Mother Temple, also named Besakih Temple or Pura Besakih Bali, is located in the village of Besakih (Rendang Sub-district, Karangasem) right at the foot of Mount Agung, in the eastern part of Bali.
As its name already states, it is the mother of all temples and not just one of Bali’s most important temples; it is the most important one in Bali! Besakih Temple is located about 1,000 meters above sea level and finally, it is the highest substantial public temple complex.
Besakih Temple dates back to about the 10th century (the same age as Tirta Empul Temple) and is actually a complex consisting of about 30 singular temples, with hundreds of shrines, dedicated to the helpers of the gods.
When you have finally reached Pura Penataran Agung Besakih, the highest temple of the Mother Temple complex, you will be rewarded with unimaginable views and a fabulous, spiritual feeling.
The most marvellous things in Bali also have a reverse side to the coin. As the Mother Temple is a very popular tourist place, you will be asked for money at every single corner. A guide offers his knowledge here, a seller his products there and you have to pay for the entrance as well. Additionally, you will probably get forced to buy a Sarong for 50 USD which is 3-4 times the real value.
Before you enter the temple complex, Besakih Temple can easily become annoying, especially if you can’t handle pushy people. As Besakih temple plays such a big role in Balinese tradition and it is a tremendous and imposing complex it is therefore hard to say.
“If you can’t handle these situations, stay away from Pura Besakih and see other major temples on Bali such as Pura Luhur Uluwatu (Uluwatu Temple) or Tirta Empul Temple (Pura Tirta Empul) just to name a few” but unfortunately this is a fact. However, for those who don’t mind at all and make this tour to Bali’s holiest temple will explore a terrific complex with stunning views from the top level!
