Kintamani: Trunyan Village Cemetery Tour

Introduction

This review covers one of Bali’s most intriguing excursions—the Trunyan Village Cemetery Tour in Kintamani. If you’re interested in authentic Balinese traditions that veer off the typical tourist path, this tour offers an eye-opening peek into a community that practices ancient, unique burial rites.

What makes this experience stand out for us are the scenic views of Lake Batur and Mt. Batur, combined with the deep cultural insights provided by guides who are local residents. The scenic boat ride to the cemetery adds a tranquil, almost meditative element, making the journey as memorable as the destination.

A potential consideration is the short walk involved and the fact that the tour includes seeing human remains—definitely not for everyone. But if you’re curious about how different cultures treat death and are comfortable with open-air cemeteries, this tour is a fascinating slice of Bali’s lesser-known traditions. It’s best suited for travelers eager for cultural authenticity and scenic beauty, and those prepared for a respectful approach to a deeply meaningful local practice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Contents

• Introduction
• Key Points
• An In-Depth Look at the Trunyan Village Cemetery Tour
• How the Tour Begins: From Hotel to Lake Batur
• Exploring Trunyan Village: A Window into Ancient Traditions
• The Cemetery of Trunyan: A Ritual Like No Other
• Scenic Boat Ride to the Cemetery
• Walking and Viewing Human Remains
• Break at a Local Restaurant
• Drop-Offs and Flexibility
• What It’s Like to Be There: Real Traveller Perspectives
• Considerations and Practical Tips
• Analyzing the Value
• Our Top Picks in Lake Batur
• More Tours in Lake Batur
• More Tour Reviews in Lake Batur
• Not for you? Here's more things to do in Lake Batur we have recnetly reviewed

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Visit a village that maintains age-old burial customs hardly seen elsewhere.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides who are from Trunyan themselves offer genuine insights and stories.
• Scenic Boat Ride: Enjoy a peaceful 20-minute ride across Lake Batur, with views that make the journey special.
• Unique Cemetery: Witness the open-air burial site under a sacred tree, a practice that’s been in place for over 1,300 years.
• Respectful Approach: The tour emphasizes respect for local customs and traditions.
• Limited Duration: The experience spans from 2 to 6 hours, fitting easily into a day’s schedule.

An In-Depth Look at the Trunyan Village Cemetery Tour

How the Tour Begins: From Hotel to Lake Batur

The adventure starts with a pick-up from your hotel lobby in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. We appreciated how smoothly this was organized, with clear communication and punctuality. As you leave Ubud or southern Bali behind, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through lush landscapes and views of Bali’s volcanic terrain.

Your first stop is at Penelokan Village, which offers breathtaking vistas of Lake Batur and Mt. Batur. This viewpoint is a highlight—standing there, you get a sense of Bali’s volcanic backbone, and it’s a fantastic spot for photos and to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds this part of Bali. The drive from Ubud takes about 1 hour, or 1.5 hours from the south, making it a manageable morning or afternoon trip.

Exploring Trunyan Village: A Window into Ancient Traditions

From Penelokan, it’s about 30 minutes to reach the main village of Trunyan. Here, a local guide—often someone like Yansu, who grew up in the village—takes you on a detailed walk through the village. Their stories about life here are filled with pride and deep respect for their customs.

The main temple of Trunyan, although occasionally closed for traditional reasons (such as during certain times of the Balinese calendar), is a vital part of the community’s spiritual life. When open, it provides a glimpse into the local religious practices and community cohesion that have persisted for generations.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Cemetery of Trunyan: A Ritual Like No Other

The core of this tour is the Trunyan Cemetery, famous for its “Mepasah” system, unique in Bali. Instead of cremating their dead, the villagers place bodies in bamboo cages called akan saji, which are then lowered under the Taru Menyan tree. The name “Taru Menyan” means “the fragrant tree,” and it’s a clever natural feature—its scent neutralizes the smell of decay, allowing bodies to decompose openly without creating a foul odor.

This practice is over 1,300 years old and reflects a deeply respectful approach to death, emphasizing the cycle of life and nature. Only married people are buried in this manner, which adds a layer of social significance. Visitors note that the site is both peaceful and profoundly moving, evoking a sense of reverence and curiosity.

Scenic Boat Ride to the Cemetery

The boat ride across Lake Batur to reach the cemetery takes about 20 minutes. It’s a quiet journey, with views of the water and mountains that make you feel worlds away from Bali’s busy beaches. As some reviews mention, the boat is a delightful way to connect with the natural surroundings and adds an element of tranquility to the experience.

