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Personal Guide to Ubud's Art Museum

A Personal Guide to Ubud’s Art Museum

Guide to Ubud’s Art Museum

When I first visited the Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) in Bali, I was struck by the passion and dedication of its founder, Agung Rai, to preserve and celebrate the island’s rich artistic heritage. 

ARMA is a 1996-established center for visual and performing arts, preserving art, developing cultural forms, and fostering local artistic growth.

If you’re looking for an enriching experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage of Bali, I highly recommend a visit to the Agung Rai Museum of Art.

Location

Nestled in the heart of Ubud, the cultural hub of Bali, you’ll find the Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) located on Pengosekan Road

This location is a perfect base for exploring the rich artistic heritage of the island and experiencing the vibrant local culture. 

Surrounded by lush green rice paddies and picturesque countryside, the museum provides a peaceful and serene escape from bustling city life.

Opening Hours

The ARMA Museum is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM from Monday to Friday, providing ample opportunity for you to immerse yourself in the world of visual and performing arts. 

In the evenings, the museum comes alive with the sounds of traditional Balinese music, as visitors are treated to a mesmerizing dance performance at 7:30 PM

The evening performance is a must-see for those looking to experience the rich cultural heritage of Bali, as skilled dancers take to the stage in stunning traditional attire, bringing to life the island’s ancient stories and legends.

However, it’s always a good idea to check the museum’s schedule in advance, as hours and events may vary.

How to Get There

How to Get There Agung Rai Museum of Art

Getting to ARMA Museum in Ubud from different parts of Bali is quite convenient. The museum is located on Pengosekan Road, which is easily accessible by car, motorbike, or taxi.

If you’re staying in the bustling tourist hub of Kuta, it’s about a 2-hour drive to the museum. If you’re staying in the beautiful town of Seminyak, it’s just a 1 hour and 45-minute drive.

For those who prefer public transportation, you can take a local minibus from Ubud central to ARMA Museum, with a journey time of around 10-15 minutes

The museum is also located near a number of local restaurants, art shops, and other cultural attractions, making it easy to incorporate into your Ubud itinerary.

Entrance Cost

At just $10.00 per person, ARMA offers a truly affordable opportunity to experience world-class art and culture.

However, for those who would like a more in-depth and personal experience, I highly recommend booking one of the guided tours that are offered. 

At just $29.08 per person, these tours provide a wealth of information about the artworks on display and the museum’s rich history. 

The guides are knowledgeable and passionate, and their insights and anecdotes add another layer to the overall experience.

It’s worth mentioning that ARMA can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist season, so I would advise booking your tickets in advance, either online or at the museum’s ticket office. 

By doing so, you can be sure to secure your spot and avoid any disappointment.

Do’s and Don’ts

When visiting the ARMA Museum, it is important to be mindful of the following do’s and don’ts to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for all guests:

Do’s:

  • Do admire the beautiful and unique artwork and artifacts on display
  • Do take advantage of the informative tour guides and exhibitions
  • Do visit the ARMA boutique and gift shop to take home a piece of Bali
  • Do be respectful of the cultural heritage and history showcased at the museum

Don’ts:

  • Don’t touch the exhibits or sculptures without permission
  • Don’t take photos of certain restricted items
  • Don’t bring in large bags or backpacks that may obstruct other guests’ views
  • Don’t bring food or drinks inside the museum

By following these simple guidelines, you can have a wonderful time exploring the ARMA Museum and all it has to offer.

Immerse Yourself in a World of Art and Culture

Immerse Yourself in a World of Art and Culture

The permanent exhibition of paintings at ARMA is truly a feast for the eyes, showcasing works by Balinese, Indonesian, and foreign artists. 

From traditional classical Kamasan paintings on tree bark to contemporary masterpieces, the collection spans a wide range of styles and time periods. 

Highlights include works by renowned Balinese artists such as I Gusti Nyoman Lempad and Ida Bagus Made, as well as 19th-century Javanese artist Raden Saleh and German painter Walter Spies.

But ARMA is much more than just a museum. 

In addition to its impressive collection, ARMA offers visual and performing arts experiences such as exhibitions, theater, dance, music, and painting classes, a bookshop, a library, cultural workshops, and conferences.

Whether you’re a seasoned art aficionado or simply seeking to immerse yourself in Bali’s unique cultural heritage, ARMA offers something for everyone.

ARMA Bookshop

The bookshop, situated in the lobby, is a treasure trove of books and artifacts related to the world of art and Bali.

The collection of art books, exhibition catalogs, and biographies of leading Balinese, Indonesian and international artists was truly exciting to explore. I was impressed by the depth and breadth of the selection, and the knowledgeable staff who were on hand to help with any questions I had.

I was able to find great books on Balinese culture and travel that added to my understanding of this fascinating island.

And for those looking for a memorable keepsake from their visit to ARMA, the museum also offers a carefully selected range of Balinese sculptures and artifacts. 

These unique souvenirs not only serve as a beautiful reminder of my time at the museum, but they also support the museum’s mission to preserve and promote Balinese art and culture.

ARMA Boutique

From handwoven silk to ikat prints, and Balinese songket to creative embroidery, the shop offers a diverse range of beautifully crafted items. 

I was especially drawn to scarves, handbags, and designer jewelry, which were all made with high-quality materials and attention to detail.

While browsing the shop, I couldn’t help but admire the wood carvings, which were not only intricate and beautiful but also made from the finest materials. It was clear that the ARMA Boutique was not just any gift shop, but one that offered truly unique and high-quality souvenirs.

Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or find a gift for a loved one, the ARMA Boutique is a must-visit for anyone looking for an appreciated and original keepsake from Bali. 

With such a wide selection of tasteful and elegant products, it was easy for me to find the perfect memento to take home.

Nearby Hotels

ARMA Hotel

If you’re looking for a place to stay close to the ARMA Museum, there are a number of options to choose from. 

Depending on your budget and preferences, you can find hotels ranging from budget-friendly inns to luxurious resorts.

Some of the nearby hotels that are worth considering include:

  • ARMA Resort
  • The Artini Dijiwa Ubud
  • Sapodilla Ubud

You can also check out Where To Stay In Ubud for more options. 

Nearby Restaurants

If you’re keen to sample some of the local cuisines, check out these several great restaurants nearby:

  • Ivy Cafe [Cafe, International, Asian, Diner]
  • Soul Bites [Mexican, American]
  • Seasoned [Seafood, International]

For more mouth-watering options, these restaurants in Ubud are a must-try. 

Nearby Attractions

The museum is situated in Ubud, which is well known for its cultural heritage and natural beauty. There are several nearby attractions that are definitely worth a visit.

  • Puri Saren Palace
  • Fantasea Bali Shell Museum
  • Bali Eco Tours

While you’re exploring Ubud, take some time to visit other fun spots. I have listed The Best Things To Do in Ubud that you should check out.

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