Pegulingan Temple, Buddhist-Hindu temple in Tampaksiring, Indonesia
Pegulingan Temple is built into the eastern hillside near Tirta Empul and combines stone carvings, altars, and traditional architectural elements reflecting both Buddhist and Hindu influences. The structure features multiple chambers and niches carved into the rock face, each serving different ritual purposes.
Archaeological findings including clay seals with Sanskrit inscriptions and a golden Buddha statue date the temple's construction to the 8th century. The discovery of an octagonal sandstone receptacle in the foundation holding gold plates and a miniature stupa suggests early precious offerings left at the site.
The temple functions as a shared space where Buddhist and Hindu priests perform ceremonies together, reflecting how different faiths coexist in the local area. Visitors can witness these rituals throughout the year, seeing firsthand how religious practices blend in daily worship.
The temple is most easily reached through guided walking tours starting from Tirta Empul, with most excursions taking just a few hours. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear since the path is steep and involves descending steps to reach the site.
An octagonal sandstone box found beneath the foundation held gold plates and a tiny stupa containing a Buddha figure, revealing how early visitors left their most precious possessions at this spot. These hidden treasures offer insight into ancient offering practices that would otherwise remain unknown.
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