Terunyan Cemetery in Bali offers visitors a unique and thought-provoking experience. Located in a secluded, remote village, the cemetery’s traditional burial practices reveal the ancient customs and beliefs of the Bali Aga people. Corpses are placed in bamboo cages under a sacred Taru Menyan tree, where they undergo a natural process of reclamation by the elements. This powerful display of the life-death cycle invites reflection on the ephemeral nature of human existence and the interconnectedness of all living things. Those who venture to this serene and atmospheric site can’t help but be struck by the profound insights it provides.
Key Points
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Terunyan Cemetery is the burial site of the Bali Aga people, featuring their unique tradition of placing deceased in bamboo cages under Taru Menyan trees.
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Visitors can observe the natural decomposition and reclamation of the bodies by the elements, reflecting the cycle of life and death.
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The serene and atmospheric cemetery offers insights into the ancient burial customs and beliefs of the Bali Aga community.
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The tour includes a visit to the Terunyan Temple, providing a deeper understanding of the Bali Aga culture and its spiritual practices.
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Exploring the cemetery and witnessing the traditional burial practices can be a captivating and thought-provoking experience for visitors.
Tour Details
The tour lasts 30 minutes and is offered as a private group experience, available in both English and Indonesian.
Visitors will be picked up from their hotel lobby to begin the journey. This unique tour explores the Terunyan Cemetery and its surrounding sites, including the Terunyan Temple.
Along the way, guests will have the opportunity to take a traditional boat ride and witness the natural reclamation process of the deceased.
The tour isn’t suitable for certain individuals, such as pregnant women, wheelchair users, people with epilepsy, or those over 75 years old.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Lake Batur.
Highlights of the Tour
Exploring the Terunyan Cemetery and its surrounding sites is the highlight of this unique tour.
Visitors will witness the traditional burial practices of the Bali Aga people, where dead bodies are placed in bamboo cages under the Taru Menyan tree for natural reclamation.
The tour also includes a visit to the Terunyan Temple, along with a traditional boat ride.
Guests can explore the Cemetery of Terunyan, which is home to the Skulls Island, an extraordinary sight where the natural process of decomposition has left behind rows of skulls and bones.
This rare and fascinating experience offers a glimpse into the unique cultural traditions of the oldest village in Bali.
Visiting Terunyan Village
To visit Terunyan Village, travelers embark on a scenic drive through the Penelokan area, taking in views of the iconic Lake Crater and the imposing Mount Batur volcano.
Upon arrival, they’ll experience the unique culture of the Bali Aga people, the oldest inhabitants of the island. The main attraction is the village’s temple, which may be closed for special events.
Here, visitors can observe the traditional burial practices, where deceased bodies are placed in bamboo cages under the Taru Menyan tree, a process that allows for the natural reclamation of the corpses. This rare and fascinating insight into Balinese traditions makes Terunyan Village a must-visit destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Terunyan’s Unique Burial Practices
One of Terunyan Village‘s most captivating features is its unique burial practices, which provide a rare glimpse into the island’s ancestral traditions.
Here, the deceased aren’t buried beneath the soil; instead, they’re placed in bamboo cages and left to rest under the towering Taru Menyan trees. This natural process of decomposition and reclamation by the elements is deeply rooted in the Bali Aga people’s beliefs about the cycle of life and death.
Visitors can observe the intriguing sight of these bamboo-caged corpses, a testament to the village’s unwavering adherence to its centuries-old funerary customs.
The Terunyan Cemetery offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience, allowing travelers to connect with Bali’s rich cultural heritage in a profound way.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring the Cemetery of Terunyan
Visitors to the Cemetery of Terunyan can witness the unique burial practices of the Bali Aga people, where the deceased are placed in bamboo cages and left to decompose under the towering Taru Menyan trees. This ancient tradition has been practiced for centuries, providing a natural and eco-friendly way of disposing of the dead.
As visitors explore the cemetery, they’ll be struck by the haunting beauty of the site, with the gnarled trees and weathered cages creating an eerie, yet powerful, atmosphere. The experience offers a rare glimpse into a vanishing way of life, one that’s deeply rooted in the traditions and beliefs of the Bali Aga people.
Observe the traditional bamboo cages housing the deceased.
Witness the natural reclamation of the bodies by the forest.
Learn about the Bali Aga people and their ancient burial customs.
Explore the serene and atmospheric Cemetery of Terunyan.
Experiencing Natural Reclamation of Corpses
As visitors explore the Cemetery of Terunyan, they’ll witness the remarkable process of natural reclamation, where the deceased are gradually reclaimed by the surrounding forest.
This age-old tradition, deeply rooted in the beliefs of the Bali Aga people, offers a unique and thought-provoking experience for those seeking to understand the cycle of life and death.
The bodies are placed in bamboo cages under the Taru Menyan tree, allowing nature to take its course. Over time, the corpses decompose and are absorbed back into the earth, a tangible demonstration of the interconnectedness of all living things.
This intimate encounter with mortality invites reflection on the ephemeral nature of human existence and our place within the grand tapestry of the natural world.
Tour Inclusions
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, all entry tickets, a local tour guide, and a boat ride. These amenities ensure a comfortable and seamless experience for visitors.
The tour also features several key inclusions:
- Exploring the cemetery of Terunyan, where the unique burial practices can be witnessed
- Visiting the Terunyan Temple, the main place of worship in the village
- Enjoying a traditional boat ride to enhance the culture
- Gaining insights from the knowledgeable local guide about the history and traditions of the Bali Aga people
These inclusions provide a comprehensive and authentic glimpse into the remarkable Terunyan Cemetery and the fascinating traditions of the region.
Tour Restrictions
Certain individuals may not be able to participate in this tour due to specific restrictions. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, people with epilepsy, or those over 75 years old.
These limitations are in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants. The cemetery’s uneven terrain and the boat ride may pose challenges for those with mobility issues or certain medical conditions.
Plus, the tour’s unique nature, which involves the observation of traditional burial practices, may not be appropriate for everyone. Visitors should carefully consider their personal circumstances and physical abilities before booking this tour to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?
The tour does not include any meals, so vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions can bring their own food. The tour focuses on the cultural and historical aspects of Terunyan Cemetery, rather than dining experiences.
Can Participants Take Photos or Videos During the Tour?
Participants are generally allowed to take photos and videos during the tour, though they should be respectful and avoid disrupting the sacred environment. It’s important to check with the tour guide about any restrictions or guidelines.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Travelers can inquire about longer tour options, ranging from 45 minutes to a full day, which may include additional stops or more in-depth exploration of the Terunyan Cemetery and surrounding area.
How Often Does the Traditional Boat Ride Operate?
The traditional boat ride operates during the tour, which has a duration of 30 minutes. The boat ride is included as part of the tour and provides an opportunity to explore the cemetery from the water.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?
Yes, the tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. The tour operator is flexible and willing to make adjustments to the itinerary or pace to accommodate the specific needs and interests of each group.
Recap
Visiting Terunyan Cemetery provides a profound and introspective experience.
Witnessing the natural reclamation of the deceased by the elements evokes deep contemplation on the cycle of life and death.
This unique Balinese tradition offers visitors a rare glimpse into the ancient customs and beliefs of the Bali Aga people, fostering a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living things.
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