The island of Bali has once again brought pride to Indonesia by being named one of the world’s best destinations. This time, Bali achieved a special milestone by being selected as one of TripAdvisor‘s 2025 Best Cultural Destination.
In this prestigious category, Bali competed with other iconic destinations worldwide, including Hanoi in Vietnam, London in England, Marrakesh in Morocco, Rome in Italy, Cusco in Peru, Kathmandu in Nepal, New Delhi in India, Crete in Greece, and Siem Reap in Cambodia.
The ranking was based on traveller reviews and opinions collected by TripAdvisor over a 12-month period from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024.
The deep connection between art and tourism is a defining feature of Bali. The island’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts serve as major attractions for visitors, earning it the nickname “The Island of the Gods.”
Bali was followed in second place by Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, renowned for its centuries-old temples and distinctive French colonial architecture. London, England, claimed third place on TripAdvisor’s list of the best cultural destinations.
This recognition is not Bali’s first accolade. The island has previously been recognized for having some of the world’s best hotels and being a popular tourist village among international visitors. In October 2024, Bali was also voted the most beautiful island in Asia by Condé Nast Traveler readers in the Readers’ Choice Awards.
List of Cultural Destinations in Bali Rich in Culture and History
Puri Agung Pemecutan
Puri Agung Pemecutan is located on Thamrin Street, Denpasar. This castle once served as a kingdom in Denpasar that fought against Dutch colonizers in 1906.
This historical conflict, known as the Puputan War, saw the king and the people of Denpasar Castle unite in resistance against the Dutch.
Although not as widely known as Puri Saren Agung Ubud in Gianyar, Puri Agung Pemecutan offers visitors a chance to learn about the fighting spirit of the King of Puri Agung Pemecutan and his people.
Trunyan Village
Situated in the Kintamani area of northern Bali, Trunyan Village is known for its mystique and unique burial traditions. Here, the deceased are not buried or cremated but are instead laid on the ground, surrounded by bamboo fencing and woven mats.
For tourists seeking something out of the ordinary, Trunyan Village offers a fascinating glimpse into an unusual cultural tradition.
In addition to its unique cemetery, the village boasts stunning natural scenery, including mountains and a lake. To visit the cemetery, tourists must rent a boat to cross the lake and reach an area marked by a large tree, where human skulls and belongings of the deceased can be seen.
Penglipuran Village
Penglipuran Village is one of Bali’s most well-known tourist villages, showcasing the richness of Balinese culture. Built following the concept of Tri Mandala and rooted in ancestral values, the village is a model of cultural and environmental harmony.
Penglipuran Village has been recognized in the Sustainable Destinations Top 100 list by the Green Destinations Foundation, thanks to its clean, green environment and well-preserved traditions.
Kerta Gosa
Kerta Gosa is a cultural destination in Bali with a rich history spanning from the reign of the King of Klungkung to the Japanese colonial era.
This site, located on Jalan Kenanga No. 11, Semarapura Kelod, Klungkung Regency, features traditional Balinese architecture adorned with intricate paintings that depict the life of the kingdom during that time.
Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
The Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue is one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks. Located in Ungasan Village, South Kuta, Badung Regency, this towering statue stands 122 meters tall, making it one of the largest copper statues in the world—taller than the Statue of Liberty in the United States.
A visit to the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is an unforgettable experience, offering a blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and diverse attractions. It is a must-visit destination on the Island of the Gods.
cover: Photo by oleh Aditya Agarwal
