Bali is not only famous for its beaches, temples, and rice terraces. The island also has a unique tradition that makes the sky alive with colors and shapes: layang-layang (kites). For the Balinese, kite flying is more than just a childhood pastime. It is an artistic expression, a spiritual practice, and a means of showing devotion to the gods.

Behind this beautiful tradition stands a legendary figure named Rare Angon. His story reveals that kite flying in Bali is not only a form of fun but also a bridge connecting humans, nature, and the divine.

Rare Angon: The Shepherd Boy and the Wind

In Balinese mythology, Rare Angon is known as a shepherd boy and is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. His name comes from the Balinese words Rare (child) and Angon (to herd). Stories describe him as a boy who loved playing his bamboo flute while watching over cows, often shown as being deeply connected to nature, animals, and the wind.

Some legends suggest that he created the first kite and let it fly with the wind as a symbol of joy and gratitude. Even today, Balinese people still honor him during Tumpek Uye, a sacred day dedicated to animals. On this day, cows, pigs, birds, and even household pets are given offerings as a sign of respect, just as Rare Angon once lovingly cared for the animals around him.

The story of Rare Angon highlights that kite flying in Bali is not just for fun, but a meaningful activity that brings people together.

Types of Traditional Balinese Kites

1. Bebean

Shaped like a fish, symbolizing prosperity and abundance. It is the most popular type of kite and is often seen flying in groups.

2. Janggan

Shaped like a dragon with a very long tail, sometimes stretching more than 100 meters. This kite is considered sacred, and special rituals are performed before it is lifted into the sky.

3. Pecukan

Shaped like a leaf or a corner and is very hard to fly. Only skilled kite makers and flyers can master it.

In addition to these traditional designs, Balinese people also create modern kites (kreasi baru) in the shapes of animals, vehicles, or even superheroes. These kites show how tradition and creativity can blend beautifully.

The Rich Craftsmanship Behind the Kites

Making layang-layang (kite) in Bali is not only about skill but also about spirituality and community.

1. Choosing the Right Time and Materials

The process begins with choosing an auspicious day (dewasa ayu), often guided by priests and based on the Balinese Saka calendar. Kite making using strong bamboo for the frame and colorful wax paper for the kite’s body.

2. The Unique Sound of Guwangan

A special point called the guwangan, an arc-shaped strip of rattan or wood, is attached to the kite. When flown, it produces a deep humming sound. This sound is not only pleasing but also considered part of the kite’s character. In festivals, the harmony of guwangans is included as a judging criterion.

3. Spiritual Blessings and Rituals

Before a large kite is flown, a ritual called pengatepen is performed. This involves attaching a carved head, often resembling dragons or birds, while priests bless both the kite and team with holy water. This purification ensures spiritual harmony and protection during flight

Kite Festivals: The Sky Turns Into a Stage

The Bali Kite Festival, held annually in Sanur during the windy season of July and August, turns the beaches into lively open-air stages as villages compete with enormous kites, some over 10 meters wide with tails stretching more than 150 meters. 

Flying these kites is a coordinated effort, with teams of up to 50 people preparing, launching, and stabilizing them, accompanied by gamelan music, colorful costumes, and village banners. Beyond its spectacular display, the festival carries profound spiritual significance. 

Farmers traditionally used kite flying to express thanks to the gods for favorable winds and rich harvests. Today, sacred kites like the Janggan still undergo rituals before flight, while creative modern designs showcase Bali’s artistry to a global audience. The festival thus represents both a cherished cultural tradition and an important highlight for tourism, symbolizing unity, gratitude, and innovation.

Harmony Between Tradition and Modern Life

Bali’s kite tradition demonstrates how culture can evolve while preserving its roots. Traditional kites remain integral to ceremonies and festivals, while modern designs inspire creativity among younger generations. Children learn and fly through communal activities, collaborative conditioning with parents and elders, fostering meaningful bonds, and passing down ancestral artificers.

Communities like Pelangi, the Bali Kite Association, continue to safeguard this cultural heritage despite the challenges of urban development. The community-focused festivals promote intergenerational learning and artistry. Kite makers are adopting eco-friendly materials; bamboo, cotton, and rice paper, replacing plastics and synthetic cloth. This shift ensures that the craft remains culturally authentic while addressing environmental responsibility.

A Tradition That Still Flies High

The legend of Rare Angon and the art of layang-layang remind us that culture is not only about preserving the past but also about living it in the present. Each kite, whether shaped like a fish, a dragon, or even a superhero, carries the same timeless message that life is best celebrated in harmony with nature and the divine.

At Koskaki, we bring that same spirit into our projects, blending timeless Balinese culture with modern design. Whether it’s a jungle villa or a ricefield retreat, your home becomes part of the island’s story.