Bali’s Tourism Villages: An Emerging Paradise Beyond Temples and Beaches
Bali’s allure extends far beyond its iconic temples and celebrated beaches. Increasingly, the island’s tourism villages are gaining recognition as culturally rich and affordable destinations, offering an intimate glimpse into Balinese life. While first-time visitors often prioritize well-known landmarks, a growing movement champions these often-overlooked communities as the heart of authentic Balinese tourism.
Penglipuran and Pemuteran: Leading the Way
Perhaps the most celebrated example is Penglipuran Village, which has garnered international acclaim for its cleanliness and cultural preservation. The community was twice recognized by the UN World Tourism Organisation as the Best Tourism Village in the World, solidifying its reputation as a global leader in sustainable tourism.
However, Penglipuran is not alone in receiving such accolades. In late 2025, Pemuteran Village in North Bali was also awarded the prestigious UNWTO Best Tourism Village title, signaling its emergence as a key destination within the Buleleng Regency. As a traditional fishing community, Pemuteran offers visitors access to vibrant coral reefs, opportunities for sunrise dolphin-watching tours, and direct engagement with local culture.
A Wave of Development Across Bali
The promotion of Bali’s tourism villages is set to intensify throughout 2026, with a focus on providing accessible and family-friendly experiences. These villages offer a unique opportunity for tourists to participate in immersive activities, including cooking classes, temple visits, farming demonstrations, and artistic workshops.
The expansion isn’t limited to remote areas. Even Badung Regency, home to popular destinations like Canggu, Seminyak, Legian, and Kuta, is actively developing five new tourism villages in 2026: Kapal Tourism Village, Petang Tourism Village, Munggu Village, Bongkasa Pertiwi Village, and Pangsan Village. These additions will bring the total number of tourist villages in Badung Regency to eighteen.
Munggu Village: A Model for Sustainable Tourism
Munggu Village, already a recognized tourism destination within Badung Regency, recently unveiled the Mekotek Monument and Cultural Park in late 2025. Regent Adi Wayan Arnawa celebrated the project, stating, “We appreciate the community’s success in developing their village’s potential. This will be a legacy for our children and grandchildren, improving the quality of life and well-being of the community.” This development exemplifies a commitment to preserving cultural heritage while fostering economic growth.
Beyond the Beaten Path: Discovering Hidden Gems
For travelers seeking truly off-path experiences, destinations like Desa Batubulan in Gianyar Regency, Desa Trunyan in Bangli Regency (near Lake Batur), and Les Village in North Bali offer unparalleled opportunities for cultural immersion.
Les Village, in particular, stands out as an established yet relatively unknown destination. Visitors can learn about traditional salt farming, fishing, and fruit farming techniques passed down through generations. The village also provides a unique insight into the production of arak, Bali’s traditional palm liquor, a significant element of the island’s cultural heritage.
Beyond its agricultural offerings, Les Village boasts stunning natural beauty, including black sand beaches dotted with traditional junkung boats and the secluded Les Waterfall, a refreshing escape from the tropical heat.
Bali’s tourism villages represent a compelling alternative to the island’s more crowded attractions, offering a sustainable and enriching travel experience that supports local communities and preserves the island’s unique cultural identity.
