Besakih Temple Bali: Complete Visitor Guide to the Mother Temple of Bali

Located in East Bali, the Besakih Temple complex sits nearly 1,000 metres above sea level on the western slope of Mount Agung. This sacred site dates back over 1,000 years, making it one of the oldest religious structures in Indonesia. The complex consists of 23 interconnected temples, with Pura Penataran Agung being the main and most significant shrine. Each temple within Besakih Temple, Bali serves a distinct ceremonial purpose, reflecting Bali’s Hindu philosophy of harmony between humans, nature, and the divine.

Unlike many temples in Bali, Besakih Temple is not dedicated to a single god. Instead, it represents the Hindu trimurti—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva—making it spiritually inclusive and widely revered. Located on the western slopes of Mount Agung in East Bali, nearly 1,000 metres above sea level, this sacred complex is over 1,000 years old. It consists of 23 interconnected temples, with Pura Penataran Agung as the central shrine, each serving a specific ceremonial role that reflects Bali’s harmony between humans, nature, and the divine.

The name Mother Temple of Bali is not metaphorical; it is practical. All the Balinese Hindu temples are spiritually connected with Besakih Temple, and great island-wide ceremonies are held here.

Key reasons why Besakih Temple, Bali, holds unmatched importance:

• It survived the 1963 Mount Agung volcanic eruption, reinforcing beliefs in divine protection
• Hosts island-wide ceremonies like Eka Dasa Rudra, conducted once every 100 years
• It is the spiritual centre of all Balinese temples.
• Taken as the holiest site of worship in Bali.

The architecture of the Besakih Temple in Bali has a rigid order of spirituality. The temple complex contains seven terraces, which climb upwards and represent the passage down to earth and up to heaven.

Highlights of the Temple Architecture

• Meru swears with many-layered thatched roofs.
• Mount Agung was in accordance with stone staircases.
• Complex sculptures of Hindu legends.
• Courtyards that were used to conduct rituals and offerings.

All the temples are oriented towards the mountain Agung, which strengthens the role of the sacred mountain as the home of the gods.

Besakih Temple in Bali can be considered the best place during the dry season (April to October) when the weather is favourable and clear.

Ideal Visiting Hours

• Early morning: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
• Late afternoon: 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Mornings have lower temperatures, fewer people, and calm prayer services, whereas evenings offer the photographer dramatic lighting. Avoid going during the major festivals unless you are not afraid of crowds and ceremonial lockouts.

Being the most sacred temple in Bali, the Besakih Temple has a strict dress code.

What to Wear

• Sarong (mandatory for all visitors)
• Sash tied at the waist
• Covered shoulders and knees

Renting of sarangs can also be done at the entrance. Menstruating women are not conventionally allowed to get into the inner sanctums.

Certain behavioural guidelines exist when visiting Besakih Temple, Bali, and they include respectful behaviour without talking loudly or going against the instructions of the temple.

A visit to Besakih Temple goes beyond sightseeing.

Explore Pura Penataran Agung: The principal temple has huge steps, holy altars and ornamental courts where significant rituals are conducted.

Witness Traditional Ceremonies: You can also observe priests singing, people in ceremonial clothes and offerings being made depending on the lunar calendar.

Photography with Mount Agung: The clear days provide spectacular views of Mount Agung, which is located behind the temple complex.

Learn Local Spiritual Practices: Employing a licensed guide improves your knowledge about Balinese Hinduism and symbolism at the temples.

Besakih Temple is located approximately:

• 2 hours from Ubud
• 2.5 hours from Seminyak or Kuta
• 2 hours from Candidasa

Best Ways to Reach:

• Private car with driver
• Guided cultural tour
• Self-drive (experienced drivers only)

Enhance your East Bali itinerary by pairing Besakih Temple Bali with nearby attractions:

• Tirta Gangga Water Palace
• Lempuyang Temple (Gates of Heaven)
• Sidemen Valley
• Goa Lawah Bat Cave Temple

• Start early to avoid crowds
• Bring money to pay as entrance fees and a sarong.
• Avoid unofficial guides
• Ceremonies of respect and closed zones
• Check Mount Agung activity updates.

Unlike beach clubs and waterfalls, Besakih Temple connects you to Bali’s spiritual core. It offers cultural depth, historical significance and authentic Balinese experiences. This is where Bali’s soul truly lives. Plan Your Besakih Temple Visit with PickYourTrail by exploring Bali tour packages for a hassle-free travel experience.