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Written by Stephanie Peeters
Co-written by Nadia Crowe
Edited by Beverley Lennon 

Searching for something fun to do in Bali? Tired of beaches, rice paddies, mighty volcanoes and holy temples?

We know we can spend weeks just exploring these sacred lands, gazing at sunsets and catching glimpses of the rich and unique local culture. But did you know there’s a better way to connect with the Balinese culture?

You can even learn ancient trades and art in ways that go beyond what the eye can see! Join us as we explore unique, fun and interesting workshops, where you get to experience what Balinese culture really is all about – and yes, all in less than a day!

Also read:

77 Extraordinary things to do in Bali that even your tour guide might not have heard of – places to visit, eat and everything!

37 Amazing free things to do in Bali you never knew existed

11 Hidden and and non-mainstream scenic places to visit in Bali

18 Exciting family bonding activities in Bali for a smashing time

1. Learn about traditional medicinal plants and make your own Jamu – Bali Nature Herbal Walk

So you think you’ve got green fingers?

The Balinese are here to show you the greenest fingers yet at the Bali Nature Herbal Walk! During this ‘herbal walk’, you’ll get to lift the tip of the veil on their abundant knowledge of ancient healing methods and herbal medicines – all these to the perfect backdrop of Bali’s stunning lush tropical greenery, far away from all the hustle and bustle, and the maddening crowds.

Hibiscus, turmeric, ginger, citronella, patchouli, aloe vera, tamarind, kencur, the Ylang Ylang flower and Thai Basilicum – these are just some of the plants, herbs and roots that you’ll see, smell and learn more about during the herbal walk. No idea what we’re talking about? You’ll soon be a certified expert as your guide passionately shows and tells you all there is to know!

Photo Via Saucybynature

Lazy students, beware, for you’ll also have to put your newly acquired knowledge into practice during the Jamu making class that follows. Jamu is a traditional Indonesian medicine made out of the gifts of Mother Earth, which include all the ingredients you’ll learn about during the herbal walk, and materials acquired from animals such as honey, milk and eggs.

Photo Via わて

This is the superhero of medicines – there’s a Jamu for everything, and traditionally, it’s sold on the streets by the ladies who made it. While it commonly comes as a tonic drink, Jamu is also made in the form of scrubs, pastes and creams. With all the fresh ingredients that come into the mix, you’ll definitely be getting a major health boost while curing your diseases and discomforts!

Photo Via Crowgirl12,Tugceuluurgun

Having lived in Bali for a couple of years now, I always have a mixture of brown rice and kuncur put on my feet after I have a little accident, and it helps perfectly to reduce the swelling. I also drink Jamu whenever I feel my immune system is low. The Jamu I know is usually a fusion of turmeric, ginger, tamarind, palm sugar and egg yolk. The taste is quite intense but it kind of grew on me – if you’re a Jamu first-timer, you can always add more palm sugar to make it sweeter and easier to drink.

Photo Via Agnes.goes_.east_

So why not try your hand at making your own Jamu? During the 2-hour Jamu workshop, you’ll make a Jamu tonic drink (a tasty one), body scrub, body oil or body mask using the fresh produce you gather during the herbal walk. Yes, you’ll even get to bring them home, so no excuses about forgetting what you learnt!

Bali Herbal Walk

Price: From Rp. 300,000 (Approximately USD $21.10)
Duration: 2 hours
Address: In front of the Puri Lukisan Museum: Jl. Raya Ubud, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Contact: +62 857 3794 2436
Opening hours: Mon – Sun 8:30am – 10:30am

Website

2. Master the art of silversmithing – Studio Perak

Put off by the never-ending zeroes on jewellers’ price tags? Why not be your own silversmith?

With 5 grams of silver and the guidance of an authentic Balinese silversmith, craft your own silver ring and/or pendant in an inspiring three-hour workshop at Studio Perak in cultural Ubud.

Photo Via Le_va_rt

Your teacher, Ketut Darmawan, will guide you through everything about ancient Balinese silversmithing methods. You don’t even need to be particularly good at crafting, because everything here is done with basic manual equipment. You’ll be handling the bending, shaping, filing, sanding and polishing, while Ketut does the soldering for you.

