Gianyar, located in the central part of Bali, is a town filled with rich culture and history. It is home to numerous temples, museums, and other cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for tourists.
Tourist Sites
Here are some of the best tourist sites in Gianyar Bali that you don’t want to miss.
- Puri Gianyar
Puri Gianyar, located in the town center, is a magnificent palace that was once the residence of the royal family. Although it is not open to the public, its impressive outside walls and gates convey the former kings’ power. The puri was renovated as a duplicate of the original 17th-century building after suffering earthquake damage in 1917.
- Batuan Hindu Temple
Batuan Hindu Temple is a must-visit for anyone interested in Balinese culture. The temple dates back more than a thousand years and features stunning carvings and sculptures. It is an excellent place to learn more about the traditional culture of Bali.
- Blangsinga Waterfall
Blangsinga Waterfall is a beautiful natural attraction located in the village of Blahbatuh. It features a large swimming pool, making it a popular spot for tourists looking to cool off on a hot day. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, and visitors can take a short hike to explore the surrounding area.
- Bali Safari and Marine Park
The Bali Safari and Marine Park is an excellent attraction for families. It is home to a diverse collection of endangered and wild animals, including tigers, crocodiles, and monkeys. Visitors can take a safari tour to see the animals up close or attend one of the many animal shows held throughout the day.
- Goa Gajah
Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave, is an ancient Hindu temple located in Bedulu. It features a stunning rock-carved entrance that resembles an elephant, hence the name. The temple is filled with intricate carvings and sculptures, making it a popular destination for tourists interested in Balinese art and history.
- Tegenungan Waterfall
Tegenungan Waterfall is another stunning natural attraction located in the village of Kemenuh. It features a large waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and a swimming area at the base of the waterfall. Visitors can take a short hike to explore the surrounding area and take in the beautiful scenery.
- Bali Zoo
The Bali Zoo is an excellent attraction for families with young children. It is home to a wide range of animals, including elephants, tigers, and orangutans. Visitors can take a tour of the zoo or attend one of the many animal shows held throughout the day.
- Gunung Kawi
Gunung Kawi is an ancient temple complex located in Tampaksiring. It features ten rock-cut shrines carved into the cliff face, making it a popular destination for tourists interested in Balinese art and history. Visitors can take a short hike to explore the surrounding area and take in the beautiful scenery.
- Bali Bird Park
The Bali Bird Park is an excellent attraction for bird lovers. It is home to a wide range of exotic birds, including parrots, eagles, and owls. Visitors can take a tour of the park or attend one of the many bird shows held throughout the day.
- Tirta Empul Temple
Tirta Empul Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located in Tampaksiring. It is home to a holy spring that is believed to have healing powers. Visitors can take a dip in the holy water or attend one of the many religious ceremonies held at the temple.
If you’re not a fan of crowds, Gianyar is a good place to explore nature and enjoy a peaceful environment. You can explore the city’s surroundings and meet locals. You’ll have a much more memorable trip to Gianyar if you spend time hiking, exploring, or kayaking along the river. Here are just a few things to do in the town.
The Gianyar market is another popular attraction. Visitors can browse the handicrafts of local people and buy souvenirs. The market is open from dawn to dusk and is often packed with people. If you are looking for something more active, consider visiting the zoo. The museum is a must-see for tourists. It is home to a diverse collection of endangered and wild animals, including tigers, crocodiles, and monkeys.
Besides museums and temples, tourists can also enjoy the local cuisine. Kopi Luwak coffee is famous throughout the region and was originally made by the Asian Palm Civet. Its unique taste is a prized commodity. You can also tour a coffee plantation in Gianyar. Whether you’re looking for a coffee tour or want to sample a coffee overlooking the rice terraces, you’ll be able to find everything you need.
Best Restaurants in Gianyar
Gianyar is a regency in Bali, Indonesia, known for its stunning beaches, rice paddies, and traditional Balinese culture. The area is also home to some of the best restaurants on the island. Whether you’re looking for traditional Indonesian fare, fresh seafood, or international cuisine, Gianyar has it all. Here are some of the best places to eat in Gianyar, Bali.
