Before Denpasar became the center, Singaraja was the capital of Bali. This city was the heart of administration, trade, and culture during the royal era through to the Dutch colonial period. Today, the traces of its grand past are still preserved, waiting to be explored.

Take a journey back in time and discover an intellectual and historical side of Bali that few tourists ever see.

1. Gedong Kirtya Museum: A World-Class Lontar Library

This is a place of great importance. The museum is dedicated to preserving lontar, ancient Balinese palm-leaf manuscripts. Here you can see thousands of manuscripts containing everything from literature and royal genealogies to traditional medicine.

• A must for: History buffs, culture enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to understand the intellectual depth of Bali.

2. Old Buleleng Harbor and the Dutch Heritage Bridge

Take a walk around the old harbor area. You can still see the remains of warehouses and a bridge from the 19th century when Singaraja was the main gateway for international trade in Bali. Feel the nostalgic atmosphere of its golden age.

3. Pura Beji Sangsit: A Masterpiece of North Balinese Carving

This Subak Temple (a temple for the irrigation system) is the best example of the “baroque” North Balinese carving style—lush, busy, and incredibly detailed. Every inch of its walls is covered with intricate carvings of vines, flowers, and mythical figures. It’s very different from the temples in the south.

4. Ling Gwan Kiong Chinese Temple: Acculturation by the Sea

A beautiful Chinese temple is located right on the seafront near the harbor. Its existence is proof of Singaraja’s long history as a multicultural port city that was open to newcomers.

Singaraja offers a different kind of tour—one that enriches your knowledge and provides a deep context for how Bali became what it is today.