Besakih Temple

Besakih Mother Temple Tour

Built in the 11th century, Besakih is the largest and most important temple amongst the local Balinese. With over 22 structures in its complex, the temple sits on the slopes of Mount Agung, a stratovolcano and is home to the Trinity shrines dedicated to the Gods Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu. Surviving the devastating volcanic eruption of the mountain it resides on in 1963, Besakih is famous for allowing Hindu followers of any caste to worship and pay homage within its holy grounds.

Besakih mother Temple is located in the Besakih Village, Rendang Sub-district, Karangasem District, East Bali. By car, its an hours drive from Ubud and approximately a two hour drive from Kuta depending on traffic conditions. The temple is open 24 hours however its official listed time of operation is from 8am to 5pm. Its best to visit the temple with a local friend after 6pm to avoid the over-bearing nature of the temple guides. A sarong and sash is provided only if visitors are dressed in short dresses, skirts or shorts. Even better, bring your own sarong!

Besakih Temple is the largest Hindu temple complex in the paradise island of Bali. It is featured by the beautiful temple building spread out the temple complex area, the cool temperatures and the stunning view of surrounding area until the Indian Ocean. Most of the temple building is made from the black volcanic stone, selected tropical wood and the roof is made from fibers. The roofs are uniquely designed with storied style until 11 levels those completely viewed on Besakih Temple Tour.

Visitors who do not plan to make a religious offering will not be allowed into the main temple (picture above). Instead, you will be only allowed to roam the walkways up to a smaller temple on top of the mountain. Entry in private family temples located on either left or right of the walkway is prohibited. Once you reach the top, the view is breathtakingly lovely with temple roofing decorating the horizon in front of you.