Setia Darma House of Mask and Puppets
Setia Darma House of Mask and Puppets
5
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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5.0
219 reviews
Excellent
180
Very good
32
Average
7
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Valeriya & family
Perth, Australia35 contributions
Apr 2023 • Family
Beautiful museum with an extensive collection of masks and puppets situated in a nice quite garden. When we arrived, a lovely lady approached us and explained everything about the exhibits.
Written 18 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Juniper64
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia475 contributions
Apr 2023 • Solo
Seven pavillions set in lush grounds, each an absolute goldmine of insights into cultures from around the world, captured in masks and puppets.
To prevent this becoming just an endless stream of "funny faces", it's helpful to do some background research before and after your visit. For example, watch YouTube videos of wayang golek, wayang kulit's less famous cousin. Enter "Craftsmanhip, The Making of Wayang Golek", as a good starter, into the YT search bar.
The wayang golek collection here is superb, with regional variations in Indonesia all showcased. It's incredible to think that the whole collection in the museum was basically acquired by one man, who now showcases them free of charge.
This gives useful context into the whys and whats of the puppets. One small quibble: the descriptions in some parts are hard to read: I got around this by just snapping a photo on my phone, to look up after I got home.
There are so many treasures here that even Asians will be astounded by how many unknown cultures are at our doorstep.
The fact that entry to this magnificent museum is free is utterly amazing; the other art museums around Ubud can be pricey, with AMRA coming in at 150K IDR.
A friendly guide who's been there for 20 years will be happy to show you around.There are two sets of toilets onsite; not stellar, but you can "go", don't worry. A small cafe too if I'm not mistaken, but Ubud's plentiful dining options are close by anyway.
Utterly unmissable, if you have any interest in world culture.
To prevent this becoming just an endless stream of "funny faces", it's helpful to do some background research before and after your visit. For example, watch YouTube videos of wayang golek, wayang kulit's less famous cousin. Enter "Craftsmanhip, The Making of Wayang Golek", as a good starter, into the YT search bar.
The wayang golek collection here is superb, with regional variations in Indonesia all showcased. It's incredible to think that the whole collection in the museum was basically acquired by one man, who now showcases them free of charge.
This gives useful context into the whys and whats of the puppets. One small quibble: the descriptions in some parts are hard to read: I got around this by just snapping a photo on my phone, to look up after I got home.
There are so many treasures here that even Asians will be astounded by how many unknown cultures are at our doorstep.
The fact that entry to this magnificent museum is free is utterly amazing; the other art museums around Ubud can be pricey, with AMRA coming in at 150K IDR.
A friendly guide who's been there for 20 years will be happy to show you around.There are two sets of toilets onsite; not stellar, but you can "go", don't worry. A small cafe too if I'm not mistaken, but Ubud's plentiful dining options are close by anyway.
Utterly unmissable, if you have any interest in world culture.
Written 18 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Travelbug1155
San Francisco, CA531 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
I have always been a big fan of masks. They reveal so much about various cultures and religions. This collection is truly outstanding in quality of items and presentation. The Balignese masks are first rate as is all the other samples of masks from many countries, including Japanese Indonesian, African Papua, Sri Lanka, Italy, just to name a few. The puppets are just fantastic as well as are they articulated shadow puppets.
If you have any interest in this type of art, you probably won’t find a better collection anywhere
If you have any interest in this type of art, you probably won’t find a better collection anywhere
Written 14 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BrakelSyl
Eindhoven, The Netherlands2,477 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
Fantastic museum, several wooden joglo houses, in a well kept and beautifal garden, which show a gorgeous collection of masks and puppets. No entry fee, donation box at the rnd. Mustvsee!
Written 23 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Larissa
San Diego, CA5 contributions
Sep 2022
I was looking for a nice quiet place in Ubud to spend some time and I was very lucky to have found this place!
Beautiful area, and the museum itself, located in several different houses, is an amazing look into Indonesian culture, although there is a couple of other international cultures featured as well. But I was absolutely fascinated by the Balinese displays.
Guides are present to share about the stories and history.
And it was certainly quiet. Only a small handful of others wandering the area when I got there, and by the end I was the only one. Super tranquil and surrounded by beautiful well kept greenery to boot.
