What’s it like to visit Pura Besakih, the biggest Hindu temple complex in Bali?

There is no doubt that Bali is one of the most-loved destinations in the world. Every year, it sees a huge number of tourists from India. It’s not just the beautiful beaches and culture of Bali that’s attractive to us Indians.

It’s the temples too.

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Pura Besakih, the biggest Hindu temple in Bali, also known as the Mother Temple of Bali, is one of the most iconic landmarks here. It is located on the slopes of Mount Agung, the highest mountain here, and is the most important temple in Bali.


It’s not one temple but a giant temple complex of originally more than 80 temples, big and small, but the most striking is a cluster of 23 individual temples. Pura Besakih temple complex dates back to the 8th century. Important deities are Brahma, Shiva, Vishnu and Mount Agung, the mountain.



It is widely believed that some parts, if not whole, of the Besakih Temple date back to the 8th century. Over the years, there’s been numerous renovations in the temple complex, which may have altered the older look. However, visitors agree upon the fact that the temple complex has managed to preserve the charm even after all this time.


Pura Penataran Agung is the main temple in the complex and is also the most sacred of all. It is dedicated to the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. While visiting the temple complex, people can’t help but notice the Meru Towers, the multi-tiered pagoda-like structures. They symbolise the Hindu universe.


Do find time to visit the Pura Besakih Museum as well. The museum is located within the temple complex and displays artefacts, ancient manuscripts, and religious objects related to Balinese Hinduism.


For those seeking cultural and spiritual experiences in Bali, a visit to the Pura Besakih temple complex is a must.