Most travelers who come to Bali rush to the south—for beaches, parties, or yoga retreats. But if you head north, you’ll find a place with a slower rhythm, a richer history, and a completely different vibe. Welcome to Singaraja, a town that once held the crown as Bali’s capital and now charms visitors with its quiet dignity.
🏛 Once a Capital, Always a Legend
Singaraja might not be the busiest town on the island today, but back in the day, it was Bali’s big deal. It started as the capital of the Buleleng Kingdom and later became the administrative center for the entire Lesser Sunda Islands, even serving as Bali’s provincial capital until 1958.
Why did the capital move? Simple—times changed. The shift to Denpasar was part of Bali’s modern development. But that doesn’t mean Singaraja lost its soul. It just quietly stepped out of the spotlight, leaving behind traces of its royal and colonial past.
The town’s name itself is poetic: Singaraja means “Lion King.” It reflects the charisma of I Gusti Anglurah Panji Sakti, a 17th-century ruler who chose this spot as the kingdom’s capital. He wanted a more strategic location—and ended up creating a legacy.
🎓 A Town with Brains and Balance
These days, Singaraja isn’t known for wild beach parties or shopping malls. Instead, it has a calmer reputation as Bali’s educational hub. With several universities and schools, it’s where young minds grow, far from the distractions of the touristy south.
There’s something refreshing about a town that values knowledge and tradition over noise. If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to take your time, learn a little history, and feel the local rhythm, Singaraja might be your perfect match.
Lovina: Dolphins and Sunrise Vibes
If Singaraja had a favorite beach, it would be Lovina. Just a short drive away, this stretch of black-sand coastline is famous for its early-morning dolphin-watching tours. Imagine hopping on a small boat at sunrise, sipping coffee as the sky turns pink, and watching wild dolphins jump through the waves. Magical? Absolutely.
Lovina isn’t flashy—but that’s the point. No loud clubs, no traffic jams. Just calm seas, soft sunsets, and local warungs serving fresh seafood.
📌 Quick Facts (So You Know)
- Location: North Bali, capital of Buleleng Regency
- Area: Around 28 km²
- Population: Roughly 80,500 people
- Population density: About 2,877 per km²
- Coordinates: Between 08°03’40”–08°23’00” S and 114°25’55”–115°27’28” E
- Now: Divided into several urban and rural areas (kelurahan and desa) within the Buleleng District
Final Thoughts: Is Singaraja Worth Visiting?
If you’re chasing nightlife and viral TikToks, maybe stick to Canggu. But if you're looking for real stories, peaceful streets, and a side of Bali that’s often overlooked, Singaraja will surprise you.
This is a town that doesn’t shout for attention. It simply waits—for the kind of traveler who’s curious enough to look beyond the usual path.