Denpasar - Bali National Museum 
Although the Bali National Museum, measured by the standards of other national museums, may fall short in the matter of systematic arrangement, it is well worth a visit. Most of the exhibits now have labels in English explaining their history, origin and significance. A guide to the museum in English is advertised at the ticket-office but is usually out of print.
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Must-see attractions nearby:
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The Museum, in Jalan Wisnu, near Puputan Square (whose name recalls the events of September 14th 1906), is housed in three adjoining buildings in traditional Balinese style or rebuilt on the model of the original palace. They lie in a special precinct within the palace complex, entered through a split gate (candi bentar). Another split gate on the street which runs past the precinct is always closed. Beside it is a bell-tower (kulkul).
The best place to start a tour of the museum is the rear building, where the exhibits include a glass case containing tableaux of a wedding (front) and a tooth-filing ceremony (rear); various wooden models, including a royal throne; carved symbols of Hindu divinities; batik work and embroidery. Also of interest are the finely carved shutters on the windows.
The central building, called the Gedong Karangasem after its architectural style, contains Neolithic material. On the veranda are a handsome throne and a number of stone figures. As originally built by the Dutch, the gedong was open on all four sides; the walls were added later.
The third building, in the style of the Tabanan palace, is richly decorated. On a platform in the center of the hall are a number of Barong figures. Note the intricately carved roof beams.
Between the buildings is the "shower room" of the princely family; partly sunk into the ground, it may be overlooked at first glance.
The best place to start a tour of the museum is the rear building, where the exhibits include a glass case containing tableaux of a wedding (front) and a tooth-filing ceremony (rear); various wooden models, including a royal throne; carved symbols of Hindu divinities; batik work and embroidery. Also of interest are the finely carved shutters on the windows.
The central building, called the Gedong Karangasem after its architectural style, contains Neolithic material. On the veranda are a handsome throne and a number of stone figures. As originally built by the Dutch, the gedong was open on all four sides; the walls were added later.
The third building, in the style of the Tabanan palace, is richly decorated. On a platform in the center of the hall are a number of Barong figures. Note the intricately carved roof beams.
Between the buildings is the "shower room" of the princely family; partly sunk into the ground, it may be overlooked at first glance.
