Barong Dance at Batubulan Village
Barong Dance at Batubulan Village
The Barong Dance is one of Bali’s most revered traditional performances, enacted daily at Batubulan Village in Gianyar Regency. It depicts the eternal cosmic battle between Barong — a lion-like spirit guardian who embodies goodness — and Rangda, the fearsome widow-witch who commands the forces of evil. This is not a re-enactment staged for tourists; it is a living ritual ceremony rooted in Balinese Hindu spirituality, performed by skilled dancers trained since childhood and accompanied by a full gamelan orchestra.
The performance runs approximately 60 minutes, beginning at 9:30 AM on an open-air stage. The story builds through sacred court scenes and comedic interludes before reaching its climax: the Keris Dance, in which warriors fall into a trance and turn their ceremonial daggers upon themselves — protected, Balinese believe, by Barong’s divine power. It is one of the most dramatic and spiritually charged moments you will witness anywhere in Bali.
Batubulan is the traditional home of this performance — the village has been staging the Barong Dance for generations and is considered its most authentic setting. Located about 10 kilometres from Denpasar and 20 kilometres from Ubud, it is an easy half-morning trip from either base.
Visitor tips: Arrive by 9:00 AM to find a good seat. Tickets are IDR 150,000 for adults and IDR 75,000 for children. Photography is welcome throughout the performance — flash photography is not permitted. Modest dress is recommended; sarongs are often available to borrow or rent at the entrance.
