The strong cultural identity of Bali is based on a combination of closely related elements such as the unique religion, the language, the castes, the community life, the land cultivation and the expression of its art. Of the four castes, Brahmana, Satria and Wesia represent 10% of the population whereas the Sudras (the farmers and craftsmen) represent the great majority. The caste system, still very much alive today, regulates, apart from their religious power, the different levels of the Balinese language.

Although the official language is Bahasa Indonesia, Balinese remains the everyday dialect of the people of the island. Each Balinese belongs to his or her caste, but foremost to their community, which from birth to death regulates life in its social and religious aspects. Numerous ceremonies mark the progression of life, starting with the first birthday, 210 days after birth, which is the length of a Balinese year.

Childhood is treated with respect and gentleness until teen years, celebrated with the tooth filing ceremony. Marriage is the definite and official entry into the community of which every Balinese becomes an active member. Participation at the meetings of the "Banjar", (virtual local government which manages village life, from wedding ceremonies, cremations, village security and land transactions), is everyone's given duty. The whole irrigation system, unique in the world, is managed by this

association whichensures the fair distribution of water, and carries out the ceremonial rites to the spirits of agriculture. This perfect organization makes the Balinese the best rice farmers of Indonesia. In this compact cultural unity, on ethnic group stands out: the Bali Aga. They are the descendants of the first inhabitants before the arrival of the Majapahit. Their customs, far from all Hindu influence, are believed to be of prehistorically origin. Arts, music, dance and their wove textiles are subject to specific rituals. The two best known Bali Aga villages are Tenganan, above Candi Dasa and Trunyan on Lake Batur.