Balinese legends and myths have given color and depth to the island’s culture for centuries. Behind the beauty of its beaches and the splendor of its temples lie stories that transcend time, telling of gods who descend to earth, supernatural beings who inhabit the jungle, and love that transcends human life. Through its legends and myths, Bali teaches us that the world consists not only of what is seen, but also of what is unseen.
Here are some famous Balinese legends and myths that enrich the daily lives of the people in Bali.
1. The Legend of Dewi Danu and Lake Batur

Credit: jadebertaud.com
The legend of Dewi Danu is one of the most important stories in Balinese belief and culture. Dewi Danu is the goddess of water, lakes, and irrigation who is revered in the Balinese Hindu religious tradition. The legend tells of how Dewi Danu gave life to the island of Bali by regulating the distribution of water.
According to legend, Dewi Danu symbolizes the source of water that nurtures life in Bali. She is believed to control the water flowing from Lake Batur and Lake Bratan, the two main lakes in Bali that provide water supply for agriculture and the daily life of the Balinese people.
The legend of Dewi Danu also implies that preserving Bali’s lakes is key to maintaining the balance of nature and the fertility of the land. Hence, ceremonies and offerings are often held by the local community to honor Dewi Danu and invoke her blessings.
2. The Balinese Story of Barong and Rangda

Credit: save-balineseculture.blogspot.com
The legend of Barong and Rangda is one of Bali’s most famous stories, often featured in traditional dances and performing arts. The story tells of a battle between the forces of good represented by Barong and the forces of evil represented by Rangda.
In the legend, Barong is depicted as a lion- or pig-like creature that symbolizes goodness, courage and protection. Meanwhile, Rangda is the embodiment of evil, darkness and terrifying power. The battle between the two symbolizes the eternal battle between good and evil.
The fierce battle between Barong and Rangda is often depicted in Barong and Rangda dances, where performers act out the roles of Barong and Rangda with dramatic and impressive movements. Although Barong sometimes seems to lose the battle against Rangda, in the end Barong always emerges victorious because the forces of good always defeat the forces of evil.
The legend of Barong and Rangda serves as a reminder to the Balinese people of the importance of maintaining the values of goodness and fighting evil in everyday life.
3. The Balinese Myths of Calon Arang

Credit: goodnewsfromindonesia.id
The Legend of Calon Arang is a fascinating story from Bali that highlights the conflict between good and evil, as well as the power of black magic. The story centers on an evil woman named Calon Arang, who lived in a village in Bali in ancient times.
In the legend, Calon Arang was a woman who was very good at black magic and sorcery. She had the power to control evil spirits and used her black magic to take revenge on those she thought had wronged her.
The legend of Calon Arang teaches the importance of the power of love and wisdom in the face of evil, as well as the dangers that may arise from the use of black magic and dark forces. The story also emphasizes values such as loyalty, courage and justice in Balinese culture.
4. The Tale of Garuda and Vishnu

Credit: Instagram Artai_Samurai
The legend of Garuda and Lord Vishnu is one of the most important stories in Hindu mythology, including in Balinese Hindu tradition. Garuda is a giant bird that is the mount of Lord Vishnu, who is one of the three main deities in Hinduism.
In the legend, Lord Vishnu is a preserving deity who has the duty to preserve goodness and balance in the universe.
The legend of Garuda and Lord Vishnu illustrates values such as loyalty, devotion, and courage. It also highlights the importance of cooperation and sacrifice in achieving noble goals. In Balinese culture, this legend is often used as inspiration in art, dance and religious ceremonies.
5. The Myth of Bali South Sea

Credit: @rakaontrip
The Myth of Bali’s South Sea is a story about a legendary sea creature believed by local people to inhabit the waters around southern Bali. The myth describes the belief in the existence of supernatural beings that maintain peace, safety and fertility in the sea area.
According to this myth, the sea creature is often regarded as a protective spirit or deity that has the power to regulate the weather, waves and marine life around southern Bali. The creature is believed to be able to maintain the fertility and abundance of marine products, as well as provide protection to fishermen and coastal residents.
In addition, the myth of Bali’s South Sea is also an integral part of efforts to preserve the environment and natural resources in the region. Local communities often use these myths as inspiration in their efforts to preserve the marine ecosystem and promote awareness of the importance of preserving the marine environment for future generations.