- Warung Teges
Warung Teges is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Indonesian cuisine. The restaurant is located in the village of Teges, just a few kilometers from the Ubud market. The menu features a variety of classic dishes, including nasi campur, gado-gado, and sate lilit. Everything is made fresh daily using locally sourced ingredients, and the prices are very reasonable. The restaurant also has a lovely garden setting, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing lunch or dinner.
- Bebek Tepi Sawah
Bebek Tepi Sawah is another popular restaurant in Gianyar, known for its delicious duck dishes. The restaurant has several locations across Bali, but the one in Ubud is especially popular. The specialty here is bebek betutu, a traditional Balinese dish of smoked duck that is cooked for hours in a banana leaf. The duck is incredibly tender and flavorful, and the dish comes with a side of steamed rice, vegetables, and spicy sambal sauce. The restaurant also has a lovely outdoor seating area overlooking rice paddies, adding to the overall dining experience.
- Pundi-Pundi
Pundi-pundi is a hidden gem in Gianyar that is worth seeking out. The restaurant is located on Jalan Raya Tegallalang, just a few minutes’ drive from the famous Tegallalang rice terraces. The menu features a mix of Indonesian and Western dishes, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the prawn and avocado salad, the black pepper beef, and the chocolate lava cake. The restaurant also has a cozy interior, with plenty of seating both inside and outside.
- Warung Leko
Warung Leko is a popular chain of Indonesian restaurants across Bali, with several locations in Gianyar. The menu is focused on traditional Indonesian dishes, with a particular emphasis on grilled meats. The standout dish here is the ayam penyet, a fried chicken dish that is smashed to create a crispy exterior and served with a side of spicy sambal sauce. The restaurant also has a casual, family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner.
- Kampung Cafe
Kampung Cafe is a cozy little cafe located on Jalan Raya Pejeng, just a few minutes’ drive from Ubud. The menu features a mix of Western and Indonesian dishes, with a focus on organic and sustainable ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the grilled tuna salad, the chicken curry, and the mixed berry smoothie bowl. The cafe also has a lovely outdoor seating area, with views of rice paddies and lush greenery.
Gianyar is a foodie’s paradise with a variety of excellent restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Indonesian cuisine or international fare, there’s something for everyone in Gianyar. These five restaurants are just a few of the many great dining options in the area, so be sure to explore and discover more delicious eats during your visit to Bali.
Best Hotels and Villas in Gianyar
If you want to enjoy the beauty of Gianyar without spending a fortune, try staying at one of the many hotels or villas in the area. You’ll find several great choices in this article, including Rumah Luwih, the Mara River Safari Lodge, and the Artini 3 Cottages. You can also read about the various amenities available at these places. Read on to discover how to book a comfortable stay in Gianyar and links will take you to TripAdvisor where you can compare prices and get more information and customer reviews.
Rumah Luwih
Rumah Luwih is a luxury resort located in Gianyar, a regency in the province of Bali, Indonesia. The resort is situated on the east coast of the island and is surrounded by rice fields and coconut groves.
Rumah Luwih offers a range of accommodations, including villas with private pools, suites, and rooms. The resort features a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, a restaurant, and a bar. It is known for its beautiful gardens and its peaceful, serene setting.
Gianyar is a popular destination for tourists visiting Bali due to its beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. It is home to a number of temples, including the Goa Gajah temple and the Tirta Empul temple. The region is also known for its art and craft traditions, and it is home to a number of galleries and studios.
Overall, Rumah Luwih is a luxurious and relaxing retreat for travelers looking to experience the beauty and culture of Bali.
Located in the mellow region of Gianyar, Rumah Luwih Beach Resort and Spa offers elegant rooms, a 24-hour reception, and private beach access. Guests are provided with a free airport shuttle service, concierge services, and tour desks. Rooms at Rumah Luwih feature marble bathrooms, private balconies, and high coffered ceilings.
Mara River Safari Lodge
Located in Gianyar, the Mara River Safari Lodge is a great base for exploring the nearby Bali Marine Park and Bali’s famed Bali Beach. The friendly staff will gladly book you activities in the area. The lodge features a spa, free WiFi, and air-conditioned rooms with private balconies or terraces. Guests will enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. Tsavo Lion Restaurant serves international cuisines.