Also free entrance, which was very generous.
Highly recommend for a touch of Indonesian culture and nice little trip away from the hustle and bustle of central Ubud.
Beautiful area, and the museum itself, located in several different houses, is an amazing look into Indonesian culture, although there is a couple of other international cultures featured as well. But I was absolutely fascinated by the Balinese displays.
Guides are present to share about the stories and history.
And it was certainly quiet. Only a small handful of others wandering the area when I got there, and by the end I was the only one. Super tranquil and surrounded by beautiful well kept greenery to boot.
Also free entrance, which was very generous.
Highly recommend for a touch of Indonesian culture and nice little trip away from the hustle and bustle of central Ubud.
Written 12 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DaveJJenk
Hvar, Croatia72 contributions
Aug 2022
During our recent trip to Bali, we visited many museums, temples and other cultural centres but this beautifully presented museum of masks and puppets in the village of Mas was, by far, the highlight. Housed in 6 separate traditionally designed buildings in a beautiful garden setting, the comprehensive collection features masks and puppets donated by many Asian, South and Central American countries. The museum guides are enthusiastic, knowledgeable and rightly proud of their magnificent display. This is a "must see" on any cultural Balinese itinerary and needs at least two hours to fully appreciate. Don't miss it!
Written 19 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LotteAuckland
Auckland Central, New Zealand14 contributions
Jun 2022
A hidden gem! I loved this place not far from Ubud. A pretty setting of several large houses/rooms full of masks and puppets. Nice to stroll around for an hour. I visited just as tourist spots were opening up so was the only person there and the cafe still not open, but I imagine it would also be a good place to have lunch…next time.
Written 22 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CKF
CT2,199 contributions
Feb 2020
We saw Setia Darma House of Mask and Puppets recommended in a guide book and put it on our list while in Ubud. First, adjacent to the parking lot, you'll see a small gift shop, selling authentic Balinese masks, shadow puppets, and jewelry. We liked this, but is was rather underwhelming and we sighed. We thought there would be more.
Well, keep walking! You WILL find more! On the other side of a park-like green space you will find a museum housed in four buildings (at least). The masks range from tiny to huge, multi-person varieties, meant to be worn during annual festivals and such. The masks came in every size, shape and facial expression. WOW! We went from being underwhelmed to overwhelmed! You will marvel at the shadow puppet collection and the intricate artistry and craftsmanship on display. How could we be the only visitors there?
Spent so much time browsing and reading all the cards (English included) that our guide must have wondered where we went. Well designed, well planned, lots of space to walk and admire.
What a find! Do not miss this hidden treasure, just a short distance from the Elephant Cave (which was a let down). ENJOY!
Well, keep walking! You WILL find more! On the other side of a park-like green space you will find a museum housed in four buildings (at least). The masks range from tiny to huge, multi-person varieties, meant to be worn during annual festivals and such. The masks came in every size, shape and facial expression. WOW! We went from being underwhelmed to overwhelmed! You will marvel at the shadow puppet collection and the intricate artistry and craftsmanship on display. How could we be the only visitors there?
Spent so much time browsing and reading all the cards (English included) that our guide must have wondered where we went. Well designed, well planned, lots of space to walk and admire.
What a find! Do not miss this hidden treasure, just a short distance from the Elephant Cave (which was a let down). ENJOY!
Written 28 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear CKF
Greeting from House of Mask and Puppets Setia Darma.
Thank you for visiting House of Mask and Puppets Setia Darma.
We do hope that you are having a great experience visiting us.
We would like to also thank you for your review.
House of Mask and Puppets Setia Darma collections are about 1,300 masks and 5,700 puppets (the collection mostly from Indonesia), House of Mask and Puppets Setia Darma displaying its collection in 6 javanese traditional houses.
At the end of visit, there is a Cafe Topeng where our visitors could get indonesian traditional snacks, fresh cold drinks or just enjoying our tasty balinese coffee.
We are looking forward to welcoming you again when visiting our place.
Written 1 April 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Linda
Nepean, Canada9 contributions
Jan 2020
We visited the museum which is located in Mas Village at the suggestion of our guide and driver who lives in the village. It was an amazing visit. So many beautiful masks and puppets in a very large collection. The young woman who was our guide was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. We only had time for two buildings unfortunately. Incredible that it is also free although donations are accepted. Please visit their website. The grounds are also used as a park for local children.
