Jati Batur Temple
The Oldest Temple in Batur Village and Stana Ida Bhatara Sakti Bhujangga Luwih
Temple with Tri Mandala Concept
Jati Batur Temple is a sanctified temple in the Lake Batur area and the stana of Ida Bhatara Sakti Bhujangga Luwih. The area is famous for its many temples, and one of the most magnificent is Jati Batur Temple. Surrounded by lush forest, this temple is located on the eastern side of the Lake Batur area and is directly adjacent to the Segara Ulun Danu Batur Temple.
This temple adopts the Tri Mandala concept, with two main temples, namely:
- The intersection of Bhatari Dewi Danu, symbolized by Meru Tumpang Tiga, is located in the north or on the right side of the Padmasana.
- Pelinggih Ida Bhatara Sakti Bhujangga Luwih, positioned on the south or left side of the Padmasana.
These two meru stand in a row, flanking the main temple, reflecting spiritual balance and harmony. The atmosphere at Jati Batur Temple offers tranquility and stunning natural beauty, making it one of the spiritual and cultural destinations worth visiting.
History of Jati Batur Temple
Jati Batur Temple is one of the prominent Kahyangan Panyungsungan Jagat temples, dedicated to Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa in the manifestation of Bhatara Hyang Gangga. This sacred temple serves as a site for invoking Kamandalu, the holy water that plays a vital role in Hindu rituals. The temple’s origins are steeped in history, supported by two distinct narratives: one recorded in the sacred chronicles of Tejakula, Buleleng, and another preserved through oral traditions within the local community.
Historical Version According to the Book of History of the Construction of Temples in Bali
According to the book authored by Ketut Soebandi, Jati Batur Temple was constructed by Mpu Jayamaireng alongside his relatives, following the ancestral mandate. Mpu Jayamaireng is regarded as a key ancestor of the Pasek Kayu Selem community, which includes lineages such as Kayu Selem, Celagi, Tarunyan, and Kayuan.
Historical Version Based on Babad Kayu Selem
The Babad Kayu Selem, written in Isaka Warsa 1840 by Jero Mangku Ulun Suwi in Tejakula Village, Buleleng, narrates that the temple was established by Mpu Genijaya Kayu Ireng, a son of Hyang Kamareka. While the chronicle does not specify who resides in the temple, it states that the site is dedicated to ngelinggihang Ida Bhatara Bujangga Sakti. This deity is revered for assisting in the completion of Hindu religious ceremonies, including rituals for the Balinese Mula community.
Before conducting significant religious ceremonies like Mahayu Bhatara, several essential preparatory steps must be undertaken. These include the invocation of the sacred water known as “Kamandalu” and the performance of the Widhi Widana ceremony, which involves worshiping Bhatara Gangga, who is enshrined in Jati Batur Temple. This ritual process reflects the profound significance of the term “pejati,” symbolizing the earnest dedication and reverence involved in the temple’s creation and its sacred practices.
Location of Jati Batur Temple
Jati Batur Temple is located in Bangli Regency, precisely in Kintamani District, Batur Pekraman Village. The specific location is on the edge of Lake Batur and shares an area with Segara Ulun Danu Batur Temple. You can access this area using Google Maps. If departing from Kuta, the journey to Jati Batur Temple takes about three hours through the winding paths of the Kintamani Village area, which offers beautiful natural scenery along the way.
Segara Ulun Danu Batur near Jati Batur Temple
Segara Ulun Danu Batur is located not far from Jati Batur Temple as both are in one complex adjacent to Lake Batur. This temple attracts the attention of many visitors because of its location above Lake Batur, so it looks as if it is floating on the water. Segara Ulun Danu Batur Temple serves as a place of worship for Goddess Danu, who is thought to reside in Lake Batur.
As a symbol of respect to Dewi Danu, the temple is equipped with a small wooden bridge that connects the main area with the temple. The atmosphere around the temple is mesmerizing, with beautiful scenery that includes mountains, hills, and pristine natural forests, making it an unmissable destination for nature and culture lovers.
History of Segara Ulun Danu Batur
Segara Ulun Danu Batur was established in 1917 on the western slope of Mount Batur, during the time of Empu Kuturan. The temple, however, faced significant challenges when Mount Batur erupted, causing widespread destruction to the temple grounds. The eruption left only the main temple standing as a site for worship. In 1926, another eruption further damaged the temple structures, though the pelinggih remained intact. To prevent future destruction, the local community decided to relocate the Segara Ulun Danu Batur temple complex to a safer area above Lake Batur, where it stands today. The temple has since become a renowned tourist destination, offering visitors a picturesque view of the surrounding natural beauty.
What Do You Get When You Visit These Two Temples?
As part of the Bangli Interesting Places to Visit, Jati Batur Temple and Segara Ulun Danu Batur offer a unique experience for visitors. Travelers will be treated to three main attractions: the breathtaking beauty of Mount Batur, the grandeur of the temples, and the serene charm of Lake Batur. Here’s what you can enjoy during your visit:
- Temple View : Visiting this complex allows you to witness the architectural splendor of Jati Batur Temple and Segara Ulun Danu Batur Temple at once. Besides being a feast for the eyes, you will also feel a deep religious experience as you enter the sacred temple area.
- View of Lake Batur : The vast and beautiful Lake Batur is one of the main attractions at this location. The view is highly recommended for nature lovers who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Bali.
- View of Mount Batur : In addition to the temple and lake, a panoramic view of the majestic Mount Batur can be enjoyed from this temple complex. Its close proximity makes the mountain a perfect backdrop for your travel experience.
Facilities at Jati Batur Temple and Segara Ulun Danu Batur
As a popular tourist area, the facilities at this location are designed for the convenience of visitors. A large parking area is available for both two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles. In addition, there are several small stalls that provide food and drinks for tourists. These complete facilities support convenience and make this location an ideal destination to spend vacation time.
Bali Touristic highly recommends a visit to these two temples to enjoy the architectural majesty, religious experience, and breathtaking views. There are many Instagrammable photo spots, making your visit full of precious memories.
