Things to Do in Denpasar

Denpasar's main Hindu temple, dedicated to the supreme god Sang Hyang Widi. The stone carvings on the outer walls show scenes from the Ramayana. Modest dress required.

🕐 08:00-17:00 daily

💡 You can borrow a sarong at the entrance for free—just leave a small donation if you like. Visit during a ceremony (check local calendar) for gamelan music.

The largest traditional market in Denpasar, a chaotic three-storey building selling fresh produce, spices, dried fish, textiles and local snacks. Entrance costs nothing, but bring small change for purchases.

🕐 06:00-18:00 daily

💡 Head to the second floor for the best selection of *bumbu* (ready-made spice pastes) and *kopi Bali*. Go early, by 7am, when the produce is freshest and the crowds thinner.

Three pavilions of Balinese artefacts, from prehistoric tools to textiles, masks and dance costumes. The architecture itself is a replica of a royal palace. Admission is free, though a donation box is at the entrance.

🕐 08:00-15:30 Tue-Thu, 08:00-14:30 Fri, 08:00-15:30 Sat-Sun, closed Mon

💡 Start in the Tabanan building (north pavilion) for the best collection of ceremonial objects. The garden café sells cheap drinks.

The central square of Denpasar, named after the 1906 mass suicide of Balinese royals. A large open field with a tall statue of the warrior I Gusti Ngurah Made Agung. Local kids play football here in late afternoon.

🕐 Open 24 hours

💡 Come just before sunset for the best light on the statue, and grab a bowl of *bubur injin* (black rice pudding) from a street vendor at the southeast corner.

A large stone monument in the centre of Renon Square, depicting Balinese struggle through dioramas. The park around it is free to walk through; paying 20,000 IDR gets you inside and up to the viewing deck.

🕐 08:00-18:00 daily

💡 Go on a weekday morning to avoid school groups. The view from the top is worth the small fee on a clear day.