Besakih Temple
Enjoying the Majesty of Bali’s Largest Hindu Temple that Serves as a Mother of Temple
Do You Already Know About the Biggest Temple in Bali?
Besakih Temple is one of the most famous temples on the island, as well as the largest. This temple has an interesting history and is a place of worship for Hindus. Standing strong to this day, Besakih Temple continues to be an important location for various religious ceremonies. Known as the Mother Temple of Bali, the temple holds a rich history and illustrates the development of Balinese Hinduism as well as the cultural significance of the temple complex, making it one of the Karangasem Interesting Places to Visit.
Besakih Temple has deep historical roots, dating back to prehistoric times when the original Balinese people honored this place with animist practices and worship of the natural elements. Archaeological discoveries show that the area was considered a sacred place long before the influence of Hinduism. Several stone structures resembling ancient megalithic sites were found here, proving that this place has been used for religious activities for more than 2,000 years
Major changes occurred in the 8th century, when Hinduism began to enter Bali, and Besakih Temple began to develop into a Hindu temple complex. After the arrival of conquerors from Java in 1284, the temple grew in importance as a center of worship. In the 14th century, under the influence of the Majapahit Kingdom, Besakih Temple was expanded, cementing its position as the center of Balinese religious life and becoming a pilgrimage destination for Hindus from all over Bali.
Uncovering the History of Besakih Temple
Besakih Temple, Bali’s largest and most impressive temple, attracts a steady flow of visitors from both within Indonesia and abroad who come to admire its majestic presence. Located in Besakih Village, within the Rendang Sub-district of Karangasem Regency, the temple is situated about 52.1 km from Renon. It rests on the western slope of Mount Agung, Bali’s highest peak, chosen for its deep spiritual significance. This elevated site, known as Hulundang Basukih, is now officially recognized as Besakih Village.
The name “Besakih” is believed to have derived from the Sanskrit word “wasuki,” meaning “safe,” or the Old Javanese “basuki,” which carries a similar meaning. It is also linked to the legend of Naga Basuki, a serpent said to have the power to stabilize Mount Mandara. The Besakih Temple complex is home to the main temple, Penataran Agung Besakih, and 18 subsidiary temples, one of which is dedicated to Basuki and the remaining 17 serving other purposes. Known as the “mother of temples,” Besakih Temple stands as the spiritual heart of Bali, central to the religious practices of all the island’s temples.
Besakih Temple was built in 1284 by Rsi Markandeya, a Hindu leader of Indian descent. It is said that he built this temple after hearing a supernatural voice while meditating on the Dieng Plateau.
The Meaning Behind Every Building in Besakih Temple
Besakih Temple is not just a large building as a place of worship, but also has a deep meaning as a unifying symbol for the Balinese people who adhere to Hinduism. Its existence is closely related to the spiritual meaning of Mount Agung, which is considered to have supernatural powers and is an object that must be respected and preserved.
The Besakih Temple complex was built following the principle of natural balance reflected in the Tri Hita Karana concept. The arrangement of the building was designed with the cardinal directions in mind, creating a structure that reflects the symbolism of natural balance. Each cardinal direction is called a mandala, with each having a ruling deity known as Dewa Catur Lokapala. The central mandala serves as the axis, and these five mandalas are then realized in the form of Panca Dewata. Based on the cardinal directions, the building structure of Besakih Temple is designed in the following order:
- Penataran Agung Besakih Temple: Located in the center of the mandala, this largest temple is dedicated to the worship of Lord Çiwa.
- Gelap Temple: Located towards the east, this temple is used to worship Lord Içwara.
- Kiduling Kereteg Temple: Located towards the south, it is used to worship Lord Brahmana.
- Ulun Kulkul Temple: Located in the western direction, it is dedicated to worship Lord Mahadeva.
- Batumadeg Temple: Located in the northern direction, it is used to worship Lord Vishnu.
Architecture and Cultural Influences of Besakih Temple
The architecture of Besakih Temple reflects the skill and commitment of the Balinese people in building magnificent and sacred places of worship. Located on the slopes of Mount Agung, Bali’s highest and holiest mountain, the temple is considered the residence of the gods, adding to its spiritual value.
Besakih Temple is also known as a great tourist attraction, thanks to its architectural beauty and breathtaking surrounding natural scenery. Its proximity to other tourist attractions, such as the Edelweiss Flower Park and Bali Jinja Park, further strengthens its appeal to tourists.
Each temple within the complex is meticulously designed, adorned with carvings and ornaments depicting Hindu epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The magnificent structure of the building, with its distinctive meru terraced roof, adds to the elegance and splendor of Besakih Temple.
