Perched nearly thousand meters above the ground on mount Agung, the majestic Mother Temple of Besakih is a truly mesmerising sight. Covering a vast area set amidst the breathtaking scenery of mount Agung, Basakih temple is a sacred, beautiful and artistic complex. The largest and the holiest Hindu temple in the island of Bali, the Besakih Temple comprise of twenty three separate but related temples.
A visit to the Besakih temple is considered a special pilgrimage by the Balinese. For tourists it is a location that one must not fail to visit, not only due to its sacred monuments but the breathtaking architecture and the historical significance. You will be able to travel to the temple from almost any Luxury Hotel Bali and located in a comfortable distance is the Intercontinental bali resort from which you can take public transport or a private vehicle to get to the temple.
Constructed before 1000AD, the Besakih temple was originally dedicated to the dragon God Besakih who is still considered to inhabit on the sacred mountain of Agung. Through the years it was converted to a Hindu temple and today it is the only temple where Hindu of any caste can worship. The three main temples in the premises are dedicated to Shiva, Brahama and Vishnu while the others belong to difference regencies and caste groups.
The best time to visit the temple is early morning and late evening when it is empty and quiet. During the day time you will need the assistance of a temple guardian (who are actually guides) to explore the temple whether you are on a group tour or travelling individually. The dress code to enter the temple is very strict; you need to be dressed modestly without exposing much skin. The temple is officially opened between 8.30 am to 5pm all year round.
Nigel Walters is a travel writer, who writes under the pen name, Fritzjames Stephen. His content is based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.
