A Taste of Bali - Outdoor Cooking Class with Nadia’s Group

A TASTE OF BALI: OUTDOOR COOKING CLASS WITH NADIA’S GROUP

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There is something truly special about bringing people together through food, especially when it happens in a serene, open-air setting surrounded by nature. During their 9-day stay with us, the wonderful Nadia Yoga group embraced this experience wholeheartedly through a delightful cooking class. With a group of 8 participants, we curated a more intimate and immersive session by hosting the class outdoors. As the evening breeze set in, the cooking session began at 6:00 PM, creating the perfect ambiance for a hands-on culinary journey. The menu was thoughtfully selected to introduce the group to authentic Balinese flavors. Participants learned how to prepare sate lilit & jukut ares, a traditional Balinese dish rich in local ingredients and cultural heritage. Alongside this, they also crafted fresh lawar salad, crispy spring rolls, and the beloved Indonesian dessert, dadar gulung.
What made the experience truly unforgettable was the energy and enthusiasm of the group. Laughter, curiosity, and excitement filled the air as everyone worked together, chopping, mixing, and cooking under the open sky. For many, it was their first time experiencing a cooking class in such a natural setting, making it not just a lesson, but a cherished memory. Moments like these reflect the essence of what we aim to offer: meaningful experiences that connect people not only to local culture, but also to each other.

A JOURNEY BACK HOME: GUSTI'S STORY

A JOURNEY BACK HOME: GUSTI’S STORY

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At Puri Dajuma Terrace, every team member has a story—and Gusti’s is one of passion, homecoming, and genuine connection.
I Gusti Putu Imanyasa, or simply Gusti as we fondly call him, is the friendly face behind many of our tours and transfers. Before becoming part of our guides-drivers team, Gusti worked as a driver for a tourism transportation company. It was on the road, meeting travelers from different parts of the world, that he discovered something more than just a job—a true passion for tourism. Driven by this passion, Gusti began learning how to become a guide, eager to share stories, culture, and experiences with others.
Life then brought him full circle. When Puri Dajuma Terrace opened its doors and began recruiting, Gusti saw more than just a job opportunity—he saw a chance to come home. Located in his own hometown, this opportunity allowed him to reunite with his family while continuing to grow in the industry he loves. With his experience and enthusiasm, Gusti joined the team and has been part of the journey since the very beginning.
For Gusti, this is more than work. Every day, he meets new people, shares the beauty of Bali, and tells stories about its rich culture, breathtaking nature, and deep-rooted traditions. Through every tour and every journey, he creates meaningful connections—turning simple trips into memorable experiences. And it shows, Gusti has received countless positive impressions from guests he has guided or assisted, a reflection of his sincerity and dedication. For him, the greatest reward is seeing guests leave with smiles, memories, and a deeper appreciation of Bali.

WHEN TWO CELEBRATIONS MEET: NYEPI AND EID AL-FITR AROUND PURI DAJUMA

WHEN TWO CELEBRATIONS MEET: NYEPI AND EID AL-FITR AROUND PURI DAJUMA

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This year brings a very special moment in Bali, as two important celebrations from different cultures fall very close to each other. The island is preparing for Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence for Hindus, followed shortly after by Eid al-Fitr, the joyful celebration marking the end of Ramadan for Muslims. Around Puri Dajuma, both traditions can be seen side by side, creating a unique atmosphere of harmony, culture, and community.

In the villages surrounding Dajuma Terrace and Dajuma Beach, preparations for Nyepi have been underway for weeks. Balinese youth groups have been working together to build impressive Ogoh-Ogoh, large artistic statues symbolizing negative forces. These creations, made with incredible creativity and teamwork, will be paraded through the village streets on the eve of Nyepi before being ceremonially burned, symbolizing the purification of the world.

Another important ritual that takes place before Nyepi is Melasti, a sacred purification ceremony held by the sea. Not far from Puri Dajuma, groups of villagers dressed in traditional white attire walk in procession toward the beach, carrying sacred temple objects and offerings. Accompanied by prayers, music, and colorful ceremonial umbrellas, the ritual symbolizes spiritual cleansing before entering the quiet reflection of Nyepi.

While the Hindu community prepares for their sacred day of silence, the Muslim community around Dajuma Beach is also busy preparing for their upcoming celebration of Eid al-Fitr. Young people in the village enthusiastically build beautiful miniature of mosque, which will later be carried through the streets during the Takbiran parade. This lively procession takes place on the night before Eid, filled with joyful chants, lights, and community spirit.

What makes this year particularly special is the timing. Because Nyepi and Eid fall so close together, the atmosphere in Bali feels especially festive. From spiritual ceremonies and cultural traditions to joyful community parades, the island is alive with preparation and celebration.

For guests staying at Puri Dajuma, it is a rare opportunity to witness two beautiful cultural traditions unfolding almost at the same time. One brings a day of complete silence and reflection, while the other celebrates togetherness and gratitude after a month of fasting.

Together, these moments reflect the true spirit of Bali: a place where different cultures, beliefs, and traditions live in harmony, creating a rich and vibrant tapestry of life.

OFFICIAL MAKEPUNG CALENDAR 2026

OFFICIAL MAKEPUNG CALENDAR 2026

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The Makepung buffalo race is one of the most iconic cultural events in West Bali, celebrated with great pride by local communities near Puri Dajuma Beach.
Makepung, which means “to chase” in the local dialect, features pairs of water buffalo pulling decorated wooden chariots along a dirt track. These races are not just competitions but deeply rooted traditions that reflect the agricultural heritage of the region. Farmers devote exceptional care and attention to their buffaloes, feeding them special diets and maintaining their strength and health. The animals are often beautifully adorned with colorful harnesses, ornaments, and traditional decorations. Villages organize teams that proudly represent their community, creating a festive and highly anticipated rivalry. Music, cheering crowds, and traditional attire add to the vibrant atmosphere of the event. For the Balinese people, the race is also a celebration of gratitude for the buffaloes, which have long been essential partners in rice farming. The Makepung season usually takes place after the rice harvest, turning the countryside into a lively arena of culture and sport.

SPARKLING BUTTERFLY PEA TEA — A SIGNATURE VEGAN MOCKTAIL

SPARKLING BUTTERFLY PEA TEA — A SIGNATURE VEGAN MOCKTAIL

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At Puri Dajuma Terrace Eco Lodge & Spa, every experience is inspired by nature — including what we serve in your glass. Our Sparkling Butterfly Pea Tea is one of our signature mocktails, created as a refreshing, alcohol-free drink that reflects the calm and natural surroundings of West Bali. Made from butterfly pea flower tea, elderflower syrup, fresh lime juice, and topped with sparkling soda, this vibrant mocktail offers a delicate balance of floral sweetness and citrus freshness. As lime meets the tea, the color gently transforms from deep blue to purple — a beautiful moment that mirrors Bali’s changing skies. Naturally vegan-friendly, light, and refreshing, this drink is perfect for guests seeking a mindful and healthy indulgence while enjoying the peaceful rice field views of Dajuma Terrace. A simple sip, a natural connection, and a moment to truly slow down.