Trunyan Village, Kintamani: A Bali Aga Village with a Unique Burial Tradition

On the eastern shore of Lake Batur, tucked at the foot of the Kintamani hills, lies Trunyan Village — a Bali Aga (original Balinese) village that has preserved ancestral customs for centuries. The village is most easily reached by boat from Kedisan Jetty, as it is nearly isolated by the lake and hills. The boat ride offers stunning views of the lake and Mount Batur.

A Rare Burial Tradition

Trunyan is known for its unusual funeral tradition. The deceased are neither buried nor cremated; instead, they are laid on the ground in the cemetery (Sema) beneath the sacred Taru Menyan tree. The fragrant scent of this tree is believed to neutralize odor, so no smell arises even though the bodies are left in the open. Around it you will see skulls and bones arranged — a sacred sight, not a spectacle.

Visiting Etiquette

Because this is a sacred site, respect local customs. Come with a polite and calm demeanor.

• Agree on the boat rental price upfront, usually around Rp500,000–Rp700,000 round trip per boat.
• Rent the boat through the official jetty in Kedisan for safety and clarity.
• Dress modestly and stay quiet in the cemetery area.
• Do not touch or move the skulls and bones.
• Prepare cash for a donation/tip as you see fit; ask the amount in advance.

Trunyan is a reminder of how rich Bali's cultural heritage is. After exploring Kintamani, extend your trip and check hotel vouchers on AccessiaPass to rest with lake and mountain views.

Practical Info & Reservations

• View on Google Maps
• How to visit: head to Kedisan Jetty, then rent a boat and agree on the round-trip price before departing; avoid touts and use official channels.
• Estimated boat cost: around Rp500,000–Rp700,000 per boat (round trip), not including donations.
• For an overview and recent reviews, search on Instagram.