Photo Via Troopytrakka,C1aretravels
Photo Via Rikkilethal,Giannafakhourie

Pick your design or come up with your own idea; there’s no limit to the number of pieces you can make as long as it doesn’t exceed 5 grams altogether!

Photo Via E.riley_art,Estrelladewi,Annakaisa,Denz.x

To give you a basic idea, 5 grams is more than enough to make 2 simple silver rings – that’s exactly what one of us did! So lovers out there, why not make each other a silver ring as a symbol of your love for one another?

At the same time, this is a great family activity too – children who are at least 8 years old are welcome to join in and make their own piece of silver jewellery!

Studio Perak

Price: Rp. 400,000 (approximately USD $26.31)
Duration: 3 hours
Address: JI. Hanoman, Ubud 80571, Gianyar, Bali
Contact: +62 878 61724905
Opening Hours: Half Day Class Course from 9am – 12pm or 2pm – 5pm

Website


3. Transform a corner of your home into a slice of Bali – Bentuk Bali Macrame

We’ve all seen the gorgeous macrame hangers on every hipster Bali cafe, and we must say they truly make a place seem so much more tropical! Rather than buying any of the ones you see in the store, why not make this hanging memory even more special by making it yourself!

Bentuk Bali offers you the chance to make a detailed and gorgeous hanger for you to display in your home, and it’s a wonderful and soothing activity for a wind down in between exploration sessions! If you’re with a group of friends or want to get the whole family involved, they even have private workshops so you can have a fully personalized experience!

Photo Via Bentuk
Photo Via Bentuk

Bentuk Bali

Price: From Rp. 375,000 (Approximately USD $25.40)
Duration: 2 hours
Address: Various locations, check their website
Contact: +62 821 7463 5838

Website

4. Make your very own bottle of liquid gold!: MYO Coconut Oil workshop

Coconut oil has so many health benefits, and it’s incredibly affordable in Bali. Rather than just picking up a bottle off the shelf though, why not try your hand at making it yourself? In just over two hours you’ll go from holding a hairy brown coconut to feeling the soft oil flowing through your hands!

Photo Via Chii, Cocoil_bali, A_linnn

You learn to utilise each part of the coconut, while you’re waiting for your oil to form you’ll be able to use the leftover husks to scrub your skin so it’s nice and supple! Plus a nice refreshing tropical fruit bowl is ready to be eaten!

Photo Via Cocoil_bali

Completely suitable for families and children, this is an activity that everyone can enjoy no matter their age! Educational, fun, and you even get to take home your own bottle, what better way to spend a few hours?!

Photo Via Cocoil_bali, Zaintiar And Novi

MYO Coconut Oil workshop

Price: From RP. 341,000 (Approximately USD $23)
Duration: 2.5 hours
Address: Taman Nauli Boutique rooms and restaurant, North Kuta, Bali
Contact: +62 819 3322 1290
Website

Book here

5. A unique Balinese twist to the classic cocktail party – Arak Mixology

Arak is a unique type of alcohol native to Indonesia, and similar to the western moonshine. It can be distilled from a variety of different things such as sugarcane, coconut palm sap, and even coconuts! This workshop is the ultimate happy hour activity for you to do with your friends after a long day of exploring Bali.

Photo Via Rahul

Using traditional Balinese ingredients you’ll get to mix two of your very own unique cocktails that you’ll be hard pressed to find anywhere else in the world! Paired with a crispy side of tempeh as a bar snack, this is an afternoon delight! This is a skill you can take back home with you, so why not buy a bottle of arak as a souvenir and whip up some of these as a surprise treat from your friends!

Photo Via Byung-woo

Arak Mixology 

Price: From Rp. 414,000 (Approximately USD $28)
Duration: 1 hour
Address: Akademi Bar, Jl. Petitenget No.51B, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Contact: +62 361 473 7979
Website

Book here

6. Cook like a Balinese Master Chef with local organic produce – Green Kitchen Bali

Do you wanna be the very best (chef)? Green Kitchen Bali will take you one step closer to your Masterchef dreams.

Photo Via Kristinraya

Located in the sleepy village of Sidemen, Green Kitchen Bali is breathtakingly beautiful.

This particular cooking class even features their own expansive organic garden, where you’ll pick the freshest herbs and vegetables for your dishes. The kitchen is set in the open air and cooking is done the traditional way, using firewood.

