Despite the noise, bustle, traffic jams, and smog, Bali's capital, does have some interesting tourist options. One of the most popular is the central market--Bali's largest. Activity in and around this three-story building peaks well before dawn; so go early to see everything. It is well worth taking a stroll around Denpasar if you decide to venture into the capital. Anyone who hasn't seen an Asian city will be a little shocked at the smoke and dust, and the general living and shopping conditions that will be observed, but none-the-less it is an experience that will be remembered long after the suntan has faded. Denpasar was rebuilt after the Puputan massacre of 1906, when the royal family committed suicide rather than surrender to the invading Dutch army. Today, the public Puputan Square in the cent er of town commemorates the tragedy of that event.
Cross Jln. Surapati from Puputan Square to see the Bali Museum and Art Cent er, which houses many artifacts of Bali's ethnic history. Destroyed by an earthquake in 1917 when Mt. Batur erupted, the museum was rebuilt during the 1920's, and its collections were once more protected from the ravages of nature and souvenir hunters. Dress respectfully to enter the museum (long trousers or modest dresses must be worn). Another significant Art Cent er is located further east, just off Jln. Sanur (an extension of Jln. Gajahmada) toward Sanur.
The Denpasar tourist office is within a short walk of the square and the museum, as is Pura Jaganatha. Afternoon prayer times at this temple are very busy, and so long as visitors are dressed modestly, they will be welcomed.
The central market, Pasar Badung trades in the morning (starts very early, but is still operating during the mid-morning). It is located in Jln. Sulawesi, If you arrive by car, ask to stop along Jalan Gajahmada (the main road), near to the river. This will place you very close to the cent er of things--the major shopping area and its department stores, the market, the banks, Asian movie houses etc.
The markets are fascinating with spices, meat, dried fish, traditionally woven cloth, gold and silver craft wares all traded from stalls within the shadows of the modern department stores, banks, restaurants and apartment buildings. Always bargain for goods in the markets. Most shopping complexes, supermarkets and department stores have fixed prices, and shopping hours are usually between 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. with shorter hours on Sundays.
A large cinema complex is located a few hundred meters to the west of the market, just off Jln. Gajahmada to the left. Here they show Asian movies, kung fu, police drama, romance, kung fu, monsters, martial arts and kung fu! Anyone keen on Asian cinema would be well advised to pay a visit.
Accommodations and restaurants are available in all ranges, including a very good night market (Pasar Malam), so those wishing to experience life in a large Asian city could easily spend a couple of days here. Truly a different Bali experience!
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