Besakih Temple - Bali Mother Temple at the Foot of Mount Agung

Besakih Temple, often referred to as Bali's Mother Temple, is one of the most important and revered sacred sites on the island. Located on the slopes of Mount Agung, the highest mountain in Bali, Besakih Temple holds deep spiritual significance for the Balinese Hindus and is a place of great historical and cultural importance. This majestic temple complex consists of over 80 temples, with its central focus being Pura Penataran Agung, the largest and most significant temple within the complex.

If you’re planning a trip to Bali and want to explore the island’s rich religious heritage, Besakih Temple is a must-visit destination. Not only does it offer breathtaking views of Mount Agung and the surrounding landscapes, but it also provides a glimpse into Bali’s unique spiritual practices, ancient traditions, and vibrant cultural life. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Besakih Temple so special, its history, the spiritual significance of the temple, and the best tips for visiting.

1. The Spiritual Significance of Besakih Temple

Besakih Temple is often considered the holiest temple in Bali, and its importance goes beyond just its physical beauty. Balinese Hinduism is deeply rooted in a connection between the spiritual and natural worlds, and Besakih Temple serves as the center of this spiritual practice. The temple is dedicated to Trimurti, the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, representing creation, preservation, and destruction, respectively.

Bali’s Mother Temple

Known as Bali’s Mother Temple, Besakih is thought to be the island’s primary temple, overseeing and uniting the different temples and shrines across the island. It is believed that all the other temples on Bali are connected spiritually to Besakih, forming an essential part of Bali’s religious landscape. The temple is particularly important for Balinese Hindus who seek blessings, guidance, and spiritual connection during religious ceremonies.

The temple is also significant in Bali’s cosmic belief system, where Mount Agung is considered the home of the gods. It is the ultimate site for conducting rituals, offerings, and important spiritual ceremonies. As the temple sits at the foot of Mount Agung, the site’s natural beauty is intertwined with its spiritual significance. Mount Agung is not only the tallest mountain on the island but also considered the most sacred peak in Bali, adding to the profound reverence that surrounds Besakih Temple.

2. The History of Besakih Temple

Besakih Temple has a long and storied history that stretches back over a thousand years. It is believed that the temple complex was founded in the 11th century, although some sources suggest the origins may go back even further. Over the centuries, the temple has been expanded and renovated to accommodate Bali’s growing Hindu population, becoming a central figure in Bali’s spiritual life.

A Center of Hindu Pilgrimage

Historically, Besakih Temple has served as a place of pilgrimage for Hindus from Bali and beyond. People from across the island visit Besakih to seek blessings, perform rituals, and participate in the grand ceremonies that take place throughout the year. The temple is often the destination for important religious festivals such as Odalan (temple anniversaries) and Galungan, a celebration of the victory of good over evil.

Throughout the centuries, the temple has been a symbol of Bali’s resistance to foreign influences, remaining a stronghold of Balinese culture and Hindu spirituality in the face of external pressures, including the spread of Islam in Indonesia. As such, Besakih Temple represents not just religious devotion but also a symbol of identity for the people of Bali.

The Role of Besakih During Bali’s Major Religious Events

Every year, Besakih Temple plays host to some of the most significant religious events in Bali, including major rituals, prayers, and offerings. One of the most important rituals at Besakih is the Piodalan ceremony, which marks the temple’s anniversary. This ceremony is celebrated with grandeur, featuring processions, traditional dances, offerings, and music.

The temple is also deeply involved in the observance of Galungan and Kuningan, two major religious holidays celebrated throughout Bali. During these times, the temple becomes a focal point for the Balinese community, drawing people from all corners of the island to participate in the festivities.

3. The Layout and Temples of Besakih Complex

Besakih Temple is not just a single temple but rather a sprawling complex consisting of over 80 temples and shrines spread across the slopes of Mount Agung. The temples are connected by a series of stone pathways that ascend through the complex, offering visitors a spiritual journey from the lower to upper temples.