Photo Via Meetmeatmikes,Kaditombak

After your pick-up in the early morning, you’ll head straight towards Klungkung Market – the second biggest market in Bali. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of the authentic, rural Balinese life while shopping for groceries.

Photo Via Kristinraya

After which, you’ll trek through the rice paddies and Green Kitchen Bali’s organic garden, where you can pick vegetables and herbs you need and head over to the kitchen for this three-hour cooking course.

Photo Via Kristinraya

There are lots of interesting dishes on the menu, like Jukut Nangka, a soup made with pork and jackfruit, sweet and crunchy tempeh, fish steamed in banana leaf, coconut chicken curry, fish sate and two kinds of sambals. For dessert? Another traditional dish – black rice pudding. Yum!

Photo Via Barsusan,Kristinraya

You can opt for vegetarian options too, with dishes such as gado gado, tempeh/tofu curry, corn fritters and even a banana stalk soup. Sure does sound interesting!

There’s a whole lot of chopping to do, but also grinding the traditional way!

Green Kitchen Bali

Price: Rp. 450,000 (approximately USD $33.90 ) for a 5-hour cooking class & Rp. 380,000 (approximately USD $28.65 ) for a vegetarian version of the cooking class. Both include transport from Ubud.
Duration: 5 hours
Address: Tangkup, Sidemen, Karangasem Regency, Bali
Contact: +62 821 4606 0236
Opening hours: Mon – Sun 8am – 2pm
Website

Book a similar experience here

7. Learn traditional Balinese massages in a day – Jamu Spa School

If your friends are always complaining that you’re killing them when you offer to give them a massage, maybe it’s time to improve your skills with an internationally acknowledged massage therapist diploma at Jamu Spa School in Nusa Dua.

Oh, right – if you’re one of us, who have the attention span of a chimpanzee… no worries! School can be fun and speedy with Jamu Spa School’s one-day Balinese massage class, where you can master the techniques of the traditional Balinese full-body massage. It won’t turn you into a professional massage therapist overnight, but it’s great fun and you can test out your skills – we mean surprise your loved one or friends – back home.

Kneading, rolling, squeezing, pounding, and stroking – all these are part of the traditional Balinese full-body massage, the first method of healing in Bali.

During the workshop, you’ll get to both practise and experience the Balinese massage, as well as act as a therapist and model for your fellow students! So be careful – any pain you inflict is very likely going to be returned to you by a vengeful fellow student.

Just kidding – it’s almost hard to be bad when you’ve got experienced, skillful and patient instructors who ensure that all their students learn the trade. At the end of the day, you’ll return home with a certificate in your pocket and two golden hands attached to your arms.

Apart from the Balinese massage class, you can also join in for the one-day baby massage course, the one-day Kerokan (coin scraping) course or the one-day boreh body wrap course.

Jamu Spa School

Price: From Rp. 2,700,000 (Approximately USD $183) for a full day traditional Balinese massage course
Duration: 7 hours
Address: Jalan Raya Siligita I No.1, Benoa, Nusa Dua, Badung Regency, Bali
Contact: +62 361 772 955 / +62 823 4081 5059
Opening hours: Mon – Sun 9am – 5pm

Website

8. Bring home the heavenly smell of Bali – Herbal Soap Making

Whenever you think of a Balinese spa, there’s no doubt that your first thought will immediately go to how nice and soothing it smells. Well that’s actually thanks to all of Bali’s different herbs and spices that are utilised for both their healing properties on the body, and on the mind when inhaled!

Using an organic coconut oil base that will transform your skin into an incredibly supple one, learn how to make the best smelling soap bars you’ve ever smelled. What’s even better is you’ll be taking home not one, but three bars of soap! This means that you can gift them to some of your friends back home, or keep it and make your at-home spa experience last longer! How’s that for a unique souvenir from Bali?!

Photo Via Cocoil_bali
Photo Via Cocoil_bali

Herbal Soap Making 

Price: From Rp. 355,000 (Approximately USD $24)
Duration: 2 hours
Address: Taman Nauli, Jl. Raya Canggu, Bali
Contact: +62 819 3322 1290
Website

Book here

9. Experience one day as a Balinese Farmer – Bali farmer experience

Our mothers have always told us to cherish the rice in our bowls, because of the immense effort it takes to plant and harvest them. But have you ever truly understood what goes behind each miniscule grain of rice? Now, you can – by being a rice farmer for a day!

