Besakih Temple (Mother of Temple)
About Besakih (Mother of Temple)
Besakih Temple, often called The Mother Temple Of Bali, is the largest and most sacred Hindu temple complex on the island. Located on the slopes of Mount Agung, Bali’s highest volcano, Besakih Temple is a vast complex of over 80 temples that has served as the spiritual center for Balinese Hindus for more than a thousand years. The temple complex dates back to 8th century, and legend has it that a Hindu sage established it after meditating on Mount Agung. Its name, “Besakih” , is thought to originate from the Sanskrit word Wasuki or Basuki, meaning “safe” or “prosperous.” Besakih’s layout is carefully organized to symbolize the layers of the cosmos, with three main temples dedicated to the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Each section represents a different aspect of spiritual life, with individual temples dedicated to deities, ancestors, and natural elements. One of the highlights of Besakih is its panoramic setting; from its elevated terraces, visitors can see sweeping views of the rice fields, hills, and coastline below.
History of Temple
Here’s a brief historical overview of the temple :
Ancient Origins and Hindu Influence
- Early Foundations : Archaeological findings suggest that Besakih Temple has roots dating back to at least the 8th century. Early records indicate that it began as a site for animistic rituals, with the mountain revered as a sacred place of connection with ancestral spirits.
- Hindu Conversion : With the arrival of Hinduism in Bali (between the 8th and 14th centuries), Besakih evolved into a Hindu temple complex, reflecting the island’s shift from animism to Hindu-Buddhist beliefs. This transformation aligned with the influence of Hindu kingdoms like Majapahit, which arrived from Java and helped shape Bali’s religious practices.
Mythical Foundations
- Balinese myths recount that the temple was established by Rsi Markandeya, a Javanese Hindu sage who brought Hinduism to Bali. According to legend, he received a vision that led him to establish a holy place on Mount Agung.
- The sage is said to have planted a Panca Datu, or five metal talismans, to protect the island. These metals are still believed to be buried beneath the temple’s foundations and are thought to bring harmony and protection to Bali.
Survival of the 1963 Mount Agung Eruption
- In 1963, Mount Agung erupted violently, threatening to destroy Besakih Temple. Miraculously, while much of the surrounding area was devastated, the lava flow stopped just short of the main temple, leaving it largely unscathed.
- Many locals and devotees saw this as a divine sign, reinforcing Besakih’s sacred status. This event further heightened its spiritual and cultural significance, leading to increased reverence for the temple.
Cultural Heritage and UNESCO Nomination
- Besakih Temple is considered a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status due to its cultural, historical, and religious importance, although it has not yet been inscribed. Its architecture, history, and rituals embody the unique syncretic Hindu-Balinese culture that has developed in isolation from mainland Hindu traditions.
- The site is recognized as a symbol of resilience and cultural identity for the Balinese people, representing a spiritual continuity that has endured for centuries.
Architectural Features
Here are some key aspects of Besakih Temple’s architecture :
Temple Complex Structure
- Besakih is not a single temple but a sprawling complex with 23 individual temples. These temples vary in size and significance, with each dedicated to different deities, ancestors, and spiritual purposes.
- The complex is arranged in a series of terraces ascending Mount Agung, symbolizing the spiritual journey toward enlightenment. The higher levels are considered more sacred, corresponding with the Balinese belief that higher elevations bring one closer to the gods.
The Main Temple – Pura Penataran Agung
- Pura Penataran Agung is the largest and central temple within the complex, symbolizing the navel of the entire structure. It is dedicated to the Hindu trinity gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
- The temple consists of seven terraces, symbolizing the seven layers of the universe. Each terrace represents a step in the cosmic hierarchy, with the higher levels reserved for gods and divine worship.
- Within the Penataran Agung temple, there are multiple meru towers—tiered shrines that represent the sacred mountain. The highest meru can reach up to 11 levels, symbolizing Mount Agung and acting as a spiritual conduit.
Key Architectural Elements
- Meru Towers : These tiered shrines, often with 3, 5, 7, or 11 tiers, represent Mount Meru, the sacred mountain in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology. The height of each meru depends on the deity to whom the shrine is dedicated, with taller merus reserved for more prominent deities.
- Candi Bentar (Split Gates) : The iconic split gates lead to different parts of the temple and symbolize the division between the earthly and the divine. They are built without doors, representing an open invitation to devotees and symbolizing purity.
- Padmasana Shrines : These shrines are a distinct feature of Balinese Hindu temples, serving as seats for the deities during ceremonies and symbolizing the universe’s lotus.
- Bale : Open-sided pavilions, known as bale, are scattered throughout the complex and are used for ceremonies, prayers, and community gatherings.
