Discover Balinese Mystic & Death Ritual in Bali

Exploring the Mystical and Cultural Depths of Bali: A Detailed Review of the Discover Balinese Mystic & Death Ritual Tour

When it comes to Bali, most travelers think of beaches, surfing, and vibrant nightlife. But beneath the surface, the island hides a wealth of ancient rituals, spiritual practices, and traditional villages that few travelers get to see. The Discover Balinese Mystic & Death Rituals tour offers a rare glimpse into these lesser-known aspects of Balinese culture. It’s a full-day private experience, focusing on some of the island’s most intriguing and sacred sites, from ancient villages to mystical cemeteries.

One thing we love about this tour is its customizable nature—it’s designed to suit your curiosity and pace, making it ideal for those genuinely interested in authentic cultural encounters. The inclusion of a speedboat ride adds an adventurous touch, and the fact that all admission and transportation costs are covered means you can focus on soaking in the sights.

However, a possible consideration is the length of the day, which can stretch up to 10 hours. It’s quite an immersive experience, so if you’re not into long days of exploration or have limited mobility, you might want to pace yourself.

This tour appeals most to travelers who are curious about Bali’s spiritual traditions, especially those willing to explore off-the-beaten-path sites. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a thought-provoking experience that dives deep into local customs, beyond the typical Bali photo spots.

Key Points

• Authentic and Customizable: The tour can be tailored to your interests, making each experience unique.
• Cultural Depth: Visit ancient villages, temples, and sacred sites often missed by mainstream tours.
• Unique Rituals: Learn about Bali’s death and birth rituals, including burial practices that differ from the usual cremation.
• Scenic Diversity: From lively villages to highland volcano views, the day blends cultural insight with stunning scenery.
• All-Inclusive: Price covers transportation, boat rides, and entry fees, making it straightforward and hassle-free.
• Insightful Guides: Reviewers highlight knowledgeable guides, like Ah Gung, who patiently share detailed explanations.

A Close Look at the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Trunyan Cemetery: An Unusual Funeral Practice

Your journey kicks off with a visit to Trunyan Cemetery, where the living preserve a very different approach to death. Unlike other Balinese villages that practice cremation, Trunyanese bodies are kept in bamboo cages under the Taru Menyan tree—a tree whose aroma neutralizes the smell of decay. This practice, involving only married people’s bodies, is rooted in centuries-old traditions.

One reviewer, ekaterina_d, described the site as “very unusual” and emphasized the importance of reading up on the rituals beforehand. The smell of the Taru Menyan tree is often mentioned as surprisingly pleasant, considering the subject matter. Expect about an hour here, during which you’ll learn how these practices reflect the community’s spiritual beliefs.

Bayung Gede: An Ancient Village and Its Unique Customs

Next, you’ll visit Bayung Gede, known as the “parent” of all Bali’s ancient villages. Here, you’ll witness the traditional practice of hanging newborn placentas—a ritual specific to this region—that symbolizes the child’s connection to the land and ancestors. This small, quiet village offers a look into prehistoric social customs that are rarely seen by travelers.

Reviews praise this stop for its authentic atmosphere and the chance to see how old customs are still living traditions. It’s a free visit lasting about an hour, perfect for those who want to see age-old practices still in use today.

Kintamani Plateau: Breathtaking Highland Views

A highlight for many is the stop at the Kintamani Plateau, with views of the Batur volcano and crater lake. The cool mountain air and sweeping views make this a refreshing break, and it’s a great spot for photos.

Expect about 30 minutes here, with admission included. The scenery is often described as stunning, making it a peaceful contrast to the intense rituals seen earlier.

Kehen Temple: The Steps of Heaven

Your next stop is Kehen Temple, a historic site famed for its famous staircase leading to the main shrine. It’s among Bali’s most important temples and offers insight into traditional Balinese architecture and spiritual symbolism.

Visitors often comment on the serene atmosphere and the elaborate carvings. The guide typically shares stories behind the temple’s significance as you ascend the steps—an experience that’s both inspiring and calming.

Penglipuran Bamboo Forest: Architectural and Social Insights

Concluding the day, you’ll explore Penglipuran Village and its bamboo forest. This village is known for its unique architecture, social structure, and belief systems. The preserved traditional layout and bamboo constructions give insight into rural Balinese life.

This stop gives a final glimpse into the community’s social fabric and the spiritual significance of their environment, lasting around an hour.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The price of approximately $81.80 per person covers most essentials—transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, the speedboat ride, admission fees, parking, and donations at sites. It’s a straightforward package that offers good value considering the number of locations visited and the depth of experience.

However, lunch is not included, which is worth planning for—either bringing snacks or budgeting extra. Personal expenses, souvenirs, or additional activities are also separate.

Practical Considerations

The tour starts in Bali and concludes at the same meeting point, which adds to convenience. Most travelers find the timing manageable, but be prepared for a long day—up to 10 hours—so comfortable shoes and a water bottle are essentials. The tour is private, so only your group will participate, allowing for a relaxed and personalized experience.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews from Travelers

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides, like Ah Gung, as a key part of the experience. One noted that he patiently explained the culture and practices, making complex rituals accessible. Another said that the trip was “very interesting” and unlike typical Bali tours, emphasizing its unusual and insightful nature.

They also appreciated the scenic views, mentioning the stunning highland landscapes and the serene temple atmosphere. The combination of off-the-beaten-path sites and deep cultural insights seems to resonate well with travelers seeking more than just surface-level sightseeing.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers with a curiosity for spiritual traditions, history, and authentic local life. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides and don’t mind long days of exploration.

It’s not the best fit if you’re seeking a relaxing, light-paced day or have mobility concerns, given the length and physical nature of some stops. Also, if you’re uncomfortable with the topic of death rituals, approach with caution—these practices are deeply rooted in Balinese belief systems and can be quite different from Western customs.

Ultimately, if you want a meaningful, eye-opening glimpse into Bali’s spiritual undercurrents, this tour offers a rare, respectful window into these age-old practices. It’s a chance to step outside the typical Bali experience and witness local traditions that have persisted for centuries, told through scenic landscapes, sacred sites, and stories shared by passionate guides.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with long days and interested in cultural or spiritual topics.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, plus a speedboat ride, are included in the package.

Are admission fees included?
All entrance and donation fees for the sites visited are covered in the tour price.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, as a private tour, it can be adapted to your interests and needs.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch costs extra and is not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes. A camera and a notebook for notes are also recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 5 days in advance to secure their preferred date, but last-minute bookings can sometimes be accommodated.

This tour offers a meaningful journey into Bali’s lesser-known but profoundly significant spiritual practices, beautifully combining scenic landscapes, historical sites, and cultural insights. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about Bali’s mystical side, this experience promises to be eye-opening and deeply rewarding.