Taman Safari Indonesia once again hosted the annual Bali Royal Chili Festival at Taman Safari Bali, running from 28 August to 7 September 2025. The event invites guests to savour around 70 varieties of Sambal, each showcasing flavours and traditions passed down through generations.
Indonesia’s beloved spicy chilli paste, featured at the festival, is made from the recipes of nine royal palaces. Variety such as Sambal Taples, Sambal Matah Tuung, Sambal Terong Ungu Pedas Manis and Sambal Don Kecarum, each offer a taste of heritage, reflecting the island’s rich cultural and culinary roots.
Alexander Zulkarnain, the acting chief marketing officer of Taman Safari Indonesia Group, explained that the festival underscores its ongoing commitment to providing a unique culinary experience filled with cultural significance.
In addition to the Sambals, visitors can explore Bale Banjar, where traditional weaving methods and motifs are showcased in the Royal Fabric exhibition. There is also a section dedicated to Royal Music, featuring Balinese instruments, and a Royal Coffee tasting experience that allows guests to taste and even learn how to make their own coffee.
The festival, which is currently in its eighth edition, is important for maintaining cultural traditions and bringing royal sambal recipes to the general public, according to AA Made Dewandra Reinhard Djelantik, who represented Puri Karangasem at the opening ceremony.
I Gusti Nyoman Darta from Puri Ubud also gave a demonstration of how to cook Sambal to the guests during the event. The event was also attended by renowned culinary expert William Wongso, further emphasising the importance of preserving Indonesia’s culinary heritage.
Exquisite Taste Volume 49
Taman Safari Bali
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