Denpasar

Denpasar holds its own charm as a place where modernity and Balinese distinct culture blend flawlessly as a whole. Denpasar is the capital City of Bali Island, and also acts as the major hub that connects the many tourists’ destinations within Bali Island. Denpasar is also the site where the famous Bali Arts Festival is held annually. Designated as Bali’s capital since 1958, replacing the former capital of Singaraja in the north, the city of Denpasar has since then grown rapidly in population and economy.

Around its major square are the office of the Governor, the Bali Museum, and Bali’s first hotel, the Bali Hotel, where Hollywood film stars Charlie Chaplin and Barbara Hutton once stayed. Also around here are major banks. While other government offices can be found at Renon. The Puputan Square itself is a historic landmark in Bali’s heroic history. As a historic reminder of this phenomenal stance, the huge Bajra Sandhi Monument was erected at the Puputan Margarana Square, right in the heart of the city. Inside the monument, visitors will find dioramas and other valuable collections depicting the history of the Balinese struggle against colonialism.

Denpasar is by far the largest city in Bali but still manages to retain a small-town ambiance despite heavy traffic congestion on its roads. The city is generally made up of tightly knit villages complete with historic Hindu temples surrounded by communal family compounds. It offers the most accessible way to see real, uncompromising Balinese life. Denpasar is also Bali’s best spot for shopping and features everything from lively street markets, vast department stores and more than its fair share of trendy boutiques. Expect the cheapest prices in Bali for almost everything as most stores cater to locals.