Every morning in Batubulan village, Gianyar — about ten kilometres from Denpasar and the southern gateway to Ubud — the legendary Barong and Kris dance is staged. The dance tells the eternal struggle between good and evil, accompanied by a stirring gamelan ensemble. This daily show is one of the easiest ways to witness Bali's sacred arts in a visitor-friendly form.
The Story & Meaning
The Barong, a mythical lion-like creature, symbolises protection and the force of good. It confronts Rangda, the witch queen who embodies evil. The climax is the kris scene: dancers enter a trance (kerauhan) and press daggers against their bodies without being harmed, believed to be due to the Barong's magical protection.
What to Know
- Performances usually begin around 9:30 AM and last about one hour
- Several stages operate in Batubulan, such as Denjalan, Sila Budaya and Puseh
- Live gamelan music heightens the atmosphere
Tickets & How to Watch
Tickets range around Rp100,000–150,000 per person and can be bought at the counter. The show is also often included in full-day tours to Kintamani or Ubud. Batubulan itself is famed as a stone-carving village, so take time to admire the stone statues lining the village road.
Staying near Ubud with an AccessiaPass hotel voucher lets you arrive early without rushing and enjoy Gianyar's culture to the full.
Practical Info & Reservations
- Location (Google Maps): View on Google Maps
- How to watch: Starts around 9:30 AM, lasts ~1 hour, tickets ~Rp100,000–150,000, buy at the counter or via a tour package.
- Instagram/Info: search on Instagram
- Etiquette: Dress modestly, turn off flash when taking photos, and respect dancers in trance.
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