Galungan & Kuningan – One of Bali’s Largest Religious Festivals

As one of the most important events for Hindus in Bali, Galungan is a celebration of a time when ancestral spirits came to earth and dharma (good) overcame adharma (evil). Part of a festival that lasts ten days and ending with Kuningan, this is a very special time to visit Bali and an experience not to be missed.

The Galungan festival occurs every 210 days as part of the Pawukon Calendar (the Balinese 210 day calendar that originates from Hinduism). For those on the island, often the first noticeable sign that Galungan is approaching is when locals start to erect “penjor” or bamboo poles upon which all manner of objects are strewn including fruit, flowers and coconut leaves. These poles line the streets and can be found everywhere from the side of roads to the outside of homes and hotels.

As well as marking the victory of good over evil the festival is also an opportunity for the Balinese to honour their ancestors and the spirits of deceased relatives with many prayers and offerings made over the period.

CC Julien

Kuningan – The Final Day of Galungan
The tenth and final day of the Galungan festival is Kuningan. On this day families dress in their finest to see the spirits rise back to heaven and make the offerings resulting from feverish preparation over the preceding days. The first Galungan in 2014 falls on 21st May while Kuningan on 30th of May 2014.

Galungan for Travellers
For those visiting Bali at this time it is practically impossible to avoid the festival atmosphere as the locals celebrate, head to the temple to make offerings and provide a rich tapestry of colour for the eyes. It is worth noting however that the actual festivities are only open to the Balinese, although you can expect the usual warm hospitality the island has to offer.

Some establishments may close during the period and particularly during Kuningan, but during the rest of the festival restaurants will often prepare a huge range of dishes, giving tourists an excellent opportunity to try traditional Balinese cuisine at its best.

CC Domy Kamsyah

Where to stay during Galungan
For those looking for a stylish stay in Bali, then it’s worth looking at GHM Hotels who currently offer two fantastic hotels to enjoy this wonderful festival.

The Legian Bali and The Club at the Legian Bali
Located in Seminyak, The Legian Bali and The Club at the Legian Bali luxury hotels sit opposite each other. They both offer privacy and luxury, combining stunning accommodation with exquisite service and dining. The Legian Bali offers luxury hotel accommodation while the Club at the Legian offers luxury villas.

The Chedi Club Tanah Gajah
A hidden sanctuary nestled among the lush undulating hills of Bali’s culture-rich highlands, this luxury hotel in Ubud offers an unrivalled serenity as it sits among thriving rice fields as far as the eye can see.