Terrace and Courtyard Layout
- Ascending Terraces : The temple complex is structured with terraces that gradually ascend Mount Agung. This terraced layout symbolizes a spiritual journey and follows Balinese principles of spatial hierarchy, with the most sacred areas at the highest elevations.
- Tri Mandala Concept : The layout of each temple follows The Tri Mandala, a Balinese spatial concept that divides sacred spaces into three parts :
- Nista Mandala (Outer Sanctum) : The outermost area for public access, which includes marketplaces, rest areas, and initial purification spaces.
- Madya Mandala (Middle Sanctum) : The middle level, where worshippers gather and prepare for rituals. This area typically has bales and other structures for community ceremonies.
- Utama Mandala (Inner Sanctum) : The innermost and most sacred part, reserved for the main shrines and areas where priests conduct rituals. Only those who have completed the proper purification rituals may enter this section.
Sub-Temples and Clan Temples
- Clan Temples : Many of the temples within Besakih are dedicated to specific Balinese clans, making Besakih a central place of worship for all Balinese Hindus. Each clan temple contains its own shrine and structure for ancestral worship.
- Pura Basukian : This is one of the most ancient temples in Besakih and is considered a foundation temple where the first Hindu rituals are believed to have taken place in Bali.
Spiritual Significance
Here are some key aspects of its spiritual importance :
Connection to Mount Agung
- Besakih Temple sits on the slopes of Mount Agung, Bali’s highest and most sacred mountain. Balinese Hindus believe that the mountain is the residence of gods and ancestral spirits, especially the supreme god Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa.
- Mount Agung is considered the axis mundi, or the spiritual center of Bali, linking the physical and spiritual realms. Besakih’s location on the mountain’s slope enhances its spiritual importance, as it is seen as a bridge between humans and the divine.
The “Mother Temple” Concept
- As the largest and most sacred temple complex, Besakih is known as the “Mother Temple” of Bali. It serves as a central place of worship for all Balinese Hindus, transcending individual clan and village temples to unify all devotees under a common spiritual roof.
- Each Balinese Hindu family visits Besakih at least once a year for worship and seeks blessings, making it a focal point for collective Balinese spirituality and identity.
Tri Hita Karana – Harmony of Life
- The layout and rituals of Besakih Temple embody the Balinese Hindu philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, meaning “three causes of well-being“. This concept emphasizes harmony between :
- Human Beings (Pawongan)
- Nature and The Environment (Palemahan)
- The Divine (Parahyangan)
- By harmonizing these three realms, the temple promotes spiritual well-being and balance within the community. You can engage with nature, honor ancestors, and worship the gods, connecting the earthly and divine.
Spiritual Purification and Pilgrimage
- Besakih is a place of pilgrimage, where devotees undergo ritual purification and perform offerings to achieve spiritual cleansing. The temple complex is structured as a journey from the outer courtyards to the inner sanctum, symbolizing the spiritual ascent toward enlightenment.
- The seven ascending terraces of Besakih, leading up Mount Agung, symbolize different levels of existence and consciousness, reflecting the path of spiritual purification and personal transformation.
Symbolism of the Hindu Trinity and Balinese Cosmology
- Besakih Temple is dedicated to the Balinese Hindu trinity of gods : Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and Shiva (the destroyer). This trinity is symbolically represented throughout the complex, with color-coded shrines (red for Brahma, black for Vishnu, and white for Shiva).
- This trinity symbolizes the cycle of creation, preservation, and transformation, central concepts in Balinese spirituality. Besakih Temple itself is seen as a microcosm of the universe, aligning with the Balinese belief that all of life is a reflection of divine order.
Ancestral Worship and Lineage
- Besakih is also a place of ancestor worship, where Balinese Hindus honor their lineage and pay respects to their deceased ancestors. The temple complex contains various clan temples dedicated to different family groups across Bali, allowing families to connect with their heritage.
- The annual pilgrimage to Besakih and ritual offerings made to ancestors are acts of devotion and gratitude, believed to bring blessings, protection, and prosperity to one’s family.
Cosmic Order and Sacred Architecture
- The temple’s layout mirrors the Balinese view of the cosmos, with The Tri Mandala (three zones) representing a gradual movement from the earthly to the divine. The outer, middle, and inner sanctums at Besakih symbolize the progression toward spiritual enlightenment.
- The spatial arrangement, with terraces that follow Mount Agung’s slope, embodies the journey of the soul toward divinity, making the temple a place where earthly existence and divine order converge.
Cultural Identity and Continuity
- Besakih Temple represents the endurance of Balinese culture, spirituality, and values. In a modern world where Bali’s traditions face challenges, the temple remains a testament to the resilience and depth of Balinese Hinduism.
