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Kecak Dance Ubud: Best Places to Watch it
The Kecak Dance in Ubud is a must-see if you’re in Bali, featuring shirtless male dancers chanting “cak, cak, cak” while retelling the Ramayana.
This unique tradition, rejecting bad luck can be seen at stunning spots all over Ubud.
This guide features the top 3 places to watch Kecak Dance Ubud, based on local insights from certified local guides.
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What is the Kecak Dance?
- Origins and History
The Kecak Dance, also sometimes known as the Ramayana monkey chant, is a traditional Balinese dance created in the 1930s by dancer Wayan Limbak and painter Walter Spies.
They combined the ancient Sanghyang dance, a trance dance meant to ward off evil spirits, with the story of Ramayana. Originally, the loud chanting and trance dance were believed to fight against plagues.
- Performance Elements
The performance features 50 to 150 male dancers wearing traditional Balinese sarongs. They sit in circles and chant “cak, cak, cak” rhythmically. The story revolves around Prince Rama’s effort to rescue his wife, Sita, from the demon king Rahwana.
Key scenes include the transformation of Marica into a golden deer and the final battle where Rama, with the help of the monkey king Sugriwa and the white monkey Hanuman, defeats Rahwana and burns his kingdom.
There is no background music; the dancers chant acapella throughout the show, making it even more captivating.
- Cultural Significance
Kecak Dance is an important part of Balinese culture, playing a key role in religious and community events. It is not just a performance but a ritual to ward off bad luck and evil spirits, reflecting Bali’s spiritual beliefs. This dance helps preserve and showcase Bali’s rich cultural heritage.
Check Out: The Myth of Pejeng Walking Tour in Ubud!
Top 3 Places to Watch Kecak Dance in Ubud
The top 3 places to watch Kecak Dance in Ubud are:
1. Pura Dalem Ubud
Pura Dalem Ubud is a revered Hindu temple located in central Ubud, Bali. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful Balinese architecture, decorated with intricate carvings.
- Performance Details
You can experience the mesmerizing Kecak Dance at Pura Dalem Ubud twice a week, usually on Monday and Friday evenings. During the performance, men chant “cak” while reenacting scenes from the Ramayana saga.
Tickets for the Kecak Dance at Pura Dalem Ubud can be purchased at the temple before the show. Prices may vary, so it’s a good idea to check beforehand.
- Experience:
Watching the Kecak Dance at Pura Dalem Ubud is a chance to experience Balinese culture in a peaceful setting. You can see the performers up close, making the experience more spiritual and artistic.
2. Pura Puseh Ubud
Pura Puseh Batuan, located in Batuan village, showcases a five-tiered gateway blending Indian and Balinese styles. Established in 1022 AD and restored in 1992, it hosts traditional Kecak Dance performances, adding cultural richness to its historical significance.
- Performance Details
Enjoy regular Kecak Dance performances at Pura Puseh Ubud, usually on Thursday evenings. The dance tells stories from the Ramayana through rhythmic chants and expressive movements, set in the temple’s majestic surroundings.
Tickets for the Kecak Dance at Pura Puseh Ubud are available at the temple. It’s advisable to check ticket prices and availability in advance.
- Experience
Watching a Kecak Dance at Pura Puseh Ubud lets you experience Balinese culture in a very old place. The temple’s historic setting adds a mystical touch to the dance performance, making it a truly memorable cultural experience in Ubud.
Book your tickets with Ubud Story Walks.
3. Pura Dalem Taman Kaja
For those seeking a more intimate setting to view the Kecak Dance in Ubud, Pura Dalem Taman Kaja in Ubud is ideal. This serene spot is in a quiet area, allowing you to get closer to the performers and the dance.
- Performance Details
The Kecak Dance is performed here twice a week, usually on Wednesdays and Saturdays, starting around 7 PM or 7:30 PM. The performance schedule can vary, so it’s best to check the timings upon arrival in Ubud. Tickets are available at the temple.
- Experience
The intimate setting of Pura Dalem Taman Kaja allows visitors to experience the Kecak Dance up close, making it feel more personal and immersive. The small venue and serene surroundings enhance the cultural experience, providing a deeper appreciation of the dance.
Explore: Historical Tours in Bali!
In Ubud, you can also catch the Kecak Dance at places like Uluwatu Temple and Arma Museum. Each location provides a different ambiance, whether it’s with a view of the ocean or in an intimate cultural setting, offering a closer look at the Balinese culture.
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Enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime experience at Kecak Dance in Ubud—a powerful performance featuring chant, fire, and storytelling.
Learn about Bali’s rich culture and be a part of this unique show.
Want to book a unique local-led walking tour in Ubud or explore more of Bali’s traditions and history? Get in touch with us here or simply follow Ubud Story Walks on Instagram!
FAQ's
Kecak Dance is a traditional Balinese performance featuring a chorus of men chanting “cak” while reenacting scenes from the Ramayana, a famous Hindu epic. The dancers wear traditional sarongs and the performance often includes a dramatic fire scene.
In Ubud, you can watch Kecak Dance at venues like Pura Puseh, Pura Dalem, Uluwatu Temple, Pura Dalem Taman Kaja, and Arma Museum. Each location offers a unique experience, from stunning ocean views to intimate settings.
Performance times vary by location. Pura Dalem Taman Kaja usually holds performances twice a week in the evening. It’s best to check the schedule for the specific venue you plan to visit.
Ticket prices can vary. Prices at other venues like Pura Dalem Taman Kaja and Pura Puseh may differ, so it’s a good idea to check their websites or contact them directly.
Yes, it’s recommended to arrive early or book in advance, especially for popular venues like Pura Dalem Tamam Kaja, to ensure you get a good seat. Some tours also include tickets as part of a package, which can be convenient.
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Read what people say about Ubud Story Walks...
Ubud Story Walks is something different. It’s a fun, entertaining and refreshing way to delve into Ubud’s past. The knowledgeable guides place as much emphasis on how they tell a story as they do on what they’re sharing, which means all sorts of magical and mystifying details are revealed. I believe the best way to get to know a place is to walk its streets, which makes Ubud Story Walks one of the best ways to get to know Ubud.
Julia Winterflood
We had a fantastic time walking around the historical centre of Ubud! Even though we've been based in Bali for a few years, we'd never had an actual tour of some of Bali's most iconic landmarks and learning about the history was fascinating. Our guide was hilarious and full of information and it was a lovely and relaxing way to learn so much. The tour was early in the morning which was perfect timing as the temperature was still cool and we were able to witness the morning bustle of Ubud's famous markets. 10/10 would recommend!
Rahima Saikal
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