Adney Dan
Abundance of temples found in Bali is testament to how integral a component they are in Balinese culture. Any type of travel to Bali – business, family or romantic – is imperfect unless one pays visits to some of these noteworthy landmarks, the history and architecture of which are as unique and vibrant as the local culture.
Situated amidst mystical backdrops of Mount Agung, the highest peak in Bali, Besakih or 'Mother Temple' is an ancient and magnificient complex which consists of more than 86 temples dedicated to a variety of deities, held in highest esteem by the Balinese. Although some of the innermost patios are exclusive to pilgrims who travel from all corners, the majority of the complex is open to visitors of all creeds.
Constructed in 926 AD around a large water spring, this temple attracts devotees seeking purification and healing by bathing in a pool fed by 13 fountains. The rituals necessitate an offering be made prior to getting in to the pool to bathe and prey. As per the legend it was the deity Indra whom crated the holy spring as an antidote to cure the troops who drank from a poisonous spring created by the vicious ruler Mayadenawa.
Set atop a 250 feet cliff top overlooking the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple presents a magnificent sight at sunset with its grand architecture as the waves of the ocean breaks against the rock. It is believed that the supreme powers of of Brahma, Vishnu, and Siva merged at the premises which make the temple to be held in highest regard by the locals. Uluwatu temple is located just a 30 minute drive away from Bali International Convention Centre, a highly regarded meeting venue Bali has in Nusa Dua.
This iconic landmark of Bali's makes the temple most featured as well as the most visited among many temples in the island. It has required a multimillion dollar restoration and preservation effort to uphold Tanah Lot as a sight that will be etched to one's mind for years to come, especially at sunset. Although inaccessible at high tide, one is able to cross the causeway to be blessed by the priest at the base with holy water from a nearby fountain when the tide is low.
Set on a scenic hillside conflux amidst numerous brooks and paddy fields, Goa Gajah has been built as a sacred location facilitating meditation. It takes a climb of in excess of an hour to marvel at the complex's magnificent architecture influenced by Hinduism and to a lesser extent by Buddhism. The intimidating cave entrance where the adjacent rock is carved into a open-mouthed face is vastly popular among visitors.
