Are you looking for Kirtan in Bali? This form of meditation through active call and response chanting is popular and here are the best places around.
Whether you’re travelling or a local, there are so much to feel when you’re there on the floor listening to those transcendental sounds and chanting along with others. However, choosing the right kirtanista band is just as important.
In this guide, we’ll show you the best places to find Kirtan in Ubud.
Bali Kirtan – Ubud and Canggu
We’ve done the research for you and this is what we’ve come up with:
1. Anand Ashram Ubud
Anand Ashram in Bali is definitely the place to find the biggest kirtan turnout anywhere in Indonesia. Hundreds of people make the trip here every month to join in the incredible chanting.
Every morning at 6am there is chanting. Every evening at 6pm there is chanting. And which days are these held? Every single day of the week and weekend. ? This is the best place in Ubud to get regular kirtan. Let’s not forget the yoga classes, agnihotra and meditation also offered. Kirtan/chanting is by donation.
2. The Yoga Barn
Not surprisingly Ubud’s most popular yoga studio ‘The Yoga Barn’ has kirtan events on regularly. In fact they’re on at least once per week and everyone is certainly welcome to attend.
The band Punnuwasu by Punnu Singh Wasu plays here quite regularly every Thursday as does Greg Kaps. Either way, you’re more than welcome to come and yes, there is an entrance fee.
3. Samadi Bali Kirtan
Head along to kirtan and bhajans to explore the connection with indian deities for the first time. You’ll find Samadi over in the sea-side town of Canggu in Bali.
This chant is lead by Ana Lucia and generally costs 100 IDR per person which is quite affordable. It’s a chance to share your beautiful voice and presence with others, or simply to soak in the goodness of chanting.
4. Estatic kirtan dancing in Bali
Perhaps you’re not into the mellow nature of chanting on the floor and want something a bit more?
Well – there is some great news! Bali is known for its hippy party scene with estatic dancing available.
Our #1 recommendation is Shambhala dance at the popular Paradiso. Events here are run regularly. This is the cinema above the organic cafe.
5. Bali Spirit Festival
The last on our list is the famous Bali Spirit Festival! There is no doubt that this is where you’ll find your ultimate and focused kirtan experience in all of Indonesia. Literally there are several Kirtan bands playing each day for the week-long festival.
Now – tickets to Bali Spirit Festival are a bit expensive. However, it can be certainly worth it and thousands of people attend every single year. It’s a once per year event often happening in the first few months.
Gettting started
Now that you’re prepped with some great ideas, it’s time to get out there. If this is your first time in Kirtan, let us help you a little:
- Arrive early for the best seats! Kirtan is very popular in Bali with both the local and tourist crowds.
- You don’t need to know all the mantras. You can memorize them before hand but there are often screens where you can see the lyrics.
- Try to keep your eyes closed. It isn’t a performance. Instead, it’s a journey where you can feel like a million miles away.
- Dress comfortably. You don’t need to dress up for Kirtan though having the knees and elbows covered is a good sign of respect, for both men and women.
The best advice is to always drag a friend along so it feels less uncomfortable. No doubt you’ll find some like-minded souls along the way too.
Given these options, it’s best to try them all out!
Have you visited any of these kirtan bands or musicians already? Let us know in the comments below.
