Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2025: A Literary Journey in Bali’s Cultural Heart

Every year, Bali transforms into a hub of creativity and intellectual exchange during the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (UWRF). This world-renowned festival gathers authors, thinkers, artists, and readers from around the globe to celebrate the power of storytelling. Set in Ubud, the cultural capital of Bali, the event blends literature, art, and heritage in an atmosphere unlike any other.

The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2025 promises to be another unforgettable edition, offering not only inspiring discussions but also an immersive cultural experience. Whether you are a literature enthusiast, a traveler seeking authentic cultural encounters, or someone simply curious about Bali’s creative scene, this festival should be on your 2025 travel list.

About Ubud Writers & Readers Festival

Audience attending a panel discussion at the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival in Bali, held in a traditional bamboo pavilion

• Founded in 2004, the Ubud Writers & Readers     Festival has grown into Southeast Asia’s most prestigious literary event. It was created as a healing response after the Bali bombings, aiming to use words and dialogue as a bridge between cultures.

• Today, it attracts thousands of participants and features award-winning authors, poets, journalists, and artists from different corners of the world. The event has hosted names like Richard Flanagan, Lionel Shriver, and Eka Kurniawan.

• Beyond literature, the festival embodies Ubud’s creative spirit, combining performances, culinary experiences, and Balinese traditions into its program.

UWRF 2025 Theme and Highlights

• Each year, UWRF carries a special theme inspired by Balinese philosophy. The 2025 theme (to be announced soon) will once again connect literature with pressing global and cultural issues.

• Attendees can expect thought-provoking panel discussions, exclusive book launches, hands-on writing workshops, and film screenings.

• Cultural highlights such as Balinese dance, art exhibitions, and culinary sessions will add a unique local touch to the global conversations happening at the festival.

Why You Should Attend in 2025

• UWRF is more than a literary gathering—it is a space where readers meet their favorite writers, discover new voices, and join a truly international community.

• The festival provides a rare opportunity to connect with authors, publishers, and creatives through intimate workshops and networking events.

• Attending UWRF 2025 also means immersing yourself in Bali’s vibrant cultural scene, making it a holistic travel and intellectual experience.

Practical Information for Visitors

• Dates & Location: UWRF usually takes place in late October, hosted at multiple venues across Ubud, including art galleries, cultural centers, and open-air spaces.

• Tickets: Passes typically range from day tickets to full festival access, with options for both local and international visitors. Booking early is recommended.

• Getting There: Ubud is around 1.5–2 hours from Ngurah Rai International Airport. Visitors can take airport transfers, taxis, or hotel-arranged shuttles to reach the festival venues.

Things to Do Around Ubud During the Festival

Goa Gajah Temple in Ubud, Bali, famous for its ancient stone carvings and historic cave entrance

• Cultural Attractions: Visit iconic sites such as Ubud Palace, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, and Goa Gajah temple to experience Bali’s heritage.

• Nature & Wellness: Enjoy a walk through the Tegallalang rice terraces, join a yoga class in one of Ubud’s many studios, or relax with a Balinese spa treatment.

• Culinary Exploration: Savor local delicacies at Ubud Market, dine in farm-to-table restaurants, or experience traditional Balinese cooking classes.

Where to Stay in Bali During UWRF 2025

Here are five budget-friendly accommodation options, including The Tunjung Boutique Resort, with estimated prices and unique highlights:

The Tunjung Boutique Resort at Canggu, Bali

1. The Tunjung Boutique Resort (Canggu)

   • Budget: from USD 50/night

   • A boutique resort offering Balinese charm and modern comfort. Ideal if you want to enjoy Canggu’s beaches while still having access to UWRF in Ubud.

2. Pertiwi Resort & Spa (Central Ubud)

   • Budget: from USD 60/night

   • Located in the heart of Ubud, this resort is perfect for festival-goers who want to stay close to the venues.

3. Champlung Sari Hotel (Ubud, Monkey Forest Road)

   • Budget: from USD 45/night

   • Surrounded by tropical gardens and just steps from Ubud’s main attractions, this hotel combines convenience with affordability.

4. 

   Champlung Sari Hotel at Ubud, Bali

   
   

   
   

5. Artotel Sanur Bali (Sanur)

   • Budget: from USD 65/night

   • A stylish boutique stay in Sanur, close to the beach. Great for travelers who want a mix of seaside relaxation and cultural immersion at the festival.

6. Grandmas Plus Hotel Airport (Kuta)

   • Budget: from USD 35/night

   • Budget-friendly and located near Ngurah Rai International Airport, this option is convenient for travelers who want easy airport access while planning day trips to Ubud.

