Steeped in history and culture, the pretty town of Singaraja is a good place to spend a day or two for those taking the time to really get to know Bali.

  • Ling Gwan Kiong Chinese Temple: this colorful temple is reached by crossing a small bride across a lotus pond and is filled with a collection of gold Buddha statues.
  • Gedong Kirtya Museum and Library: featuring the world’s largest collection of lontar manuscripts, the library also contains inscribed copper plates and old Dutch books.
  • Waterfront Harbor: wander along by the harbor, gazing at the spectacular ocean panorama, Dutch warehouses and Yudha Mandala Tama monument.
  • Singaraja Central Market: situated in the heart of the city, this is a great place to pick up a bargain or two.

Getting to Singaraja is pretty simply as it is just a 3-hour bus ride from Ngurah Rai International Airport, which is located just outside the city of Denpasar. There are regular buses from Denpasar to Singaraja as well as surrounding towns and cities such as Lovina and Pemuteran.

  • Worth it? This is a good place to visit if you are interested in Bali’s history and culture.
  • What to do: temple hopping, strolling along the harbor, shopping for souvenirs, visiting the museum.
  • Best time to go: during the dry season between May and September.
  • How long? A day or two is enough time to fully explore Singaraja.
  • Trivia: Singaraja was Bali’s main port during the Dutch colonial era and has maintained its colonial feel.