Kertalangu Cultural Village

The establishment and evolution of Kertalangu Cultural Village is a fascinating narrative, deeply rooted in the Balinese community’s desire to preserve its cultural heritage and safeguard its valuable agricultural landscape against the relentless march of modernization and urban expansion. This extensive history traces its origins, underlying philosophy, and its transformation into the cultural icon it is today. The narrative begins in the early 2000s, a period when Denpasar, the provincial capital, was experiencing rapid development. The conversion of traditional rice fields (sawah) into residential and commercial properties became a serious concern for local leaders and community members, who recognized the intrinsic value of the rice paddies—not just as a source of sustenance and economic activity, but as the very foundation of the Balinese Subak irrigation system and the philosophical concept of Tri Hita Karana. The Subak is a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape and its preservation was paramount Bali honeymoon itinerary 5 days.

The core motivation behind Kertalangu Cultural Village was, therefore, an act of intentional conservation. A visionary group of local figures and cultural activists conceived the idea of creating a cultural and agrotourism park on a vast tract of approximately 70 to 80 hectares of actively cultivated rice fields. This ambitious project aimed to create a sustainable model where agricultural activity could coexist and thrive alongside a cultural tourism venture. By giving economic value to the rice paddies as a tourist attraction, the land would be protected from being sold and developed for housing. This initial concept was revolutionary: turning the threat of urbanization into an opportunity for cultural and ecological preservation. The land itself is situated in the Kesiman Kertalangu area of East Denpasar, an area traditionally rich in agriculture and local arts. The project was officially inaugurated in June 2007, marking the birth of this unique destination.

The philosophy underpinning Kertalangu is eloquently summarized by the three pillars it represents: Peace, Culture, and Green Spaces (Eco) Bali romantic getaway package. This three-pronged approach elevates the village beyond a mere tourist site to a symbolic center. The ‘Culture’ aspect is a direct commitment to preserving and showcasing the unique arts, traditions, and spiritual life of the Balinese. The ‘Green Spaces/Eco’ pillar represents the crucial commitment to the sawah and the Balinese agricultural way of life, promoting sustainable and eco-friendly practices. This commitment has been essential in drawing support from environmental groups and local farmers alike. The ‘Peace’ element, however, is arguably its most distinctive and internationally recognized feature.

The inclusion of the World Peace Monument (Monumen Gong Perdamaian Dunia) became the physical embodiment of the ‘Peace’ concept. This monument features the World Peace Gong, which symbolizes the aspirations for global harmony. It is surrounded by statues and symbols representing nine major world religions and flags from independent nations supporting global peace. This powerful symbolism was a deliberate choice, establishing Kertalangu not just as a cultural center for Bali, but as a minor international landmark for peace and interfaith dialogue. The presence of statues of world peace leaders, such as Mahatma Gandhi and Mother Teresa, further cements this theme. This monument, located prominently on the premises, became an immediate point of interest and a photo opportunity for both local and international visitors.

In the years following its inauguration, Kertalangu Cultural Village actively developed its infrastructure and activity repertoire. The construction of the now-famous 4-kilometer jogging track, winding through the lush rice paddies, was a strategic move to attract locals and tourists seeking recreational activities in a natural, serene environment. This track quickly became a popular spot for morning exercise, blending wellness with scenic beauty. Concurrently, the village established dedicated areas for cultural performance stages, an art center (Undagi) for showcasing and selling local handicrafts, and a fish pond for family-friendly activities like fishing. The intention was always to create a living museum and a community hub, not a sterile, static attraction.

The village’s development, however, was not without its challenges. Maintaining the delicate balance between commercial viability, agricultural integrity, and cultural authenticity in the face of increasing visitor numbers required constant management and negotiation. Mixed reviews have occasionally surfaced, particularly regarding the development of certain modern facilities like a high-end golf driving range, which some critics felt deviated from the original eco-cultural mandate. However, the overarching commitment to the expansive rice fields, traditional ceremonies, and cultural workshops has largely kept the project on its initial course. The core functions—rice cultivation, traditional performances (like the Kecak and Barong Dances), and craft workshops (wood carving, batik painting)—remain central to the visitor experience.

Today, Kertalangu Cultural Village stands as a success story in sustainable tourism and cultural preservation. It serves as a vital educational center for students and tourists, offering hands-on experiences in rice planting and harvesting, a direct connection to the Subak system. It also acts as a significant economic engine for the local community, employing farmers, artists, and staff. The village’s history is a testament to the power of a community-driven vision to protect heritage and foster a message of peace in a rapidly changing world. For any visitor, the history is palpable in the sight of the active rice farmers working the fields, the vibrant cultural performances, and the contemplative presence of the World Peace Monument. SEMAT TRAVEL INDONESIA often highlights this history in their cultural tour packages, emphasizing the village’s role as a symbol of Balinese resilience and cultural depth. The ability to witness this history in action, from the farming to the philosophy, is the truly enduring legacy of Kertalangu Cultural Village.