Welcome to the enchanting island of Bali, where the beaches are pristine, the culture is vibrant, and the drinks? They’re simply divine. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into one of Bali’s most iconic beverages: Bali Arak. This traditional spirit is not just a drink; it’s a cultural experience, a taste of history, and a warm invitation to understand the Balinese way of life.

Arak, a distilled spirit, is a staple in the Balinese social scene. Made from the fermented sap of sugarcane coconut flowers, this clear liquor packs a punch with an alcohol content that can soar from 20% up to 50%. It’s a drink that’s enjoyed neat, over ice, or mixed into a tantalizing cocktail.

You can easily find cocktails made of Bali Arak in restaurants, bars and clubs throughout Bali as Bali Arak is exclusively made in Bali. As part of Balinese culture, Bali Arak isn’t just about the buzz; it’s about community. It’s about sharing stories and laughter over a shared glass, feeling the warmth of the island’s spirit with every sip.

The history of Bali Arak is as rich as its flavor. Dating back to the Majapahit era, this drink has been a part of Balinese society for centuries, used in religious ceremonies, as a medicinal remedy, and, of course, for social gatherings.

The legalization of Bali Arak in 2020 and its recognition as an Indonesian Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2021 only solidified its importance in the island’s heritage. During the G20 Summit in Bali, guests were given Bali Arak as one of the souvenirs, further signifying Bali Arak as a symbolic gesture of the region's rich cultural heritage.

Today, Bali has officially designated "Arak Bali Day" into law, with celebrations taking place every January 29 to honor this particular type of alcohol.

Purchasing Bali Arak is super easy to find all over the island – just pop into any grocery store, wine shop, convenience store or even a cozy bar or restaurant. Many restaurants and local eateries, known as warung, also feature Arak on their drink lists.

Now, let’s talk quality because when it comes to Arak, it’s a big deal. If you’re after the good stuff, be ready to shell out a bit more cash. Compared to local markets, established bars and restaurants tend to charge more due to their setting and ambiance. At a local market, a 700ml bottle of Arak might range from IDR 50,000 to IDR 100,000, equivalent to $3.12 to $6.24 USD. Meanwhile, top-quality high-end Arak can fetch prices between IDR 700,000 to IDR 3,500,000, translating to $44 to $220 USD.So, choose your adventure and sip responsibly.

The process of making Bali Arak is an art form in itself. Local farmers tap coconut trees for their sap, which is then fermented and distilled with care. Each batch tells a story of the land and the hands that crafted it. When you take a sip of Bali Arak, you’re not just tasting a drink; you’re savoring the essence of Bali itself.

Already curious to sip the taste of heaven in the form of Bali Arak? Here’s a list of some famous Bali Arak brands that have captured the hearts of travelers and locals alike:

Dewi Sri Bali Arak was the pioneer professional Arak distillery in Bali, established in 1968 in Sanur by Ida Bagus Gotama. Its primary aim was to offer tourists a reliable and safe Arak option. Utilizing rice as its main ingredient, Dewi Sri employs a copper still to eliminate impurities such as black glutinous rice from the final product. With an alcohol by volume (ABV) of approximately 40%, this Arak boasts a smooth taste. It is commonly served in hotels and bars across Bali, renowned for its trusted quality among locals and visitors alike.

Established by a native woman,IWAK Arumery represents a premium brand known for its focus on double-distillation. Following distillation, the resulting Arak is enriched with a blend of exotic fruits and spices before undergoing an aging process to guarantee a refined taste. IWAK offers a range of Arak varieties, each differing slightly in potency, with alcohol by volume (ABV) levels ranging from 40% to 50%.

Karusotju is a brand of Bali Arak that combines yam to offer a fresh perspective on traditional Arak production, catering to the tastes of discerning drinkers. Despite being in operation for just four years, the brand has quickly earned a reputation for delivering high-quality products. Their lineup includes the smoky Arak "Karu 25" and the barrel-aged Arak "Karu 38," which boasts a smoother profile. The company aims to elevate Arak to the same level of global recognition enjoyed by Sake and Soju.

Arakbica is a unique blend of traditional Balinese arak and single-origin coffee from Kintamani, Bali, producing a drink that is bold and exotic. The name itself is a cool combination of “arak” and “Arabica” coffee. Arakbica has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of around 30.6%. It’s served in a 750ml bottle, also perfect for sharing.

Selaka Ning is a premium natural arak from Bali. It’s crafted from fermented salak fruit, which is a local favorite known for its unique taste. This arak is harvested straight from the villages of Karangasem, where they use time-honored methods and distill it not once, but twice, to get that smooth, aromatic flavor. It’s a popular brand among the locals and travelers alike.

While Bali Arak is a beloved part of the island’s culture, it’s important to enjoy it responsibly. Quality matters, and ensuring that you’re sipping on a safely produced Arak is key to a good experience. Stick to reputable sources, and you’ll discover why this drink is the toast of the island.

As our journey comes to an end, we invite you to explore the rich tapestry of Bali through its favorite spirit. Bali Arak is more than just a drink; it’s a celebration of life, culture, and the enduring spirit of the Balinese people. So, the next time you find yourself on this magical island, raise a glass of Arak and toast to the beauty of Bali.And if you’re ready to embark on this spirited adventure, why not make it a seamless experience? Book your activities, flight, and hotel on Traveloka, and dive into the heart of Bali with ease. Discover the island’s secrets, indulge in its traditions, and let Bali Arak be your guide to an unforgettable journey.