Walking and Viewing Human Remains

Once you arrive, a short walk from the boat lands you at the bamboo cage resting under the sacred tree. Here, you’ll see the open-air graves, which allow natural decomposition. The experience is respectful and educational, with guides explaining the symbolism and significance of the customs.

Break at a Local Restaurant

After visiting the cemetery, you’ll have a chance to relax and enjoy a meal at a nearby local restaurant. The 1.5-hour break is perfect for sampling Balinese cuisine, chatting with your guide, and reflecting on the sights you’ve seen.

Drop-Offs and Flexibility

The tour concludes with drop-offs at various locations—Seminyak, Legian Beach, Ubud, Kuta, Sanur, and others—making it convenient for travelers with different plans. The flexibility of the schedule allows you to tailor the day to your preferences.

What It’s Like to Be There: Real Traveller Perspectives

Multiple reviewers have raved about the guides’ knowledge—”a true local who shared fascinating stories,” as one said—and the stunning views that make the journey worthwhile. “The atmosphere highlighted the respect for life and death in Balinese culture,” one traveler observed, illustrating how the experience touches on deeper cultural values.

Some noted that the tour is well-organized and authentic, with one describing it as “a unique and unforgettable experience,” and another calling the guide “amazing and so knowledgeable.” The boat ride, in particular, gets special praise for its peacefulness and scenic quality.

Considerations and Practical Tips

Despite all its positives, some travelers mention the short walk involved and the fact that the site shows human remains, which could be unsettling for some. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over 75, due to the physical nature of the walk and the sensitive nature of the site.

Bring your camera (discreetly, as a sign of respect), wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and prepare for a respectful, contemplative experience. The tour is guided in English and Indonesian, so language isn’t a barrier.

Analyzing the Value

Considering the price, this tour offers a deep cultural experience that isn’t easily found elsewhere on Bali. The combination of scenic views, authentic traditions, and knowledgeable guides makes it a strong value for those interested in cultural tourism rather than just beaches and resorts.

The private group format also means you won’t be part of a large, noisy crowd, allowing for a more intimate experience. The flexible duration (2 to 6 hours) enables you to fit it into a day without feeling rushed.

This experience is perfect for travelers who crave authentic, off-the-beaten-path encounters and aren’t shy about cultural and spiritual topics. It’s ideal for those with an interest in traditions that challenge the usual Balinese images, and who can approach death with an open mind and respectful attitude.

If you love scenic landscapes and are eager to see real local life, this tour hits those marks. However, if you prefer touristy sites or are uncomfortable with open-air graves, it might not be your best fit.

The Kintamani: Trunyan Village Cemetery Tour offers a rare look into Bali’s ancient burial practices, combined with scenic beauty and the warmth of local guides. It’s a meaningful experience that invites genuine reflection on life and death, framed by stunning views of the volcano and lake.

For curious travelers who want to connect deeply with Bali’s traditional culture, this tour delivers authenticity and insight in a respectful, thoughtfully organized package. It’s not just a sightseeing trip—it’s a window into a community’s spiritual life that’s been preserved for centuries.

While not for everyone—especially the faint of heart or those seeking typical Bali beaches—it remains a highly recommended choice for those eager to explore the island’s lesser-known, profound traditions. Expect to come away with a new appreciation for Bali’s diversity and a story to tell long after your trip ends.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally aimed at adults or older children who can handle walking and are comfortable with open-air graves and cultural sensitivities.

How long does the tour last?
The duration varies from 2 to 6 hours, depending on your chosen package and pace, with most visitors completing it comfortably in half a day.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, making the logistics hassle-free.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, comfortable clothing, and shoes. It’s also good to have some water and perhaps a hat for sun protection.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Indonesian, ensuring clear explanations during the tour.

Is there any special preparation needed?
Just come with an open mind and respect for the local customs; the guides will handle the rest.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over 75, due to walking and site conditions.

What makes this tour special compared to other Bali experiences?
Its focus on a rare, centuries-old burial practice, combined with scenic boat rides and genuine local stories, makes it uniquely authentic.

This tour offers an enriching perspective on Bali’s traditions, blending natural beauty with profound cultural insights. Perfect for travelers who seek more than just surface-level sights, it rewards those who approach it with respect and curiosity.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby