Heri Sisworo
Bali has all the natural charm to woo even the most demanding tourist who comes for the ultimate tropical paradise. Bali has beautiful beaches, great waves for surfing, beautiful coral reefs for scuba diving, and of course lush green tropical forest. However, the cultural aspect of this island also massive as seen in so many old and historic temples.
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Balinese are predominantly Hindu and they preserve their culture and tradition very well. Their temples are well-preserved and generally open to everyone, except in some very sacred parts. However, visitors are also required to wear a proper attire, mostly sarong and sash. Here are seven must-visit temple in Bali.
Lempuyang Temple
It is believed that Lempuyang Temple predates most of the temples on the island. This temple is highly regarded by Balinese, considered one of the most important ones, similar to Pura Besakih. This temple is located on top of Mount Lempuyang in East Bali and you need to go through 1,700 steps staircase to reach it. This is a perfect destination for those who love hiking.
Ulun Danu Bratan
Iconic landmark is located at the side of Beratan lake in Bali. The image of this Temple is already very popular and becoming one of the most recognized landmark of Bali. The temple looks like it’s floating on a serene and calm surface of the lake. Its reflection is almost perfect with the lovely hills in the background.
Pura Besakih
Pura Besakih is often considered as Bali’s Mother Temple, meaning that it is the most important temple complex in the whole island. Located 1000 meters above sea level, Besakih Temple is the venue of many religious ceremony, more than 70 annually. There are some restricted areas in this his massive religious compound, but overall is quite explorable.
Taman Ayun Temple
Taman Ayun Temple is a landmark located in Mengwi, Badung. it is close to Denpasar and the temple complex has many courtyards and beautiful gardens and Lotus ponds. This temple was built in 1634 by the royal ruler Mengwi Raja Tjokerda Sakti Blambangan.
Temple architecture is influenced by Chinese and Balinese traditional styles. This temple is also the main place of worship in the area, mainly because of large temples such as the Besakih Temple and the Batur temple too far to be visited by the surrounding community.
Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot is one of the most famous temples, known by both local and foreign tourists. This temple protrudes into the middle of the sea. The temple is located on a large rock that can only be reached on foot when the tide is low.
Tanah Lot is one of the most famous temples in Bali and many of its photos are made as the background of postcards sent by tourists to their respective hometowns. one of the main attractions of this temple is the beautiful sunset that should never be missed.
Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple is located in a very unique location. Built on a tall cliff, Uluwatu Temple has an extraordinary view to the open sea. This temple is also very popular for surfers because the waves around this place are very good.
Uluwatu Temple is also the location where the Ramayana ballet and the famous Kecak dance is held. Both dances are usually held just before sunset to get the best effect. There is still dense forests inhabited by many long-tailed macaques surrounding this temple.
Tirta Empul
Tirta Empul Temple was built in 960 AD during the reign of the Warmadewa dynasty. Tirta Empul literally means ‘a holy spring’. That spring is located in the middle of the temple complex.
The water from the temple then flows to the Tukad Pakerisan River which is still filled with many myths and legends. One of Indonesian Presidential Palace, The Tampaksiring Palace, which was built during the reign of President Soekarno, is located near this holy site.
There are a lot of sacred temples scattered in all parts of Bali. The tourists can visit most areas even though they have to wear special clothes to respect the sanctity of these places. These temples are attractive cultural tourism destinations, especially for those who are fascinated by the laidback life in Bali. Next
