Bāli, India
Region: Uttar Pradesh
Geographic Coordinates: 22.650000, 88.340000
Temperature Range: 10.0°C to 35.0°C (50°F to 95°F)
Climate: Monsoon and tropical climate.
Population: 293373
Language: Bāli, India does not exist
Bali, A small village located in the Pali district of Rajasthan, India, Is renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage. The village has been inhabited since ancient times and has witnessed many historical events that have shaped its culture and traditions. Surrounded by hills on all sides, Bali is an ideal location for nature enthusiasts. The Aravalli range can be seen from the village, Adding to its beauty. The weather in Bali remains pleasant throughout the year with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 35°C. Tourists and locals alike flock to Bali’s famous temples.
The Balaji Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman is the most popular temple in Bali attracting thousands of devotees every year during Hanuman Jayanti that falls in April or May. Bali’s handicrafts such as pottery, Weaving, And embroidery are also well-known. Local artisans who have inherited these skills from their ancestors make these handicrafts. The festivals celebrated in Bali are another attraction for tourists. Holi (the festival of colors) is the most popular festival celebrated here every March where people throw colored powder at each other while dancing to traditional music.
The Ranakpur Jain Temple lies about 30 km away from Bali which showcases exquisite craftsmanship dating back to the 15th century CE through hundreds of intricately carved pillars. Bali offers a unique blend of history, Culture, Nature, And spirituality making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring India’s rich heritage beyond popular tourist destinations like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur etc. The serene surroundings, Popular temples, Festivals, And handicrafts make it an ideal destination for those seeking peace , Tranquility, And spiritual enlightenment while immersing themselves in local culture.
Important Landmarks
- Tanah Lot Temple
- Uluwatu Temple
- Tegalalang Rice Terrace
- Ubud Monkey Forest
- Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking
- Kuta Beach
- Seminyak Beach
- Nusa Dua Beach
- Bali Safari and Marine Park
- Waterbom Bali Waterpark
Primary Industries
- Textile Industry: Bali is famous for its traditional textile industry that involves handloom weaving and block printing.
- Agriculture: The village predominantly relies on agriculture, with farmers cultivating crops such as wheat, mustard, and vegetables.
- Handicrafts: Bali has a thriving handicrafts industry that produces items like pottery, wooden toys, and metalwork.
- Tourism: Due to its proximity to popular tourist destinations like Jaipur and Udaipur, Bali has witnessed an increase in tourism over the years.
- Small-scale Manufacturing: There are several small-scale manufacturing units that produce items such as steel utensils and plastic goods within the village.
- Retail Trade: Numerous shops cater to the needs of local residents and tourists by selling groceries, clothing, household items etc.
- Services Sector: There are also several service-oriented businesses like banks & hospitals serving the local population of Bali.
Noteable History
- The Battle of Bali (1575) – This was a significant battle between the Vijayanagara Empire and the Sultanate of Bijapur, which resulted in the defeat of Vijayanagara.
- Raghavendra Swami (1595-1671) – He was a Hindu saint and philosopher who lived in Bali. He is considered one of the foremost saints of the Madhva tradition.
- Tipu Sultan (1750-1799) – He was a ruler of Mysore who fought against British rule in India. Tipu Sultan had a fort built in Bali during his reign.
- Krishnadevaraya (1471-1529) – He was one of the greatest rulers of Vijayanagara Empire and is known for his patronage towards arts, literature, and architecture.
- Basavanna (1134-1196) – He was a poet, philosopher, and social reformer who lived in Karnataka during 12th century AD. Basavanna’s teachings had an immense impact on South Indian society including that in Bali.
- The Chalukya dynasty (543-753 AD) – The Chalukya dynasty ruled over parts of present-day Karnataka including Bali from 6th to 8th century AD . They were known for their architectural styles seen today at places such as Aihole & Pattadakal near Bali.
- The Hoysala Dynasty(1026–1343 CE)-The Hoysala Dynasty ruled over parts present-day Karnataka including Bali from 11th to 14th century AD . They were also known for their unique architectural style seen at places such as Belur & Halebidu near Bali.
These events/people have played an important role in shaping the history and culture of Bali and have left their mark on the city’s heritage.
Museums and Things To See
- Uluwatu Temple: A breathtaking temple that sits atop a cliff, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
- Ubud Monkey Forest: A nature reserve and Hindu temple complex that is home to more than 700 monkeys.
- Goa Gajah: An ancient cave temple with intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere.
- Tegalalang Rice Terrace: Beautifully terraced rice fields that provide incredible vistas of the surrounding scenery.
