If you're visiting Bali for the first time, you're likely to encounter arak which is a potent local spirit that holds both cultural significance and a strong kick. Whether you’re sipping it in a beachside cocktail or hearing about it from a local, it helps to know what exactly you’re getting into. In this guide, we’ll explore what arak is, how it's made, the different types you’ll come across, what it tastes like, and the important things you should know before raising a glass.

What Is Arak?

Arak is a traditional distilled spirit native to Indonesia, especially Bali and nearby islands like Lombok and Java. It’s often compared to rum or moonshine, but it has its own unique vibe tied deeply to Balinese culture, ceremonies, and social life. In traditional rituals, arak is used as an offering to spirits and ancestors, sprinkled or poured during temple ceremonies, and sometimes even consumed by priests or participants as part of the sacred process. Outside of ceremonies, it's a popular drink at local celebrations and casual gatherings.

As a visitor, it can be a bit confusing to navigate the world of arak. Some versions are homemade or bootlegged, often sold cheaply without going through any legal or health checks. These can be risky to consume. On the flip side, there are also safe, officially produced arak brands sold in supermarkets or licensed bars, but these usually come at a noticeably higher price. The difference in safety and quality isn't always obvious, that's why we have listed some of the ways you could reduce these risks.

How Is Arak Made?

Arak in Bali is made from a few different local ingredients, depending on the region. The most common sources are coconut flower sap, palm sap, or glutinous rice. In some areas, producers also use salak fruit (snake fruit), especially in East Bali. For sap-based arak, tappers climb trees to collect the sweet sap, which begins to ferment naturally right after it's gathered. Rice and salak fruit go through a similar process such as steamed or mashed, then left to ferment for several days using natural yeast in the air. This fermentation stage turns the sugars into alcohol, creating a mildly alcoholic base that’s later distilled into strong, clear arak. The final spirit typically ranges from 30% to 50% ABV, though homemade versions can sometimes be even stronger. Each ingredient gives the drink a slightly different flavor where salak adds a fruity sweetness, while sap and rice produce more earthy, dry notes.

How Balinese Locals Drink Arak

To make it more enjoyable, arak is usually mixed with other ingredients to tone down the strong taste:

• Arak Attack – A popular cocktail made with arak, honey, lime juice, and soda water.
• Arak with Fruit Juice – Often blended with orange, pineapple or guava.
• Arak as a substitute for certain liquor in popular cocktails such as mojito, long island iced tea and etc.

Arak are normally priced cheaper compared to other liquors which made it a popular choice among island goers and locals alike.

Health Risks and Safety

This part is important: while arak is a cultural treasure, not all arak is safe to drink. It is hard to tell good arak from bad arak unless you get it lab tested but there are certain steps you can take to reduce some of the risks.

Risks include:

• Methanol Poisoning – Some unregulated or home-distilled arak may contain dangerous levels of methanol, a toxic form of alcohol. There has been numeral reports of hospitalizations and even fatalities.
• Poor Sanitation – Informally produced arak may be made in unhygienic conditions which may contribute to the infamous Bali Belly.

Safety Tips:

• Avoid unlabeled (in clear plastic bottle) or street-sold arak unless it comes from a trusted source.
• Stick to bottled brands or cocktails served in reputable bars.

Final Thoughts

Trying arak is a great way to connect with Balinese culture, but like all strong spirits, it’s best enjoyed with knowledge and moderation. When consumed safely, it offers a fascinating taste of Bali’s rich traditions, especially when paired with local flavors and good company.

So next time you're in Bali and someone offers you a shot of arak, you’ll know exactly what’s in your glass. Cheers!