Trunyan Village
Experience the ancient Trunyanese burial traditions and the serene beauty of Lake Batur, a truly unique cultural encounter.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm lake, cooler temperatures
Trunyan Village
Best Time
Calm lake, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the ancient Trunyanese burial traditions and the serene beauty of Lake Batur, a truly unique cultural encounter.
"A deeply unique and respectful cultural immersion unlike any other in Bali."
🤝 Respect Local Customs
Dress modestly and be mindful of sacred sites. Ask permission before taking photos of people or ceremonies.
🚤 Boat Trip Essentials
Arrange boat transport across Lake Batur in advance. Confirm prices to avoid surprises.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Unique Burial Site
Sema (Burial Ground)
Witness the ancient Taru Menyan tradition where bodies are laid to rest under a large tree, naturally decomposing.
Lake Batur Views
Lake Batur
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the serene Lake Batur, a caldera lake surrounded by volcanic landscapes.
Trunyanese Culture
Trunyan Village
Experience the distinct culture and traditions of the Trunyanese people, who follow their own animist beliefs.
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Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visit to Trunyan
Getting to Trunyan
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤝 Respect Local Customs
Dress modestly and be mindful of sacred sites. Ask permission before taking photos of people or ceremonies.
🚤 Boat Trip Essentials
Arrange boat transport across Lake Batur in advance. Confirm prices to avoid surprises.
💰 Cash is King
Bring enough cash for boat hire, entrance fees, and any local purchases. ATMs are not readily available.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The tropical climate can be hot. Carry water, especially during boat trips and village exploration.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤝 Respect Local Customs
Dress modestly and be mindful of sacred sites. Ask permission before taking photos of people or ceremonies.
🚤 Boat Trip Essentials
Arrange boat transport across Lake Batur in advance. Confirm prices to avoid surprises.
💰 Cash is King
Bring enough cash for boat hire, entrance fees, and any local purchases. ATMs are not readily available.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The tropical climate can be hot. Carry water, especially during boat trips and village exploration.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Trunyan Village offers a profoundly unique cultural experience, particularly its distinct burial traditions. Visitors are often struck by the natural decomposition process and the serene beauty of Lake Batur. However, some find the experience confronting, and clear communication regarding boat prices is essential.
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Trunyan Village is by boat across Lake Batur. You'll typically start from Kedisan village, where you can hire a local boat. The journey offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
No, Trunyan Village is only accessible by boat across Lake Batur. There are no roads directly connecting to the village from the mainland.
The boat trip across Lake Batur is usually around 15-30 minutes, depending on the boat and conditions. It's a picturesque ride, offering a unique perspective of the landscape.
Yes, it's often recommended to arrange your boat trip in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and potentially better pricing.
Boat rental costs can vary, but it's advisable to confirm the price with the boatman before setting off. Expect to pay a round-trip fee.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically a small entrance fee to visit Trunyan Village and its unique burial site. It's best to have cash ready for this.
Trunyan Village is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, the burial site (Sema) is a sacred area, and visits should be conducted respectfully.
No, tickets are not typically booked in advance for the burial site. You pay upon arrival or as part of your village visit.
Visitors are expected to be respectful. Photography of the actual burial process or remains might be restricted or frowned upon. Always follow local guidance.
Many tours to the Kintamani region include a visit to Trunyan Village. This can be a convenient way to arrange transport and a guide.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the village, but it's crucial to be respectful. Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially elders or during ceremonies.
Photography of the burial site (Sema) can be sensitive. While some general shots of the area might be permissible, avoid intrusive photography of the deceased or the immediate burial process.
The panoramic views of Lake Batur from the village and the unique landscape surrounding the burial site offer great photographic opportunities.
The main rule is respect. Be discreet and mindful of the sacred nature of the burial grounds and the local customs.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscape shots of the lake and a telephoto lens if you want to capture details from a distance.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the unique burial tradition at Sema. You can also experience the distinct culture of the Trunyanese people and enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Batur.
A visit to Trunyan Village typically takes 2-3 hours, including the boat trip and exploring the village and burial site.
Local guides are often available and can provide valuable insights into the village's history, culture, and burial traditions.
Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, out of respect for local customs. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended.
While children can visit, the burial site might be sensitive for some. Parents should gauge their children's comfort levels. The boat trip and lake views are generally enjoyable.
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Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Trunyanese Burial Tradition
The belief is that the Taru Menyan tree absorbs the scent of decomposition, thus masking any unpleasant odors and purifying the area. This natural decomposition process is considered a respectful way to return the body to nature. Visitors can observe this unique tradition from a respectful distance, gaining insight into a practice that has been maintained for centuries. It's a profound and often sobering experience that highlights the diversity of cultural practices surrounding death and remembrance.
Navigating Lake Batur and Boat Travel
When planning your trip, consider the time of day. Mornings often offer calmer waters and cooler temperatures, making for a more pleasant boat journey. The boatmen are usually locals who can also act as informal guides, sharing insights about the lake and the village. Ensure you have enough cash on hand for the boat rental, as card payments are not typically accepted in this remote area. The boat trip is not just a means of transport but an integral part of the Trunyan experience, offering a unique perspective on the region's natural beauty.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit