Batuan an ancient village is located on the road between Denpasar and Ubud in central Bali. It is the quintessential traditional Balinese village the lush landscape of which is dominated by wooded hills, terraced paddy fields and streams flowing through it. According to an inscription found in the Pura Puseh Batuan the town’s recorded history begins from 1022 AD during the time of the Warmadeva Dynasty in Bali when the founding of the city is thought to have coincided with the construction of Pura Puseh temple. The Pura Puseh, the town’s main historic attraction is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. Split gates serve as entrances to a statue filled courtyard and to the inner precinct of the temple that features the elaborately decorated brick and stone main structure, several black palm thatched multi tier pagodas and open sided structures for public gatherings. Of special interest are sandstone carvings of worshipers, monsters, garudas and Hindu gods that are found all over the premises. Not all buildings here however date from the 11th century. Guests at the Laguna Resort & Spa Bali a luxury resort Bali in Nusa Dua have convenient access to the many historic and cultural destinations of the island.
Batuan’s fame however is because of its distinctive painting style that is responsible for bringing Balinese paintings to international notice. The particular effect in this style of painting is achieved by applying thin coats of paint to a shaded ink drawing. Stylization, ornamentation, a crowded canvas and a flat perspective are its hallmarks. The style is now all pervasive and every house in Batuan Village turns out art works in this style. This is probably to the advantage of visitors who have a choice of Batuan style art works and contemporary paintings in a village that sports art galleries in every corner. Batuan is also known for its elaborate teak wood carving artisans, the Gambuh dance, the six hour performance of which take place every full moon day, the daily morning barong dances and Kecak and fire dances in the evening at the Pura Puseh temple premises.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.