In the peaceful town of Ubud, Bali, the Ayung River has become more than just a place for white-water rafting. Since 2023, visitors can witness an extraordinary sight detailed stone carvings along the riverbank that tell the story of the Ramayana, one of the oldest and most respected Hindu epics.
Going over one kilometre, the carvings show key scenes from the Ramayana: the birth of Lord Rama (an avatar of Vishnu), his marriage to Sita, their 14-year exile, Sita’s kidnapping by the demon king Ravana, and the great battle where Rama defeats Ravana and rescues Sita. These ancient stories are brought to life in stone, beautifully crafted by a well-known Balinese sculptor over two years.
The Ramayana reached Indonesia around the 8th or 9th century through Indian traders, priests, and cultural exchanges. It was later adapted into the local language as the Kakawin Ramayana. These stories became an important part of Indonesian culture, especially in Java and Bali, and influenced traditional dance, shadow puppetry (wayang kulit), and temple art.
Sculptors have carved the story of the Ramayana in stone along the banks of the Ayung River in Ubud, Bali. "The carvings tells the story of Ramayana, Lord Vishnu's incarnation as a man and birth as Rama, of his marriage to Sita, 14 yr banishment, Sita's kidnapping by Ravana. pic.twitter.com/wQ35Bd1Cpv
— Dhruv (@myself_dhruv_) February 19, 2020
As time passes, nature adds its own touch to the carvings : moss, plants, and vines grow gently over the figures, blending the epic tale with the lush Balinese landscape.
These river carvings are more than just decoration. They are a reminder of Bali’s deep spiritual history, its connection to ancient India, and the way stories continue to live on through art and nature.
Source / Image Credit : Radha name , Tripadvisor