates on a donation basis rather than a fixed entrance fee. Visitors are asked to contribute a donation, which supports the village's children's education and temple construction. The amount is voluntary, but a suggested range of $50-100k IDR per person is common.
The donations collected at Tenganan Village Bali are crucial for maintaining the community. They fund the children's education and contribute to the construction and upkeep of their temples.
No, advance booking is not required for Tenganan Ancient Village. Entry is typically managed through a donation system upon arrival.
Tenganan Ancient Village is a residential area, so it's generally accessible during daylight hours. However, for the best experience and to see artisans at work, visiting in the morning or afternoon is recommended.
Yes, after making your donation, you will often be assigned a local guide who will take you through the village and explain their customs and history. This is a fantastic way to learn about the Bali Aga culture.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Perang Pandan ceremony if you visit during June! 
Perang Pandan, also known as Mageret or Pandan War, is a ritualistic battle where men use thorny pandan leaves as weapons to honor the god Indra. It's a significant cultural event in Tenganan. +1
Tenganan is famous for its double ikat weaving, a complex technique where both the warp and weft threads are dyed before weaving. This results in incredibly detailed and durable textiles, considered heritage items.
The Bali Aga are the original inhabitants of Bali, predating the arrival of Hindu Majapahit influence. Tenganan is one of the few remaining villages that strictly preserves their ancient customs and traditions.
Yes, Tenganan Ancient Village is home to many free-roaming animals, including chickens, dogs, and cats. They are part of the village's natural environment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Tenganan Ancient Village is primarily a cultural heritage site, there are usually small warungs (local eateries) offering basic Indonesian dishes. For a wider selection, consider dining before or after your visit in nearby towns.
Local warungs in Tenganan may offer simple Indonesian fare like nasi goreng (fried rice) or mie goreng (fried noodles). It's a good opportunity to try authentic local flavors.
Yes, you can typically find local snacks and refreshing drinks like coconut water available for purchase from small vendors within the village.
For a full culinary experience, it's often recommended to dine in nearby areas like Candidasa, which offer more diverse restaurant options. However, trying a local warung in Tenganan can be a unique cultural experience.
While not widely advertised, some local warungs might offer traditional dishes specific to the Bali Aga culture. It's worth asking your guide for recommendations.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique Bali Aga architecture, the intricate details of double ikat textiles, and the vibrant atmosphere during the Perang Pandan ceremony.
It's always best practice to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially children. Respect their privacy.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, be mindful and respectful, especially inside homes or during private ceremonies.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for capturing the village's charm. Midday sun can be harsh.
Yes, observing and photographing the weaving process is a highlight. Artisans are often happy to demonstrate their craft.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a time when guides are available to make the experience more engaging for kids. While the Perang Pandan ceremony is fascinating, it might be intense for very young children. Focus on the weaving demonstrations and the traditional houses for a more relaxed family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and water to save on small purchases within the village. While supporting local artisans by buying textiles is encouraged, it's not mandatory. Focus on the cultural immersion and learning from the guides, which is often included with your donation.
❤️ Couples & Culture Enthusiasts
If your visit coincides with the Perang Pandan ceremony, it's a truly unique shared experience. Consider hiring a guide to deepen your understanding of the village's history and customs. Purchasing a piece of Geringsing fabric can be a meaningful souvenir of your cultural journey together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Bali Aga Culture
Key aspects of Bali Aga culture include their unique village governance, traditional ceremonies, and distinct architectural styles. The village is meticulously planned, with houses arranged in neat rows. This communal living and strong adherence to ancestral ways are what make Tenganan so special and a must-visit for those seeking an authentic cultural experience.
Experiencing Tenganan is like stepping back in time, offering a profound connection to Bali's roots. The villagers are welcoming, and their willingness to share their way of life adds immense value to the visit. It’s a place where tradition isn't just remembered, but actively lived.
The Art of Double Ikat Weaving
The most famous textile produced is the Geringsing fabric, which is believed to possess magical properties and is used in important ceremonies. The creation of a single Geringsing cloth can take months, even years, due to the intricate dyeing and weaving process. Visitors can witness these skilled artisans at work in their homes, often offering a chance to purchase these unique, heritage-listed fabrics.
The dedication and skill involved in double ikat weaving are truly awe-inspiring. It's a tradition passed down through generations, and seeing it firsthand provides a deep appreciation for the cultural significance and artistry of Tenganan's textiles.
Understanding the Perang Pandan Ceremony
Participants engage in mock combat, striking each other with the pandan leaves. While it appears intense, the ritual is conducted with respect and is not meant to cause serious harm. The thorny leaves are believed to have cleansing properties, and the ceremony is a way to ward off evil spirits and ensure prosperity for the village.
Witnessing the Perang Pandan is an unforgettable cultural spectacle. It’s a powerful display of tradition, community spirit, and the deep-rooted beliefs of the Bali Aga people. The energy and visual impact of the ceremony are captivating, making it a highlight for many visitors.
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