Tenganan Village

Before the 1970s the village was known by anthropologists to be one of the most secluded secieties in the archipelago. Rapid change has occurred in the village since the 70s, such as the development of local communications by the central government, the opening up for tourism, breaking of the endogamic rules. Tourist are attracted to Tenganan by its unique Bali aga culture (still holds the original traditions, ceremonies and rules of ancient Bali).

The people of Tenganan village is called Bali Aga - the original Balinese. They descend from the pre-Majapahit kingdom of Pegeng. There are strict rules as to who is allowed to live in the village. Only those who is born in the village can stay in the village and become full member of the community. There are rules regarding of marriage and anyone who marries outside of the village has to leave. A strict protocol regarding marriages among the kin group have steered the Tengananese through the genetic perils of intermarriage although with increasing contact with the outside world there rules have relaxed somewhat.

Based on folklore, once upon a time Bedahulu King lost one of his horses. The people looked for it to the east and the horse was finally found dead by Ki Patih Tunjung Biru, the King's right hand. For his loyalty, the king finally gave him an authority to govern the land as far as the aroma of the carrion of the horse can be smelled. Ki Patih was an intelligent person, so he cut the carrion into pieces and spread it as far as he could. Thus he receive a quite large area.