Besakih Great Temple, Hindu temple complex in Bali, Indonesia
The Grand Temple de Besakih, also known as Pura Besakih, is a Hindu temple complex on the slopes of Mount Agung in eastern Bali, Indonesia. The site is made up of around 18 public temples arranged across stepped terraces, linked by paths and staircases, all oriented around a central main sanctuary.
The complex dates back to the 14th century and grew steadily over the centuries as new shrines were added. In 1963, lava from an eruption of Mount Agung stopped just short of the sanctuary, which the Balinese regard as a sign of divine protection.
Pura Besakih, as it is known in Balinese, is considered the spiritual heart of Balinese Hinduism. During ceremonies, devotees bring flowers, fruit and incense and move in long processions between the shrines, accompanied by music and chanting.
A visit is best in the morning, when the light is softer and the site is less crowded. A sarong and sash are required; both can be borrowed at the entrance if you do not have them.
The name of the sanctuary comes from the Sanskrit word "wasuki", the name of a mythological dragon said to represent the creation of life. Beyond the 18 public temples, the grounds also contain dozens of private temples belonging to individual villages and castes that remain closed to outsiders.
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