Balinese traditional dances are among the most beautiful and culturally rich art forms in Indonesia. Deeply intertwined with Bali’s mythology, spirituality and artistic expression, these dances go far beyond entertainment. They are living offerings to the gods, stories passed through generations and an essential part of Balinese identity.
For visitors to Ubud, attending a traditional dance performance is one of the most memorable cultural experiences in Bali.
About Balinese Dance
Balinese traditional dances are rooted in Balinese Hindu cosmology. Every performance carries a spiritual intention, whether to honour deities, purify the environment or retell ancient stories such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Unlike many dance forms that exist purely for entertainment, Balinese dance often acts as a bridge between the human and divine worlds.
Rhythm, movement, expression and costume all play important roles. Sharp eye movements (seledet), dynamic hand gestures and strong footwork are signature elements that make Balinese dance so distinctive.
Many dancers believe that during certain performances, especially trance-based dances, the spirit world participates through them.
Types of Traditional Balinese Dance
Legong Dance
Legong is one of Bali’s most elegant traditional dances. Historically performed in the royal courts, it features young female dancers displaying precise finger movements, expressive eyes and graceful gestures. Accompanied by traditional gamelan music, Legong tells stories of kings, princesses and mythical creatures.
Barong and Keris Dance
The Barong Dance portrays the eternal battle between good (Barong) and evil (Rangda). Featuring colourful costumes, dramatic music and trance-like scenes, the performance represents life’s constant balance between opposing forces. The famous Keris (dagger) scene is often the highlight of the performance.
Kecak Fire Dance
Kecak is unlike any other Balinese dance because no musical instruments are used. Instead, 50 to 100 male performers sit in a circle chanting rhythmically while reenacting scenes from the Ramayana. The performance often concludes with a dramatic fire dance where a performer moves through burning coconut husks while in a trance-like state.
Joged Dance
Joged is a social dance accompanied by a bamboo instrument ensemble. Often performed during community celebrations, Joged showcases Bali’s fun and playful side and encourages audience participation.
Gamelan Music in Balinese Dance
Traditional Balinese dances are almost always accompanied by gamelan music, particularly Gamelan Gong Kebyar, known for its fast tempo and shimmering metallic tones.
The connection between dancers and musicians is essential. Dancers often signal transitions and rhythm changes through movement, creating a live artistic dialogue between performer and musician.
Costumes and Makeup used in Balinese Dance Performances.
Costumes elevate the storytelling aspect of Balinese dance. Vibrant fabrics, gold-plated accessories, intricate headdresses and dramatic makeup help define characters and emotions. These visual elements make Balinese dance not only spiritually significant but also visually captivating.
Tips Before Attending a Balinese Dance Performance
| Performance Time | 7:30pm |
| Duration | Approximately 90 minutes |
| Ticket Price | Rp 100,000 per person |
| Children Under 5 | Free |
Purchase Ticket Tickets available for purchase onsite anytime during the day.
Where to Watch Balinese Dance in Ubud
Pura Dalem, Jalan Raya Ubud
Monday – Kecak Fire Dance
Tuesday – Legong Dance
Thursday – Legong, Barong & Keris
Friday – Kecak & Ramayana
Saturday – Semara Ratih (The Spirit of Bali)
Sunday – Kerta Art Performance
Saraswati Temple, Corner Jalan Raya Ubud & Jalan Kajeng
Monday – Joged
Tuesday – Chandra Wati with Female Gamelan ★ Recommended
Wednesday – Ramayana
Thursday – Legong & Barong
Saturday – Legong
Sunday – Jangger
Ubud Royal Palace, Corner Jalan Raya Ubud & Jalan Suweta, Ubud
Monday – Legong of Mahabharata
Tuesday – Ramayana & Legong
Wednesday – Barong & Legong
Thursday – Legong & Paradise
Friday – Legong & Fire Dance
Saturday – Legong
Sunday – Legong of Mahabharata
Pura Puseh, Jalan Suweta, Ubud
Thursday – Kecak
Sunday – Kecak
Pura Dalem Taman Kaja, Jalan Sri Wedari, Ubud
Wednesday – Kecak
Saturday – Kecak
Pura Batukaru, Jalan Suweta, Ubud
Tuesday – Ladies Kecak
Frequently Asked Questions About Balinese Dance in Ubud
What is the best Balinese dance performance in Ubud?
Our recommendations are the Kecak Fire Dance at Pura Dalem and Chandra Wati with Female Gamelan at Saraswati Temple. Both performances are fascinating and take place in beautifully illuminated temple settings, creating a memorable cultural experience.
What is the best Balinese dance in Ubud for children?
We recommend Chandra Wati with Female Gamelan at Saraswati Temple. The music is light and engaging, while the performances are colourful and entertaining for children. One of the highlights is the Rabbit Dance, which is often a favourite with younger audiences. The beautifully lit temple and surrounding lotus pond also add to the experience.
What time do Balinese dance performances finish?
Most performances begin at 7:30pm and finish between 8:30pm and 9:00pm, depending on the venue and performance.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
For most performances, tickets can be purchased on the day in Ubud or directly at the venue before the performance begins.
How can I pay for Balinese dance performance tickets?
Most venues accept cash only, so it is recommended to bring Indonesian Rupiah with you.
What time should I arrive for a Balinese dance performance in Ubud?
If you need to purchase tickets, we recommend arriving at least 45 minutes before the performance starts. This allows time to buy tickets and secure a good seat.
What should I wear to a Balinese dance performance in Ubud?
Casual clothing is acceptable. However, many performances take place at temples, so respectful attire is recommended. Avoid very short clothing, swimwear and singlet tops. Lightweight clothing that covers the shoulders is ideal.
Are Balinese dance performances suitable for visitors who do not speak Indonesian?
The stories are told through dance, costume, music and expression, making them enjoyable even if you do not understand the language. Some venues provide information pamplets that help guests follow the performance and the story.
Need Help Choosing a Balinese Dance Performance?
Ubud Traveler specialises in authentic Balinese cultural experiences.
If you need assistance purchasing tickets and arranging transport to Balinese Dance Performances in Ubud. Contact Us.
If you stay at Bisma Cottages, Balinese Dance Tickets can be purchased by staff.
