Hectic, Burgeoning and Sprawling – the capital of Bali, has been the nerve center of the island’s wealth and growth in the last half a century. For some, it may look like an appalling or a disorganized place but if you spend a little time on its boulevards in the comparatively affluent government and business district of Renon, you’ll discover a rather more ostentatious side of the city.
Denpasar is definitely not a tropical utopia but is as much a part of the real Bali as the cliff top temples and the rice paddies. It is the hub of the island for over 800,000 locals and here one can easily access the shopping hubs and parks. More appealing here is the myriad of authentic and palatable restaurants and cafes that lure the flourishing middle class. You may also wish to venture into the markets of Denpasar, pivotal museums of the city and indulge in the modern Balinese vibe. Usually, visitors stay in the hotels, resorts and stay houses in the tourist towns of the South and visit Denpasar on a round trip during the day time. In case traffic is lean you can reach here in half an hour from Seminyak and 15 minutes from Sanur.
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Denpasar Top Attractions
Places To Visit In Denpasar
Bajra Sandhi Monument is a noteworthy point of interest in Denpasar, set ideal in the focal point of the Renon Square (alluded to just as, 'Puputan Renon'). The site is neighboring the Bali Governor's office and is difficult to miss with its stupendous structure that takes after a Balinese Hindu minister's supplicating chime, or 'bajra'. Inside the base is an exhibition hall that showcases differently recorded dioramas of the general population's past battle for Independence.Highlights: The landmark is a rectangular shape, and takes after the structural standards of the "Tri Mandala." It comprises of three sections specifically Utama Mandala, Madya Mandala and Nista Mandala.Location: Bajra Sandhi Monuments is located at Jalan Raya Puputan No. 142, Panjer, Denpasar Sel., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80234, IndonesiaTimings: Opens from 8:30 AM–4:30 PM

Delve into the culture of Indonesia and stroll along with the stalls of spices and dried fish the market is famed for. Ranging from the hidden gems market to the clothing shops, there is a wide list of options for locals and tourists alike.Make sure that you add Sindhu Market to the itinerary list of Denpasar, as this is the place where you can shop countless things. Apart from this, you can even shop souvenirs that could be the local handicrafts or the magnets of Denpasar that all over in the market.Location: Jl. Pungutan No.2, Sanur, Kec. Denpasar Sel., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80228, IndonesiaTimings: 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm.Entry Fee: None.

Featuring the exceptional artworks of the Belgian painter Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur, the Museum Le Mayeur is a place for art lovers. With the artwork of the bygone era to the modern style of art, where one can spot everything.The interiors of the house of the artist are being kept in the museum where one can gape the exclusive art and know a lot more about it with the indicated piece of history.Location: Jl. Hang Tuah, Sanur Kaja, Kec. Denpasar Sel., Kota Denpasar, Bali, IndonesiaTimings: 8:00 am to 3:30 pmEntry Fee: Starting from INR 20

Established in the Nusa Indah Street, the Werdhi Budaya Art Centre is one of the most interesting attractions in Denpasar that features a series of art, culture, and history belongings. From the Palace architecture to the live folk shows exhibiting the culture of Bali, where one can witness a range of entertainment options.The exhibition, cultural dance, paintings, folk music, Balinese archaeology, and countless other variants could be witnessed here. Make sure you don’t miss out on the Bali Arts Festival as that is the time when you can know the culture well!Location: Jl. Nusa Indah No.1, Panjer, Kec. Denpasar Sel., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80236, IndonesiaTimings: 7:30 am to 3:30 pm, Sunday closedEntry Fee: Starting from INR 30.

