Traditional Balinese Dance Performance, Ubud, Indonesia - Image 1
1 / 10

Traditional Balinese Dance Performance Ubud Indonesia

4.1
·115 reviews·, Indonesia

Experience the soul of Bali through captivating traditional dances like Legong, Kecak, and Barong, showcasing ancient stories and vibrant artistry.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Most shows start at dusk

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Traditional Balinese Dance Performance, Ubud, Indonesia - Image 1

Traditional Balinese Dance Performance Ubud Indonesia

Best Time

Evenings

Most shows start at dusk

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the soul of Bali through captivating traditional dances like Legong, Kecak, and Barong, showcasing ancient stories and vibrant artistry.

4.1
(115 reviews)

"The dance is worth seeing but not in such conditions."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Seats

Secure good seats by arriving 1-2 hours before showtime. Standing room is often the only option for latecomers.

📖 Get the Story Pamphlet

Understand the narrative! Pamphlets explain the dances, crucial for appreciating the cultural stories.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kecak Fire Dance

Kecak Fire Dance

Uluwatu Temple (popular, but also available in Ubud)

Mesmerizing rhythmic chanting and dramatic storytelling, often performed at sunset.

Legong Dance

Legong Dance

Ubud Palace

Graceful dancers in vibrant costumes tell ancient tales with intricate hand and eye movements.

Barong Dance

Barong Dance

Ubud Palace

A captivating battle between good (Barong) and evil (Rangda), showcasing elaborate masks and costumes.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Arrive Early for Prime Seating

Popular Balinese dance performances, especially Kecak and Legong, draw large crowds. Arrive at least an hour before showtime to secure a decent seat, as venues can fill up quickly and standing room is often limited. InstagramReddit

Understand the Story

Many performances tell stories from Hindu epics. Grab a pamphlet if offered, as it provides context and enhances your understanding of the intricate movements and symbolism. Reddit

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Most shows start at dusk
Crowd
High
When
Early Afternoon
Why
Less crowded for some shows
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Teaching generations of Balinese dance#jembranabali🙏 #fyp #viral #shorts
@adekastiniigeg
277.3K likes • 3.9M views

🎯 Arrive Early for Seats

Secure good seats by arriving 1-2 hours before showtime. Standing room is often the only option for latecomers. InstagramReddit

📖 Get the Story Pamphlet

Understand the narrative! Pamphlets explain the dances, crucial for appreciating the cultural stories. Reddit

When the physical body is “borrowed” by the unseen divine being! It’s very common in our Balinese village!! #odalan #trance #dance
@ari_hunter2
274.5K likes • 9M views
The traditional Balinese Legong and Barong dance performance at Ubud Palace was SUCH a treat after a long day of fan practice and choreo! My shoulders and wrists have been burning since 11am. 😂🔥🔥🔥 #dance #balinesedance #legongdance #barongdance #ubudpalace #ubud #bali #indonesia
feral_catastrophe
16 likes • 192 views

💧 Stay Hydrated

Performances are often outdoors in humid conditions. Bring water or buy it on-site. Reddit

📸 Respectful Photography

Check if photography is allowed. Some venues prohibit flash or video recording. TikTok

🙌 If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Ubud, look no further than Desa Pakraman Ubud. 🌴 Wander among the demons and witness the spectacular Kecak dance, a traditional Balinese performance that is sure to leave you in awe. Don’t forget to watch my YouTube videos for more travel inspirations! Search for Swank Guide - Bali. #swankguide #travelguide #hotelguide #ubud #desapakraman ...
swank_guide
117 likes • 59.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Seats

Secure good seats by arriving 1-2 hours before showtime. Standing room is often the only option for latecomers. InstagramReddit

📖 Get the Story Pamphlet

Understand the narrative! Pamphlets explain the dances, crucial for appreciating the cultural stories. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Performances are often outdoors in humid conditions. Bring water or buy it on-site. Reddit

📸 Respectful Photography

Check if photography is allowed. Some venues prohibit flash or video recording. TikTok

💰 Ticket Prices Vary

Expect prices around 100,000 IDR. Be wary of venues selling tickets when already over capacity. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(115 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Balinese dance performances in Ubud offer a rich cultural immersion, with many praising the artistry and storytelling. However, a common complaint is the poor organization regarding seating, with venues often oversold, leading to uncomfortable viewing experiences. Despite this, the beauty of the dances and the cultural significance make them a worthwhile, albeit sometimes frustrating, experience. Reddit

"It’s meant to be one of the best ones in unud and can be a great experience if you are watching this for the first time . Read the pamphlet so you can make sense of the story.
One of the biggest issue is seating . For 0730 show people already come and start occupying seats from 0530 I believe. Around 0700 you might get floor seats . By 0730 you will find people on trees trying to get a view .
The performers were good but we left after 45 minutes because it was just uncomfortable to sit like that . If you are with kids definitely go a bit earlier . They are selling drinks on site too."

