About Besakih Temple
Besakih Great Temple, also known as the “Mother Temple of Bali,” is the largest and most sacred temple on the island. The temple is located on the slopes of Mount Agung and is the spiritual center for Balinese Hindus. It consists of 23 temples scattered along the hill. The temple symbolizes the spiritual harmony and balance that are so important in the daily lives of Balinese people. It’s not just a place of worship, either. Besakih Temple also offers spectacular natural scenery and magnificent architecture.
Location & How to Get There
Besakih Temple is located in Besakih Village, Rendang District, Karangasem Regency, Bali. It’s about 62 kilometers from Ngurah Rai International Airport, and the trip usually takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic. You can take a taxi, use a ride-sharing service like Gojek or Grab, or rent a car. Many hotels in Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud also offer shuttle services to Besakih Temple, which makes your trip easier and more convenient.
Operating Hours and Admission Fee
This Great Temple is open every day from 8:00 to 6:00 pm local time. The entrance ticket price for foreign tourists is around IDR 60,000 per person, which includes a local guide who will take you around the temple complex and explain the history and spiritual significance of each temple. It’s recommended to purchase tickets at the ticket counter to avoid fraud.
Interesting Things About Besakih Temple
One of the main reasons people visit Besakih Temple is for its impressive architecture and rich spiritual symbolism. The temple complex sits at an altitude of about 1,000 meters above sea level, offering incredible views of Mount Agung. Each temple within the complex serves a unique purpose and reflects Hindu philosophy and beliefs. Additionally, the religious ceremonies and festivals held at The Temple are a major draw for tourists who want to experience authentic Balinese cultural traditions.
Activities You Can Do At Besakih Temple
There are lots of interesting activities you can do at Besakih Temple. Some of them are:
Temple Tour: Join a tour led by a local guide to explore the temple complex and learn about the history and spiritual significance of each temple. The guide will explain the architectural symbolism and provide an in-depth insight into Hindu beliefs in Bali.
Photography: Besakih Temple is a great spot for photography. Capture your moments against the backdrop of the impressive temple and the stunning view of Mount Agung.
If you’re lucky, you can even take part in a religious ceremony held at Besakih Temple. The ceremony features amazing dances, gamelan music, and offerings.
Explore the Path: The temple complex is surrounded by trails that lead to some pretty amazing natural scenery. Take a stroll while you enjoy the fresh air and the view.
Useful Tips
- Wear Modest Clothing: This Temple is a place of worship, so it’s important to dress appropriately. We recommend wearing a sarong, which you can rent at the entrance.
- Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a hat! The sun in Bali is pretty intense, so it’s important to protect yourself from UV exposure.
- Bring Water and Snacks: The journey to the temple can be quite tiring, so it’s a good idea to bring water and snacks to keep your energy up.
- Show respect for local culture: When you’re visiting temples or interacting with locals, make sure you respect local customs and traditions. Stick to the rules that apply in the temple area.
- It’s a good idea to get there early to avoid the crowds and have a quieter experience.
Additional Facilities
Besakih Temple is equipped with various facilities for the convenience of visitors. There is a large parking area, clean public toilets, and several stalls selling local food and drinks. In addition, you can rent sarongs at the entrance for worship and tour purposes. Experienced local guides are also available to help you explore the temple complex and provide in-depth insights into Balinese history and culture.
Visiting Besakih Temple is an extraordinary experience. With stunning natural scenery, magnificent architecture, and a strong spiritual atmosphere, Besakih Temple is the perfect destination to enjoy the beauty and richness of Balinese culture. Enjoy your time at Besakih Temple and have a memorable trip!
