Located in Tabanan, Pura Luhur Batukaru is a Hindu temple from the 11th century and it is set on the southern slope of Mount Batukaru, Bali's second-highest volcano. The temple is one of nine kayangan jagat, or directional temples, meant to protect Bali from evil spirits. Originally built during the 11th century, Pura Luhur Batukaru was dedicated to the ancestors of the rajas of Tabanan. It was destroyed in 1604, before being rebuilt in 1959. The temple's most important shrine is a 7-tiered meru dedicated to Mahadewa, the God of Mount Batukaru.
Today, Pura Luhur Batukaru remains an extremely sacred site for Bali's Hindu population. Many of the complex's grounds remain off-limits to visitors for various ceremonies and events throughout the year. The temple is also the first stop one must take before ascending to the summit of Mount Batukaru. Once a year, there is a pilgrimage to its peak, and on that day, one may see thousands of worshipers walk its trails at once.
Bali’s textiles are an important part of the its cultural heritage, in the past, traditional woven fabrics like songket were worn by the nobility as a class signifier in the royal courts. Today, caste-based restrictions no longer apply, but the songket remains a clear marker of status. Resplendent in shimmering silk and gold-wrapped threads, these ...
Bali’s oldest and most famous temples is home to the famous Gateway of Heaven. Believed to be the oldest Hindu temple on the island, Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang — or Lempuyang Temple — is made up of seven different sanctuaries and boasts glorious views in every direction, thanks to its perch some 1775 metres above sea level in the highlands of ...
Taman Ujung Floating Palace, is an enchanting water palace built in Karangasem Regency in 1901, and features a network of pools and ponds that were used for everything from entertainment to executions. The King’s resting palace is one of the most picturesque areas of the grounds, with a blend of eastern and western architecture, colorful glass ...
Experience one of the world’s most exceptional sunsets during your next visit to Bali. A hallowed landmark in the region, the Hindu temple of Tanah Lot is set against a breathtaking panoramic backdrop that lights up with fiery reds, soft pinks and blazing oranges each evening at sunset. The ancient sea temple is perched majestically on an offshore ...