Besakih Temple

Gifted with breathtaking natural and cultural beauty, Bali is home to some of the most magnificent holy sites found across the planet, and one among these is the breathtakingly beautiful Pura Besakih. Located on the magical slopes of majestic Mount Agung, this temple acts as not only a place of worship but as a strong spiritual draw that attracts devotees from across the planet.

Architectural Beauty and Cultural Distinction

Located next to Mount Agung, the largest temple in Bali is named "Pura Besakih" that is commonly labelled as "Pura Agung Besakih" and is the largest temple complex in Bali. The connected but autonomous temple structure is fully embellished with magnificent architecture and rich ornaments typical of the ancient culture of Bali. In fact, each corner of the temple provides a wonderful view in terms of architectural design and natural scenery.

Profound Spiritual Experience

Pura Besakih becomes a perfect destination for travelers in search of spiritual presence and serenity in the places they visit. With fresh mountain air and an amazing landscape of nature, they will be able to contemplate and pray in a serene environment. Visits to this site become even more mystical and sacred because of various Hindu rituals performed at this place.

Showcase of Bali's Rich Culture

Apart from its spiritual significance, Pura Besakih is a part of Balinese culture as well. Be it wood carvings or traditional dances, get to learn about the traditional and rich form of Balinese art and culture present in this temple. Additionally, the markets present around this temple can also provide you with all kinds of handicrafts to make your tour even more memorable.

Things to See and Do at Pura Besakih

• Explore the Temple with a Local Guide
  A local guide is already included in the entrance fee at Pura Besakih. While it is optional to join a guide, it is highly recommended, especially if it is your first time going to the temple. Since there are no information boards around the temple, it will serve as your primary guide. Indeed, with their rich knowledge of the history and significance of the temple, it will provide your visit with more meaning and help you navigate around without getting lost in the vast grounds of Pura Besakih.
• Discover a Vast Complex of Temples
  Pura Besakih is not a single temple, but a huge complex of temples. Because it is a huge complex, tourists normally go to the center, which is where the principal temples and shrines are. Visiting the whole complex would take a considerable amount of time, so the center is the main point of the visit.
• Visit the 18 Public Temples
  The complex includes 18 public temples, each of which has a different function and is dedicated to either Shiva, Brahma, or Vishnu, who are major Hindu gods. All these temples are a manifestation of the spiritual diversity of the Hindu population of Bali.
• Admire Pura Penataran Agung
  The largest public temple in the complex would be Pura Penataran Agung. This temple is very recognizable as it features a large staircase going all the way up to a grand gateway at the top. This spot is also a great location for photo opportunities, as the photographer may be able to offer mirror photographs.
• Observe the Sacred Pagodas from the Gates
  In fact, only Balinese Hindus are allowed to go inside the inner compound of Pura Penataran Agung. Nonetheless, people can still have a good glimpse from the gate. Inside, a series of pagodas is positioned in different levels, symbolizing the seven layers of the universe as recognized in Balinese Hinduism. The top level holds the tallest pagoda in the whole complex, consisting of 11 stories, symbolizing the supreme god.
• Learn About the Private Temples
  Apart from the public temples, Pura Besakih houses a multitude of other private temples owned by various regencies and castes in Bali. These, while numerous in volume, are estimated to be a minimum of 80 by local guides, further affirming the holiness and significance of the site as the spiritual hub of Bali.
• Return via a Scenic Walk or Shuttle
  After the tour, the visitor can walk back to the parking lot using the allocated walking route. The walking process would take at least 10 to 15 minutes. However, for those who would not want to walk, there is a return shuttle service for IDR 20,000 per visitor.

Practical Information for Visitors

• Operational Times: Pura Besakih temple is open from 8.00 am - 5.00 pm. If you do not want to be disturbed by the crowd, it is best to visit the temple in the morning. 
• Admission Charges: The entrance ticket to Pura Besakih temple costs IDR 30,000 for an adult and IDR 15,000 for a child. It is mandatory for all foreigners to purchase an entrance ticket of IDR 50,000. This has to be purchased from an official tour agency. 
• Recommended Clothing: This is a sacred site, and as such, one needs to be decently dressed with all parts covered. Sarong rentals are often available at the entrance specifically for women. 
• Respecting the Local Culture: Allow continuous activities like ceremonies at Bali to respect the culture and essence of the people by not interrupting them or always adhering to the set rules at temples, among them at Ubud Temple.

Are you ready to witness this spiritual marvel of Pura Besakih and venture further into the grandest cultural asset of the beauty of Bali? Visiting the Pura Besakih temple will be an unforgettable journey that deepens the soul and can certainly brighten an adventure on the Isle of the Gods with vibrant colors. Experience the charm and beauty of the Pura Besakih temple, which is a haven from heaven that awaits your presence.