Sukawati

Sukawati

Central Bali · Bali · Indonesia

About Sukawati

Discover the Artistic Charm of Sukawati

Sukawati, a picturesque town in Bali, Indonesia, is a treasure trove of art, culture, and natural beauty. Located in the Gianyar Regency, Sukawati is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Balinese experience.

Why Visit

Sukawati is renowned for its vibrant art scene, with numerous galleries and workshops showcasing the works of local artists. The town is also famous for its traditional markets, where visitors can find unique souvenirs, handicrafts, and local delicacies.

How to Reach from Center

To reach Sukawati from the center of Bali, take the Ubud-Batubulan road and turn left at the Sukawati intersection. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes by car or taxi.

Exploration Tips

  • Visit the Sukawati Art Market to discover an array of traditional Balinese art and handicrafts.
  • Explore the town's scenic countryside, with its lush green rice fields and picturesque villages.
  • Attend a traditional Balinese dance performance at one of the local temples or cultural centers.

With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Sukawati is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience in Bali.

The best time to visit Sukawati is during the dry season, from May to September.

Some of the must-try dishes in Sukawati include nasi goreng, mie goreng, and fresh seafood.

Popular activities in Sukawati include visiting the art market, exploring the countryside, and attending traditional dance performances.

To get to Sukawati from the airport, take a taxi or rent a car and drive via the Ubud-Batubulan road.

The average cost of accommodation in Sukawati ranges from $20 to $100 per night, depending on the type of accommodation and amenities.

Nasi Campur Sukawati: Found in the small warungs surrounding the market. The Sukawati style often features Sate Lilit made with a higher ratio of spice to meat, and a very spicy, aromatic Ayam Sisit (shredded chicken).

Babi Guling Gung Cung: While there are several famous spots, the Babi Guling in the Sukawati area is known for its extra-crunchy skin and a heavy dose of Lawar (finely chopped vegetable and meat salad) that uses local jungle ferns.

Es Daluman: A refreshing green jelly drink made from Daluman leaves, served with coconut milk and liquid palm sugar. It is the perfect antidote to the heat of the crowded market.

Tipat Tahu: A simple but beloved dish of rice cakes and fried tofu topped with a spicy peanut sauce and sweet soy sauce. It’s a popular breakfast or lunch for the market traders.

Highlights

  • Traditional art market
  • Scenic countryside
  • Traditional Balinese dance performances

Things To Do

  • Visit the Sukawati Art Market
  • Explore the countryside
  • Attend a traditional dance performance
Pics: Gary Beilby

🗓 Best Time to Visit

Year-round

💡 Local Tips

The "Two-Market" Strategy: There are two main markets. Pasar Seni Sukawati (The Art Market) is for souvenirs, paintings, and clothes. Pasar Umum Sukawati (The General Market) is across the street and is where locals buy fruit, flowers, and ritual offerings. Visit the general market at dawn for the most authentic experience. Wholesale Bargaining: Unlike Ubud, Sukawati is a wholesale hub. If you buy 3 or more of the same item (like sarongs or fans), you can often get a "Grosir" (wholesale) price that is significantly lower than the individual price. The Best Time to Shop: Arrive as soon as the market opens (around 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM). In Balinese culture, the first sale of the day is considered "Penglaris" (good luck for the business). Merchants are often more willing to give a steep discount just to secure that first transaction. Hidden Art Villages: Sukawati is surrounded by specialized villages. If you want high-quality wood carvings, head to Mas Village. For gold and silver, head to Celuk. For stone carving, visit Batubulan. Buying at the source in these villages often yields higher quality than the mass-produced items in the central market. Hidden Canyon Beji Guwang: Located just minutes from the market, this is a stunning natural "hidden canyon." It requires some physical effort (wading through water and climbing rocks), but it is one of the most photogenic natural spots in Bali. Avoid the Crowd: Avoid Sukawati on weekends and Indonesian public holidays. It is a very popular destination for domestic tourists from Java, and the narrow roads can become completely gridlocked with tour buses.

📍 Location Info

Region: Central Bali
Province: Bali
Country: Indonesia

🗺 Explore Sukawati

🏛 2 attractions
Attractions → All Tours →