A Sacred Journey of Ancestral Blessings and Divine Harmony
Bali is not only known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, but also for its rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted spirituality that are woven into daily life.
One of the most meaningful and visually enchanting celebrations on the island is the twin holy days of Galungan and Kuningan, a time when Bali is filled with divine energy, beauty, and tradition.
In Candidasa, where our resort is nestled, the spirit of this celebration can be felt in every corner.
Galungan and Kuningan are celebrated every 210 days based on the Balinese Pawukon calendar.
Galungan marks the victory of Dharma (good) over Adharma (evil). It is believed that on this day, the spirits of ancestors descend to the earthly realm to be honored through offerings and prayers.
Kuningan, celebrated ten days after Galungan, symbolizes the return of the ancestral spirits to the spiritual world. It serves as a reminder to maintain harmony between humanity, nature, and the divine.
During this celebration, Bali transforms into a spiritual paradise. In front of every home, locals erect a Penjor—a gracefully arched bamboo pole towering 7 to 10 meters high, decorated with palm leaf weavings, crops, fruits, and sacred cloths.
While its appearance is visually stunning, each part of the Penjor carries profound symbolic meaning tied to nature, gratitude, and spiritual devotion.
Symbolism Behind Each Element of the Penjor
1. Bamboo (Penjor Pole)
Represents Mount Agung, the spiritual axis of Bali. Its upward curve symbolizes prayers reaching toward the divine.
2. Janur (Young Coconut Leaves)
Signifies purity, freshness, and sincerity, often intricately woven into beautiful decorations.
3. Pala Bungkah (Tubers like sweet potatoes and cassava)
Symbolizes resilience and life force, growing strong from the earth below.
4. Pala Gantung (Hanging Fruits such as bananas and coconuts)
Represents abundance and blessings from nature.
5. Pala Wija (Seeds and grains like rice and corn)
A symbol of fertility, prosperity, and the hope for continued well-being of the family.
6. Sampian or Lamak (Woven palm-leaf offerings)
Serves as the platform for offerings, expressing devotion to God and ancestral spirits.
7. White and Yellow Cloth
Represents spiritual purity and balance—white for Shiva (spirituality), and yellow for Vishnu (prosperity and life).
Altogether, the Penjor stands as a living prayer, a tribute to the divine, nature, and the ancestral spirits that guide and protect.
At Ramayana Candidasa Beach Resort, we invite you to embrace this sacred time as an opportunity to experience Bali not just as a destination, but as a living culture.
During Galungan and Kuningan, Candidasa becomes especially serene. The soft morning light touches the rows of Penjor lining the village roads, incense lingers in the air, and traditional melodies fill the atmosphere with peace and reverence.
Tips for Enjoying and Capturing the Moment
1. Explore the village early in the morning, when sunlight gently illuminates the Penjor.
2. Respect sacred spaces—wear modest clothing if visiting temples or observing rituals.
3. Capture the moment, as the sight of Penjor swaying under the sky near the ocean is truly magical.
At Ramayana Candidasa Beach Resort, we believe that a truly memorable holiday doesn’t just refresh the body—it nourishes the soul.
During Galungan and Kuningan, we welcome you to become part of this beautiful tradition. Feel the peace, immerse in local culture, and return home with not only memories, but a deeper sense of harmony and gratitude.
Wishing you a blessed Galungan and Kuningan
(Photo of Penjors During Galungan/Kuningan)
