Renon is all too often overlooked by visitors to Bali, which is a real shame as it has a lot to offer.
There’s some interesting culture and history to immerse yourself in there, such as the iconic Bajra Sandhi Monument, and some delicious food to indulge in at the local food market.
All of this is just a stone’s throw from the main tourist areas.
Where Is Renon?
Renon is a district of Denpasar, the capital of Bali. It’s in the southern part of Denpasar, not far from Kuta and very close to the beach town of Sanur.
How Do I Get To Renon?
Given the location, Renon isn’t too difficult to get to from the nearby beach areas.
It makes a nice day trip from Seminyak, Canggu, etc on the west coast, which are about a 40 minute drive away, and Sanur, which is only about 15 minutes east of Renon. Ubud is also only about an hour north from here.
Taxi/ Ride-Hailing App – The best way to get there would be by a taxi hailing app such as Grab or Gojek, the price won’t break the bank, especially if there are a few of you.
You could also ask your hotel to book you a taxi, or even hire a driver for the whole day to cart you around, then drop you back home or somewhere else afterwards.
Motorbike/ Scooter rental – Although it may be tempting to rent a scooter or motorbike to get there, it’s not far after all, as always, we recommend against this.
It’s unlikely you’ll be road legal, leaving you open to problems with the police and insurance issues, and the Balinese roads can be dangerous, don’t risk an accident.
Anyway, it’s hot, better to relax in the taxi with the conditioning ramped up!
How Do I Get Around Renon?
On Foot – One of the nicest ways to travel around Renon is without doubt on foot. The area is a bit more forgiving for pedestrians than other parts of the capital, and it’s not that big. In theory, it should take less than 45 minutes to walk from the north to the south of Renon, and vice versa.
A great advantage of walking is you get to see a lot, small details, streets and cafes which you’d otherwise miss were you not on foot. It’s also a lot easier to take in the culture, hear the sounds, smell the smells.
The only disadvantage to walking around all day is that it can get very hot, during the midday sun. So remember if you are walking, to stay hydrated.
Taxi/Rideshare – It’s easy to order a Grab or Gojek in Renon, this way you can travel faster to your destination of choice, in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle.
About Renon
Renon has played an important role in the development of Bali’s culture and politics over the years. It was once home to the Balinese royal family, and has served as the central area for Balinese government in the past.
In recent years, the area has seen a rise in cafes and restaurants, as well as becoming a bit of a modern art and cultural hub. A mix of modern and traditional Balinese elements, all without the hustle and bustle of the main tourist areas, Renon is a great area to escape to for a feel of the island life.
Things To See And Do In Renon?
Bajra Sandhi Monument
Located in Renon Square, Jalan Raya Puputan, which is technically just slightly outside of Renon district. This is one of the main attractions for sure, the heart of the cultural history of the island.
Sitting at the centre of the square, the monument is an iconic structure dedicated to Bali’s historical struggles, shaped like a traditional Balinese drum, bajra, symbolising the island’s fight for independence.
The monument is surrounded by gardens, and the adjacent park, Lapangang Putupan Renon.
Putupan means “come to an end” in the Balinese language, and the square commemorates the last stand of the Balinese against the Dutch colonisers.
There’s a running track here which people of all ages walk and jog around daily, while others lie on the grass and relax. It gets particularly busy over the weekend.
The Bajra Sandhi Monument is open from 8 am to 6 pm daily, and there’s a small entrance fee for maintenance. This is an important structure for the local people, so please remember to remain respectful when visiting.
Where Is It? Jalan Raya Puputan No.142, Panjer, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80234, Indonesia
Pasar Renon
The main market in Renon, and a centre point of local life.
Many Balinese handicrafts can be found here, such as batik textiles, wood carvings, woven baskets and clothes. One of the highlights though is the food section, where you can find a variety of fresh produce, as well as vendors selling food to be eaten. More on that later!
Where Is It? Jl. Tukad Yeh Aya No.180, Renon, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80239, Indonesia
Nearby
Sanur – this beach town is only a stone’s throw away, and if you haven’t just come from there, then it might be worth visiting there. It’s a more laid back vibe compared to the beaches of Kuta and Seminyak, and we like it for a day or two getaway.
Ubud – bored of the city? Head north to Ubud for a quiet getaway in this chilled out town. The heart of rice paddies, coffee and hipster relaxation.
Seminyak, Canggu – if you haven’t just come from there, then the beaches to the west are less than an hour away. They have a lot to offer and they’re great launching points for other areas of the island. If you stop off in Canggu, don’t forget to drop by and pay us a visit at FINNS, the world’s best beach club.
Where To Eat In Renon?
Food Vendors
One of the main reasons people visit Renon is to eat from the many food vendors, which can be found in several places including Pasar Renon and outside Lapangang Putupon Park.
Popular amongst locals and tourists alike, no trip to Renon is complete without trying the local fare.
Here are some of the local dishes to look out for:
Babi Guling – a famous Balinese dish of suckling pig slow cooked over fire. Usually served with rice and sambal
- Nasi Campur Bali – rice served with side dishes of meat, vegetables, eggs and sambal
- Sate Lilit – Balinese satay, made from minced meat wrapped around a bamboo stick
- Tipat Cantok -Balinese salad of boiled rice, vegetables, tofu and tempeh with a peanut dressing
Bakso – Indonesian meatball soup, typically made with beef, served in a savory broth with noodles and tofu
- Es Campur – Indonesian dessert made with shaved ice, mixed fruits, jelly, sweet syrup, and condensed milk (this may sound a bit strange, but trust us it’s very nice, and great on a hot day)
- Martabak Manis -sweet, thick pancake filled with chocolate, peanuts, and condensed milk
Restaurants and Cafes
If you’re not interested in the street food or you just want to escape the sun, there are a few restaurants and cafes in and around Renon, here are a few we checked out.
The Brass – a luxe-bar and western style restaurant in a trendy setting with plenty of outdoor seating, located just near the square. The grilled striploin was pretty good here.
Ravioli Restaurant – the last place we expected to find an Italian joint, but we tried it out and it was pretty decent, we must say. Try the beef stroganoff.
Rama’s House of Noodles – a modern style noodle house serving Indonesian and other Asian dishes. It has a cool rooftop, which you can eat on, a good place to relax and eat during the evening.
FAQs
Is Renon In Denpasar?
Yes, Renon is an area of Denpasar, on the eastern side of the city centre, heading towards Sanur.
When Did The Dutch Leave Bali?
They officially left in 1949, following 4 years of armed struggle since the Japanese surrender in at the end of the Second World War.
On The Map, Renon Square Seems To Be Outside Of Renon District, Why?
Like most of Indo, the borders from one part of Denpasar to another seem to be rather grey and fluid. Places which are technically in one district, may be listed as the adjacent district. It can be confusing at times.
How Long Does It Take To Walk From Bali Museum, Denpasar To Renon Square?
The walk from the museum in Denpasar to the square would take about 45 minutes if walking fast, otherwise just over an hour. It’s not a short walk, but also not too long. It can get very hot, if you decide to walk then stay hydrated.
Final Thoughts On Renon, Bali
If you want to explore some of Bali’s cultural history and see some busy life away from hordes of tourists, then we’d recommend visiting Renon.
Its location makes it a great day or weekend trip from the beaches, and it’s a good place to stop off when passing through.
If you’re a food lover wanting to explore the local cuisine, then you should definitely consider a visit, you won’t be disappointed.