As well there is a cafe there that serves cappuccinos, lates, espresso. My husband is a coffee fanatic and he said its the best coffee he ever had. The food was delicious as well, the cafe is locally owned and the young man who cooked our meal is a son of the owner. A very lovely spot to eat!!
As well there is a cafe there that serves cappuccinos, lates, espresso. My husband is a coffee fanatic and he said its the best coffee he ever had. The food was delicious as well, the cafe is locally owned and the young man who cooked our meal is a son of the owner. A very lovely spot to eat!!
Written 28 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear P3457BZlindam
Greeting from House of Mask and Puppets Setia Darma.
Thank you for visiting House of Mask and Puppets Setia Darma.
We do hope that you are having a great experience visiting us.
We would like to also thank you for your review.
House of Mask and Puppets Setia Darma collections are about 1,300 masks and 5,700 puppets (the collection mostly from Indonesia), House of Mask and Puppets Setia Darma displaying its collection in 6 javanese traditional houses.
At the end of visit, there is a Cafe Topeng where our visitors could get indonesian traditional snacks, fresh cold drinks or just enjoying our tasty balinese coffee.
We are looking forward to welcoming you again when visiting our place.
Written 28 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Adrien
Aix-en-Provence, France3 contributions
Dec 2019 • Couples
the place is amazing. Beautiful collection and variety of masks. Strongly recommended to go there without any doubts.
Just don’t stop at the gallery store to buy souvenirs. Price are over charged with a very bad service.
Just go to the Main Street of Mas village with local workshops you can find 1/4 of what you would pay in the gallery with smile and good service!
Just don’t stop at the gallery store to buy souvenirs. Price are over charged with a very bad service.
Just go to the Main Street of Mas village with local workshops you can find 1/4 of what you would pay in the gallery with smile and good service!
Written 31 December 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear anazez
Greeting from House of Mask and Puppets Setia Darma.
Thank you for visiting House of Mask and Puppets Setia Darma.
We thank you for your review.
We would like to also inform you that the gallery is not owned by House of Mask and Puppets Setia Darma, the gallery is owned by our partner, the gallery is borrowing a space in our place.
We apologize for your inconvenience, we will also submit your complaint to the gallery manager.
if you have questions, please send it by email to : setiadarmabali@yahoo.co.id
we will be happy to answer it.
We are looking forward to welcoming you again when visiting our place.
Written 1 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Marie-anne G
Lattes, France
Que faisait on avant dans ces maisons? On m a dit une ancienne fabrique de papier .... merci de votre réponse
SetiaDarma
ubud
Hello Marie-anne, Setia Darma Houses of Masks and Puppets is a place where various kinds of masks and puppets from different regions in Indonesia and around the world have been collected, stored, and displayed for public since 2006. The collection includes more than 1300 masks and 5700 puppets.
for more information, please contact us 0361 8987493
Best Regards,
House of Mask & Puppets Setia Darma
Bagus Santoso
is there a cost to enter the setia darma house of mask and pupperts?
Lani133
Sydney, Australia4 contributions
No cost, there is a donation box at the end but you are not asked or pushed to donate at all. It is however well worth contributing something to the upkeep of the amazing collection.
SETIA DARMA HOUSE OF MASK AND PUPPETS (Sukawati) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Setia Darma House of Mask and Puppets
- Setia Darma House of Mask and Puppets is open:
- Sun - Sat 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- We recommend booking Setia Darma House of Mask and Puppets tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 4 Setia Darma House of Mask and Puppets tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near Setia Darma House of Mask and Puppets:
- (0.30 km) Casa Mas villa
- (0.37 km) Anggira Villa Ubud
- (1.17 km) Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana
- (0.44 km) Villa Alam Surya
- (1.12 km) Ubud Dedari Villas
- Restaurants near Setia Darma House of Mask and Puppets:
- (0.90 km) Odette Bali
- (1.49 km) Sacred Rice
- (1.58 km) The Kumbuh Restaurant
- (1.37 km) Bale Udang Mang Engking
- (0.57 km) Warung Dewa Malen