Besakih Temple (Mother Temple of Bali)

Location
Peninsula of Mount Agung, Karangasem Regency, Bali.


Overview
Besakih Temple, Bali’s largest and holiest temple complex, sits on the slopes of Mount Agung, the island’s highest volcano. Revered as the "Mother Temple," it’s a major pilgrimage site for Balinese Hindus. The temple consists of over 80 individual temples, offering spiritual significance, stunning architecture, and panoramic mountain views.
Key Attractions
Main Temple: Pura Penataran Agung, the largest temple, dedicated to the Tri Murti (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva).
Sacred Mountain Views: The temple provides a spectacular view of Mount Agung.
Sacred Sites: Numerous shrines and altars dedicated to various deities across the complex.
Local Villages: Surrounding villages offer insight into traditional Balinese life.
Balinese Offerings: Visitors can observe traditional offerings made by worshippers.
Interesting Facts
The temple complex is thought to be over 2,000 years old, dating back to Bali’s earliest kingdoms.
It’s the center of religious ceremonies during major Balinese festivals.
Mount Agung is considered the spiritual center of Bali, with Besakih Temple acting as a guardian.
Timings and Entry Fee
Timings: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Entry Fee:
IDR 60,000 (approximately $4.20) per person.
Additional fees apply for local guides, typically IDR 100,000 ($7).
Why Visit
Besakih Temple offers a deeply spiritual experience with breathtaking views and a glimpse into Bali's ancient Hindu traditions. It’s an essential visit for those interested in Bali’s religious and cultural heritage.