Cemara Beach is a place where you can have a fun-filled day and stroll on the golden sands. With the breathtakingly beautiful views of the sunsets and sunrise here one can create amazing memories and also vacation at the lavish resorts that are dotted on the topography of the beach. Apart from this, it even features a number of amazing water sports that you can try and add a tinge of thrill to your vacations. The best time to visit this place is sunset as you can truly unlax along with the soothing vibes and have quality time with your loved ones.Location: JL. Cemara Beach, Sanur, Kec. Denpasar Sel., Kota Denpasar, Bali, IndonesiaTimings: Sunrise to sunset.Entry Fee: None

Locally called as the Pura Dalem Sakenan, this temple is one of the sacred places to visit in Denpasar. It is settled almost 10 km away from the chaos of the city and one looking for solace can dive deep inside it's comforting aura. The temple was built back in 1001 AD and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is a shrine of Shiva and is located on the Serangan island which is connected to the Bali island by a bridge that the visitors can use to reach the temple.Location: JL. Banjar Pemalukan, Peguyangan, Kec. Denpasar Utara, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80115, IndonesiaTimings: 24 hours openEntry Fee: None.

Standing elegantly as the iconic landmark of Denpasar, Pura Agung Jagatnatha is the largest temple of the island and is one of the most serene places to visit in Denpasar. Featuring the colourful fountains and live media streaming, here you can make a selection from a wide list of options.The temple showcases the grandeur of the island and is dedicated to Sanghyang Widi who is the supreme god of the region. The mighty structure signifies monotheism and is an eclectic site for the visitors!Location: Jl. Surapati, Dangin Puri, Kec. Denpasar Tim., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80232, IndonesiaTimings: 24 hours openEntry Fee: None.

If you are a nature lover then the Big Garden Corner is the perfect spot for you where you can witness a varied collection of blooms along with the lush green grass which increases the charm of the place.To adorn the green-grass carpets there are stone sculptures and one can even have a time of leisure at the in-house restaurant that serves the traditional Balinese delights. The site is an excellent example of a tranquil setting and could be witnessed by friends and family.Location: Sanur, Jl. By Pass Ngurah Rai, Kesiman, Kec. Denpasar Sel., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80237, IndonesiaTimings: 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.Entry Fee: Starting from INR 150 per person.


