Gelgel Mosque ~ The Oldest and First Mosque in Bali
Hidden in the heart of Klungkung, Bali, lies Masjid Nurul Huda, a mosque with a rich history dating back to the 13th century. Located in Gelgel Muslim Village, this is the first and oldest mosque in Bali, standing as a silent witness to centuries of religious harmony and cultural fusion.
Of course, minor renovations have been carried out over time to preserve its historical significance while maintaining its sacred aura.
Though the mosque has embraced some modern touches, such as Islamic-themed decorations and ceramic flooring, it still retains its traditional essence. One of its most striking features is its 17-meter-high tower, where a loudspeaker is installed to call the faithful to prayer. Inside, the mosque has two levels, both used for prayers.
This color combination symbolizes Rwabhineda, the Balinese philosophy of balance between opposites—similar to the Islamic concept of unity in diversity.
According to Wahidullah, this design choice represents the harmonious relationship between the early Muslim settlers and the local Balinese culture. “It reflects our ability to blend in while still maintaining our faith,” he explained.
When he returned to Bali, he was accompanied by 40 Majapahit warriors, some of whom were already Muslim. These warriors settled in Gelgel with the king’s blessing and began spreading Islam peacefully.
Another version of history suggests that Islam arrived in Bali during the 16th century, when two powerful Islamic kingdoms, Demak and Mataram, were thriving in Java. It is said that an envoy from Sultan Raden Patah of Demak attempted to spread Islam in Bali during the reign of Dalem Waturenggong.
However, his mission was unsuccessful, and according to legend, he took his own life with a keris (dagger), leading to his burial at Sema Pejaratan near Desa Satra, about a kilometer from Gelgel.
Religious activities play a central role in the community. During Ramadan, the mosque becomes a hub of activity, with people gathering for Tarawih prayers and Quran recitations. The community follows a unique tradition of completing the entire Quran three times during Ramadan, with groups taking turns reciting it every 10 days.
Another beautiful tradition is Puluran, a practice where community members contribute food and drinks for those participating in Quran recitations. At the end of each Quranic completion, a grand feast called Sagi is held, where families take turns preparing meals for the entire village.
Today, Masjid Nurul Huda remains a symbol of faith, resilience, and cultural unity. Whether you’re a history buff, a cultural enthusiast, or just someone looking to explore a different side of Bali, a visit to Gelgel Muslim Village is a journey through time and tradition that you won’t forget.
Thinking of exploring Bali’s hidden gems? Add Masjid Nurul Huda and Gelgel Muslim Village to your itinerary and witness a unique blend of history, culture, and spirituality firsthand!
A Mosque Steeped in History
Masjid Nurul Huda is home to around 1,000 residents from 285 Muslim families who have lived in Gelgel for generations. According to Wahidullah, one of the mosque caretakers, the original structure of the mosque has remained largely unchanged over hundreds of years.Of course, minor renovations have been carried out over time to preserve its historical significance while maintaining its sacred aura.
Though the mosque has embraced some modern touches, such as Islamic-themed decorations and ceramic flooring, it still retains its traditional essence. One of its most striking features is its 17-meter-high tower, where a loudspeaker is installed to call the faithful to prayer. Inside, the mosque has two levels, both used for prayers.
A Beautiful Blend of Cultures
One of the most unique aspects of Masjid Nurul Huda is its architectural fusion with Balinese culture. For example, the black and white checkered pattern found on some pillars resembles the "poleng" fabric commonly seen in Hindu temples across Bali.This color combination symbolizes Rwabhineda, the Balinese philosophy of balance between opposites—similar to the Islamic concept of unity in diversity.
According to Wahidullah, this design choice represents the harmonious relationship between the early Muslim settlers and the local Balinese culture. “It reflects our ability to blend in while still maintaining our faith,” he explained.
The Origins of Gelgel’s Muslim Community
The Muslim community in Gelgel traces its roots back to the Majapahit era. During the late 13th century, King Gelgel I, Ketut Dalem Lingsir, traveled to Majapahit (modern-day East Java) for a royal gathering.When he returned to Bali, he was accompanied by 40 Majapahit warriors, some of whom were already Muslim. These warriors settled in Gelgel with the king’s blessing and began spreading Islam peacefully.
Another version of history suggests that Islam arrived in Bali during the 16th century, when two powerful Islamic kingdoms, Demak and Mataram, were thriving in Java. It is said that an envoy from Sultan Raden Patah of Demak attempted to spread Islam in Bali during the reign of Dalem Waturenggong.
However, his mission was unsuccessful, and according to legend, he took his own life with a keris (dagger), leading to his burial at Sema Pejaratan near Desa Satra, about a kilometer from Gelgel.
A Thriving Muslim Community
For centuries, the Gelgel Muslim Village has remained a close-knit community where religious traditions and cultural customs are passed down through generations. Unlike other areas in Bali, the village architecture bears more resemblance to Javanese-style homes, reflecting their historical ties to Java.Religious activities play a central role in the community. During Ramadan, the mosque becomes a hub of activity, with people gathering for Tarawih prayers and Quran recitations. The community follows a unique tradition of completing the entire Quran three times during Ramadan, with groups taking turns reciting it every 10 days.
Another beautiful tradition is Puluran, a practice where community members contribute food and drinks for those participating in Quran recitations. At the end of each Quranic completion, a grand feast called Sagi is held, where families take turns preparing meals for the entire village.
A Testament to Harmony and Tradition
Despite being a Muslim village in the heart of Hindu-majority Bali, Gelgel is a shining example of religious tolerance and harmony. The Muslim and Hindu communities have lived side by side for centuries, respecting each other's beliefs and customs.Today, Masjid Nurul Huda remains a symbol of faith, resilience, and cultural unity. Whether you’re a history buff, a cultural enthusiast, or just someone looking to explore a different side of Bali, a visit to Gelgel Muslim Village is a journey through time and tradition that you won’t forget.
Thinking of exploring Bali’s hidden gems? Add Masjid Nurul Huda and Gelgel Muslim Village to your itinerary and witness a unique blend of history, culture, and spirituality firsthand!
