THE GUIDE - The Rough Guide to Bali and Lombok - page 222

MASKS
Carved wooden masks play a crucial role in traditional Balinese dance-dramas. Many are
treated as sacred objects, wrapped in holy cloth and stored in the temple when not being
used, and given offerings before every public appearance. There's even an annual fest-
ival day for all masks and puppets, called Tumpek Wayang, at which actors and mask-
makers honour their masks with offerings. The main centres of mask-making on Bali are
Singapadu and Mas . Such is the power generated by certain masks that some mask-
makers enter a trance while working.
Traditional masks fall into three categories: human, animal and supernatural. Most hu-
man masks are made for performances of the Topeng , literally “Masked Drama”, while an-
imal masks are generally inspired by characters from the Hindu epic the Ramayana. Most
sacred of all are the fantastical Barong and Rangda masks, worn in many dramas by the
mythical creatures representing the forces of good and evil.
ACCOMMODATION: SINGAPADU AND SAYAN
Overlooking the spectacular Ayung River valley about 3km west of central Ubud, Sayan and
nearby Kedewatan are famous for their luxurious resorts, all of which capitalize on the dra-
matic panoramas.
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan Sayan 0361 977577, fourseasons.com/sayan ; map .
Considered one of the world's top hotels, the Four Seasons is built on several levels in the
Ayung River valley. The suites and villas are beautifully appointed and fabulously comfort-
able and villas also have private pool s. Se rvice i is imp eccable and the two-tier pool and other
communal areas are stunning. Suites $554 , villas $829
Sayan Terrace Sayan 0361 974384, sayanterraceresort.com ; map . These enormous
rooms and villas with fans and a/c, all with huge windows and verandas, make the most of
the fine Ayung Rive r views . Th ere's an inviting pool and a restaurant and transport to central
Ubud. Doubles $104 , villas $166
Taman Bebek Sayan 0361 975385, tamanbebekbali.com ; map . A collection of
rooms, suites and villas built in airy colonial style with verandas, sliding screens and carved
doors. Lush foliage obscures some of the Ayung River terrace views but the atmospheric
garden is a winner . T here's a poo l, spa and transport to Ubud (10min), and meals can be
provided. Doubles $87 , suites $192 , villas $227
The Green School
Sibang Kaja • Tours Mon-Fri 4pm; book in advance • Rp100,000 suggested donation • 0361 469875,
greenschool.org • Accessible by motorcycle or bicycle (via Silakarang and Mambal Market), about 13km from
Ubud