Desa Wisata Kenderan: A Triumph in Balinese Tourism Recognized by Indonesia’s Ministry

In the heart of Bali, amidst the lush landscapes and cultural richness, Desa Wisata Kenderan stands as a beacon of community-driven tourism. Recently, the village achieved an extraordinary feat at the ADWI 2023 awards, where it emerged among the top 5 from over 4600 participants. This recognition by Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism is a testament to the village’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and creating an exceptional visitor experience.

A Cultural Tapestry Unveiled

Desa Wisata Kenderan is not merely a destination; it’s a living tapestry of Balinese culture and traditions. The village has worked tirelessly to showcase its heritage, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into the daily life, rituals, and artistic expressions that define Balinese identity. Explore the charming architecture of traditional Balinese houses in Desa Wisata Kenderan. These well-preserved structures offer insights into the local way of life and showcase the intricate design elements characteristic of Balinese homes.

Sustainable Tourism Practices

The village’s success at ADWI 2023 is attributed to its dedication to sustainable tourism practices. Desa Wisata Kenderan has prioritized environmentally friendly initiatives, minimizing its ecological footprint and preserving the natural beauty that captivates visitors.

Being recognized as one of the top 5 participants among thousands at ADWI 2023 is a significant achievement for Desa Wisata Kenderan. The village’s dedication to providing an exceptional and culturally enriching experience has not only captivated the hearts of visitors but has also earned the praise of tourism authorities.

Tourism Destinations

Desa Wisata Kenderan, as an acclaimed tourism destination, offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Bali. Here are some notable tourism objects in Desa Wisata Kenderan:
1. Manuaba Waterfall
There are two waterfalls, namely the northernmost waterfall 1 and the southernmost waterfall 2. The uniqueness of the manuaba waterfall (manuaba waterfall) is a mixture of the seven holy springs called tirtha, namely: tirta sangku, tirta sudamala, tirta gulung dawa, tirta the moon, tirta dadapan, tirta gringsing and tirta lindung wesi, flow through the manuaba waterfall so that it emits an aura of holiness and a healing effect for those who believe in it. In addition, the vast expanse of rice fields before the entrance, stretching with a view of Mount Agung makes the trip to the manuaba waterfall enjoyable.

2. Telaga Waja Holywater
The biggest beji in Kenderan village is located in Banjar in Kepitu. Located on the edge of the river Tungkang. Drinking water supplier for Ubud and its surroundings. Built in the 10th century as the hermitage center of the Kasogatan Buddhist priest, for hundreds of years it has been a place for ascetics to attain moksa. In ancient times it was widely known to the island of Java.
The local people believe that it is a place of worship to open the path to enlightenment and ask for a baby. Residents of Subak Batu often ask for rain blessings for their rice fields in Beji Telaga Waja. If you want to do melukat, it is hoped that you will be guided by a jro mangku or accompanied by local residents, because the rules for the melukat ritual here are very strict which have been passed down from generation to generation.

3. Uma Patas rice paddy Trekking

4. Hyang Bukit Monkey Forest
5. JinengBali Agro
Jineng Bali Agro is an eco-concept agro and resto with a unique and educational destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich agricultural heritage of Bali, as well as the chance to sample some of the island’s finest

This agro-tourism and resto site is famous for its scenic landscapes, beautiful rice paddies, and various local authentic Balinese dishes. If you want to discover Ubud – Tegallalang through food, JinengBali Agro & Resto is the answer. The restaurant is open daily and will start from 11am – 19pm, which is a perfect option for you who are looking to have lunch or dinner in this area. If you come with your kids, a playground is also available on-site.

6. Uma Lawas Sarcophagus
There are remains of 2 sarcophagi located in the Uma Lawas subak which is the oldest subak in the village of Manuaba. This site is thought to have originated from the Great Stone Age (Megalithichum). Its existence is still shrouded in mystery due to a lack of supporting data. Because of its location in the middle of rice fields, the Nyungsung (Purified) Farmer Community at Batulusu Temple, Subak Uma Lawas Kaja

7. Puri Manuaba Retreat
Puri Agung Manuaba comes from the Knights of  “Taman Bali” clan (from Bangli Region) that leads the Manuaba community. When Bali broke into nine small kingdoms (around 1651 AD), Puri Agung Manuaba entered the area of “Manca Agung Tegallalang” and was under the control of Bangli’s Kingdom. The clan was assigned to defend the boundary of Bangli kingdom with gianyar kingdom. But when the Kingdom of Gianyar succeeded in seizing this territory from Bangli Kingdom, then by itself Puri Agung Manuaba entered the territory of Gianyar Kingdom. And until now Puri Agung Manuaba still exist as one of the most respected palace in Tegallalang, Gianyar.

8. Dukuh Village Art Gallery
Dukuh Village Villas & Art is one of the most popular painting art galleries in Kenderan, which showcases the work of one of the most talented local artists. The gallery features a wide variety of styles and mediums, including traditional Balinese paintings, contemporary art, and abstract pieces. Visitors can browse the artwork at their own pace, and purchase pieces to take home as a souvenir or to add to their own art collection.

9. Nekara Printing Stone
The site of the next Stone Age is a stone which is a print of the Pejeng nekara. Although the size does not match, this model is estimated by archaeologists as a bronze printer in its era, known as the Cire A Perdu system. This site is stored and sanctified at Puseh Temple, Manuaba Traditional Village.

10. Pura Grya Sakti Manuaba
Located on a mound flanked by two rivers on the right and left with Kroya trees (Ficus Bengalis) that grow right behind the north side of the main shrine of the temple. Pura In Is An Important Worship And The Forerunner To The History Of The Manuaba Brahmin Breed In Bali, Which Is Emponed (Managed) By 7 Traditional Banjars In The Manuaba Traditional Village. It is estimated that it was built in the 17th century during the reign of Dalem Dimade in the Gelgel Kingdom, by the grandson of Ida Danghyang Nirartha named Ida Pedanda Sakti Nyoman Buruan, whose title is Ida Pedanda Ketut Ler.

According to Folklore (Folklore), Bring In Ancient Times, Manuaba Village Was Struck by Gering Agung (A Very Severe Epidemic). Thanks to his supernatural powers, residents can heal, even without the slightest medicine. Therefore he was nicknamed Ida Betara Sakti Manuaba.

The Piodalan Ceremony is Celebrated Every Rahina Anggara Kasih Medangsia, Once Every 210 Days. The events that are always awaited by the residents of the Manuaba traditional village in a series of piodalan at Griya Sakti Temple are mepeed and ngaturang titha ening (holy water offerings) by residents. The Piodalan Ceremony Lasts For Three Days To Provide An Opportunity For All Community Members To Deliver Devotional Worship.