It’s often said that traveling with children is one of the most exciting things a family can do, but it can also be one of the most stressful challenges. Finding child-friendly activities while vacationing abroad isn’t easy, but fortunately, Bali is one of the world’s most family-friendly destinations. Through various activities, children can continuously learn, be inspired, and stay connected with local culture, while adults can rest assured that this vacation will create positive lifelong memories for everyone.
Bali offers many family-friendly educational activities for young children. Among them, the Pondok Pekak Cultural Library located in the heart of Ubud is a hidden gem and an absolute must-visit spot for family vacations.
(Featured in: The Ultimate Guide to 53 Family-Friendly Activities in Ubud, Bali)
The Founding and Mission of Pondok Pekak
Pondok Pekak was established in 1992 by Laurie Billington and Made Sumendra. Laurie Billington, a literature enthusiast, was surprised during her early visits to Ubud, Bali’s cultural capital, to find that there was no library in the area. This inspired her to create one. Pondok Pekak is not only dedicated to promoting literature but also to preserving Balinese art and culture by offering various Balinese art and craft courses taught by local master artisans.
1. The Multifunctional Library
- Books and Reading Spaces: Pondok Pekak Library boasts an extensive collection of books in both English and Indonesian, covering literature, art, history, and more. It’s not just a place for learning but also a quiet reading space where family members can enjoy reading together.
- Community Center: Beyond offering courses, Pondok Pekak serves as a community hub where locals and tourists can interact and share culture and knowledge.
2. The Uniqueness of Cultural Courses
- Preserving Bali’s Traditional Crafts: At Pondok Pekak, courses are taught by master artisans who often come from families with generations of artistic heritage. Their teaching not only imparts skills but also shares the deeper cultural significance of Bali.
- Interactive Learning: The courses emphasize hands-on practice, allowing participants to create their own artworks, such as wood carvings, silver jewelry, or fruit carvings. This is not just learning but a creative experience.
3. Family-Friendly Environment
- Child-Friendly: Pondok Pekak warmly welcomes families, with many courses specially designed for children, allowing them to learn in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Parent Participation: Parents can join their children in the courses, experiencing Balinese culture together. This not only strengthens family bonds but also creates unique memories for the whole family.
4. Cultural Preservation and Educational Mission
- Protecting Balinese Culture: Pondok Pekak is dedicated to preserving and promoting Balinese art and culture through its courses and activities, helping more people understand the island’s traditional values.
- Supporting the Local Community: Part of the library’s income goes toward supporting local artisans, helping them sustain their livelihoods and continue their craft.
5. Special Events and Workshops
- Festival Activities: During important Balinese festivals, Pondok Pekak hosts special events such as traditional dance performances, gamelan concerts, and cultural lectures, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in local culture.
- Short-Term Workshops: In addition to regular courses, the library offers short-term workshops, perfect for visitors with limited time.
Diverse Art Courses
Pondok Pekak offers affordable and engaging art courses suitable for both children and adults. Course offerings include:
- Balinese Gamelan: In a one-hour session, participants can learn to play traditional Balinese orchestral instruments like the Gangsa and Bamboo Rindik. Group workshops cost IDR 100,000 per person, while private lessons are IDR 200,000.
- Bali Dance: Guided by Ibu Ketut, who has been dancing since she was 9 years old, this workshop offers deep insights into Balinese dance. The workshop costs 100,000 IDR, while private lessons are 200,000 IDR.
- Wood Carving: In this 3-hour course, participants can freely create under the guidance of master craftsman Pak Nyoman Setiawan. The workshop fee is 175,000 IDR, with private lessons costing 350,000 IDR.
- Silver Jewelry Making: During this 3-hour session, guests can craft their own designed necklace pendants or rings alongside local silversmiths, making it a perfect way to create meaningful souvenirs.
- Fruit Carving: Transform a watermelon into a beautiful flower! That’s what our fruit carving class is all about. After completing your masterpiece, you can not only display it but also share the juicy watermelon with friends.
Best Rainy Day Activities
From December to mid-March, Bali experiences its rainy season, making it wise to plan some indoor activities. Ubud is an ideal choice during the monsoon season, offering cultural centers like Pondok Pekak, yoga, breathing exercises, and meditation classes. Additionally, Ubud boasts numerous incredible coffee shops, cafes, and tea houses, ensuring you can enjoy your time even on rainy days.
Pondok Pekak is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. It’s recommended to book classes and workshops in advance via their website or WhatsApp (+62 813-3758-8038). Whether it’s sunny or rainy, this place adds rich cultural experiences and wonderful memories to your family vacation.
Bali Family Travel Guide: 53 Kid-Friendly Activities in Ubud for a Relaxing Trip with Kids!
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