More than just a religious center, Besakih Temple also serves as a cultural center for the Balinese people. Every year, thousands of Balinese Hindus come to perform religious ceremonies and rituals, such as the Eka Dasa Rudra Ceremony. This grand ceremony is held once every hundred years to balance the energy of the universe.
Besakih Temple plays an important role in worship activities, especially during the full moon and during the Odalan festival which is celebrated once every 210 days. At these times, the temple is festively decorated, and thousands of Hindus from all over Bali gather to pray and ask for blessings.
Overall, Besakih Temple serves not only as the center of spiritual and religious life for Balinese Hindus, but also as a symbol of culture and rich historical heritage. With its Tri Hita Karana philosophy, Besakih Temple remains the soul and center of Bali’s spiritual life. In addition, the temple is also the location of various religious festivals that further enrich the culture and spirituality of the Balinese people.
Location and Route to Besakih Temple
Besakih Temple is located in Karangasem Regency, more precisely in Besakih Village, Rendang District, Bali. Located in the eastern part of Bali Island, Besakih Temple is close to Mount Agung. To reach this location, the journey will take about 2 hours. There are two main routes to choose from: first, through Kintamani Village, from where you will go straight to Besakih Temple. Second, through Klungkung Village, which will take you past Kerta Gosa. For ease of travel, you can utilize Google Maps, as directions will be easily found at every intersection that leads to this temple.
Admission Prices, Operating Hours, and Facilities
- Admission Price: For those of you who intend to visit Besakih Temple, the admission fee is IDR 80,000 for residents and IDR 150,000 for international guests. Tour guide fees range from IDR 50,000 to IDR 100,000. The ticket includes the services of a local guide, sarong rental, and one shuttle trip by train. Previously, a free shuttle bus service was available from Manik Mas Parking Lot to Padma Buana Agung Besakih Temple for elderly visitors, pregnant women, and children. Other visitors can use this service for IDR 20,000 per trip.
- Operating Hours: As a place of worship, Besakih Temple is open around the clock (24 hours), but visiting hours for tourists are limited from 08:00 to 17:00. The best time to visit the temple is in the morning or evening, as the complex tends to be quieter and less crowded.
- Facilities: Besakih Temple is equipped with a variety of adequate facilities for the convenience of visitors, such as a large parking area for buses and private cars, food stalls, clean toilets, and other supporting facilities. All these facilities are designed to ensure comfort for the tourists who come to visit.
Rules for Visiting Besakih Temple
As a place of Hindu worship, Besakih Temple has a number of rules that must be respected by visitors, including traders in the area. Here are some things to consider when visiting Besakih Temple that have been summarized by Bali Touristic:
- Forbidden to Use Plastic Products to Carry Tirta (Holy Water)
Visitors are prohibited from carrying Tirta using plastic products, as it can cause pollution. Avoid using single-use plastics such as plastic bags, plastic straws, and styrofoam in the temple area.
- No Littering
In order to maintain cleanliness and comfort at Besakih Temple, visitors are prohibited from littering. The temple area is a place of worship, so the cleanliness of the surrounding environment must be maintained properly.
- Required to Wear Cloth and Shawl
Visitors are required to wear a cloth and shawl when entering the sacred area at Besakih Temple. Cloths and scarves are usually provided on site or can be brought by visitors themselves.
- Abstinence for menstruating women
Women who are menstruating are not allowed to enter the Besakih Temple area. This is part of the traditional customs that must be obeyed to prevent things that are considered bad.
- Wear Modest Clothing
When visiting, make sure to wear polite clothing. Use sarongs and scarves to cover the waist down. If you don’t bring your own, cloths and scarves can be rented or purchased on site.
- Obey the Rules and Regulations
Besakih Temple is a sacred place, so it is important to respect the rules. Avoid taking pictures during ceremonies, and do not touch or climb the sacred buildings.
- Best Time to Visit
For the best experience, visit Besakih Temple in the morning or evening when the weather is cooler and there are fewer visitors. If you want a more special experience, come during the full moon or during the Odalan festival.
- Prepare Physically and Provisions
Since the Besakih Temple complex is quite large and located at a high altitude, you may need to walk quite far and climb many stairs. Make sure you are in good physical condition, wear comfortable footwear, and bring drinking water and light snacks to keep your energy up.
Closure
Besakih Temple is a well-known tourist attraction thanks to its beautiful architecture and natural scenery. Its proximity to other tourist attractions, such as the Edelweiss Flower Park and Bali Jinja Park, adds to its appeal for tourists. Overall, Besakih Temple serves not only as a religious and spiritual center for Balinese Hindus, but also as a symbol of culture and rich historical heritage. With the Tri Hita Karana philosophy upheld, Besakih Temple continues to be the soul and center of Bali’s spiritual life.
