Offering a unique combination of urban and small-town ambiance is Denpasar, the capital of the famed Bali. Here you can experience the real, unaltered life of the Balinese.
How to Get to Denpasar
Air travel is the most convenient means. There are flights from major cities in Bali and the world to Ngurah Rai International Airport, which is about 30 minutes drive from Denpasar. To move around in the city, you can book a taxi or rent a car. At $48 per day, car rental in Denpasar is quite affordable. Companies like Avis for car rental in Denpasar have desks conveniently located at the airport. Shuttle buses such as the Kura-Kura offer tours around the city every Tuesday and Thursday.
Culture and History
Sitting right in the middle of the city is Puputan Square and the Bajra Sandhi Monument. Within this towering monument with a Borobudur-like structure is where you can find dioramas tracing Bali’s history. The breathtaking view of the city at the top of the monument is worth the climb.
Festival of the Year
Next comes the Bali Provincial Museum, which holds a vast array of the island’s cultural and historical artifacts. Taman Wedhi Budaya, also known as the Bali Art’s Centre, with its elegant architecture, holds displays of Balinese art. The center comes alive in the middle of the year to host the famous Bali Arts Festival.
God of Wind
Right next to the Bali museum are three famous temples; The Pura Agung Jagatnatha, Pura Maospahit, and Puri Permecutan. The Pura Maospahit is where you can go to see the statue of the giant God of Wind (Batara Bayu).
What About Natural Attractions?
Even though Denpasar does not offer the tropical beach experience people go to seek in Bali, there is still something for marine lovers. There is Shark Island, where tourists, especially kids, can interact safely with the sharks. Beach lovers can visit Sanur Beach and capture the picture-perfect sunrise. There are also several diving sites on the island with a lot to explore underwater.
