Batubulan Village, Exploring the Village with the Enchanting Barong and Kecak Arts

Batubulan Village is situated in the Sukawati sub-district, Gianyar Regency, Bali Province. This village is conveniently located close to Denpasar City, just 11 kilometers north of the city center. It covers a vast area for a village, spanning 6.44 square kilometers, with a population of 22,754 people and 5,522 households. Additionally, the village comprises 16 sub-villages or "dusun." Due to its extensive territory, Batubulan Village is divided into three Traditional Villages: Jro Kuta Traditional Village, Dlod Tukad Traditional Village, and Tegaltamu Traditional Village, each with its distinct group of sub-villages. Each Traditional Village also has its own Khayangan Tiga temples, including the Village Temple, Puseh Temple, and Dalem Temple.

Barong and Kecak Batubulan Dance Performances (Photo Source : Editorial Collection) 

The main attraction for visitors and tourists to Batubulan Village is to witness the traditional Barong and Kecak dance performances. However, since the COVID-19 pandemic hit four years ago, the number of visitors to these performances in the village dramatically decreased. This led to the bankruptcy of one of the stages where the performances were held. But as time has passed, in the year 2023, the number of domestic and international tourists has been increasing once again. One of the stages you must visit is the Barong and Kris Dance Stage located on Pura Puseh Street, Batubulan. Here, performances are held every day, both in the morning and in the evening. If you are interested, you can watch the show with an entrance fee of 75,000 Indonesian Rupiah for domestic tourists and 150,000 Indonesian Rupiah for international tourists. With this, you can enjoy a 60-minute performance. The storyline of the Barong and Kecak dance in Batubulan begins with the encounter of Barong and Kera in the forest. They are attacked by three masked individuals who are angry because their child was eaten by a tiger. The first act depicts Rangda's followers seeking the followers of Dewi Kunti. One of them transforms into a terrifying creature under the influence of Rangda. Dewi Kunti's followers are eventually turned into furious beings under Rangda's influence. Dewi Kunti is compelled to fulfill her promise and hand over her son, Sahadewa, to Rangda. Sahadewa obeys but is given invincible powers by Dewa Siwa. Rangda attempts to devour Sahadewa but fails due to Dewa Siwa's protection. Rangda begs for forgiveness, and Sahadewa grants it. The fierce battle between Barong and Rangda takes place in the final act. A follower of Rangda named Kalika transforms into various forms to attack Sahadewa, who eventually becomes Barong. The battle is intense, and Barong's followers are unable to defeat Rangda. Ultimately, they are trapped in an eternal battle with no clear winner. In addition to the Puseh Temple area, you can also purchase souvenirs from local residents, such as Balinese woven fabrics, traditional Balinese belts (anteng), and more.

When you visit Batubulan Village, besides witnessing the traditional Barong and Kecak dance performances, you can also explore the places where craftsmen create Bali's famous stone-carved sculptures scattered along Batubulan Highway. There, you can purchase or simply admire Bali's unique stone sculptures. If you're lucky, you might even witness the craftsmen at work.

The natural beauty of Batubulan Village is a hidden gem, as many rice fields in the area were transformed into buildings and residential areas in the 2000s. However, there are still beautiful rice field areas that you must visit, such as Dusun Tubuh, Sasih, Pagutan Kaja, and Pagutan Kelod. In these areas, you'll find extensive terraced rice fields with rows of coconut trees lining the riverside, accompanied by gentle breezes. It's a perfect place for photography or simply enjoying the natural surroundings.

In the year 2020, a new tourist attraction emerged in Batubulan Village - a batik factory called Nadisuari, located on SMKI Street. Since then, the batik craft sector in this village has started to attract tourists, both domestic and international. Inside Nadisuari, you can witness the process of creating traditional Balinese batik crafts and even try your hand at making them under the guidance of skilled artisans. Of course, you can also purchase these beautiful batik creations. Furthermore, Batubulan Village is home to numerous craftsmen specializing in Balinese wood carvings. You can find them in Dusun Pegambangan, Tubuh, Denjalan, and Tegaltamu. One renowned establishment is the Sraya Bali Style Wood Carving Craft Business, located on Batubulan Highway. So, whether you're looking to buy intricately carved Balinese woodcrafts like doors and more or simply wish to admire their craftsmanship, visiting this place might be the perfect decision for you.

Batubulan Village is also home to a field known as Chandra Muka Batubulan, located to the west of the Beringin tree on Batubulan Highway. During the morning and evening, this field often bustles with villagers who come to engage in activities such as jogging and playing football with friends. If you're looking for a spacious and cost-free place for physical activities in Batubulan Village, this field is the perfect choice. Furthermore, the field is frequently used for ceremonies and events organized by Batubulan Village, including the Village Sports Week, Independence Day Ceremony on August 17th, Ogoh-ogoh Parade, and more. Around the field, you can also find small food stalls offering a variety of snacks and beverages.

When it comes to cuisine, Batubulan Village offers several dining recommendations that you should definitely try. One of them is at Senggol Batubulan Market, located on Batubulan Highway, near the Batubulan Bus Station. Here, you'll find a wide range of street food, Chinese dishes, Suckling pig, and more, all at affordable prices. Additionally, don't miss out on Sate Babi Buk Nyoman (non-halal) on Batubulan Highway, north of Chandra Muka Field. You can enjoy pork satay with rice or tipat (rice cake) starting from 20,000 Rupiah per portion for dining in or starting from 10,000 Rupiah for takeout. This satay stall is always bustling due to its affordable prices and delicious taste. Lastly, there's Nasi Babi Genyol Dadong Pamit (non-halal) located on SMKI Batubulan Street, near Bulan Market. You can savor this rice dish starting from only 15,000 Rupiah, and its quality taste has made this rice stall a long-standing favorite among culinary enthusiasts.

If you're planning a trip to the Island of the Gods, make sure to schedule a visit to Batubulan Village. There, you'll not only be treated to astonishing Barong and Kecak dance performances but also have the opportunity to witness remarkable arts in carving, sculpture, and batik. Furthermore, the breathtaking natural beauty and diverse culinary options will enhance your experience. Batubulan Village is a must-explore destination in Bali.