An Unveiling of Bali’s Most Mysterious Burial Traditions
If you are looking for an experience that completely challenges everything you know about Bali, Trunyan Village is waiting for you. Isolated on the remote eastern shores of Lake Batur beneath the towering rim of Kintamani, this ancient Bali Aga settlement is famous worldwide for its fascinating, unique funeral customs. Unlike the rest of Hindu Bali where the deceased are cremated, the people here lay their dead openly on the ground beneath a sacred banyan tree, protected only by simple bamboo cages.
The Magic of the Taru Menyan Tree
What truly mystifies visitors is the absence of any unpleasant odor at the open-air cemetery. The secret lies entirely within a massive, centuries-old tree known locally as Taru Menyan, which translates literally to "nice-smelling tree." This sacred tree emits a natural, potent fragrance that completely neutralizes the air, creating a serene and deeply surreal atmosphere that you simply cannot experience anywhere else on earth.
Crossing the Volcanic Lake
Reaching this secluded enclave is an adventure in itself. First, you will make your way up to the dramatic, misty volcanic caldera of Kintamani. From there, you must take a local charter boat across the deep waters of Lake Batur to reach the isolated cemetery docks. Hiring an experienced local guide is highly recommended to ensure smooth transit across the water and a proper introduction to the village elders.
Navigating with Absolute Respect
- Approach the open-air burial grounds with quiet reverence, treating the sacred site with the same respect as a family tomb.
- Avoid taking items or changing the placement of anything inside the cemetery, as everything left behind holds spiritual significance.
- Ensure you wear modest, comfortable clothing and steady footwear suited for stepping in and out of lakeside boats and walking along uneven dirt trails.
Highland Refreshments and Lake Vistas
While the village itself offers minimal commercial distractions, the surrounding Kintamani rim is packed with world-class crater-view cafes and local eateries. After your boat ride back from the village, you can sit back with a warm cup of locally grown Kintamani coffee and enjoy the dramatic views of Mount Batur, making it an incredible, thought-provoking anchor for your day trip.
Yes, it is completely safe, provided you visit with an authorized local boat operator and guide who understands the community guidelines and maintains proper respect for the burial grounds.
The bodies are placed beneath a massive, ancient Taru Menyan tree. The unique natural properties and fragrance of this specific tree completely absorb and neutralize any odors of decomposition.
Yes, personal photography is permitted, but you must remain highly respectful. Avoid taking intrusive close-ups of human remains or altering the position of items to get a better camera angle.
The boat journey across Lake Batur from the Kedisan or Toya Bungkah docks takes roughly 15 to 30 minutes, offering stunning panoramic views of the active volcano along the way.
Bring plenty of local Indonesian Rupiah cash for boat rentals and local contributions, wear reliable walking shoes, and dress in modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
