5 Interesting Bali Traditions

One of the things that really sets Bali apart from other surrounding holiday destinations is the unique and beautiful culture. A blend of religion, tradition, spirituality and art - the Balinese culture is one of many reasons to visit the popular Indonesian island.

To get you in the mood for your Bali holiday, here are five of the most interesting Balinese traditions.

Funeral celebrations

Funerals in Bali are one of the most beautiful traditions. Unlike the somber gatherings that are common in Western society, Balinese funerals are colorful celebrations of life. Although the ceremony is largely based on Hindu tradition, there are many elements that are unique to Bali.

The ceremony typically lasts three days and includes the cremation, lots of food, dozens of people and a party atmosphere. The Balinese believe that after death the body should be dissolved and returned to its original elements. 

Often tourists have the opportunity to join a Balinese funeral ceremony, and if given that opportunity it is a wonderful experience.

Balinese dance

Dance is an important part of Balinese tradition, which dates back hundreds of years. Balinese dance is very unique and involves the use of vivid colors, hand gestures and dramatic expressions. The dances are an important way for the Balinese to express their religion.

Balinese children are taught the traditional dance by their mothers from a very young age, and they may perform at some of the many festivals that are held in Bali. 

There are three main types of traditional dance in Bali - Barong, Legong and Kecak. When you visit Bali you’ll find a wide range of places designed just for tourists where you can experience traditional Balinese dance. Or if you’re lucky, you will be there during one of their holidays where the streets will be full of dancers.

Daily offerings

One of the first things that visitors to Bali notice are small baskets on the streets filled with flowers and rice. These baskets are one of best-known Balinese traditions. Three times a day, the Balinese people leave an offering to the Gods - in the form of these baskets. 

They believe it is a good way to maintain a positive relationship between people and spirits. The idea of harmony is what drives the beautiful Balinese culture and makes it such a peaceful place to visit.

Religious festivals

The majority of people that live in Bali follow the Hindu religion and religious festivals are an important part of their culture and tradition. If you want to experience a true Bali tradition, plan your trip around one of their bigger festivals. The Balinese people are very welcoming, so you may even be able to take part in some of the festivities.

Most of the religious festivals take part in and around the local temple and the majority of the village or town gets involved - so it’s a very lively event! 

One of the best religious festivals is Odalan, which is the anniversary of a temple’s founding. These festivals can last from a couple of days up to a week, and the temple will be covered in beautiful flowers and decorations while dancers, food stalls and entertainment surround it.

Galungan is the biggest and most significant religious festival, and is held annually in the 11th week of the 210 day Balinese calendar.

Non-religious festivals

Non-religious festivals are also a popular tradition in Bali. The three main non-religious holidays are Negara bull races, the rice harvest and Indonesian Independence Day.