Bali’s Hidden Gem : Exploring the Beauty and Tradition of Penglipuran Village

Bali, often referred to as the Island of the Gods, is famous for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and deep-rooted traditions. One of the destinations that offers an authentic Balinese cultural experience is Penglipuran Village. Located in Bangli Regency, Penglipuran Village is a traditional village that has preserved the traditional way of Balinese life, making it one of the most beautiful and cleanest villages in the world. In this article, we will explore the various unique features and attractions of Penglipuran Village, from the Tri Mandala spatial concept, world-renowned cleanliness, to traditional culture that is still preserved. For those who wish to experience the beauty and tranquility of this village, Bali Go Private Tour is ready to guide you through every corner.

Spatial Planning of Penglipuran Village: The Tri Mandala Concept

Penglipuran Village is organized according to a spatial concept known as "Tri Mandala," which divides the village into three main areas: Utama Mandala, Madya Mandala, and Nista Mandala. The Tri Mandala concept is based on the philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, a central principle in the lives of Balinese Hindus. Tri Hita Karana teaches the importance of harmony between humans and God (Parahyangan), humans and nature (Palemahan), and humans with fellow humans (Pawongan).

1. Utama Mandala: This area is the most sacred part of the village, typically used for religious activities and rituals. In Penglipuran Village, the Utama Mandala is home to the main temples where villagers worship. These temples are surrounded by large trees and a serene atmosphere, reflecting the close relationship between humans and the Creator.
2. Madya Mandala: The central part of the village is where the residents live. The houses in Penglipuran Village are built following traditional Balinese architecture, with each structure serving a specific function, such as a gathering pavilion (bale bengong), kitchen, and granary. The layout of the houses in Madya Mandala is orderly and symmetrical, reflecting the discipline of the community in preserving their ancestral traditions.
3. Nista Mandala: This area is located on the outskirts of the village and is used for daily activities such as farming and gardening. Here, the villagers engage in activities related to nature, maintaining harmony between humans and the surrounding environment.

With Bali Go Private Tour, you can explore each section of Penglipuran Village, gaining deeper insight into how the Tri Mandala concept is implemented in the daily lives of the villagers.

World-Renowned Cleanliness

Penglipuran Village is known as one of the cleanest villages in the world, and in 2016, UNESCO recognized it as the third-cleanest traditional village globally. One testament to the village's cleanliness is the 50 cm-wide drainage ditches that run along both sides of the village roads. These ditches are designed to maintain sanitation, prevent waterlogging, and keep the environment clean. The neatly arranged streets, free of litter and adorned with small gardens at every corner, make Penglipuran Village a comfortable and pleasant place to visit.

This cleanliness is not just an individual responsibility but is ingrained in the village’s traditional rules. The residents of Penglipuran Village hold cleanliness and order in high regard, believing it to be a form of respect for nature and their ancestors. The villagers work together in a spirit of community cooperation (gotong royong) to keep their environment pristine, ensuring the village's beauty is always well-maintained.

By visiting Penglipuran Village with Bali Go Private Tour, you can witness firsthand how the cleanliness and beauty of this village are preserved. Our knowledgeable guides will provide you with detailed information on how the village is managed and why its cleanliness is recognized internationally.

Unique Traditional Customs

Penglipuran Village is also known for its strict traditional customs, particularly regarding marriage. One unique custom is the prohibition of polygamy and polyandry. The predominantly Hindu population of the village enforces a rule that men and women are only allowed to have one spouse for life. If anyone violates this rule, they face sanctions, including being ostracized from the village and not being allowed to live within the main village area.

These traditional customs apply not only to marriage but also to daily life. For example, when building homes, villagers are required to follow rules set by their ancestors. Houses in Penglipuran Village must be constructed using natural materials such as bamboo, wood, and thatched roofs made from alang-alang grass. The use of modern materials like concrete and steel is strictly prohibited to preserve the village's authenticity and cultural heritage.

With Bali Go Private Tour, you can learn more about these traditional customs and how they are still practiced today. Our guides will take you on a tour of the village, explaining the meanings and philosophies behind each of these customs.

The Beauty of Penglipuran Village

Penglipuran Village is not only known for its unique spatial planning and exceptional cleanliness but also for its stunning visual beauty. As you enter the village, you will immediately feel a sense of peace and tranquility, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. The village’s main road is meticulously laid with natural stones, leading directly to the village’s temple, the spiritual heart of the Penglipuran community. Along the road, you will see rows of traditional Balinese houses that are identical to each other, creating a visually harmonious and calming environment.

The houses in Penglipuran Village are built in traditional Balinese architectural style, using natural materials such as bamboo, wood, and thatched roofs. Each house has a spacious courtyard adorned with small gardens filled with colorful tropical flowers. The villagers take great care to maintain this aesthetic, making Penglipuran one of the most beautiful villages in Bali.

One of the must-see attractions is the bamboo forest located in the northern part of the village. This forest not only provides a cool and shady atmosphere but is also an integral part of the village’s ecosystem. The Penglipuran bamboo forest is one of the largest in Bali, with pathways that allow visitors to take a leisurely stroll while enjoying the natural beauty. In the morning, sunlight filtering through the bamboo leaves creates a breathtaking scene, perfect for photography.

The beauty of Penglipuran Village also comes alive during ceremonies and festivals regularly held by the local community. During these events, the village streets are decorated with penjor (curved bamboo poles) and traditional ornaments, adding even more charm to the village.

With its all-encompassing beauty, from spatial planning and architecture to the surrounding nature, Penglipuran Village is an ideal place to find peace and enjoy the authenticity of Balinese culture. Bali Go Private Tour will guide you through this beauty, ensuring that every corner of Penglipuran Village leaves you with unforgettable memories.

Preserved Traditional Culture

Penglipuran Village is not only recognized for its cleanliness and unique customs but also for its traditional Balinese culture, which is still preserved to this day. The villagers continue to perform various traditional ceremonies, religious rituals, and practices that have been passed down through generations. One of the village’s main attractions is the extensive bamboo forest, which not only provides building materials but also plays a crucial role in the spiritual life of the villagers.

Religious ceremonies such as Galungan, Kuningan, and Nyepi are still carried out with great reverence in Penglipuran Village. Additionally, the village is home to various forms of traditional art, including dances, gamelan music, and handicrafts that are maintained as part of their cultural identity. The village’s traditional cuisine also offers a unique attraction, where visitors can taste authentic Balinese dishes.

Bali Go Private Tour will ensure that you have an immersive experience in understanding and appreciating the traditional culture of Penglipuran Village. You will have the opportunity to interact directly with the villagers, learn about their daily lives, and witness the various cultural activities that take place.

Penglipuran Village is a must-visit destination when in Bali. The unique Tri Mandala spatial concept, world-renowned cleanliness, strict traditional customs, and preserved traditional culture make this village a truly special and meaningful place. Visiting Penglipuran Village is not just a tourist trip but also an educational experience about local wisdom and the values that guide Balinese life.

With the help of Bali Go Private Tour, you can explore every corner of Penglipuran Village with ease and comfort. Our experienced guides will provide in-depth information about the village’s history, culture, and natural beauty, ensuring that every moment of your journey is an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the chance to visit Penglipuran Village and enjoy the charm of Bali’s most beautiful traditional village with Bali Go Private Tour.