Heri Sisworo
One of the most unique temples you can find in Bali is located in Nusa Penida. Goa Giri Putri Temple is located in a cave, completely hidden from the outside world. Even just to come into the cave need a great effort.
Baca juga : Eksotisnya Pulau Molana di Maluku, Syahdu Bagai Milik Pribadi
Pura Goa Giri Putri is a perfect example of a surprising destination that defies your expectations. This sacred cave and its temples are an actual worshipping place for Balinese Hindu but it is open to everyone with some strict rules. Here is what you need to know about Pura Goa Giri Putri Nusa Penida.
Location
Administratively, Pura Goa Giri Putri is located at Karangsari Hamlet, Pakraman Suana Village, Nusa Penida District, Klungkung Regency. Effectively, this cave cum temple is situated on the northeastern part of the island. The temple is just a couple of meters away from the main road, and the shore. The closest harbor is Sampalan, some 20 minutes away.
How to get there
From the main road, the trek is very easy. It is entering the cave that can pose a problem. There is only one small triangle entrance, just barely enough for an adult to enter. You have to climb down a flight of stairs, in relative darkness, while walking and stooping because the roof is low. This entrance and stairs can be really slippery after rain.
The interior of the cave
Once you enter the cave, you’d be mesmerized by the sheer size of it, especially considering the narrow entrance. The cave is 262 meters long, with the roof can reach up to 15 meters. The cave somehow doesn’t feel as claustrophobia-inducing anymore. It’s just grand. You will feel like you are in a huge hall.
There are many altars (pelinggih) and priests that will lead you to pray. The path throughout the cave is good, you can explore it comfortably. Just like in other sacred temples in Bali, you are required to wear sarong and sash to enter this place. Women who are in their period are not allowed to venture here.
The attractions
This cave is open to the public, so anyone from any background and beliefs can visit this place. Some tourists come to learn about the spiritual activities here, as there are four main worshipping areas. Some others come purely for the beauty. This cave has sacred springs, stalagmite and stalactite, water channels, bats, and occasionally also snakes.
Found in 1990, Pura Goa Giri Putri is a great place to visit. You will elarn how Balinese harmonize their spiritual relationship with their God as well as with their natural surroundings. There are almost no facility in the cave, so you must prepare yourself well. Next
