Besakih

Besakih Temple, also known as Pura Besakih, is the Mother Temple of Bali. It is not just a single temple but a spiritual complex of over 80 temples. Its history goes back more than 2,000 years. Early worship centered around Mount Agung as a sacred symbol of divine power. In fact, archaeological findings show that Besakih once had stepped pyramid structures, suggesting that it was a holy sanctuary even before organized religion shaped it.

In the 8th century, Hindu sage Rsi Markandeya formalized Besakih as a Hindu temple. He dedicated shrines to the Trimurti: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Moreover, the name Besakih may come from the Sanskrit word Wasuki meaning “salvation” or from Naga Basuki, a mythical serpent believed to live beneath Mount Agung. As a result, Besakih became a symbol of harmony between ancient beliefs and Hindu spirituality. It later grew into a major pilgrimage destination for Balinese Hindus.

During the 15th century, the Gelgel Dynasty declared Besakih the State Temple of Bali. The complex was divided into different temples for noble families and regional communities. Therefore, almost every Balinese Hindu has a spiritual connection to Besakih. Its design represents Tri Loka, the three realms of Balinese cosmology. The main temple, Pura Penataran Agung, features six ascending terraces that symbolize the journey toward enlightenment. In addition, its central courtyard contains shrines dedicated to the Trimurti.

One of the most remarkable events in Besakih’s history happened in 1963, during the eruption of Mount Agung. The lava destroyed nearby villages but split and avoided the main temple complex by only a few meters. This occurred during the sacred Eka Dasa Rudra ceremony, held only once every 100 years. Many locals believed it was a sign of divine protection.

Today, Besakih Temple remains the most important spiritual site in Bali. Major ceremonies take place throughout the year. Visitors are encouraged to explore respectfully. Moreover, joining a tour with SEMAT TRAVEL INDONESIA allows travelers to understand the cultural meaning of the site. Besakih is also a highlight in the Romantic Bali tour package, offering not just sightseeing but a meaningful spiritual experience.