- Bali Museum: A museum dedicated to Balinese art, culture, and history.
- Pura Tanah Lot: One of Bali’s most recognizable temples situated on a rock formation in the sea.
- Puri Saren Palace: The former residence of Ubud’s royal family now transformed into a museum showcasing Balinese art and culture for visitors to enjoy.
- Bali Art Center: An art center highlighting traditional Balinese performing arts such as dance, music, and theater performances.
- Gunung Kawi Temple Complex: An ancient temple complex featuring ten shrines carved into the side of a cliff surrounded by lush greenery.
- Tirta Empul Temple: A revered Hindu water temple renowned for its sacred spring water believed to have healing properties.
Sports Teams
- Bali United F.C: This professional football club was established in 1989 and is based in Bali. They have won the Liga 2 championship twice and the Liga 1 championship once.
- Buleleng FC: This football club is located in Buleleng, Bali and participates in the Liga Nusantara league. They have achieved success at regional levels.
- Badung FC: Another football club situated in Badung regency, Bali that competes regionally.
- Bali Tigers Rugby Football Club: A rugby team created by expats residing on the island of Bali that competes against other local teams.
- Ubud Cowboys American Football Club: An American football team formed by expats living in Ubud, Bali who wished to introduce their love for American football to Indonesia.
These are just a few examples of sports teams that have gained popularity over time across various regions of Bali, Indonesia.
Cultural Events
- Nyepi Day: This is the Balinese New Year’s Day and is celebrated by observing a day of silence and self-reflection.
- Galungan: This festival celebrates the victory of good over evil and involves offerings to ancestors and gods.
- Kuningan: This festival marks the end of the Galungan celebration and involves offerings to ancestors.
- Saraswati Day: This day honors Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, arts, wisdom, and learning.
- Tumpek Landep: This festival celebrates metal objects such as knives or cars as they are believed to have spirits that protect their owners.
- Ubud Writers & Readers Festival: An annual literary event held in Ubud that features writers from around the world.
- Bali Arts Festival: A month-long celebration of Balinese arts including dance performances, music concerts, exhibitions, workshops and competitions held annually in June-July at Denpasar’s Art Centre (Taman Werdhi Budaya).
Cuisine
- Dal Bati Churma: This dish is a classic Rajasthani meal that includes lentil soup, baked wheat balls, and sweetened cereal. Most local restaurants serve this dish.
- Kachori: A deep-fried pastry stuffed with spiced lentils or potatoes is called Kachori. You can find it at street food stalls all over Bali.
- Laal Maas: Laal Maas is a spicy meat curry made with mutton or lamb and red chili paste that’s famous in Rajasthan and available at many local restaurants.
- Chokhi Dhani Restaurant: This restaurant offers an authentic Rajasthani dining experience with live music, dance performances, and traditional food served on leaf plates.
- Surya Mahal Restaurant: A vegetarian restaurant known for its mouth-watering North Indian dishes like paneer tikka masala, chana masala, and dal makhani.
- Rawat Misthan Bhandar: This sweet shop sells delicious Rajasthani sweets like ghewar, rasgulla, gulab jamun, and laddoo.
- Shree Thakur Ji Bhojanalay: For an affordable price you can enjoy simple yet delicious vegetarian thalis (platters) consisting of rice, roti (bread), vegetable curries,dal (lentils), papadum (crispy flatbread), salad,and dessert at this restaurant.
Parks and Recreation
- Bali Bird Park: A park featuring over 1000 birds from 250 different species, as well as other animals such as reptiles and mammals.
- Tirta Gangga Water Palace: A beautiful water garden with fountains, ponds, and statues.
- Bali Safari & Marine Park: A wildlife park that offers safari rides through animal habitats and marine exhibits.
- Mount Batur Trekking: Hiking to the top of Mount Batur for a sunrise view over the island of Bali.
- Ayung River Rafting: White water rafting down the Ayung River, surrounded by lush jungle scenery.
- Ubud Monkey Forest: A nature reserve and temple complex inhabited by hundreds of macaque monkeys.
- Tegalalang Rice Terrace: Scenic rice paddies with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Tanah Lot Temple: An ancient Hindu temple located on a rock formation in the ocean, offering breathtaking sunset views.
- Nusa Dua Beach Watersports Centre: Offering a variety of watersports activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boating on Nusa Dua Beach.
- Kuta Beach Surfing Lessons: Learning to surf on one of Bali’s most famous beaches with experienced instructors available for all levels from beginners to advanced surfers.