This experience will let you wander through a local farm, wearing a bamboo hat and carrying a basket, harvesting has never been more fun! Wave to cows, smell the fresh fruit, and enjoy the simplicity of finding your own food.

Photo Via Gemtracktravel, Sedasalodge
Photo Via Sedasalodge

To end your journey, you’ll be able to cook a lovely meal using all the ingredients you harvested and enjoy good conversation with new friends!

Bali Farmer Experience

Price: From Rp. 470,000 (Approximately USD $33)
Duration: 5 hours
Address: Sedasa Lodge, Jl. Pantai Berawa Gg. Toya No.Kav. 5, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali, Indonesia
Contact: +62 361 844 6655 / +62 887 387 3123
Website

Book here

10. Fulfill your passion for caffeine at a coffee workshop – Seniman Coffee

Are you a coffee freak, a caffeine addict or simply interested in the art of brewing and roasting coffee beans to perfection?

The workshops at Seniman Coffee in Ubud are definitely perfect for you!

In the “learning how to master your brew” trainings and workshops, you’ll be taught all the secrets of the perfect cup of coffee. Never again will you rely on Starbucks, for you’ll become an expert and a true “home barista”!

Photo Via Lapalmayeltucan

Do you have a specific area of coffee that you’re interested in? There’s even brewing, roasting and cupping workshops, an introduction to espresso making and a “latte art” class.

Photo Via Rufusbox,Villa-bali

During the brewing workshop, you can choose to practice pour-over, Chemex, Aeropress, Syphon, French press or even use the “Bialetti” style moka stove pot. Don’t get what we’re talking about? That’s exactly what you’re going to learn about, including practical tips and advice on your personal coffee-making skills by the Seniman coffee guru!

Photo Via Rufusbox

The master roaster of Seniman Coffee will show you how the work is done in the roasting workshop, and he’ll also explain the whole process of coffee making from seed to cup.

During the Cupping workshop, you’ll learn all about the characteristics and aromas of each cup of coffee, from fruity and nutty to sweet or bitter!

Want to become a master barista yourself? In the Latte Art workshop, you’ll learn how to steam the milk to perfection and how to pour it over the espresso like an artist, creating some amazing “latte art”, indeed.

Photo Via Ardy_putra

Goodbye Starbucks, we don’t need you anymore.

Seniman Coffee

Price: Rp. 450,000 (Approximately USD $33.75)
Duration: 2 hours
Address: Jalan Sriwedari No. 5, Banjar Taman Kelod, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali
Contact: +62 812 3607 6640
Opening hours: Mon – Sun 8am – 10pm

Website

11. Explore Bali’s textile art of old – I Nyoman Warta Batik Class

Is fashion your passion? Take the road less travelled and ditch H&M for Bali’s very own clothings of art at Batik artist I Nyoman Warta’s house in Ubud!

Photo Via Nyoman_warta

Praised by all students who joined his Batik workshop, Nyoman loves to share his passion for this ancient tradition. The word Batik descends from Javanese and translates to ‘to write with wax’, which is what you’ll be doing.

Photo Via Clara_tolle

During Batik-making, hot wax is used to make patterns on textiles. When the fabrics are dyed, the patterns covered in wax are left untouched and this way, you can create unbelievable art by making multiple layers with different colours!

Photo Via Clara_tolle

So try your hand at making Batik during the workshop, and go home with your own self-made Batik! You can use up to 3 colours, and the work should be done in around 4 hours.

Photo Via Clara_tolle,Zannahrose

The ambience is very easy going and laid-back, so no worries even if you’re not a particularly handy person. You can show up without an appointment and come and go as you need. You can even do the workshop divided over several days if you like! Just ask – Nyoman and his family are very friendly, making you feel at ease and at home.

Photo Via Happiness_therapie,Lindswoodnails,Flashpackingash,Aisha_bennett,Clara_tolle

I Nyoman Warta Batik Class

Price: From Rp. 530,000 (Approximately USD $38)
Duration: 3 hours
Address: 12 Jalan Gautama, Ubud, Bali
Contact: +62 813 3746 5854
Opening hours: Mon – Sun 9am – 6pm
Website

Book here

12. Connect with your inner being during a chakra healing workshop – Ubud Healing House

Ubud isn’t just the cultural capital of Bali; it’s also the most spiritual town on the island. At Ubud Healing House, it’s all about healing. Not only can you experience traditional healing practices, you can also get the healing touch yourself by signing up for a full-day Chakra Healing Workshop.