If you want to spend less, there are many cheaper accommodations in Gianyar, like Nick’s Homestay and Gatra Ubud Inn. These affordable accommodations provide basic amenities, including a hairdryer and Vending Machines. You can also choose a bed and breakfast in Gianyar, which is similar to a hotel but has its own atmosphere. There are several different kinds of accommodations available in Gianyar, including hostels and budget-friendly options.
Anahata Villas & Spa Resort
Located in a beautiful, lush tropical rain forest, Anahata is one of the most luxurious hotels and villas in Gianyar, Bali. The name Anahata means “love”, and the modern-style villas and gardens reflect this sentiment. In addition to being located in a prime location, guests at Anahata also enjoy 24-hour room service, laundry services, and a spa.
The eco-friendly design of this property reflects its sustainable values. Materials used in its decor are recycled and biodegradable. The villa’s design is based on the golden ratio, also known as the golden section or golden rectangle. Golden ratios embody the symmetrical and harmonic principles of nature, expressed in simple whole numbers. This villa is a great place to spend a nature/wildlife weekend.
Artini 3 Cottages
The Artini 3 Cottages have a full list of amenities. In addition to free Wi-Fi in all rooms, this property also offers daily housekeeping, photocopying, and a postal service. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, a spa, and massage. It is also possible to book a massage at the hotel. For families, the property has a kids’ play area.
If you are on a budget, you may want to consider staying at Artini 2 Cottages Ubud, which is located in the center of Ubud. This property is within a 10-minute walk from the Ubud Monkey Forest, and offers free Wi-Fi throughout. Rooms here have private terraces with garden views. In addition to an en suite bathroom, select rooms have a flat-screen TV and a DVD player. There is also an on-site restaurant and a bar. If you’re tired of eating out, you can use the Artini 3 Cottages Ubud’s complimentary laundry service.
Kastara Resort & Spa
If you are looking for a luxurious resort that offers exceptional service and amenities, you can stay at the Kastara Retreat & Spa in Gianyar. This resort is a wonderful choice for your next romantic getaway, honeymoon retreat, or long-term stay. This upscale resort in Gianyar, Nepal offers a variety of services and amenities that will make your stay as pleasant and comfortable as possible.
The Kastara Resort offers breakfast in its rooms and has a cafe that is just a 5-minute walk away. It is 3.4 km from the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Free WiFi and airport shuttle services are available to guests. It also provides free parking for guests. In addition, the hotel has its own restaurant, karsa spa, and bar. For convenience, Kastara offers an outdoor swimming pool, a gym, and a bar.
10 Interesting facts about Gianyar Bali
- Cultural Heartland: Gianyar is often referred to as the cultural heartland of Bali due to its rich history, traditional arts, and vibrant cultural heritage.
- Ubud: Gianyar is home to Ubud, one of Bali’s most famous and artistic towns. Ubud is known for its stunning landscapes, art galleries, traditional crafts, and cultural performances.
- Monkey Forest: The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, located in Ubud, is a renowned attraction. This lush jungle area is home to hundreds of long-tailed macaque monkeys and features ancient temples and statues.
- Traditional Arts: Gianyar is known for its flourishing arts scene. The area is famous for traditional Balinese crafts such as woodcarving, painting, and stone carving.
- Ubud Palace: Puri Saren Agung, also known as Ubud Palace, is a historical palace in the heart of Ubud. The palace is a cultural landmark and often hosts traditional dance performances.
- Rice Terraces: The Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Gianyar are a stunning example of Bali’s iconic landscape. The terraced rice fields offer breathtaking views and are a popular spot for photography.
- Cultural Events: Gianyar hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. These include traditional dance performances, art exhibitions, and celebrations of Balinese holidays.
- Traditional Markets: The Gianyar Night Market and Ubud Market are bustling hubs where visitors can experience the vibrant local culture, buy traditional crafts, and sample Balinese cuisine.
- Elephant Cave: Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave, is an ancient archaeological site near Ubud. The cave entrance is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Royal Temples: Gianyar is home to several important Balinese temples, including Pura Taman Saraswati in Ubud, known for its lotus pond and dance performances.