People Also Ask About Denpasar
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Travel Advice
Be extremely careful of the drug touts in Denpasar. It is going to be really foolish to stop and communicate with a drug dealer as you’ll immediately be under police surveillance. Kuta area here is majorly prone to such incidents. The common trend here is that the buyers get busted and the dealers get away so be very careful.
Be wary of the mosquitoes, flies and insects and carry with you a strong mosquito repellant. Bugs and mosquitoes are the most irritating part of a visit to Indonesia.
Never underestimate the sun here. It can get really hot here so ensure that you keep yourself hydrated.
Carry with you sunscreen and sunglasses.
Make sure you have sufficient travel insurance.
Always carry your bag around the neck and make sure you have a proper grip on it.
Motorbike snatchers are very common here so be alert and aware during the travel.
Don’t carry too much cash in the crowded areas.
Never flash your valuables in the public places.
Never put all your money in one place.
Don’t get overfriendly with any stranger here.
Be wary of the touts here.
Always carry with you a copy of your passport and license.
Gather sufficient information before going to any new place.
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Drinking Laws
The legal age for drinking in Denpasar is 16 years.
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Our Recommendations: What you can’t afford to miss?
Shark IslandShark Island is basically a huge pontoon and an important sightseeing destination of Denpasar. To reach here, you have to travel several minutes east from the shores of the Serangan Island where you can actually swim with the sharks. The island is also popular by the name of Serangan Shark Island Project. It is a private endeavor that was undertaken by Paul Friese who took a decision to launch a mission to save white tip and black tip reef sharks. He wanted to embark a one of a kind tour in Denpasar.Turtle Conservation and Education Centre (TCEC)Located south of Denpasar is the Serangan Island. It is connected to the mainland via a small road. It is a breeding ground for the sea turtles that used to be a traditional commodity amongst the Bali locals in the past. At present, this place has become an education and a conservation centre that is set out to breed and protect the species housed here. It is open for public and happens to be a great place to see in Denpasar for kids and adults alike. The team here offers necessary information to keep the guests engaged. A lot of stalls selling refreshments and snacks can be found here. You can also do some shopping here and purchase turtle inspired merchandise and shirts.Sakenan TempleLocally known as ‘Pura Sakenan’, Sakenan Temple is indeed one of the most prominent temples of South Bali. It gets its name from Serangan Island where it is located. This temple comprises of two main temple complexes and each of them features old coral stones that were used in the ancient times in the place of bricks.Bali Provincial Public MuseumLocally known as the ‘Museum Negeri Propinsi Bali’, the Bali Provincial Public Museum is located right next to office of mayor and the Puputan Badung civic square. This is the oldest museum and houses more than 10,000 exhibits. Key structure of this museum showcases fine use of the Balinese architecture. The museum houses several ancient inscriptions, ethnography, porcelain statues, ceramics, agricultural tools, household items, wayang kulit, weapons, paintings and ritual tools.Bajra Sandhi MonumentBajra Sandhi Monument lies in the heart of the vast civic square that is popular as the Lapangan Niti Mandala Renon. Situated right in front of the governor’s office, the 2nd floor of the museum houses a diorama gallery which gives you a glimpse into the history of Bali dating back to 3000 BC. There are several arts and artefacts here that showcase the Indonesia’s struggle against Dutch for independence. Exteriors of the monument give fine examples of the Balinese architecture. Visiting the museum is an important thing to do when in Denpasar.Jagatnatha TempleIt is locally referred as the Denpasar Puputan Square and adjoins the City Square and the Bali Provincial Museum. This historical site underwent a series of renovations over time and now has a towering central Padmasana shrine hued in bright white.Denpasar Arts CentreTaman Werdhi Budaya or the Denpasar Arts Centre is a quintessential site for the annual Bali Arts Festival. This is an important festival that is conducted between the months of July and August. It features live performances of art and week long exhibits along with several outdoor and indoor amphitheaters and auditoriums. A number of concerts and events are organized here on regular basis.Fingerprint Painting MuseumLocally known as the ‘Museum Lukisan Sidik Jari’, this art gallery stocks a private collection of I Gusti Ngurah Gede Pemecutan who was a noted Indonesian artist particularly famous for his unique techniques in painting that had an interesting application of fingerprints. Located on the Jalan Hayam Wuruk, this painting has works that predate 1967. -
What will you like there?
UbudUbud is a dynamic cultural hub of Bali. It is packed with several festivals, temples, traditional ceremonies and more that unites to create a visual treat. Emerald green terraces found just outside the town are a must visit here as is the Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Regardless of the itinerary, you’ll appreciate the traditional dance performances here.Sunny round the yearDenpasar experiences ample daylight and nice tropical climate all round the year. Located eight degrees south to the Equator, it is indeed the most preferred option for the beach lovers. You can enjoy a variety of water sports here. Swim, Surf and sand, to make the most of your holiday.BeachesDenpasar has a number of gorgeous beaches that are simply breath taking. Each of them comes with its own appeal and characteristics. Bask in the glory of sun and make the most of this tourist place. Get a resort or a holiday stay facing the beach can be a preferable choice.Mystical TemplesIn Denpasar, you can find an umpteen number of temple complexes that are spread across the island right from the low lying seashores to the highland cliffs. These temples are not just architectural marvels but also showcase the intriguing past of the place.HospitalityDestinations like Singapore, take immense pride in its high tech things and modernity however they are usually missing out on the human touch. Denpasar and Bali take immense pride in its hospitality that is vastly displayed by the locals who celebrate every aspect of life with its festivity and rituals.Cheap PricesNo matter whether you are from India, Nepal or US, you’ll be able to afford just about everything in Denpasar given the cheap prices here. Rupiah here has seen a major inflation where 1 dollar today equals to 12,000 IDR. Price tags overall are very affordable in Bali.SurfingBali and Denpasar are like haven for surfing. You can go surfing around the limestone fringed beaches here.Rooms are always availableDenpasar has an oversupply of rooms. Right from cheap stays to luxury resorts, you can find rooms easily in Bali. What’s best is that there are rooms available to cater to every need and budget.FoodSome of best restaurant of the world and even the Indonesia’s best restaurants can be easily found here. Do try out the local cuisines and the traditional authentic dishes to savor on the interesting blend of flavors and spices of Bali. -
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