Chakras are believed to be centres in our bodies in which energy flows through. There are seven main chakras in your body, starting at the crown of your head and going down to the bottom of your spine. When the energy flow gets blocked, disharmony and illness arises. The goal of chakra healing is to get the energy flowing again, removing any blockage you may or may not be aware of.

Photo Via Ubudhealinghouse

During this full-day chakra healing workshop, you’ll learn all about chakras and how they are entwined in Buddhism and Hinduism. The workshop focuses on how to realign the 7 energy centres in your body using aromatherapy, food therapy, colour therapy, reflexology and sound therapy. Why seek for a healer if you can become your own?

Photo Via Luhariestian

This is how it works: the patient lies down on a bed with their clothes on. A calm and peaceful ambience is created by soothing music and a comfortable room temperature. The chakra healer gets into a meditative state and uses their hands, a pendulum, crystals, reflexology techniques and/or essential oils to locate any blockages in the energy flow, and gets the energy to flow again.

Photo Via Ubudhealinghouse
Photo Via Luhariestian

Sounds intriguing? You’ll also get more insight into your own chakra system through the workshop, and learn how to gain balance and bring harmony to your body, mind and soul. You’ll even receive a manual book and practical materials such as a pendulum and a reflexology stick!

To ensure a truly meaningful workshop of high quality, there’s a limitation of 6 participants per workshop, so make sure to book early! Check their schedule here.

Ubud Healing House

Price: Rp. 1,500,000 (approximately USD $112.48) for a 1-day 7-hour workshop
Duration: 7 hours
Address: Jl. Raya Tebongkang, Gg. Healing III No. 5, Singakerta – Ubud – Gianyar, Bali
Contact: +62 8786 151 8448 |  [email protected]

13. Attend a live drawing & painting class – Pranoto’s Art Gallery

Fancy yourself Picasso in the making? Are you an artist in soul who just lacks training? Pick up all the art tips you need from Pranoto’s Art Gallery, here there are artists who hold painting and drawing classes at his studio and art gallery in Ubud.

Being true artists in heart and soul, Pranoto’s Art Gallery can guide you on how to draw subtle lines on canvas from a body right in front of you to transform it into life!.

Photo Via Nadyakorotaeva
Photo Via Karin8982,Youliez_mbix
Photo Via I_gede_suryawan

You could either show up spontaneously for the live model drawing sessions on Saturdays and Wednesdays from 10am to 1pm, or pre-book it with them. There’s no teaching done during these open drawing gatherings – all you need to do is bring your own sketchbook and charcoal, pencil or paint, and start sketching away!

Photo Via Wayofvictory
Photo Via Tatianapetrovna

And guess what’s best? This open class is free of charge; there’s only a small donation of Rp. 30,000 (approximately USD $2.25) which goes to the model.

You’ll also get the chance to mingle with your fellow artists during breaks. Who knows, you might even meet the next van Gogh!

Pranoto’s Art Gallery

Price: Rp. 50,000 (Approximately USD $3.55)
Duration: 3 hours
Address: Jl. Raya Goa Gajah, Peliatan, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
Contact: +61 813 5301 6899

Website

14. Spin the wheel and craft your own piece of ceramic – Sari Api

There’s nothing like working clay with your bare hands, shaping it on the spinning wheel and creating something beautiful, something unique, something of your own. There’s something peaceful and calming about it too, and it makes a great escape from the buzzing world outside.

Photo Via Dianwithlove

The environment at the Sari Api Ceramic Studio only adds to this ambience of tranquility and serenity. While spinning the wheel and working on your ceramic piece, you’re sitting inside a breezy open-air working studio overlooking the verdant scenery of Ubud – the perfect setting to find inspiration for your work of art.

Photo Via Lusashu

Your teachers, Susan and Agus, will lovingly show you different techniques and guide you through the process of making ceramics with great patience.

For families travelling with kids, you should definitely stop by on a Saturday for a drop-in kids class. There’s no need to make a reservation beforehand; you can just show up spontaneously. They will love it! It’s fun, educative and creative all at the same time.

