Besakih Temple
Bali and Nusa Tenggara Region
Besakih Temple, known locally as Pura Besakih, is the most important and largest Hindu temple complex in Bali, Indonesia. Located nearly 1,000 meters up the slopes of Mount Agung, the island's principal volcano, it comprises 23 separate but related temples, with Pura Penataran Agung as the largest and most significant. The temple complex is built on terraced levels ascending the mountain, symbolically designed to guide spiritual devotees closer to the sacred mountain. The architecture features stepped terraces, brick gateways, and the iconic lotus throne (padmasana) as the ritual focus. Its origins likely date back over 2,000 years, with megalithic foundations resembling ancient stepped pyramids. Historically, it has been a Hindu worship site since at least 1284 and served as the state temple for the Gelgel dynasty in the 15th century. The temple survived the devastating 1963 eruption of Mount Agung, seen by locals as a divine sign. Today, Besakih hosts over 70 festivals annually following the Balinese Pawukon calendar, reflecting its ongoing cultural and religious significance. Visitors are advised to be aware of occasional illegal levies by local youths, despite official entrance fees. The temple is under ongoing preservation efforts to maintain its sacredness and accommodate increasing visitor numbers.
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Astuce: To best experience Besakih Temple, visit during the dry season (April to October) to avoid rain and enjoy clearer views of Mount Agung. Purchasing official entrance tickets in advance is recommended to avoid illegal levies. Respectful attire covering shoulders and knees is required. Attending one of the many temple festivals offers a unique cultural insight, but crowds can be large, so plan accordingly. Guided tours can enhance understanding of the complex's history and symbolism.
Faits intéressants
- •Besakih Temple consists of 23 separate but related temples arranged on terraced slopes.
- •The main sanctuary, Pura Penataran Agung, features a lotus throne (padmasana) dating back to the 17th century.
- •The temple complex narrowly escaped destruction during Mount Agung's 1963 eruption, seen as a miracle by locals.
- •Over 70 festivals are held annually at Besakih, following the 210-day Balinese Pawukon calendar.
- •Besakih was once the state temple of the Gelgel dynasty in the 15th century.
Histoire
The origins of Besakih Temple are uncertain but trace back over 2,000 years, with megalithic foundations indicating prehistoric significance.
It became a Hindu worship site by 1284 when Javanese conquerors settled Bali.
By the 15th century, it was established as the state temple of the Gelgel dynasty.
The temple complex survived the catastrophic 1963 Mount Agung eruption, narrowly escaping lava flows, which Balinese people interpreted as a divine intervention.
Its nomination as a UNESCO World Heritage Site was considered but withdrawn in 2015.
Recent efforts focus on maintaining and preserving the temple's sacred environment amid growing visitor numbers.
Guide du lieu
Pura Penataran Agung17th century
The largest and main sanctuary of the Besakih complex, featuring the symbolic lotus throne (padmasana) which serves as the ritual focus of the entire temple complex. It dates to around the 17th century and represents the spiritual center aligned with Mount Agung.
Candi Bentar (Split Gateway)
The traditional Balinese split gateway marking the entrance to Besakih Temple, symbolizing the transition from the mundane world to the sacred temple grounds.
Kori Agung Gateway
The grand gateway leading to the temple's second courtyard, representing a further step into the sacred space of the temple complex.