Village and Epic: Ramayana Literary Tourism Through Wayang Wong in Tejakula Village, Buleleng Regency, Bali

Abstract

This study examines the potential development of epic-based literary tourism centered on the Ramayana through the traditional performance art of Wayang Wong Ramayana in Tejakula Village, Buleleng Regency, Bali. Wayang Wong is understood not merely as a traditional performing art, but as a form of living classical literature integrated into the social, religious, and cultural practices of the local community. The objectives of this research are (1) to analyze the potential for developing literary tourism packages that involve tourist participation, and (2) to examine possible forms of training or workshops on Wayang Wong and the Ramayana narrative for visitors. This study employs a qualitative descriptive approach. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, performance observations, documentation studies, and focus group discussions. Data analysis was conducted through data reduction, thematic categorization, interpretation based on literary tourism theory, and source triangulation to ensure validity. The findings indicate that Wayang Wong Ramayana in Tejakula Village possesses strong potential as a literary tourism attraction grounded in narrative, participatory, and educational experiences. Although no formally structured literary tourism package currently exists, limited participatory practices have emerged and may be further developed through thematic Ramayana tours and introductory workshops on the story, dance movements, masks, and the philosophical values of the Balinese version of the Ramayana. The study concludes that the development of literary tourism in Tejakula Village requires carefully designed tourism packages that are sensitive to sacred values, active involvement of the local community, and a sustainable tourism approach.