The culture of Bali is unique. Sang Hyang Widi. One cannot separate the religious life of Bali from the people.
Every little action seems to be an expression of a greater religious purpose.
European trade began shortly after the Dutch landed in 1597. Volcanic in origin, BALI has a dry, mountainous north coastal section and a southern plain with a rainy monsoon season. Teak forests have economic importance, but the giant waringin trees are locally sacred. Wild animals include tigers and deer. After Japanese occupation during World War II, Dutch rule was reestablished until Indonesia received independence in 1949.