- It acts as a living repository of Bali’s religious heritage, where rituals, offerings, and ceremonies have continued for centuries, fostering a sense of cultural unity and identity.
Things to See and Do
Visiting Besakih Temple offers a range of activities and experiences that highlight its cultural, spiritual, and natural beauty. Here are some things to see and do at the temple :
Explore the Temple Complex
- Pura Penataran Agung : Visit the main temple, which is the largest and most significant in the complex, known for its impressive architecture and tiered meru towers.
- Individual Shrines : Explore the various smaller temples and shrines, each dedicated to different deities and featuring unique architectural styles and carvings.
Enjoy the Scenic Views
- Breathtaking Landscapes : The temple’s location on the slopes of Mount Agung provides stunning views of the surrounding rice terraces and lush landscapes, perfect for photography and appreciation of nature.
- Mount Agung : Take a moment to admire the majestic Mount Agung, considered sacred, as it looms over the temple complex.
Hiking and Nature Walks
- Hiking Trails : Explore hiking trails in the area around Mount Agung for those interested in nature and outdoor activities. The trails often offer a closer look at the region’s flora and fauna.
- Nature Photography : Capture the beauty of the temple complex set against the backdrop of the mountain and surrounding landscapes.
Photo Opportunity
- Meru towers and Mount Agung : Besakih Temple offers stunning photo opportunities, with its terraced layout, majestic meru towers, and scenic backdrop of Mount Agung.
- Beautiful Moments : You can capture beautiful moments of religious ceremonies, intricate carvings, and lush landscapes, especially during sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting.
Accessibility
Physical Accessibility (Stairs and Terrain)
The temple complex is built on multiple terraces that rise up the slopes of Mount Agung. This means that access involves many flights of steps, which could be challenging for :
- People with limited mobility
- Elderly visitors
- Families with strollers
There are no elevators or ramps – only stone steps between levels. Some sections of the stairs are steep and uneven, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Visiting Tips
Visiting Besakih Temple can be a memorable experience, and being prepared can enhance your trip. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your visit :
- Best Time to Visit : Morning or Afternoon is ideal for visiting to avoid crowds and heat. The soft light during these times is also perfect for photography.
- Dress Modestly : When visiting This Temple, it is important to dress modestly. Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Sarongs and sashes are often provided at the entrance, but it’s respectful to bring your own if you have them. Sarong usually included in the entrance fee.
- Take Your Time : Allow ample time to explore the temple’s architecture, gardens, and ponds.
- Photography : Bring a camera to capture the stunning views. However, be respectful of ceremonies and local customs when taking photos of people.
- Bring Essentials : While there are some facilities nearby, it’s a good idea to carry essentials such as water, sunscreen, and a hat. A small bag or pouch for your belongings can be useful.
- Respect Local Customs : Be mindful of local customs and rituals. Avoid touching religious items or entering restricted areas unless guided by temple staff.
- Respect the Environment : Keep the area clean by not littering and following any posted guidelines regarding wildlife and plants.
- Quiet Reflection : Maintain a respectful demeanor, especially in prayer areas. This is a sacred site for many, and a quiet attitude enhances the experience for everyone.
- Follow Guidelines : Adhere to any rules posted at the temple regarding photography, dress code, and behavior.
- Plan for Mobility : If you or someone in your group has mobility challenges, consider the terrain, as some areas may be uneven. It may be beneficial to bring a companion to assist if needed.
Facilities Available
Besakih Temple provides several facilities to enhance the visitor experience. Here’s an overview of the available amenities :
- Toilets : Basic public toilets are available near the entrance.
- Shops and Cafés : Small shops near the entrance offer refreshments and souvenirs.
Other Nearby Attractions
Here are some famous attractions nearby that will add to your experience of visiting this attractions :
- Mount Agung : Bali’s highest volcano and one of its holiest, it is considered the spiritual backbone of the island and is located close to Besakih Temple.
- Tukad Cepung Waterfall : A hidden waterfall surrounded by cliffs, where the sunlight creates a magical beam effect which is 1 hour by car .
- Goa Lawah Temple : A temple built around a bat cave, where thousands of bats nest inside the sacred grotto which is 1 hour by car .
- Bali Aga Village (Tenganan Pegringsingan) : One of the oldest villages in Bali, inhabited by the Bali Aga, Bali’s original indigenous people which is 1 hour by car .
Why Visit Besakih Temple ?
Besakih Temple offers a powerful glimpse into Balinese spirituality and architecture, set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Agung. Whether you are drawn to its religious significance, breathtaking scenery, or intricate craftsmanship, a visit to Besakih is a must for anyone exploring Bali.
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