Conclusion

The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2025 is more than just an event; it is a celebration of creativity, dialogue, and cultural exchange in the heart of Bali. From world-class literary discussions to immersive cultural experiences, it represents everything that makes Ubud unique.

If you’re planning a trip to Bali in 2025, make sure to align your dates with the festival. Book your stay early, choose from a range of accommodations including The Tunjung Boutique Resort, and immerse yourself in one of the world’s most inspiring literary and cultural gatherings.

Art & Bali 2025: Bali’s First International Art Fair at Nuanu Creative City

For decades, Bali has been celebrated as a sanctuary of art and culture. From its intricate temple carvings and vibrant dance performances to its lush landscapes that inspire countless painters and photographers, the island has always attracted those seeking creativity and inspiration. In September 2025, Bali will add another milestone to its cultural journey with the arrival of Art & Bali 2025, the island’s first-ever international art fair.

Hosted at the innovative Nuanu Creative City in Tabanan, this three-day event promises to be more than just an art exhibition. It will be a crossroads where tradition meets modernity, where local voices harmonize with global perspectives, and where visitors can immerse themselves in the boundless world of creativity

The Earth Sentinels sculpture by Daniel Popper at Nuanu Creative City, an iconic public artwork symbolizing the connection between humanity and nature

About Art & Bali 2025

• Dates & Venue 

Art & Bali 2025 will be held from September 12–14, 2025, at Nuanu Creative City in Tabanan, Bali. This location is not only scenic but also designed as a hub for culture, sustainability, and creative innovation. By choosing Nuanu, the organizers emphasize that art should not be isolated in sterile halls, but integrated with the community and nature around it.

• Theme: “Bridging Dichotomies” 

The central theme of the fair is “Bridging Dichotomies”, which explores contrasts such as tradition and modernity, nature and technology, local and global. Bali itself is the perfect representation of these dualities, making it a fitting backdrop for the event. Through this lens, the fair aims to inspire dialogue on how art can serve as a bridge between seemingly opposing forces.

• Participating Galleries & Artists 

The fair will showcase works from leading galleries across Indonesia and Southeast Asia, alongside emerging artists who bring fresh perspectives. This blend ensures that Art & Bali 2025 is not just about established names but also about discovering new talent. By gathering such a diverse group, the fair creates a platform that fosters both recognition and innovation within the regional art scene.

• Beyond a Traditional Fair 

Unlike conventional art fairs, Art & Bali 2025 will integrate exhibitions with immersive installations, artist talks, and cultural performances. Visitors are not just passive observers but active participants who can engage with creators and ideas. This dynamic approach makes the event feel like both an art festival and a community gathering.

What to Expect at the Event

Innovative bamboo installation at Nuanu Creative City, highlighting Bali’s blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design

Visitors to Art & Bali 2025 can look forward to a variety of programs designed to engage, inspire, and entertain:

• Curated Exhibitions 

A thoughtfully arranged display of contemporary artworks, spanning painting, photography, sculpture, video art, and large-scale installations. Each piece has been selected to align with the overarching theme while also showcasing the diversity of voices within the region.

• Artist Talks & Panel Discussions 

An opportunity to engage directly with creators, curators, and cultural thinkers. These conversations will tackle pressing questions about the role of art in society, sustainability in creative practices, and the dialogue between local heritage and global trends.

• Immersive Installations 

Beyond passive viewing, expect interactive artworks that encourage participation. These installations aim to transform spectators into co-creators, blurring the line between artist and audience.

• Special Collector Programs

 Tailored events for patrons and art buyers, including private previews, guided tours, and networking sessions with artists. For those looking to expand their collections, this is an invaluable opportunity to discover talent in an intimate setting.

• Evening Performances

As the sun sets over the Tabanan coastline, the atmosphere will shift into celebration. From live concerts and DJ sets to dazzling light shows, evenings at Nuanu promise to be just as inspiring as the daytime exhibitions.

Why Art & Bali 2025 Is Special

Aerial view of Nuanu Creative City in Tabanan, Bali, showcasing modern architecture surrounded by lush greenery and coastline

While many international art fairs are staged in metropolitan cities such as Singapore, Hong Kong, or Basel, Bali offers something entirely different. Here, the fair is not isolated from its surroundings; instead, it is deeply rooted in the island’s cultural and natural fabric.

What sets Art & Bali 2025 apart:

• Historic First

It marks the first time Bali is hosting an international art fair of this scale, positioning the island as a serious player in the global art circuit.

