Pura Penataran Sasih, Ancient Hindu temple in Pejeng village, Indonesia

Pura Penataran Sasih is a Hindu temple in Pejeng, Bali, founded in 1266 according to a modern chronogram at its entrance. It has a split-gate entrance and five palebahan, or temple compounds, including Pura Taman Sari, Pura Ratu Pasek and Pura Bale Agung to the north and Pura Ibu to the south. The main courtyard holds a tall stone Seat of Ganesh and the Pelinggih Ratu Bhetara Sasih, the shrine housing the bronze Pejeng drum.

The temple was founded in the 13th century and served as an important center during the rule of a local kingdom for about 50 years. The site reflects how Balinese construction practices evolved, with some stone elements from medieval periods mixed alongside structures added in later centuries.

The site is where local Hindu worshippers come to perform rituals and make offerings as part of their spiritual practice. The carved stone elements and layered layout reflect beliefs about sacred space that remain central to Balinese religious life.

The temple sits on a hillside and requires climbing stairs between the different levels, so comfortable footwear is useful. Visitors should cover shoulders and knees and move slowly through the narrow passages to fully take in the surroundings.

The temple holds a large bronze drum decorated with animal motifs and mask patterns on its surface, originating from prehistoric times. This drum, called the Moon of Pejeng, is actually one of the oldest known metal objects found on the island.