Devesh sharma

"Organization: 💀💀💀💀
First, I was advised to get there at 6: 45 for a 730 show. I got there at 6:00 and was still not the first to arrive. The place was somewhat full by 6:45 completely full by seven and breaking capacity by 7:30.

There were a few rows of chairs, another few rows of stadium benches and then for those that came after seven there was the floor. The pamphlet given about the performance was amazing. Without it, I would not have been able to follow along the story, but some people noted that they did not get said pamphlet depend, depending on what ticket was purchased.
The dancing was reminiscent of the king and I. But instead of being in the palace, you were outside in 100% humidity.

I nice idea but not worth unless you have ample time"

Briana Clarke

"We watched a Legong dance show on a Thursday evening at the Royal Palace of Ubud. Tickets were available for purchase at the entrance for 100,000 IDR per person. The show started at 7:30 PM, and we arrived about 25 minutes early.

By then, the courtyard was already completely full, with more than half of the spectators standing due to a lack of seats. I was quite disappointed that tickets were still being sold at the entrance despite the courtyard being full. I found this disrespectful to the visitors, as it seemed the organizers were more focused on maximizing profits and packing the courtyard as much as possible.

The show lasted an hour and a half. The costumes were beautiful, and the palace setting provided a lovely backdrop. The performance was divided into several parts, and when we bought our tickets, we received a pamphlet explaining the meaning of each act.

The show itself was enjoyable, especially because of the setting, but I’m hesitant to recommend it due to the organizers’ apparent focus on money rather than the comfort and respect of the audience. I’ve attended similar shows in Java where seating was properly arranged, and for a comparable price."

Victor Virlogeux

What People Like

Rich cultural storytelling
Beautiful costumes and movements
Atmospheric settings

What People Dislike

Overcrowded venues
Poor seating arrangements
Focus on profit over comfort

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Most performances are held in central Ubud, often at the Ubud Palace or local temples. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available. If you're staying further out, consider hiring a driver for the evening. TikTok

Parking can be challenging in central Ubud due to narrow streets and high tourist traffic. It's often easier to walk if your accommodation is nearby or use a taxi/scooter. TikTok

Ubud Palace is a popular venue for Legong and Barong dances. For Kecak, while Uluwatu is famous, some venues in Ubud also offer it. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Many visitors attend a dance performance after exploring Ubud's rice terraces, temples, or Monkey Forest. TikTok

If you're based elsewhere in Bali, like Seminyak or Canggu, hiring a private driver for the evening is a convenient option. This allows for flexible pick-up and drop-off. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are typically sold at the entrance of the performance venue, often starting a couple of hours before the show. Some hotels may also offer ticket booking services. Reddit

Prices generally range from 100,000 to 150,000 IDR per person, depending on the performance and venue. Reddit

For popular shows like the Kecak dance, booking in advance isn't always an option, but arriving early is crucial. For Legong or Barong at Ubud Palace, tickets are usually available at the door, but early arrival is still recommended. Reddit

If you arrive late, you may have to stand or find a spot with a limited view, as seating is often on a first-come, first-served basis. Reddit

Seating can vary. Some venues have chairs, others stadium benches, and latecomers might end up on the floor. Some tickets might include a story pamphlet, while others don't. Reddit

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

Most performances last between 1 to 1.5 hours, often divided into several acts or segments. Reddit

Dress comfortably and respectfully. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the tropical climate. Avoid overly revealing attire. TikTok

Photography policies vary. Some venues allow it without flash, while others prohibit it entirely. It's best to check the rules upon arrival or ask staff. TikTok

Many dances depict scenes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, or local legends and myths. The Kecak dance, for instance, tells the story of Rama's rescue of Sita. Instagram

Seating can be basic, with hard benches or floor seating for latecomers. Some visitors find it uncomfortable, especially in the humidity. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Some venues offer drinks for purchase. For a full meal, it's best to dine before or after the show at one of Ubud's many restaurants. Reddit

Generally, eating is discouraged inside the performance area to maintain the atmosphere. Drinks might be permitted. Reddit

Ubud offers a wide range of dining options, from local warungs to international cuisine. Explore Jalan Hanoman or Jalan Gootama for diverse choices. Instagram

Yes, Ubud is known for its healthy and vegetarian-friendly food scene, with numerous cafes and restaurants catering to these dietary needs. Instagram

Yes, many restaurants in Ubud remain open after evening performances, offering a great way to reflect on the cultural experience. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Try to get a seat with a clear view of the stage. Early arrival helps secure better vantage points. Be mindful of other attendees when taking photos. Reddit

