Trunyan Village Guide
Trunyan Village: Bali's Ancient and Mysterious Burial Rituals Guide
Venture off the beaten path and discover Trunyan Village, a remote and culturally unique community on the eastern shore of Lake Batur. This is not your typical Balinese village; Trunyan is known for its ancient burial traditions, where bodies are laid out in the open air to decompose, rather than being cremated. This fascinating and somewhat macabre practice offers a glimpse into a different side of Balinese culture and a profound respect for the cycle of life and death. Prepare for an experience that is both intriguing and thought-provoking. The history of Trunyan Village is shrouded in mystery, with its origins dating back centuries. The villagers, known as the Bali Aga (original Balinese), maintain traditions that predate the arrival of Hinduism in Bali. Their unique burial customs are centered around the sacred Taru Menyan tree, which emits a fragrance that neutralizes the odor of decomposition. Only the bodies of married individuals are traditionally laid out in the open air, while others are buried. This practice is believed to maintain the balance of nature and prevent disease. To reach Trunyan Village, you'll need to take a boat across Lake Batur from the village of Kuban. Once there, you can witness the burial site, where skulls and bones are arranged on stone platforms. It's important to approach this experience with respect and sensitivity. You can also explore the village itself, observing the traditional houses and learning about the daily life of the Trunyan people. While there are no specific culinary traditions unique to Trunyan, you can find simple meals and drinks available in Kuban before or after your boat trip. Remember to bring small bills for donations and to support the local community.
Transportation
The only way to reach Trunyan Village is by boat from the village of Kuban on the western shore of Lake Batur. To get to Kuban, you'll need to hire a car or taxi from Kuta, Ubud, or other major tourist areas. The drive takes approximately 2-3 hours. Once in Kuban, negotiate a price with a local boat operator for the round trip to Trunyan. Be prepared for a bumpy ride across the lake!