Travelers in Bali are increasingly looking beyond the island’s popular beach resorts to explore historic urban centers that served as vital trading hubs for centuries. According to The Bali Sun, cities like Singaraja and Amlapura offer cultural insights into Bali’s colonial and royal past, providing alternatives to the standard tourist circuit.
Exploring Singaraja: The Former Colonial Capital
Singaraja, the largest city in North Bali, served as the colonial capital of Bali and the Lesser Sunda Islands between 1849 and 1960. Known locally as “Kota Pendidikan” or the City of Education, the area supports a population of 154,000 people. While many visitors frequent the nearby Lovina Beach, The Bali Sun reports that Singaraja offers unique cultural landmarks, including Gedong Kirtya, the only library in Bali dedicated to lontar manuscripts—traditional scripts etched onto palm leaves.
The city’s religious architecture highlights its diverse heritage. Singaraja is home to a significant Buddhist community, with sites such as the STI Vihara Buddhavamsa Singaraja open to visitors who follow proper temple etiquette. Additionally, the Klenteng Ling Gwan Kiong, a Taoist temple built in a distinct Chinese style, provides a contrast to the region’s traditional Balinese Hindu shrines. Following a series of renovations completed in August 2025, including a new roof, the temple remains a focal point for those visiting the area. Infrastructure in the city is also evolving; the Singaraja Zero Point Area project is scheduled for completion on July 12.
Amlapura and the Royal History of East Bali
In East Bali, the city of Amlapura serves as the seat of the Karangasem Regency and stands as a primary destination for those seeking historical royal sites. According to The Bali Sun, the city functions as a gateway to both traditional markets and well-preserved water palaces. Key sites include Puri Agung Karangasem, as well as the Tirta Gangga Palace and Taman Ujung, which are located within a 20-minute drive of one another.
While Amlapura offers its own lodging options, the report notes that many tourists prefer to stay in nearby Candidasa, with the Candi Beach Resort and Spa cited as a popular choice. This arrangement allows visitors to access the historical sites of the royal capital while maintaining proximity to the East Bali coastline and views of Mount Agung.
What May Happen Next for Bali’s Ancient Cities
As tourism patterns shift, these ancient cities may see an increase in day-trip traffic from visitors based in coastal hubs like Lovina, Munduk, and Candidasa. With the upcoming completion of the Singaraja Zero Point Area, travelers arriving in North Bali after July 12 may find new public spaces that could alter the city’s current tourism landscape. Furthermore, as interest in off-path travel grows, historical sites like the Pustaka Lontar Museum in Penaban could experience higher visitor numbers, potentially encouraging further preservation efforts for the island’s rare manuscript collections.