Flash photography is usually prohibited as it can distract the performers and other audience members. Always check the venue's policy. TikTok

Use a camera with good low-light performance, a wider aperture (lower f-number), and consider increasing your ISO. A tripod or monopod can help stabilize shots if allowed. TikTok

Sometimes, performers may be available for photos after the show, often for a small tip. Inquire politely with the organizers. TikTok

Challenges include low lighting, potential restrictions on photography, and crowded venues. Capturing the dancers' expressive movements requires quick reflexes. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Balinese dance can be a fascinating introduction to Indonesian culture for children. The vibrant costumes and energetic movements of dances like the Kecak or Barong can capture their attention. However, be prepared for long periods of sitting, especially if you arrive late. TikTokReddit

Tip: Arrive extra early to ensure kids have a comfortable spot with a good view. Consider bringing a small cushion for hard seats. The story pamphlets are also helpful for older children to follow along. Some performances might be more engaging for younger audiences than others; the dramatic elements of Barong or the rhythmic chanting of Kecak can be particularly captivating. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Balinese dance performances offer excellent cultural value for their price. Tickets are generally affordable, often around 100,000 IDR. Reddit To save money, avoid booking through hotels or tour operators and purchase tickets directly at the venue. Reddit

Tip: Prioritize performances in Ubud itself to save on transportation costs. Many venues are within walking distance of central accommodations. Pack your own water bottle to avoid purchasing overpriced drinks on-site. Reddit

❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways

Attending a Balinese dance performance can be a wonderfully romantic cultural experience. The evocative music, graceful dancers, and traditional settings create a magical atmosphere. Instagram

Tip: Consider a performance at sunset, like the Kecak dance at Uluwatu (though this is outside Ubud), for an extra special touch. In Ubud, a performance at the historic Ubud Palace offers a charming backdrop. Enjoying dinner at a nice restaurant in Ubud before or after the show can complete a perfect evening. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Balinese Dance Styles

Balinese dance is incredibly diverse, with each style offering a unique glimpse into the island's rich cultural tapestry. Legong dance, often performed by young women, is characterized by its intricate choreography, delicate movements, and expressive eye gestures, typically portraying royal court stories. Kecak dance, a more dramatic and percussive form, is famous for its hypnotic chanting of 'cak cak cak' by a large circle of male performers, narrating episodes from the Ramayana. Instagram+1

Another significant form is the Barong dance, which depicts the eternal struggle between good and evil. The Barong, a benevolent spirit animal, battles the malevolent witch Rangda. This dance often involves elaborate costumes, masks, and trance-like states for some performers. Other dances like Tari Condong serve as introductions or interludes, showcasing graceful solo performances. TikTok+1

These performances are not just entertainment; they are deeply rooted in religious ceremonies and storytelling, often performed in temples or during local festivals. The dedication of the dancers and musicians, who train from a young age, is evident in every precise movement and resonant beat. TikTok+1

Navigating the Ubud Palace Performance Experience

The Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung) is a central hub for traditional Balinese dance performances, particularly the Legong and Barong dances. While the setting is historically significant, the experience can be a mixed bag for visitors. Many reviews highlight that the courtyard venue, while atmospheric, often becomes overcrowded, leading to uncomfortable seating arrangements and obstructed views. InstagramReddit

Visitors are advised to arrive very early, sometimes an hour or more before the 7:30 PM showtime, to secure a decent spot. Despite the crowds, the performances themselves are often praised for the dancers' skill, beautiful costumes, and the cultural richness they convey. The palace setting adds a unique ambiance, making it a memorable experience if you manage to get a good vantage point. Reddit

However, the organizers' focus on maximizing ticket sales over audience comfort is a recurring point of criticism. This can lead to a feeling of being oversold, with many attendees struggling to see the performance properly. Despite these drawbacks, for many, it remains a quintessential Ubud cultural experience, especially if you appreciate the artistry and historical context. Reddit

The Magic of Kecak Dance

The Kecak dance is a truly unique Balinese performance, renowned for its absence of musical instruments. Instead, a chorus of 50-150 men, often bare-chested and wearing checkered sarongs, creates a mesmerizing rhythmic soundscape by chanting 'cak' in unison. This hypnotic vocalization forms the backbone of the performance, driving the narrative forward. Instagram+1

The dance typically retells the epic Ramayana, focusing on Prince Rama's quest to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana, with the help of the monkey general Hanuman. The performers' synchronized movements, dramatic expressions, and the sheer power of their collective voice create an immersive and captivating spectacle. Instagram

While the Uluwatu Temple Kecak performance is famous for its stunning sunset backdrop, similar shows are available in Ubud and other parts of Bali. The key to enjoying any Kecak performance is to understand the story, often aided by a provided pamphlet, and to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, as it's a highly popular attraction. TikTokReddit