After the recent Eid holiday, the Tourist Destination Area (DTW) of Tanah Lot in Tabanan, Bali, has been bustling with activity, attracting around 5,000 visitors daily. To sustain and boost tourist numbers, the management of Tanah Lot DTW has introduced a variety of alternative entertainment options, including the traditional Kecak dance.
Originating from Bali, the Kecak dance features a group of male dancers seated in a circular formation, rhythmically chanting “cak, cak, cak” while raising their arms. This cultural spectacle, as described in Resi Septiana Dewi’s book “The Diversity of Indonesian Dance Art,” showcases dancers adorned in traditional Balinese attire, often portraying characters like Rama, Shinta, Rahwana, and Hanoman.
Initially performed in select villages such as Bona Village, Gianyar, the Kecak dance has now gained popularity across Bali, becoming a staple at various events and festivals.
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Wayan Sanjaya Tampi, the Head of Promotion and Development Division of Tanah Lot DTW, elaborated, “The Kecak dance performances are held from afternoon till sunset, with entry tickets priced at Rp 100,000 per person.”
Sanjaya further highlighted that this rate applies to both domestic and international tourists. Alongside the Kecak dance, visitors can also explore other attractions, such as observing the sacred snake near the temple and witnessing the holy water beneath it.
For those with spare time, witnessing the sunset adds a unique charm to the experience, with the silhouette of the coral rocks creating a picturesque backdrop.
Sanjaya recommended, “To capture the sunset moment, visitors often position themselves near the batu bolong temple for the perfect selfie.”
Meanwhile, recent reports from Tribun Bali indicate a revision in the entrance ticket prices for Tanah Lot since January 2024. For domestic tourists, children’s tickets start at Rp 20,000, while adults begin at Rp 30,000. International tourists, on the other hand, can expect rates starting at Rp 40,000 for children and Rp 75,000 for adults.
