Candi Kuning Market Bali. Located in the scenic highlands of Bedugul, Candi Kuning Market is one of Bali’s most popular traditional markets, especially for those looking to experience the island’s agricultural bounty. Nestled in the cool climate of Bali’s central mountains, Candi Kuning Market is a hub for fresh produce, local snacks, and souvenirs, attracting both locals and tourists alike. The market is known for its wide variety of fresh fruits, spices, vegetables, and unique Balinese handicrafts. It serves not only as a tourist attraction but also as an essential trading hub for farmers in the surrounding villages.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Candi Kuning Market, from its famous fruit market, local chips, snacks, and souvenirs, to its connection with local farmers in the Bedugul area, why it’s such a popular destination, and its location.
Fruit Market Tourist Attraction
One of the main draws of Candi Kuning Market is its impressive selection of fresh tropical fruits. The market is renowned for being a fruit lover’s paradise, offering a vast array of delicious, locally grown fruits that are both fresh and affordable. Due to its location in the cool, fertile highlands of Bedugul, the region is known for producing some of the best fruits in Bali, particularly those that thrive in cooler climates.
When visiting Candi Kuning Market, you’ll encounter colorful displays of mangosteens, oranges, rambutans, bananas, papayas, and the famous Balinese strawberries, which are a specialty of the Bedugul region. The strawberries grown in this area are sweet and juicy, making them a favorite among both locals and tourists. Visitors can buy them by the bag or enjoy them fresh with cream or sugar.
In addition to strawberries, Candi Kuning is also known for its passion fruit, avocados, and salak (snake fruit), which is a unique Indonesian fruit with a distinctive scaly skin and a sweet, tangy taste. Visitors can sample many of these fruits directly from the vendors, allowing them to taste the freshness and quality before purchasing.
The market’s vibrant atmosphere, with vendors calling out to customers and the colorful displays of fruits, creates a lively and immersive experience. The market’s reputation as a fruit market tourist attraction has made it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the central part of Bali, especially those heading to or from Lake Beratan or Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, both of which are located nearby.
Chips, Snacks, and Souvenirs
In addition to its selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, Candi Kuning Market is also a great place to shop for Balinese chips, snacks, and souvenirs. One of the most popular items sold at the market is kripik or Balinese chips, which come in a variety of flavors and textures. These chips are often made from locally grown ingredients such as cassava, sweet potatoes, and bananas, and they are fried to crispy perfection. Visitors can find sweet, salty, and spicy varieties, making them a perfect snack for the road or a thoughtful gift to bring home.
Another popular snack is dodol, a sweet, chewy candy made from glutinous rice and palm sugar. This traditional Indonesian sweet comes in several flavors, including coconut, durian, and pandan. Dodol Bali is especially famous for its rich taste and smooth texture, making it a favorite souvenir for those wanting to take a piece of Bali home with them.
Candi Kuning Market also offers a wide selection of souvenirs, including Balinese handicrafts, textiles, and wood carvings. You’ll find woven baskets, sarongs, and decorative items that are handcrafted by local artisans. These souvenirs reflect the island’s rich cultural heritage and make for great gifts or home decor.
For visitors who want to experience a bit of local Balinese culture through its flavors, the market is an ideal stop. Sampling the local snacks and sweets is a great way to get a taste of traditional Balinese cuisine, and the souvenirs offer a tangible reminder of your time in Bali.
Local Farmers at Bedugul Village
Candi Kuning Market plays a vital role in supporting the local farmers of Bedugul village and the surrounding highlands. The fertile soil and cool climate of the region make it an ideal location for growing fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Many of the vendors at Candi Kuning Market are local farmers or their representatives, selling produce directly from their farms to the public.
Bedugul is particularly famous for its organic farming, and visitors to the market will find a wide selection of organically grown produce. The vegetables sold here are often fresher and more affordable than what you might find in the southern parts of Bali, and the quality is second to none. Popular vegetables include cabbage, lettuce, carrots, and tomatoes, which thrive in the cooler climate of the highlands.
For visitors interested in agro-tourism, the Bedugul region offers opportunities to visit the local farms, where you can see firsthand how the fruits and vegetables sold at Candi Kuning Market are grown. Many farms offer tours where visitors can pick their own strawberries or learn about organic farming practices.
