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Map of Ubud

About Bali : About Kuta  : About Legian : About Tuban : About Ubud : About Sanur : About Seminyak : About Jimbaran : About Nusa Dua & Tanjung Benoa About Denpasar : About North Bali : About East Bali : About Indonesia :

Brief Overview

Ubud is a remarkable town in the middle of the island of Bali. For more than a century, it has been the island's centre for fine arts, dance and music. While it once was a haven for scruffy backpackers, cosmic seekers, artists and bohemians, Ubud is now a hot spot for literati, glitterati, art collectors and connoisseurs. Famous names walk its busy sidewalks everyday. Elegant five star hotels and sprawling mansions now stand on its outskirts, overlooking the most prized views in Bali. Nonetheless, Ubud is still popular with backpackers, mystics and all the finest fringe elements of global society. Ubud has not been "ruined". Its character is too strong to be destroyed. It still draws people who add something; people who are actively involved in art, nature, anthropology, music, dance, architecture, environmentalism, "alternative modalities," and more.

Ubud is most likely the best place to use as a base if you're visiting Bali and you're looking for culture, comfort, nature and inspiration. Ubud is surrounded by most of the things that bring people to Bali -- scenic rice fields, small villages, arts and crafts communities, ancient temples, palaces, rivers, cheap accommodation and unique luxury hotels. And it's central location makes it easy to travel from Ubud to the mountains, beaches, and major towns.

The real Ubud is under the surface. There are plenty of interesting things on the main streets, but most of the magic of Ubud is hidden away. In the backstreets, backwaters, courtyards and cafes. In people's hearts, minds, and dreams. Go behind the facade and find the real Ubud, and the real Bali.
 

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Balinese Hinduism still permeates Ubud life as it has for hundreds of years. Some observers have noted a resurgence of religious activity, both in terms of outward devotional practice, and the more introspective, philosophical aspects of the religion. Ubud is noted as one of the more traditional towns in terms of maintaining the tenets and manifold observances of Agama Hindu Bali. Everywhere you look, every single day, you will see ceremony, ritual and sacred offerings. All of this is carried out in Ubud with a level of devout attention and meticulous care that is rarely exceeded elsewhere. This applies equally to the young generation as it does to their parents and grandparents.

To witness (or participate in) the enactment of religious tradition, visit a temple during a holy day or on its anniversary, called odalan. Your hotel, guest house or Balinese friends you may make can tell you when and where an opportunity might arise. Consult the Bali Calendar to check dates of major festivals. Or let Balinese friends and acquaintances know you would be interested to attend a life-transition ritual (three-month birthday of a baby, tooth filing, wedding, cremation, etc.). Chances are, if you stay more than a few days you will have the opportunity to witness such an event.

The main temples in Ubud are the locations for a tremendous variety of festivals, special prayers and observances of particular holy days. Before you attend any religious ceremony or enter a temple, find a Balinese friend or hotel employee who will take you to a ceremony and advise you about acceptable dress and tell you about what is taking place throughout the ceremony as well as advise you on how you can appreciate and participate in the ceremony without making a faux pas.
 

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| Consulates | Surf ToursBali Calendar 2011 | Bali Travel Books & Guides | Holiday Locations |
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