Batuan Temple, has a history recorded since a thousand years ago, as mentioned in the book Bali & Lombok, Ryan Ver Berkmoes, Iain Stewart (2007, 206). The influence of Hinduism and India in this village area is clearly visible from the carvings and temples.

Founded in 944 Isaka (around 1020 AD), this temple is part of the concept of ‘Tri Kahyangan’ or ‘Tri Murti’ taught by Mpu Kuturan to the Balinese Hindu community in the 10th century. In this concept, there is a village temple as a place to worship the God Brahma (Creator), Pura Puseh to worship the God Vishnu (Preserver), and Pura Dalem to worship the God Shiva (Destroyer).

 

The Uniqueness of Batuan Temple Bali and Its Beauty

The name “Batuan” or “Baturan” that is mentioned makes the villagers often joke about being “as hard as rock” or “eating rocks”. However, the name likely refers to an ancient megalithic tradition, where standing stones were used as meeting places and ceremonial sites for the worship of ancestral spirits.

Batuan Temple is a cultural heritage tourist destination with classical architecture and a collection of ancient stone statues. This temple, which is also known as Pura Puseh Batuan, is indeed decorated with intricate stone carvings and has undergone various restorations to maintain its beauty.

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by Candi Bentar, an entrance gate built of red brick and decorated with typical Balinese ornaments, separating the outer area of ​​the temple from the center. There are Dwarapala statues guarding the entrance, giving a unique feel compared to other temples, because they are standing and without carrying weapons.

Inside, there is Kori Agung with a door believed to be the gate of the gods, with alternative access for Hindus through a side door if they want to pray. Pura Batuan is currently still actively used for local worship, offering an authentic cultural experience for visitors. In addition, this temple also has a stage for dance performances, adding to the richness of the experience for visitors. Batuan Village itself is famous for its traditional houses which display typical Balinese architecture, showing the beauty and uniqueness of local culture.

 

Location, Route, Opening Hours, and Entrance Ticket Prices

 

 

Batuan Temple is located in Dusun Tengah, Batuan Village, Sukawati District, Gianyar Regency, Bali. To visit it, using a private car or motorbike is one of the most comfortable ways to get to Batuan Temple, with a journey of about 30 minutes from Denpasar.

However, if you choose public transportation, you can get off at the Sukawati bus terminal and continue with a motorcycle taxi, either conventional or online, which are easily found in the area.

Facilities at Batuan Temple include a parking area, a Hindu place of worship, toilets, a rest area, and a dining room. Visiting Batuan Temple is free, but visitors are expected to donate to the maintenance of the temple through the donation box provided. In this case, the Balinese people believe in the principle of sincerity or “Medana punia”.

 

Best Time and Way to Visit Batuan Temple

Batuan Temple is open to the public from 9am to 6pm daily, while for religious activities, the temple remains open 24 hours. The best time to visit is during religious celebrations, which take place twice a year according to the local 210-day calendar.

The celebrations begin with the day the gods arrive and culminate on the 10th day, known as Kuningan, with dancing, music, decorations and food offerings. Temples are an important element of Balinese culture, giving visitors an insight into local life. It is important for visitors to show respect at these places of worship, especially in their attire.

Both men and women are expected to wear sarongs and scarves when visiting. At Batuan Temple, sarongs and scarves are available for visitors to use free of charge, ensuring that they adhere to the temple dress code.

 

Please check our Traditional Bali Village Tour package to visit Batuan Temple.