Bali is not just about white sandy beaches and vibrant nightclubs. If you venture a little to the north towards the Bangli Regency, you will discover a hidden gem that offers tranquility and extraordinary local wisdom. That place is Penglipuran Village Bali.
This is no ordinary village. Its name has gone global after being named one of the top three cleanest villages in the world by several international magazines, alongside Giethoorn in the Netherlands and Mawlynnong in India. Upon stepping foot here, you are immediately greeted by cool mountain air and a view of impeccably organized village streets without a single piece of trash in sight. For lovers of Bali cultural tourism, Penglipuran is a mandatory destination that offers a truly distinct experience.
The Secret Behind the Title of the Cleanest Village in the World
The prestigious title of the cleanest village in the world was not achieved overnight. It is the fruit of the commitment and discipline of all villagers who firmly uphold customary rules known as awig-awig.
In Penglipuran Village Bali, cleanliness is part of spirituality. The local community believes that maintaining environmental cleanliness is a form of respect for nature and the Creator. One of the unique rules applied is the ban on motorized vehicles (cars and motorbikes) from entering the main village street. This not only keeps the air fresh and pollution-free but also creates a calm and safe atmosphere for pedestrians. Every morning and afternoon, residents work together to sweep their yards and the streets in front of their homes, ensuring no trash mars the view.
Unique Bamboo Architecture and The Tri Mandala Concept
Beyond its cleanliness, the main attraction of this traditional Balinese village lies in its unique and uniform architecture and spatial layout.
The Tri Mandala Concept
The village is built upon the Tri Mandala concept, which divides the village area into three zones:
Utama Mandala: The northernmost, highest, and most sacred part, where the village temple is located.
Madya Mandala: The middle part, where the residents live.
Nista Mandala: The southernmost or lowest part, designated for the cemetery area.
Distinctive Bamboo Architecture
As you walk along the uphill main street, you will see rows of uniform house gates (angkul-angkul) on the left and right. The most prominent feature is the dominant use of bamboo materials, from building roofs to woven walls. The vast bamboo forest surrounding the village serves as the main material source and a water catchment area strictly guarded by the residents. This traditional architecture makes Penglipuran a Bali bamboo village that is incredibly Instagrammable.
Location and Penglipuran Village Entrance Fee Information
Administratively, Penglipuran Village Bali is located in Kubu Village, Bangli District, Bangli Regency. The journey from Denpasar city center or the Kuta area takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours by car. Because it is located in the highlands (about 700 meters above sea level), the air temperature here tends to be cool, so bring a light jacket if necessary.
As a popular visit Penglipuran destination, the village is managed very well. Facilities such as a spacious parking area, clean toilets, and small stalls selling souvenirs and Balinese culinary delights (don't forget to try the herbal drink Loloh Cemcem) are readily available.
To enjoy this beauty, the Penglipuran entrance fee is still very affordable. Currently, the rate for international tourists is around IDR 50,000 for adults and IDR 30,000 for children (prices are subject to change).
Visiting Penglipuran Village Bali is not just a photo tour; it is a journey to understand how humans can live harmoniously with nature and tradition amidst the onslaught of modernization. This is a place where you can truly feel the "Authentic Bali."
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WonderBali
Writer and Bali lover sharing stories about the beauty of the Island of Gods.
