temple ceremonies in Bali

You will see Hindu temples everywhere you go in Bali. Every village has one. Every home has one. Even our suite at FS Jimbaran Bay had a small temple, and a small offering (such as flower petals) would be placed before that temple each day. Your guides and drivers will all offer explanations of Balinese spirituality, and you should appreciate this as a most significant aspect of the culture of this incredibly friendly and welcoming people.

We attended a local religious festival our first evening at Amandari, and our brief 20 minute visit (the festival went on for hours) will be one experience that will stay with me forever. Amandari provided us each with a traditional sarong, and our driver-guide helped us dress for the ceremony. Outsiders are most welcome, with the only expectation that we show respect for their customs - thus, wearing a sarong.

What an incredible experience of Balinese culture! We were treated to a cacophony of bright colors (reds, golds, and yellows), sounds (ringing bells and chanting voices), smells (incense burning), sights (some villagers bringing fruit baskets and other offerings, others praying devoutly as they offered flower petals). We were immersed in the joy of a community that had come together for a social and religious festival. More than the beautiful crafts and the sunny beaches, this brief encounter will define my understanding of Bali and its people.


Bali (search here on Google)

copyright (c) 2011 by David J. Ourisman. All rights reserved. If you have comments on this column, or questions about booking travel, email me or visit my website.
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