Photo Via Sunlanka

Important note: It takes 3 weeks for the pottery to be ready as they need to dry and get fired twice. It might be best to plan this workshop at the beginning of your trip, so you can pick it up before returning home. Another option is to get it shipped over to your home country, but it comes with additional costs.

Sari Api

Price: Rp. 600,000 (Approximately USD $45.35)
Duration: 3 hours
Open studio: Every Tuesday and Thursday, from 9.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 4.30pm
Drop-in kids’ class: Starts every Saturday at 10.30am – 12pm. It costs Rp. 100,000 (Approximately USD $6.80) including all materials and hibiscus lemonade. All kids between 4 and 14 years old are welcome.
Address: Jl. Suweta, Ubud, Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali
Contact: +62 81 338 814 973

Website

15. Make your own organic spa products – Cantika Zest Bali

We all know Bali is all about spa-cial experiences. 😉

While lying down and enjoying a massage for one hour can be great fun, why not try unraveling the mysterious workings of a spa yourself?

Photo Via Anneliselotte64

At Cantika Zest Bali, you’ll work with natural herbs, flowers, spices, seeds and plants to make organic and beautifying spa products.

The plants and herbs are taken from the onsite Cantika Garden, and Ketut Jasi will guide you through them – she’ll even tell you about alternative ingredients that are available in your home country, so you can put your new skills to use even back home. That’s right, you’re here to learn how to be pretty, and how to stay pretty.

Photo Via Alishagreeno

You’ll be making your own face mask, face scrub and face cream with natural products such as rice, corn, coconut, candlenut and herbs. At the end of the workshop, you’ll even get a 1-hour facial with the spa products you made!

Photo Via Tropicalgirlsclub,Thehivemusicco

Every morning at 10am, tons of women step into the world of beauty at Cantika Zest’s workshop, located in the small village of Penenestan just on the outskirts of Ubud. You’re advised to make a reservation 24 hours in advance, and not just for yourself – kids will love this interactive activity just as much as you do, so grab a spot for your little girl(s), Moms!

Cantika Zest Bali

Price: From Rp. 615,000 (Approximately USD $45)
Duration: 2 – 2.5 hours
Address: Jalan Raya Penestanan Kelod, Ubud, Bali
Contact: +62 361 970 135
Opening hours: Mon – Sun, 10am – 6pm
Website

Book a similar experience on Airbnb

16. Make your own traditional Jegog musical instrument – Green Village Bali

When we look at bamboos, we think of pandas. But when the folks at Green Village Bali look at bamboos, they see art in the making. Just look at this amazing handcrafted building, completely made out of bamboo!

Photo Via Maimelali

While exploring Green Village’s bamboo forest, bamboo factory, permaculture garden, houses and villas is enough to make for an exciting day, you can also get handsy with bamboo at many activities! Most of them are long-term projects, but for a fun workshop that takes only a couple of hours, join the Jegog-making class.

The Jegog is a traditional gamelan musical instrument indigenous to Bali, and it’s completely made out of bamboo. The instrument looks like a xylophone, but the bamboo gives it a warm, natural sound. It’s played fast, precise, loud and rhythmically in ensembles, resonating sweetly and giving an energetic vibe.

The first Jegog was made in Jembrana, West Bali, in the early 20th century and banned by the Dutch rulers in the 1940s, as the Dutch were afraid that the large gathering of people would use the big bamboo tubes as weapons against them in an uprising.

The Jegog was revived in the 70s, and it still plays an important role in the gamelan music of Bali today. Traditionally, the Jegog was played during the buffalo races (Makepung) in West Bali, and it’s also played to accompany a traditional dance known as the Jegog Dance. To get an impression of what this instrument sounds like, watch this video:

The workshop lasts 4 hours, in which you’ll not only learn how to build a Jegog yourself, but also how to play it!

That’s right, you can bring back that tropical island music and all the sweet memories of your time in Bali, simply by playing the Jegog that you made with your own hands!

Green Village Bali

Price: From  Rp.440,000 (approximately USD $31.35) per person
Duration: 1 hour
Address: Jl. Tanah Ayu, Sibang Gede, Abiansemal – Badung (80352), Bali – Indonesia
Contact: +62 811 392 2254
Opening Hours: Reach here by 10:30am for the 10:45am tour. Weekdays only.

