Ponjok Batu Temple

Exploring Cultural Enchantment at One of the Penyungsungan Jagat Temples in Buleleng Regency

Have You Known About Ponjok Batu Temple?

Ponjok Batu Temple is one of the dang kahyangan temples or Penyungsungan Jagat Temples located in Buleleng Regency. The name “Ponjok Batu” comes from its location on a peninsula that protrudes slightly into the sea. This temple is known as a place to perform melukat rituals, which is spiritual cleansing. The water used in the ritual is unique because it comes from fresh water that merges with sea water. This ritual aims to cleanse oneself of negative energy, provide inner calm, and restore spiritual balance.

Ponjok Batu Temple takes us back in time, although there is no exact record of when it was established. The existence of this temple is strongly linked to the arrival of the Shiva priest Sidanta Danghyang Nirartha in the 15th century AD. The name Ponjok Batu, meaning “stone promontory,” was given to this temple due to its location on a peninsula jutting out into the sea. The existence of this temple is quite mysterious, and one of the few historical evidences of its existence is the Lontar Dwijendra Tattawa.

Attractions of Ponjok Batu Temple

1. Stone Boat

   One of the main attractions of Ponjok Batu Temple is the existence of a stone boat located in the middle of the sea. This stone boat is considered sacred by the surrounding community and is an integral part of the temple complex. The existence of this stone boat is very interesting for visitors who are interested in Balinese history. The stone is known as Batu Pajenengan. This sacred structure was built as a tribute to the greatness and spiritual abilities of Dang Hyang Nirartha, reflecting the symbol of majesty and peace.

2. Five Holy Springs

   Another uniqueness of Ponjok Batu Temple is that it has five holy springs that are used by Hindus for melukat (self-purification) or nunas tamba (asking for medicine and sustenance). These five springs are called Panca Tirta and are located in a coastal area known as Campuhan. Campuhan means a mixture of springs, where the five springs come from various directions, namely Mount Batur, Mount Rinjani, Mount Agung, Mount Beratan Tamblingan, and one of them comes from sea water that emerges from under the sandstone. People who come to do melukat usually do so with the aim of nunas ubad (asking for medicine) or nunas tamba (asking for sustenance), especially if they experience pain that cannot be treated medically. To perform this melukat ritual, there is no charge, but visitors are required to provide facilities in the form of banten pejati and perform the prayer process first.

History of This Temple

The people of Bali believe that Ponjok Batu Temple in Buleleng dates back to a time well before the 15th century AD. This belief is supported by findings such as sarcophagi, stone coffins used by the Balinese between 2500 and 3000 BC. These stone coffins were placed as a sign of reverence for the spirits of their ancestors.

Ponjok Batu Temple has a very rich history, believed to have existed since before the arrival of the priests Shiva Sidanta and Dang Hyang Nirartha in Bali in the 15th century AD. Buleleng people believe that this temple existed long before the arrival of the two priests, which adds historical value to the existence of this temple. Apart from being a place of worship for Hindus, Ponjok Batu Temple is also a silent witness to the development of Hinduism in Bali and its historical journey. The existence of this temple reflects the integration of spirituality and rich history in Bali. With its deep history, Ponjok Batu Temple has become one of Buleleng Interesting Places to Visit, which offers an educational and informative historical tourism experience.

Temple Location and Route

Ponjok Batu Temple is located in Buleleng Regency, precisely on Jalan Airsanih Pacung, Tejakula Village. This temple can be visited anytime, because it is open for 24 hours. Access to this temple is quite easy because it is located by the sea, providing a beautiful view and a calm atmosphere. You can enjoy the peace and beauty of the surrounding nature while traveling to this temple.

Facilities Available at Ponjok Batu Temple

The facilities available at Ponjok Batu Temple are quite complete to support the comfort of visitors. Some of the facilities that can be enjoyed include public bathrooms, prayer equipment rentals, selfie areas, places to eat, and Wi-Fi areas. All of these facilities are designed to make it easier for visitors who come, both to worship and simply enjoy the natural beauty around.

Ponjok Batu Buleleng Temple is not only a place of deep spiritual significance for Hindus in Bali, but also a site rich in cultural heritage. As a cultural tourism destination, Bali Touristic encourages visitors to explore this unique location. One of the standout features is the stone boat, positioned in the middle of the sea, which captivates visitors with its distinct presence. While tourists can approach the stone boat, caution is advised due to the strong waves in the area. Additionally, a small cave located near the stone boat is used by the local Hindu community for melukat, a spiritual purification ritual.