Galungan & Kuningan in Ubud: Traditions & Flavors of Bali
Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, always offers an unforgettable experience, especially during the Galungan and Kuningan celebrations. Balinese Hindus celebrate these two major holidays as rich moments of tradition, spirituality, and of course, the delicious Balinese cuisine.
If you’re in Ubud during this period, prepare to be greeted by a vibrant atmosphere, the soothing sound of gamelan music, and the tempting aroma of traditional dishes.
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The Meaning of Galungan & Kuningan
Photo by Ping Hotel Seminyak on Pinterest
Galungan symbolizes the victory of Dharma (truth) over Adharma (evil), during which Balinese Hindus believe that the spirits of ancestors descend to Earth to receive blessings. Ten days later, Kuningan is celebrated as the day when the ancestors return to their realm. This sacred time is a moment for the Balinese to gather, pray, and share happiness.
Ubud Amidst the Celebration
Photo by the itinerant designer on Pinterest
During Galungan and Kuningan, Locals adorn the streets of Ubud with penjor—tall bamboo poles decorated with janur (young coconut leaves) and agricultural offerings, symbolizing gratitude and prosperity. The Balinese people fill the temples, dressed in traditional attire, and Spiritual energy brings the village atmosphere to life.
For tourists, this is the best time to witness local wisdom in action. You can walk through the village or attend open ceremonies, and these experiences offer meaning and tranquility.
Must-Try Culinary Delights During Galungan & Kuningan
Authentic Balinese dishes complete the Galungan and Kuningan celebrations. Here are some of the dishes commonly served during these holidays:
1. Jukut Ares
A traditional Balinese vegetable dish made from young banana stalks cooked in a light broth of spices, coconut milk, and bone broth. It’s savory, mildly spicy, and refreshing. Jukut Ares is typically served as a main side dish during the holiday, balancing the strong flavors of other dishes.
Photo Jukut Ares on Wikipedia
2. Urutan
A traditional Balinese sausage made from ground pork, fat, and distinctive spices such as galangal, garlic, and kaffir lime leaves. Its texture is chewy with a savory-spicy flavor that soaks through. Balinese cooks usually fry urutan until it’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, perfect when served with hot steamed rice and sambal.
Photo courtesy of Warung Pondok Madu
3. Sate Lilit
A Balinese-style satay made with minced meat (often chicken, fish, or pork) mixed with grated coconut, coconut milk, and spices. Cooks wrap the mixture around a lemongrass stalk or flat bamboo stick and then grilled until aromatic. Sate Lilit is rich in spices and slightly sweet, often served with sambal matah or sambal embe as a complement.
Photo courtesy of Warung Pondok Madu
4. Ayam/Bebek Betutu
A signature Balinese dish made with whole chicken or duck filled and wrapped in betutu spices—a blend of ingredients like candlenut, turmeric, garlic, and lemongrass. Chefs slow-cook the dish by steaming or roasting it in banana leaves for hours. The result is tender, aromatic, and packed with deep savory and spicy flavors.
Photo by Andrias Nicho Nugraha on Pinterest
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5. Jajan Bali
An assortment of traditional Balinese cakes made from rice flour, coconut, and palm sugar. Popular choices include laklak (mini pancakes with grated coconut), klepon (glutinous rice balls filled with liquid sugar), and pisang rai (steamed bananas wrapped in rice flour). Sweet, soft, and aromatic—these treats are perfect as dessert during celebrations.
Photo Klepon on Pinterest
Balinese Culinary Heritage at Warung Pondok Madu
One of the best places to enjoy authentic Balinese flavors during Galungan & Kuningan is Warung Pondok Madu, located in the heart of Ubud. Locals and tourists alike praise this eatery for serving traditional and modern dishes that are healthy, delicious, and Instagram-worthy.
During the festive season, Warung Pondok Madu often features local twists on its menu, including Bali-spiced Pork Ribs and Sate Lilit served with a contemporary style. This makes Warung Pondok Madu the perfect place to celebrate the cultural vibe while indulging in delicious food.
After exploring Ubud or attending a Galungan ceremony, stop by this warung so you can enjoy a meal that blends authentic flavors with a cozy atmosphere—ideal for enjoying with family or friends.
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Celebrate Galungan & Kuningan in Ubud
Galungan and Kuningan are not just religious celebrations; They also reflect Bali’s rich culture and culinary traditions. By witnessing the customary rituals and enjoying the local dishes at places like Warung Pondok Madu, Your time in Ubud offers a complete and authentic experience.
Make this moment your way to connect more deeply with Balinese culture—feel the peace of the ceremonies, the beauty of the penjor, and the delicious local cuisine and you’ll fall in love with Ubud.