Klungkung – The Gelgel Kingdom Heritage and Nusa Penida at Bali's Southern Tip
Klungkung Regency lies in the south-eastern part of Bali province – Bali's smallest regency. The regional capital is Semarapura (Klungkung). Klungkung was the centre of the historic Gelgel (later Klungkung) Kingdom – Bali's last great Hindu kingdom. Today the Kerta Gosa (Hall of Justice) and the islands of Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan are the region's main attractions.
Attractions and Activities
Kerta Gosa (Taman Gili) is the remains of the Klungkung Palace: the wayang-style ceiling paintings are masterpieces of Balinese art. Nusa Penida island has become one of the most popular Balinese destinations in recent years: Kelingking Beach (T-Rex beach), Angel's Billabong natural rock pool, Broken Beach rock arch, and world-class manta ray diving. Nusa Lembongan is a quieter island – surf waves, mangrove and snorkelling. Nusa Ceningan is a small island with the Yellow Bridge – cliff jumping and lagoon. Goa Lawah (Bat Cave Temple) is one of Bali's six most important temples.
Culture and Cuisine
Klungkung was the centre of Balinese court art – the Kamasan painting school (wayang-style painting) flourished here. The Gelgel Kingdom heritage is part of Balinese identity. Cuisine is Balinese: babi guling (spit-roast suckling pig), lawar (spiced meat mixture), nasi campur Bali, and jaje Bali (Balinese sweets) are local flavours. Fresh seafood on Nusa Penida.
Public Safety
Klungkung (Semarapura) is safe. Nusa Penida roads are steep and poor – be careful on rented motorbikes. Ocean currents around Nusa Penida are strong – diving experience is required. Kelingking Beach cliff path is steep. Medical care: basic hospital in Semarapura; Denpasar (approx. 40 minutes) has excellent hospitals.
Practical Information
From Bali Ngurah Rai Airport, approximately 1 hour by car to Semarapura. To Nusa Penida by speedboat from Sanur harbour, approximately 30–45 minutes. The best time to visit is April to October. Accommodation: simple hotels in Semarapura; wide selection of guesthouses and boutique hotels on Nusa Penida.