Batuan

This is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and gifts to take home to loved ones as a large number of art shops can be found here, specializing in the form of painting known as Batuan and named after the village, as well as in wooden relief work and stone carving.

This region of Bali is also known for its ancient dance drama, the Gambuh. Those arriving at Pura Desa Temple on the outskirts of Batuan on the 1st and 15th of each month can enjoy a special performance of this traditional dance, an unforgettable experience.

The Batuan art style is believed to come from a type of traditional Indonesian theatre known as Wayang. This unique art form was established by Balinese artists Wayan Bendi, Ni Wayan Warti and Made Budi in order to make a statement about Balinese life. Batuan, and the elements that comprise it are felt to be representative of local life and the struggle to balance love of nature with the need for success in the modern world.

Getting to Batuan is simple as the village is located just 10kms from the city of Ubud. A large number of local travel operators offer tours to Batuan, often combined with a visit to some of the other villages in the area. Another great way to reach Batuan is by hiring a bicycle in Ubud and simply cycling through the countryside.