The market’s connection with local farmers not only ensures a steady supply of fresh produce but also helps sustain the traditional farming communities in Bedugul. By shopping at Candi Kuning Market, visitors are directly supporting these farmers and contributing to the local economy.
Why Candi Kuning is Famous
Candi Kuning Market has gained fame for several reasons, making it a must-visit destination for tourists traveling through the Bedugul area. Here are a few key reasons why Candi Kuning is so well-known:
1. Fresh and Affordable Fruits
Candi Kuning is synonymous with fresh, high-quality fruit. The market’s location in the fertile highlands means that the produce is always fresh and abundant. The variety of tropical fruits, combined with the market’s affordable prices, attracts both locals and tourists.
2. Strategic Location Near Popular Attractions
Candi Kuning Market is conveniently located near popular tourist destinations like Ulun Danu Beratan Temple and Lake Beratan. Many tourists stop at the market on their way to or from these attractions to stock up on snacks, fruits, or souvenirs. Its strategic location has helped cement its reputation as a must-see spot in the area.
3. Authentic Local Experience
Unlike the more commercialized markets in southern Bali, Candi Kuning offers an authentic Balinese market experience. Visitors can interact with local vendors, sample traditional snacks, and purchase locally produced goods, making it an enriching cultural experience.
4. Agro-Tourism Hub
The market is also part of the larger agro-tourism industry in Bedugul. Many visitors come to the region specifically to explore the farms and learn about organic farming practices, making Candi Kuning an essential stop on their journey.
Candi Kuning Market Location
Candi Kuning Market is located in the Bedugul region of Bali’s Tabanan Regency, about 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of Denpasar. The market is situated along the main road that connects Denpasar to Bali’s northern areas, making it a convenient stop for travelers heading to popular attractions like Lake Beratan, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, and the Bali Botanic Garden.
Due to its central location in Bedugul, Candi Kuning is easily accessible by car or motorbike. Many tourists visit the market as part of a day trip from Ubud, Seminyak, or Canggu, combining it with other nearby attractions.
If you’re traveling by private vehicle or taxi, the journey from Denpasar to Candi Kuning Market takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Public transportation options are limited, so most visitors opt for private transport or guided tours that include a stop at the market.
Things To Do at Candi Kuning Market
There are plenty of things to do at Candi Kuning Market, making it a great stop for anyone exploring the Bedugul area. Here are some of the top activities to enjoy:
1. Shop for Fresh Produce
The market is famous for its fresh fruits and vegetables, so make sure to sample the local produce. Don’t miss the chance to try Bedugul’s famous strawberries or purchase a bag of fresh passion fruit or snake fruit.
2. Try Local Snacks
Candi Kuning Market is a great place to try traditional Balinese snacks like kripik, dodol, and other sweet treats. Sampling these local delicacies is an essential part of the experience.
3. Buy Souvenirs
The market offers a variety of Balinese handicrafts and souvenirs, including woven baskets, wooden carvings, and textiles. These items make for unique and authentic souvenirs to take home.
4. Experience the Local Culture
Visiting Candi Kuning Market provides an opportunity to experience the local culture and interact with the vendors. Many of the sellers are friendly and happy to share information about their products and way of life.
Candi Kuning Market Facilities
Candi Kuning Market provides essential facilities to ensure a comfortable visit for tourists and locals alike:
- Parking: There is ample parking space available near the market for cars and motorbikes.
- Restrooms
: Public restrooms are available for visitors, ensuring that you can spend time exploring the market without needing to leave for facilities.
- Food Stalls: Numerous food stalls and warungs are located in and around the market, offering a variety of local snacks, meals, and drinks for visitors.
- ATMs: ATMs can be found in the nearby area for those who need to withdraw cash for purchases.
Conclusion: A Must-Visit Market in Bali’s Highlands
Candi Kuning Market is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Bedugul region or those looking to experience a traditional Balinese market in a scenic setting. Whether you’re shopping for fresh fruits, sampling local snacks, or looking for unique souvenirs, Candi Kuning Market offers a vibrant and authentic experience that captures the essence of Bali’s highland culture.
The market’s connection to local farmers, its variety of products, and its proximity to popular attractions make it a perfect stop on any Bedugul itinerary. Whether you’re a fruit lover, a food enthusiast, or a cultural explorer, Candi Kuning Market promises a memorable experience on your journey through Bali’s highlands.