Get Hands-On with Art! Balinese Family Fun at Pondok Pekak Library

Bottom Line: Pondok Pekak Cultural Library, located in the heart of Ubud, is a hidden gem for family-friendly art activities. It’s perfect for families with young children looking for a half-day itinerary that’s both educational and fun, letting kids explore Balinese culture and hands-on crafts through play.

They say traveling with kids is one of the most exciting things a family can do—but also one of the most stressful. Finding kid-friendly activities abroad isn’t always easy, but luckily, Bali is one of the world’s most family-friendly destinations. Through a variety of activities, children can keep learning, stay inspired, and connect with local culture, while parents can rest assured that this vacation will create positive, lifelong memories for everyone.

Bali offers plenty of family-friendly educational activities for young children. Among them, the Pondok Pekak Cultural Library in the heart of Ubud is a hidden gem that’s an absolute must-visit on a family vacation.

(Included in: Ultimate Guide to Family-Friendly Activities in Bali: 55 Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Ubud for a Stress-Free Trip!)

The Founding and Mission of Pondok Pekak

Pondok Pekak was founded in 1992 by Laurie Billington and Made Sumendra. Laurie Billington, a literature enthusiast, was surprised to find that Ubud—Bali’s cultural capital—had no library during her early visits, so she decided to create one. Pondok Pekak is not only dedicated to promoting literature but also to preserving Balinese art and culture by offering various Balinese arts and crafts classes taught by local master artisans.

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1. The Library’s Multifaceted Role

• Books and Reading Spaces: Pondok Pekak Library boasts a rich 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 families can enjoy reading time together.
• Community Hub: Beyond offering classes, Pondok Pekak serves as a community gathering spot where locals and visitors can connect, share culture, and exchange knowledge.

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2. The Uniqueness of Cultural Courses

• Preserving Balinese Traditional Crafts: Pondok Pekak’s classes are led by local master artisans, often from families with generations of artistic heritage. Their teaching not only imparts skills but also shares the deeper meaning of Balinese culture.
• Highly Interactive: The courses emphasize hands-on practice, allowing participants to create their own artworks, such as wood carvings, silver jewelry, or fruit carving. This is not just learning—it’s a creative experience.

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3. A Family-Friendly Environment

• Kid-Friendly: Pondok Pekak warmly welcomes families, with many classes specially designed for children, letting them learn in a relaxed atmosphere.
• Parental Involvement: Parents can join the classes with their kids, experiencing Balinese culture together. This not only strengthens parent-child bonds but also creates unique family memories.

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4. Cultural Preservation and Educational Mission

• Preserving Balinese Traditions: Pondok Pekak is dedicated to protecting and promoting Balinese art and culture through its courses and activities, helping more people understand Bali’s traditional values.
• Supporting the Local Community: Part of the library’s revenue goes to supporting local artisans and artists, helping them sustain their livelihoods and continue passing on their skills.

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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 talks, allowing visitors to immerse themselves deeper in local culture.
• Short-Term Workshops: In addition to regular courses, the library offers short-term workshops, perfect for travelers with limited time.

A Rich Variety of Art Courses

Pondok Pekak’s art courses are not only affordable but also highly engaging, suitable for both children and adults. The course offerings include:

• Bali Gamelan: In a one-hour class, participants can learn to play traditional Balinese orchestral instruments such as the Gangsa and Bamboo Rindik. Group workshops cost 100,000 IDR per person, while private lessons are 200,000 IDR.

• Balinese Dance: Guided by Ibu Ketut, who has been dancing since the age of 9 and has a deep understanding of Balinese dance. Workshops are priced at 100,000 IDR, with private lessons at 200,000 IDR.

• Wood Carving: A 3-hour class where participants can freely create under the guidance of master craftsman Pak Nyoman Setiawan. Workshop fees are 175,000 IDR, with private lessons at 350,000 IDR.

• Silver Jewelry Making: In a 3-hour session, guests can work with local silversmiths to create their own necklace pendants or rings—a wonderful way to craft a meaningful souvenir.

• Fruit Carving: Transform a watermelon into a beautiful flower! That’s what our fruit carving class is all about. Afterward, you can not only display your creation but also share the juicy watermelon with friends.

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Best Choices for Rainy Day Activities

From November to early April, Bali’s rainy season arrives, so it’s always wise to have some indoor activities ready. Ubud is an ideal choice during the monsoon season, offering cultural centers like Pondok Pekak, as well as yoga, breathing exercises, and meditation classes. Additionally, Ubud boasts numerous incredible coffee shops, cafes, and tea houses to enjoy 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.

More to Explore in Ubud

Ubud is the cultural and artistic heart of Bali, drawing travelers with its lush rice terraces, serene jungles, and deep-rooted traditions. It's the perfect place to unwind and recharge. Whether you're diving into local customs, soaking up natural beauty, or seeking thrilling outdoor adventures paired with stunning food and scenery, Ubud offers a truly unique experience. Want more Ubud tips? Click here

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