Klungkung Regency is having a moment right now! While tourists typically head to the tourist resorts of Badung Regency, such as Canggu, Kuta, and Seminyak, it is Klungkung Regency’s cultural charms and stunning coastlines that are drawing tourists in.
Over the next few months, Klungkung Regency will host not one but three cultural festivals. As the region moves onto the radar of culture-curious tourists, we can expect to see Klungkung Regency hitting headlines more frequently.
In fact, it’s hardly like Klungkung Regency is an unknown destination; rather, it’s known more for its attractions and landmarks. Klungkung Regency spans across four islands: the main island Bali, Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan.
This area of Bali Province is steeped in history and brimming with natural wonders; these upcoming festivals will highlight the best of the area’s cultural heritage and more.
Speaking to reporters last week, the Head of the Klungkung Tourism Office, Ni Made Sulistiawati, revealed more details about the three upcoming festivals that the team hopes will showcase the best of Klungkung to new audiences.
These festivals are the Klungkung Royal Festival, the Nusa Pendia Festival, and the Goa Lawah Festival, which will all take place before the end of 2025. Tourists planning vacations to Bali in the coming months are encouraged to update their travel itineraries and be in attendance for these incredible events.
The theme for the Klungkung Royal Festival this year is “Preserving the Cultural Traditions and History of the Majesty of the Balinese Royal Center”. While many tourists head up to Ubud to explore Bali’s history, the island’s often tumultuous history can be explored throughout the island, especially in heritage cities like Semarapura.
The city of Semarapura is the administrative capital of Klungkung Regency, and is still often referred to by its historical name, Klungkung. This ancient trading post has a heartbreaking history that only a few tourists ever learn about.
The Klungkung Royal Festival will showcase the very best of Klungkung’s regal heritage, and events will be hosted throughout the city. The main festival activities will be held at Klungkung Palace, across the Ida Dewa Agung Jambe Square, at Kerta Gosa Temple, and at the eastern intersection of Semarapura City.
Kerta Gosa is a must-visit Balinese architectural wonder. The Kerta Gosa Pavilion was built in the 17th Century and is one of the most important buildings in Klungkung Regency, and indeed, all of Bali.
First and foremost, Kerta Gosa was established as a pavilion and housed paintings that tell the history of the land. These paintings are in the traditional Balinese wayang style and have undergone several restorations over the years.
Over time, the pavilion was also used for ceremonies and rites of passage, but its most famous function is as the Supreme Court of Law for the Kingdom of Klungkung.
Within the Kerta Gosa courthouse pavilion, there would have been one table surrounded by six chairs. The King of Klungkung, also known as the raja, would have sat upon a chair adorned with lots.
Entry tickets to Kerta Gosa and the Klungkung Royal Palace can be purchased on arrival and cost IDR 50,000 for international adults.
A guided tour is included in the entry ticket, and it is highly recommended that tourists accept the offer of a guide. There are so many stories to hear and history to behold that would be easy to miss with an untrained eye.
For those who prefer to dive deep into small island culture, the Nusa Penida Festival will be hosted from 23rd to 25th October at Sampan Field, Tanjung Keramitan Beach, and at the Dalem Setra Batununggul Temple Area.
This year’s theme is ‘Celebrate the Island Spirit,’ and Sulistiawati confirmed, “As planned, the Indonesian Minister of Tourism will be present to open the event.”
The Nusa Penida Festival is always a lively event that brings together local communities, Indonesian tourists, and international visitors.
The event features everything from traditional warrior dances to art exhibitions, culinary showcases, and live music, as well as highlighting community-driven initiatives.
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