Welcome to the mystical and captivating island of Skull in Bali! Also known as Trunyan Village, this hidden gem offers a unique glimpse into the local community's cultural practises and spiritual beliefs. Where is Skull Island located in Bali? This article presented by Atlas Beach Club will take you there.

Trunyan Village: Skull Island in Bali

Trunyan Village, also known as Skull Island Bali, is a unique and captivating destination in Bali, Indonesia. Furthermore, this remote village is famous for its ancient burial traditions.

Visiting Trunyan Village offers a rare opportunity to witness a culture deeply rooted in tradition and spirituality. Mainly because the local community embraces their ancestors' customs, believing that the spirits of the departed still watch over them.

1. History of Trunyan Village

Trunyan Village has been home to the Bali Aga, the indigenous people of Bali, for countless generations. This secluded community thrives on the eastern shore of Lake Batur. Furthermore, they are only a stone's throw away from the active Mount Batur volcano, adding an element of mystique to their way of life.

What sets the Trunyanese apart is their distinct burial tradition, which defies the norm of cremation in most Balinese communities. Instead, they have ingeniously devised a method of laying their departed to rest above ground on Trunyan Island, a practise that continues today.

The deceased are meticulously prepared, adorned, and sheltered within small bamboo enclosures. The bamboo then guards them against curious monkeys and other wildlife. All while nature takes its course, allowing the body to decompose naturally.

Once the decomposition process is complete, the skull is reverently moved to a nearby rock platform, creating space for new arrivals.

The village derives its name from an ancient banyan tree, Teru Menyan, which stands tall at the cemetery. This colossal tree emits a fragrance that miraculously counteracts the pungent odours of the decaying bodies. Thus adding an intriguing twist to the legend of Trunyan Village.

2. The Legend of Trunyan Village

Deep in the heart of Trunyan Village, Bali, whispers of an ancient legend permeate the air, enchanting visitors with tales of its mystical origins. According to local folklore, Trunyan's roots trace back to a courageous prince and his beloved princess.

Legend has it that the beauty of the surrounding mountains and Lake Batur enchanted the prince. Therefore, he chose Trunyan as the site for their eternal love. Together, they built a prosperous community blessed by the gods with fertile lands and abundant resources.

However, tragedy struck when the princess fell ill and passed away. Devastated, the prince sought solace in the sacred grounds of Trunyan, where he laid his beloved to rest.

In honour of their undying love, the prince declared Trunyan a sacred place. Thus, future generations would find solace and seek guidance from the spirits of their ancestors.

Today, the spirit of the legend lives on in Trunyan Village, captivating those who venture to this mystical land. The village offers a glimpse into a world where love and devotion transcend time and generations.

3. The Funeral Ceremony in Trunyan Village

The funeral ceremony in Trunyan Village, Bali, offers insight into the cultural practises of the local community. Moreover, unlike the cremation ceremonies commonly practised in Bali, Trunyan Village follows an unconventional burial tradition.

When a community member dies, their body is not cremated but taken to a sacred area called Trunyan Island. Then, the body is placed above ground and protected within a bamboo cage.

This open-air burial practise allows the deceased to decompose naturally since the elements and the fragrant breeze from nearby banyan trees neutralise unpleasant odours.

4. How to Get to the Village?

To travel to Trunyan Village, you can follow these steps:

• Arrive in Bali: Book a flight to Ngurah Rai International Airport, the main gateway to Bali.
• Transfer to Kintamani: From the airport, hire a taxi or arrange for a private car transfer to Kintamani. This scenic journey takes approximately 2–3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
• Reach Lake Batur: Kintamani is the closest town to Trunyan Village. Upon reaching Kintamani, head towards Lake Batur.
• Take a Boat to Trunyan: Once you arrive at Lake Batur, you must hire a traditional wooden boat to cross the lake to Trunyan Village.

Note: Trunyan Village is relatively remote, and public transportation options may be limited. It is recommended to plan your visit.

Trunyan Village offers a truly unforgettable experience. As we conclude our exploration of the Island of Skulls in Bali, we hope this post has transported you to a realm of intrigue and wonder. Happy travels!