Not just the main gateway to the island, Denpasar is also the cultural heart of Bali. Despite not being a massive city with towering buildings, Denpasar still captures the essence of Bali's art, history, and culture.
As you wander through Denpasar's streets, you'll come across some stunning temples, traditional markets, and museums that showcase Bali's rich history and culture. Remember to check out some of the colorful festivals and religious ceremonies hosted in the city.
Make sure to visit Badung Market and Kumbasari Market, two of the most famous traditional markets. They offer a wide range of Balinese products, from food to clothing to handicrafts. And if you're interested in learning more about Bali's history and culture, the Bali Museum is definitely worth a visit.
It's easy to find an ojek driver in Denpasar. They are always around every corner and are super helpful in getting people to their destinations quickly. The fares are up for negotiation, so it's always good to ask beforehand. Rush hour traffic can be a nightmare, but taking an ojek is a great way to avoid it.
It takes approximately 20-30 minutes to reach the center of Denpasar from Ngurah Rai International Airport, depending on the traffic. However, public transportation or a taxi can make your journey more convenient.
When visiting a temple or sacred site in Denpasar, dressing appropriately is crucial. It is suggested to wear clothes that cover both your arms and legs and to carry a scarf or sarong to display respect for the local customs. The temple might also have sarongs that visitors can borrow in most cases.
To find some great souvenirs to bring back from Denpasar, you can explore the Badung Market and Kumbasari Market. You'll find a range of locally made items such as batik fabric, silver crafts, milk pie, and Bali salak to make unique and memorable gifts.
The Bali Arts Festival (PKB) is an annual art and cultural festival held in Denpasar. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dance performances, music, art, and handicraft exhibitions during the festival.
When in Denpasar, you should definitely try out some of their local cuisines. One of the most popular dishes is the Babi Guling, a typical Balinese roast pork with side dishes like lawar and sambal. Another favorite is the Sate Plecing, meat skewers with spicy and savory Balinese spices. Make sure not to miss out on Ayam Betutu, a chicken dish cooked with rich spices, as well as Lawar, a vegetable and coconut mixture that perfectly complements other dishes.
Travel Tips for Denpasar
Explore Denpasar