Website

17. Try Balinese Dance and traditional Gamelan instruments – Mekar Bhuana Centre

Music lovers have probably noticed the mystical music that roams the streets and villages around Bali.

Every village has their own temple, where religious ceremonies are held and great music is born. The music you hear is called gamelan, and at Mekar Bhuana Centre, you can learn how to play these intriguing traditional musical instruments!

Photo Via Trevor011

The gamelan workshops are taught by two Balinese music experts. Learn about the historical, technical and sociology aspects of gamelan music from the ethnomusicologist, and let a local musician demonstrate and teach you how to play the instruments of the gamelan orchestra! You’ll even receive a complimentary musician sarong that you may keep as well as a CD of rare “semara pagulingan court music” – the first steps to becoming a B-pop star.

Interested in how the lessons are like? Watch a video of a gamelan lesson here, and also check out this video of a group of students doing their final performance!

Photo Via Mekar_bhuana

The Balinese dance workshop not only teaches you how to dance, but also about the costuming, makeup, history and different styles of dance. Watch another video here to give you an impression of the workshop – after 8 days of this, you might even be able to give a performance like this!

Photo Via _khow,Heathbar5
Photo Via Mekar_bhuana

Just don’t forget us when you’re famous!

Mekar Bhuana Centre

Price: A private 2-hour lesson costs Rp. 1,480,000 (Approximately USD $104)
Duration: 2 hours
Address: Jalan Gandapura 3, no.501X, Banjar Kerthalangu, Kesiman Kertalangu, Denpasar Timur, Kesiman Kertalangu, East Denpasar, Denpasar City, Bali
Contact: +62 819 9919 1104 / +62 819 9919 1106
Opening hours: Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm

Website

18. Learn the local language – Cinta Bahasa

“Bisa Bicara Bahasa Indonesia?” (which means “Do you speak Indonesian”?) After this 3-hour course, you can say “yes” to this question, or at least “sedikit saja”, which means “a little bit”.

At Cinta Bahasa Indonesia Language School, you’ll learn the basics of the Indonesian language in a fun and educative crash course.

Of course, you won’t be speaking the Indonesian language fluently in a 2 or 3-hour course, but the phrases you’ll learn will be super useful for your stay in Bali.

By the end of the course, you will be able to buy fruit at the market, order dinner in a restaurant and book a hotel room, all in Bahasa Indonesia!

Tip: Attend this workshop at the beginning of your holiday, and your stay on the island will be even more delightful.

Cinta Bahasa

Price: Rp. 250,000 (approximately USD $18.78)
Duration: 2 hours
Address 1: Cinta Bahasa, Jl. Raya Sanggingan 88x, Indomaret Lt 2 / Cahaya Intan, Ubud 80571 Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
Address 2: Jl. Tukad Anyar No.21/4, Sanur, Kec. Denpasar Sel., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80228
Contact: +62 812 3916 5005

Website

19. Escape into a world of scents with a perfume workshop – L’Atelier Perfume & Creations

Do you want to make your own perfume?

Perfume-making is a recognized art in France, and Nora, the lady who founded L’Atelier Perfume & Creations in Bali, is a French native.

Photo Via Melianaineurope

If you’ve never made perfumes before and it all sounds a little daunting (what if you make a stench instead of a scent?), don’t worry. You’ll first answer a questionnaire at the start of the workshop, where you will be asked about your favourite scents, things and your lifestyle. Afterwards, you’ll be given some suggestions of scents to work with according to your preferences!

Photo Via Morgansgotravelling

During the workshop, you’ll be introduced to a whole array of scents hailing from the forest and fields to all of the spices and flowers that grow on Bali Island – Frangipani, Cempaka, orchids, you name it, you smell it. You’ll learn how to extract scents from raw materials and how to make perfect perfume blends.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll go home with a diploma, three little bottles of the samples you made, and one big 30ml bottle of your favorite personal perfume. If you’re planning to make everyone you know smell just like you, an upgrade from the 30ml bottle to a 60ml bottle costs Rp. 150,000 (approximately USD $11.32).

And it will never go out of stock! Give your blend a name and the data of your personal perfume will be stored so that you can always re-order a bottle of your creation.

What’s more, L’Atelier also has a children’s workshop with special scents for kids. It’s super educational and fun at the same time, even for the little ones!

