🏔️ Pura Besakih (Mother Temple of Bali)
Indonesia
About This Sacred Site
Pura Besakih, known as the 'Mother Temple,' is the holiest and largest Hindu temple complex in Bali, situated on the slopes of Mount Agung, the island's highest and most sacred volcano. The complex comprises 23 separate but related temples spread across six levels on the mountainside, with Pura Penataran Agung as the central and most important temple. Balinese Hindus believe Mount Agung is a replica of Mount Meru, the cosmic center of the universe. The temple complex survived the catastrophic 1963 eruption of Mount Agung virtually unscathed, which locals interpreted as a divine sign.
Spiritual Significance
Known as the Mother Temple of Bali, it comprises 23 separate temples on the slopes of Mount Agung, which stands at 3,031 meters, Bali’s highest peak and a volcano considered sacred. The temple complex is central to Balinese Hinduism’s practice of Tri Mandala, representing the division of the cosmos into three realms. It hosts the Eka Dasa Rudra ceremony, a purification ritual conducted approximately every 100 years to restore cosmic balance. Pilgrims ascend the temple terraces to participate in offerings and prayers dedicated to the supreme god Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa and the ancestral deities of the island. The temple survived the 1963 eruption of Mount Agung with minimal damage, which was interpreted by locals as a sign of divine protection. Rituals here involve recitations from the Agama Hindu Dharma scriptures and elaborate offerings of fruit, rice, and flowers. The temple’s status as a spiritual center draws devotees from across Bali during Galungan and Kuningan festivals, highlighting its role in maintaining religious orthodoxy and cultural identity.
Key Facts
- •The largest and holiest Hindu temple in Bali, comprising 23 separate temples
- •Situated on the slopes of Mount Agung, Bali's highest volcano at 3,031 meters
- •Survived the catastrophic 1963 eruption of Mount Agung, which locals saw as a miracle
- •Dates back over 1,000 years, with origins in prehistoric animist worship
- •Every Balinese Hindu temple is symbolically connected to Besakih
Location
Coordinates: -8.3739, 115.4520
Frequently Asked Questions
What religion is Pura Besakih (Mother Temple of Bali) associated with?▾
Pura Besakih (Mother Temple of Bali) is a Hinduism holy site located in Indonesia. It was established c. 8th century CE and is ranked #104 in our global directory of sacred sites.
When was Pura Besakih (Mother Temple of Bali) established?▾
Pura Besakih (Mother Temple of Bali) dates back to c. 8th century CE. The largest and holiest Hindu temple in Bali, comprising 23 separate temples
How many people visit Pura Besakih (Mother Temple of Bali) each year?▾
Pura Besakih (Mother Temple of Bali) receives approximately 1+ million visitors per year. Situated on the slopes of Mount Agung, Bali's highest volcano at 3,031 meters
What is Pura Besakih (Mother Temple of Bali) known for?▾
The holiest and largest Hindu temple complex in Bali, on the slopes of Mount Agung. Visitors come seeking pilgrimage, purification, blessings, ancestral connection. Survived the catastrophic 1963 eruption of Mount Agung, which locals saw as a miracle
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