Batuan Temple

One of the most visited places of interest in Bali is Batuan Temple, a Balinese Hindu temple that is maintained by the people who live in the Batuan area. The roof of the temple building is built of the fiber of a chromatic black palm tree, and the temple is elegantly designed with many Balinese embellishments. Batuan has been a village of artists and craftspeople, ancient folklore, and enigmatic stories for more than a millennium.

The founding of Batuan Temple took place in 944 Isaka (1020 AD). The temple, which is about a thousand years old, belongs to the Puseh Temple category and was founded on the Tri Kahyangan or Tri Murti philosophy that Mpu Kuturan taught the Balinese Hindu society in the tenth century.

How to get to Batuan Temple

You can take a bemo minibus from Batubulan, rent a scooter, or rent a car with a driver to travel to Batuan Temple, also known as Pura Puseh Batuan, which is conveniently located and easily accessible from anywhere in Bali. As previously said, Batuan Temple is situated next to the main road that connects Denpasar and Ubud in the center of Batuan Village. Additionally, the site has a large complex of shrines spread across 0.65 hectares.

Simply follow the Bali Mandara Toll Road if you’re traveling from the Nusa Dua region. In Batuan, proceed along Jl. Nusa Dua, Bandara Ngurah Rai, Benoa Toll Road, Mandara Toll Road, Jl. By Pass Ngurah Rai, Jl. Raya Batubulan, and Jl. Celuk Sukawati/Jl. Raya Celuk, which will lead to Jl. Raya Batuan. Depending on traffic, it will take an hour to drive from Seminyak or 24 kilometers away by vehicle or scooter, and 40 minutes from Sanur. However, it only takes 20 minutes to travel the 9.8-kilometer journey by vehicle or scooter if you’re coming from Ubud.

What to Expect at Batuan Temple

The roof of Batuan Temple, also known as Pura Puseh Batuan, is composed of the fiber of a chromatic black palm tree and is decorated with full Balinese ornamentation. A parking lot is also available at the temple, and Wantilan, a standing ancient edifice, serves as a meeting space for practicing various Balinese dances, including Gambuh and Pendet dances. A traditional Balinese costume called a “kamben” will be lent to you by the people of Wantilan before you enter the temple. Keep in mind that wearing it is required to demonstrate dignity and respect. There are no admission fees, and it’s entirely free. However, residents anticipate donations in their donation box, regardless of the size, as it is just for temple upkeep.

Medana punia” is what Balinese call to the sincerity of every donation that you give. In the central courtyard of the temple there is a long building called Bale Agung and Bale Kulkul (made gong by wood or bamboo). In this courtyard there is also the entrance of the High Gate of Bali called Kori Agung, which is flanked by many statues of giant sculpture guards. Kori Agung’s function is the doorway where the entrance and entry of the gods is represented by a small statue called Pratima. There are two little doorways next to Kori Agung that serve as entry and departure points to the temple’s main courtyard. Then, as a representation of Besakih temple, there are around three storeys of Meru and Bale Pengiyasan in the temple’s main courtyard. Additionally, there is a structure called Padmasana that serves as a place of devotion for Sang Hyang Widhi, the sole Balinese Hindu deity.

In addition to radiating strong spiritual energy, the Batuan Temple, also known as Pura Puseh Batuan, has historical significance. As you can see, there are a lot of fascinating prehistoric artifacts. How does the natural stone in this temple, which is a site of worship for both their ancestors and the Hindu gods, reflect the influence of Hindu culture in Bali? There are some old and unusual statues that will astound you. This Pura Puseh’s numerous statues can be divided into a variety of categories. These include the statues of Dwarapala, Embodiment, Animals, Demons (Time), Phallus, and the status of holding chickens, among many others. ​

Batuan Temple History

Because batu means stone in Balinese, the moniker Batuan or Baturan given here makes the villagers laugh about being tough as stone or eating boulders. However, it probably alludes to an old megalithic custom when standing stones were used as gathering spots and ceremonial locations for ancestral spirit worship. The settlement has an unusually high proportion of brahmans since Batuan developed into a hub from which Buddhist priests and brahmans traveled to the major court cities of south Bali.

The maintenance and conservation of the temple’s architecture and surroundings are major concerns for the local population. Not every structure in this area is old; some have been renovated, renewed, and altered from the 10th to the 13th and even the 18th centuries AD. This temple’s foundation and structure are incredibly robust and durable. Every building in this temple complex features exquisitely carved native Balinese ornamentation. The Ramayana Epic tale is reflected in several ornaments, and each sacred structure serves a distinct philosophical purpose. ​

Batuan Temple Entrance Ticket

Although there is no admission charge to Batuan Temple, locals anticipate that visitors will contribute a certain sum to help with temple upkeep. A straightforward donation box is available. “Medana punia” is what the Balinese term it, and it should be the foundation of every donation you make. Additionally, please always act with respect. When visiting this temple complex, wear a sarong and cover your shoulders and knees to avoid being seen.

Hours of Operation: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

# Share this information to your friends