Photo Via Morgansgotravelling

L-Atelier Perfume & Creations

Price: From Rp. 1,112,000 (Approximately USD $76) for a 90-minute perfume making workshop | USD $125 for a 3-hour perfume making workshop (with certificate)
Duration: 3 hours
Address 1: Ayana Resort and Spa, Jl. Karang Mas Sejahtera, Jimbaran, Bali
Address 2: Ritz Carlton Nusa Dua, Jl. Raya Nusa Dua Selatan Lot#3, Nusa Dua, Bali
Address 3: TS Suites, Seminyak, Jl. Nakula No.18, Legian, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Contact: +62 877 8501 2500
Website

Book here

20. Carve wood like a Balinese artisan – Museum Puri Lukisan

Carve your way into artist-dom at the wood carving class at Museum Puri Lukisan, the oldest museum in Ubud!

In this full-day workshop that includes a scrumptious lunch, you have the time to create something awesome to take home with you – a traditional wood-carved square block resembling the tiles used to decorate Balinese temples. Isn’t that the best souvenir to take home with your from your holiday in Bali?

Photo Via Ellen827,Konservaction

Your teacher is a talented local artist, helping you to master wood carving skills with great love and patience. Patience and concentration are things that you definitely need while working the wood with your hands and basic traditional tools, but you’ll be surprised at how calming carving can be. As your hands work steadily, you’ll notice how your mind slips into a state of pure tranquility and mindfulness.

Photo Via Dylcarter

The museum itself is also quite amazing, with beautiful gardens and an exquisite collection of modern Balinese artwork.

Photo Via Ketutmadra
Photo Via Vinesh-P.

Take your time to wander around and take in the peaceful ambience, who knows, you might even be inspired to create something truly great!

Museum Puri Lukisan

Price: Rp. 520,000 (approximately USD $39)
Duration: Max 7 hours
Address: Jalan Raya Ubud, Gianyar, Bali
Contact: +62 361 971 159
Opening hours: Mon – Sun 9am – 5pm

Website

Special Mention 1: Watch traditional sea salt farming on the beach – Kusamba Salt Mining Village

This isn’t really a workshop, but is a fascinating process to watch – the ancient tradition of salt mining on the beach of Kusamba.

The village of Kesumba is very small and the people are very welcoming. The local farmers would love to show you how the work is done. Not only will you get some first-hand information on the all-natural Bali salt, you can even taste it and support the community by buying some to take home with you!

Photo Via Nanda_

Here’s a little peek into how things work: Seawater is carried out on the shoulders of hardworking Balinese salt farmers in handmade rubber containers. Then, water is poured onto the black sandy beach of Kusamba and left to dry. The sand is then taken to the salt making hut, where more sea water is added, separating the salt from the sand. The water containing only the salt and not the sand is poured into hollow wooden logs, and as the water gradually evaporates, what’s left is natural Bali sea salt!

Photo Via Balitripholidays,Blauepicsphotography
Photo Via Pramote-Polyamate
Photo Via Cgozalie

It’s a really interesting process to see and you may even get a go at this hard work of salt farming yourself – we’re not going to tell you more, but maybe you can tell us after you’ve been through this unique experience!

Kusamba Traditional Salt Farming

Price: Free – do make sure to buy some salt from the locals!
Address: Pesinggahan, Dawan, Klungkung Regency, Bali 80761, Indonesia
Contact: +62 877 6261 4381
Opening hours: Mon – Sun 6am – 5pm

Website

Special Mention 2: Experience a plethora of different sustainable workshops: The Kul Kul Farm

The Kul Kul Farm is an incredible organization run alongside The Green School Bali. They believe in supporting, and empowering both local Balinese farmers and visiting tourists through their educational workshops! From learning to dye sustainable fabrics to discovering the magical art of gardening, they show you how to live better!

Photo Via Kulkulfarm

Though you can’t book a time and place of your choosing, if you’re lucky enough to be in Bali during one of their many events, be sure to check it out and make the time for it! Head on over to their facebook page to learn more about the good they do!

Photo Via Kukulfarm

The Kul Kul Farm

Price: From Rp. 275,000 (Approximately USD $18.65)
Contact: +62 811 389 6070

Website

Have you tried any other interesting workshops in Bali? Share with us so we can check them out too!

PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you!
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