Trunyan Village Bali: Culture, Traditions & Local Life
Trunyan Village is one of the most fascinating and culturally significant destinations in Bali. The village sits on the eastern shore of Lake Batur in the Kintamani region and preserves traditions that differ greatly from those found in most parts of the island. Understanding Trunyan Village offers valuable insight into Bali’s cultural diversity and the deep-rooted customs that continue to shape local life today.
Often discussed because of its distinctive burial practices, Trunyan Village is far more than a single tradition. It represents a living heritage, shaped by history, belief systems, and a close relationship with the surrounding natural landscape.
Where Is Trunyan Village Located
Trunyan Village lies in the Kintamani area of Bangli Regency, in the central highlands of Bali. It sits along the edge of Lake Batur, one of Bali’s most important volcanic lakes. Mountains and forests surround the village, keeping it relatively isolated from coastal areas and helping preserve its traditional way of life.
Access to this traditional village is typically by boat across Lake Batur, adding to its sense of remoteness. This geographical isolation has played a major role in maintaining customs that date back centuries.
The Origins and History of Trunyan Village
Trunyan Village stands as one of Bali’s oldest villages and is closely linked to the Bali Aga people, the island’s original inhabitants. The Bali Aga communities preserve pre-Hindu traditions that existed long before Majapahit influences reached Bali.
The name “Trunyan” is believed to come from the taru menyan tree, which grows near the burial site. This sacred tree emits a natural fragrance that plays an important role in local funeral practices and spiritual beliefs.
Source: HoneyCombers
Unique Burial Traditions of Trunyan Village
The Open-Air Burial Practice
One of the most well-known aspects of Trunyan Village is its open-air burial tradition. Unlike most Balinese communities, which practise cremation, Trunyan villagers place the bodies of the deceased on the ground under the sacred taru menyan tree.
The bodies are not buried or burned. Instead, they are laid within bamboo enclosures called ancak saji. The tree’s natural fragrance helps neutralise odours, allowing the process to take place without disturbing the surrounding environment.
Who Is Eligible for This Burial Method
Not everyone in Trunyan Village receives this type of burial. The community reserves open-air burials for married villagers who die naturally and lays to rest those who die from accidents, illness, or other circumstances in separate nearby cemeteries. This distinction reflects the community’s belief system and their understanding of balance, purity, and spiritual order.
Source: Pexels
Cultural Beliefs and Spiritual Life
Trunyan Village follows a belief system that combines ancestor worship, respect for nature, and traditional customs passed down through generations. Rituals, ceremonies, and daily practices connect closely to the surrounding landscape, especially Lake Batur and the nearby mountains. The village temple, Pura Pancering Jagat, is one of the oldest temples in Bali and functions as a spiritual center for the community. Ceremonies held there strengthen social bonds and preserve harmony between people, nature, and the spiritual realm.
Daily Life in Trunyan Village
Life in Trunyan Village stays simple and community-focused. Most residents depend on farming, fishing, and small-scale farming. Villagers frequently cultivate corn, cassava, and vegetables, while the lake supplies fish for daily use.
Traditional clothing, architecture, and social structures are still evident in daily life. Visitors might notice that houses and village layouts differ from those in southern Bali, reflecting older design ideas and communal values.
Visiting a Traditional Village with Respectfully
What Visitors Should Know
Trunyan Village can be visited as part of a cultural trip to the Kintamani region. Most visits involve a boat ride across Lake Batur, followed by a guided walk through specific areas of the village.
It is important to remember that Trunyan Village is not a tourist attraction in the conventional sense. It is a living community with deeply held beliefs. Visitors should dress modestly, follow local guidance, and avoid treating sacred spaces as photo opportunities.
Photography and Behaviour
Photography may be restricted in certain areas, especially near burial sites. Always ask for permission and follow the instructions of local guides. Acting respectfully helps preserve the community’s dignity and ensures that cultural traditions remain undisturbed.
Tips for Planning a Visit
When planning a visit to Trunyan Village, it is best to combine the experience with a trip to the surrounding Kintamani area or Mount Batur, as they are located close by and offer complementary views of Bali’s highland landscape.
Hire a local guide to gain important cultural context and better understand the village’s traditions in a respectful way. Plan visits during daylight hours to ensure safety and clear visibility, and approach the experience with curiosity, sensitivity, and respect for the community’s customs and way of life.
Understanding Trunyan Village Beyond Curiosity
Trunyan Village offers a rare opportunity to learn about one of Bali’s oldest communities and its unique cultural practices. From its location by Lake Batur to its distinctive burial traditions and spiritual beliefs, the village reflects a way of life deeply connected to nature and ancestry.
By approaching Trunyan Village with understanding and respect, visitors can gain meaningful insight into Bali’s cultural heritage.
For travellers looking to explore Bali’s highlands and cultural regions comfortably, Luxury Ubud Villas Rental offers a peaceful base in the heart of Ubud. Staying in a private villa allows you to relax amid nature while remaining within easy reach of Lake Batur, Kintamani, and other culturally significant destinations across the island.
