Abandoned '80's amusement park. Taman Festival Bali was a sprawling 10-hectare entertainment complex and amusement park with lazer light show, 3D cinema, exotic animal exhibits including a small island "Crocodile Rock" surrounded by a moat full of crocodiles, and at its heart, a man-made volcano which shot fireworks as lava from its mouth. The park opened in 1997 and was abandoned shortly thereafter during the height of the Asian Financial Crisis, leaving the buildings, grounds, and animals on-site to their own devices.
These days nature is reclaiming the site and it creates a beautiful, yet somewhat eerie scene. It has become a canvas for street art by artists from all over the globe with some very impressive graffiti. Most interestingly, the jungle is absorbing the buildings and overgrowing the entire area. Because of this, you will have to navigate the jungly maze that this place has become over the years in order to see the hidden gems!
You can easily spend a few hours exploring this poetic site. Taman Festival is frequented by photographers trying to capture the unique atmosphere and eerie vibe.
Wear shoes, proper clothing and bring your own drink or snack. Maybe breadcrumbs so you can find your way back through the maze ;) Even though the place is abandoned and not being kept up, there is often a security guard near the parking that will try to charge you a minimum 'donation' of 10,000 IDR to enter. This is not necessary, and can be avoided by using the alternate access and parking all the way around the the north/east.
Be wary of where you place your feet as there are many pieces of glass, rusted nails, debris, and crumbling cement and tile, though mosquitos are probably the most dangerous thing about the site these days... Bring bug repellant! Use common...
Read moreNestled near the serene beaches of Sanur, Bali, Taman Festival stands as a testament to the island’s dynamic art scene. Originally inaugurated in 1997 as a theme park, it was envisioned to feature attractions like Bali’s largest swimming pool, a 3D theater, and a laser show. However, due to financial difficulties and unforeseen events, the park was abandoned over two decades ago. 
Today, Taman Festival has transformed into an open-air gallery, where nature and art intertwine harmoniously. The decaying structures have become canvases for both local and international graffiti artists, resulting in a vibrant tapestry of murals and installations. As you wander through the overgrown pathways, you’ll encounter a diverse array of street art styles, from intricate portraits to abstract designs, each telling its own story. 
The juxtaposition of urban art against the backdrop of reclaimed nature creates a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. Sunlight filters through the dense foliage, casting shadows on the colorful walls, enhancing the ethereal ambiance. This fusion of art and environment offers a unique experience, making Taman Festival a must-visit for art enthusiasts and explorers alike. 
While the park’s history is tinged with mystery and local legends, its current state serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and creativity inherent in Bali’s cultural landscape. Visiting Taman Festival provides a profound appreciation for the island’s evolving artistic expressions and the beauty that...
Read moreWe had Bakso across the park first before entering. There's a guard sitting at the entrance collecting money. Typical! Putting a table there and making money out of smth that he probably didn't even contribute to =.=
Anyways there is a ramp at the right side of the building at the front, we quietly walked up and you will see like a green creature graffiti. Go towards the right and walk straight in, you will come out into an area ahead of the guard. He might still be able to see you so quietly walk towards the left, pass his station then take like a path down and continue exploring.
I guess we were lucky that he was pacing and not just sitting at his table, made it easier to sneak pass him. Anyways there are lots of graffitis/artworks that probably looks nothing related to the amusement park.
Make sure you wear shoes, some part of the ground is wet and disgusting. Some areas that are not touched by sunlight feels extra creepy. There was one group of foreigners when we were there, either than that you have the whole place to yourself. For me if I would have paid the entrance fee, I would have felt that it was not worth it at all no...
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