• Cultural Fusion

Bali has always been a melting pot, where traditional rituals and ceremonies coexist with a thriving contemporary lifestyle. This event captures that spirit by bringing together local traditions with international practices.

• Innovative Venue

Nuanu Creative City is more than a location—it’s an ecosystem. Spread over 44 hectares, it integrates art, sustainability, education, wellness, and community living. Its design encourages collaboration, making it the perfect stage for a fair that emphasizes dialogue and discovery.

• Sustainability Focus

In line with Bali’s growing movement toward eco-conscious tourism, the fair will highlight sustainable practices in both its organization and the artworks presented.

Where to Stay Nearby

The Tunjung Boutique Resort in Canggu, Bali

For those traveling specifically to attend Art & Bali 2025, choosing the right accommodation can enhance the experience. Staying close to Nuanu ensures that visitors can immerse themselves fully in the fair without long commutes.

One excellent option is The Tunjung Boutique Resort, located in Pererenan—just a short drive from Tabanan and the Nuanu venue.

• Why Stay at The Tunjung Boutique Resort?

  • A blend of Balinese architecture and modern comfort, offering a serene retreat after a day filled with art and cultural activities.

  • Convenient location, balancing accessibility to Canggu’s lively dining and nightlife with proximity to Nuanu’s artistic hub.

  • Personalized hospitality, making it ideal for art lovers, families, or solo travelers who appreciate both creativity and comfort.

  • Distance & Travel Time: The Tunjung Boutique Resort is approximately 10 kilometers from Nuanu Creative City. By car, the journey usually takes around 20–25 minutes, depending on traffic. This makes it a practical and comfortable base for attending the fair.

By choosing to stay in Pererenan or surrounding areas, visitors not only gain easy access to Art & Bali 2025 but also enjoy the charm of Bali’s rice fields, beaches, and boutique lifestyle.

Conclusion

Art & Bali 2025 is more than just an exhibition—it is a cultural milestone for Bali and Southeast Asia. By bringing together artists, collectors, and creative thinkers under the theme “Bridging Dichotomies”, the fair reflects the island’s unique identity as a place where tradition and innovation walk hand in hand. Hosting the event at Nuanu Creative City also highlights Bali’s growing role as not only a tourist destination but a global stage for art, sustainability, and cultural exchange.

For visitors, this fair promises a one-of-a-kind experience: world-class art set against Bali’s natural beauty, interactive programs that invite participation, and evening performances that turn creativity into celebration. Whether you are a seasoned collector, a traveler in search of inspiration, or a local eager to witness history in the making, Art & Bali 2025 offers an unforgettable opportunity. Mark your calendar for September 12–14, 2025, and be part of Bali’s creative journey at Nuanu Creative City.

Tihingan Village Bali Gamelan Industry

Bali is often synonymous with culture and art that is very thick. Tihingan village is one of the villages that became a tourist destination with a community that is well known as a maker of instruments Gong (gamelan). This village is only place of manufacture Gong in Bali. This can be evidenced by the Pande Tihingan name contained in the gamelan in villages in Bali.

Location

Tihingan village situated in the district Banjarangkan, Klungkung. Approximately 3 km to the west of the city Semarapura. For tourists who want to visit this Tihingan village takes approximately 85 minutes drive from Ngurah Rai when using motor vehicles and approximately 42 km distance travelled from the city of Denpasar.

What Is Gamelan..?

The word gamelan in the Balinese context is thought to originate from the word ‘magambel’ which means “to hit”. A gamelan instrument is often percussive with keyed xylophones or pot gongs made of a variety of materials, gongs of various sizes, double-headed drums and cymbals.
However, not all Balinese gamelan instruments are percussive. There are also wind, bowed, plucked and strummed instruments.

The village community in general has work as a maker or craftsman gamelan. So don't be surprised if you past or visit this village there are many places or workshops to make gamelan. Tihingan village as one of the attractions  in Klungkung, it is expected to raise the economy by gamelan industry in Klungkung area.

Gamelan is made in the village is a bona fide Tihingan special features, good to hear his voice and enjoyed. Many local and foreign tourists come to this Tihingan village attracted to order and buy a set of gamelan Gong and to be brought to the place of origin. To support a variety of community arts activities of this village, many established art-shop for selling and displaying a variety of artistic products gamelan it.

Beside you can see the process how to make Balinese gamelan there, the most importance think that you must have first are you should to try playing the Balinese Gamelan. you need skill and you must know about the tone of playing gamelan. 

Pathos Gallery