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| Besakih Temple, Bali |
The Besakih Temple, Bali is one of the famous temples in Indonesia and one of the most important temples in Bali. The temple of Besakih is referred to as the "mother temple" by the Balinese people. The temple is perched 900 meters up the slopes of Mount Agung in Bali. The Besakih Temple, Bali is visited by tourists from different parts of the world round the year.
The Besakih Temple, Bali is a temple complex housing 30 magnificent temples. There are courtyards with altars and shrines devoted to several Gods in this open-air temple. This state temple is maintained by the provincial and national governments. Originally, the temple was perhaps a terraced sanctuary where the God of Mount Agung was worshipped and offerings were made. It was the state temple of the Geigel-Kiungkung dynasty since the 15th century.
The dominant sanctuary inside the Besakih Temple, Bali is the Pura Panataran Agung. The towering merus of this sanctuary stand on a high bank of terraces. This sanctuary, along with two other important temples situated higher up the slope, represent the Trishakti - the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The padmasana in this sanctuary is consecrated to Sang Hyang Widdhi, the Supreme God. The padmasana signifies unity. Within the main courtyard there is a three-seated shrine enthroning the Trishakti.
The Pura Panataran Agung is adorned with white banners for Shiva. Positioned to the right of this sanctuary is the Pura Kiduling Kreteg, decorated with red banners for Brahma. The Pura Batu Mddeg, which stands to the left of the Pura Panataran Agung, is festooned with black banners for Vishnu.
The best time to visit the Besakih Temple in Bali is during festivals. During festivals the shrines which enthrone the Trishakti are wrapped in colored cloth. These colors symbolize the deities. The people of Bali assemble at the Besakih temple during festivals. The temple's anniversary, Odalan, is usually celebrated in the month of April.
The drive up the mountain to the Besakih Temple, Bali takes a full day. On the way you can stop at Klungkung for sightseeing and shopping.
For more information on Besakih Temple, Bali, and other temples in Indonesia, visit travel.mapsofworld.
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