Travel Guide Pujung

Venturing north and gaining altitude, we discover the village of Pujung, a Mecca for woodcarving, bustling with tirelessly active workshops. On the way from Tegallalang, rice terraces stretch majestically along the right-hand side, testifying to a landscape meticulously shaped by the hand of man. The road that winds between Gentong and Bayad via Kenderan offers some of the most breathtaking views, a real feast for the eyes. Arriving in Bayad, a crossroads invites us to choose: left to Pujung, right to Tampaksiring.Pujung turns out to be a community divided into two distinct banjars, the northern banjar (banjar kaja) and the southern banjar (banjar kelod), each with its own character. Pujung's reputation rests on its exceptional craftsmanship, particularly in the creation of garudas, fascinating works of art. For enthusiasts considering a purchase, it is advisable to first immerse yourself in the world of woodcarving by visiting museums in Ubud or Denpasar, or specialized galleries. It's good to know that the most remarkable garudas are those carved from jackfruit wood, recognizable by their black body. However, it's important to note that jackfruit wood can split under the influence of France's drier climate, lacking sufficient moisture to retain its natural consistency.