Pura Penataran Agung – The Main Temple

At the heart of Besakih is Pura Penataran Agung, the largest and most important temple in the complex. This temple is dedicated to the god Shiva, and it is considered the holiest site within Besakih Temple. Pura Penataran Agung is where the highest-level ceremonies and rituals are conducted, and it serves as the spiritual center of the temple complex.

Visitors can approach Pura Penataran Agung via a long staircase that leads to the temple’s entrance. This temple offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, with the beauty of Mount Agung looming over the temple grounds. As you ascend the stairs, the sights and sounds of Bali’s spiritual rituals become increasingly vivid, adding to the sacred atmosphere of the site.

The Other Temples of Besakih

In addition to Pura Penataran Agung, the Besakih Temple complex is home to many other temples, each dedicated to a different deity or aspect of Hinduism. Some of the notable temples include:

• Pura Kiduling Kreteg: Dedicated to Vishnu, this temple is positioned to the west of Pura Penataran Agung and is one of the more sacred spaces for the worship of Vishnu.

• Pura Batu Madeg: A temple dedicated to Brahma, the creator god, located in the upper sections of the complex.

• Pura Dalem Puri: This temple is dedicated to Shiva and is one of the more significant shrines in the complex.

Each temple within Besakih plays a specific role in the spiritual practices of Bali and is connected to the subak system, which governs the use of water for agriculture. The water management system in Bali is as much a spiritual practice as it is a practical one, linking the sacred temples to the island’s agricultural life.

4. Visiting Besakih Temple – Practical Tips for Tourists

When visiting Besakih Temple, there are several important things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and respectful experience at this sacred site.

Dress Modestly

As with any sacred space in Bali, it’s important to dress modestly when visiting Besakih Temple. Visitors should wear long pants or skirts and shirts with sleeves. In many temples, a sarong (a traditional Balinese cloth wrap) is provided at the entrance. It’s customary to wear a sarong when entering the temple’s inner sanctums.

Respect the Local Customs

When visiting Besakih Temple, it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions. You may encounter local priest or worshippers engaged in rituals, and it’s essential to be respectful. Avoid interrupting ceremonies or taking photographs during prayers and rituals. Always ask for permission before taking photos in sacred spaces.

Avoid Visiting on Religious Holidays Without Permission

Besakih is often crowded during major religious holidays, such as Galungan and Kuningan. While these ceremonies are spectacular to witness, it’s important to check if any specific visiting hours are in place, as temples may close for rituals. If you are visiting during these times, it’s best to check with local guides or hotel staff about temple schedules.

5. Besakih Temple and Mount Agung – A Sacred Relationship

The relationship between Besakih Temple and Mount Agung is deeply intertwined. Mount Agung is considered the holy mountain of Bali, believed to be the home of the gods. It plays a central role in the Balinese cosmology, with Besakih Temple serving as a bridge between the earthly realm and the divine world.

Mount Agung – A Sacred Volcano

For those who are spiritually inclined, visiting Mount Agung and Besakih Temple together offers a profound spiritual journey. The mountain, which is also an active volcano, is a symbol of Bali’s spiritual power. Hiking Mount Agung is a challenging but rewarding experience, as it offers stunning views and the opportunity to connect with the island’s natural and spiritual essence.

6. A Journey of Spiritual Discovery at Besakih Temple

Besakih Temple is one of the most sacred and culturally significant sites in Bali, and visiting it offers a rare opportunity to experience Bali’s spiritual heart. Whether you’re drawn to the awe-inspiring views of Mount Agung, fascinated by the subak irrigation system, or interested in learning more about Balinese Hinduism, Besakih is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking a deeper understanding of Bali’s culture and spirituality.

By respecting local customs, dressing appropriately, and taking time to immerse yourself in the temple’s spiritual atmosphere, you’ll find that Besakih is not only a temple but a living symbol of Bali’s enduring connection to the divine.

Whether you’re visiting for its stunning beauty, historical significance, or spiritual depth, Besakih Temple will leave you with lasting memories of Bali’s sacred landscapes and the powerful energy that flows through the island.