Denpasar, the capital of Bali province, is a city full of energy and is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world and has famous temples, museums, parks and many more places to visit in Denpasar area. The city is a blend of traditional Balinese culture and architecture, combined with a touch of modern tourism and a more commercial environment.
Denpasar has many interesting attractions and activities that can be enjoyed by tourists.
1. Werdi Budaya Art Center
The art center that took almost three years to reconstruct was designed by one of Bali’s most famous architects, Ida Bagus Tugur. It is one of Bali’s largest cultural centers and can accommodate around 6,000 people and therefore there are many cultural and traditional Balinese programs held here throughout the year. The amphitheater for performances is the second most popular attraction here, after the museum.
2. Bajra Sandhi Monument
Built in 1987 and located in the center of Denpasar city, this monument serves as a reminder of the struggle and suffering faced by the Balinese people during the war. The name Bajra symbolizes the shape of the bell used during religious processions and ceremonies. The monument also preserves many aspects of Balinese culture and tells the stories and traditions of generations of Balinese people, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Denpasar.
3. Sanur Beach
This is one of the more luxurious beaches in Denpasar, which is flanked by resorts and has many high-end restaurants, beach clubs and cafes located around it. Sanur which is now a luxurious tourist destination, used to be a fishing village and this beach has managed to retain the old authentic appeal and that is what makes this beach so popular and a highly sought-after tourist destination in Denpasar.
4. Le Mayeur Museum
This famous museum is one of the most sought-after tourist attractions in Denpasar and is kept and preserved as a loving memory of the life and artwork of Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur de Merpres, a famous painter who was born in 1880 and had a brilliant unique technique. This building, now renovated into a museum, once served as the home where the artist lived with his wife, Ni Pollok, who after her husband’s death in 1958, generously donated their home to the community.
5. Pasar Badung
The Badung market, which is the largest market in Denpasar, is one of Denpasar’s popular tourist attractions and is located about one kilometer from the city center. Locals, as well as tourists frequent this market for its impressive variety of fabrics, accessories, clothing, fresh food and souvenirs. It’s a great place to practice your bargaining skills and many tourists claim to complete most of their souvenir shopping in this four-story building.
6. Sakenan Temple
This temple, called Pura Sakenan by the locals, is one of Denpasar’s biggest tourist attractions and one of the top places to visit in Denpasar. This temple plays a huge role in the history of Hindo-Bali culture. During the 210-day religious celebration, devotees come from the farthest corners of the world to visit this temple. Despite many changes and reconstructions over the years, this temple retains the strong spirit of the ancient Balinese culture.
7. Bali Provincial State Museum
For culture and history buffs wondering what to see in Denpasar, the Bali Provincial Museum is one of the places of interest in Denpasar area. This museum, known as Negeri Propinsi Bali, provides an insight into the culture, life and traditions of the Balinese people. It is the oldest landmark and main museum in the city, and is home to around 10,000 exhibits related to Balinese life and culture.
8. Jagatnatha Temple
Just by looking at this magnificent temple, you will be mesmerized by its beauty and its structure, which is made of white coral. This temple, known as Jagatnatha Temple, is a Hindu place of worship dedicated to Sanghyang Widi (Balinese God). Inside this temple are various images and stories of the many tales of Sanghyang Widi, as well as other Hindu deities. The temple celebrates two major festivals, the full moon and half moon every month, so there is never a wrong time to visit this temple.
