City Guide: Denpasar

     Denpasar reflects the wealth of Bali for the last 20 years.

     Meaning ''next to the market'', Denpasar is a hub of commerce in Bali being home to Bali's biggest trade area - Pasar Badung. This introduced Denpasar to the world as the trading post with tree-lined streets and pleasant gardens resisting the big city by-products like traffic, noise and pollution. 

     But Denpasar is not as commercialized as you consider it to be. You can discover the city on your stay there in cheap hotel in Denpasar or in luxury one. Check out all offers listed with maps, photos and secure forms at Booked.net.

     Tourists usually bypass Denpasar for more culturally vibrant Ubud and South Bali. But Denpasar is no less interesting as a destination. Its rich Balinese culture revolves around the beautiful temples of its religious past and a full range of world-class museums.

Attractions include;

- Alun-Alun Puputan, a huge Catur Mukha statue in the center of the city

- Bali Museum treasures both historical and modern-day relics of Bali's culture

- Lapangan Puputan Margarana, a beautiful park with a huge Bajra Sandhi monument

- Palace of Satria and the Royal Temples, a palace to worship the royal family of Denpasar

- Pura Maospahit, an ancient temple dating back to the 14^th century

     Denpasar thrived under the former name of Badung till 1936. Badung's existence started from the Dutch colonization in the 1800’s. Despite long negotiations between Balinese natives and new comers to the area, the Dutch prepared to take over the city. These events led to a share of tragedy in the city's history. The royal family committed mass suicide before occupation. This kind of protest against the Dutch pressures was repeated in the other parts of Indonesia. When the Dutch abandoned the area, Badung changed name to Denpasar.

     Since then Denpasar has become more than the capital of Bali, but a perfect base for exploring the island. It is true Denpasar likes to hide its wealth under the mask of industrial hub. In reality, it is a vibrant, interesting and striking city with world famous surfing beaches - Kuta Beach and Legian Beach, while for relaxed sunbathing you are offered Sanur Beach.

     From beach relaxation to sightseeing, your impressions of Denpasar depend on your stay in the city. Booked.net will make you feel like you at a home away from home in Denpasar.