The head of Bali
The Lontar Padma Bhuana calls Besakih Huluning Bali Rajya: the head, or soul, of Bali. It faces the island from the northeast, the direction of the mountain and the rising sun.
A sacred area, not a single temple
Kawasan Suci Besakih is made up of 26 temples: Pura Penataran Agung, “where all the gods gather”, at the centre, and 25 supporting temples tended by Bali’s regencies, clans and communities.
Its story begins in the 8th century with the sage Rsi Markandeya, who meditated on the hill now called Tap Sai before founding the temple on Agung’s slopes.
Ancient texts call Besakih Huluning Bali Rajya — the head of Bali.
Three harmonies
Life at Besakih follows Tri Hita Karana. You'll see it in the offerings, in the care of the forest, and in the community that tends the temples every day.
Three temples, one cosmology
Pura Penataran Agung at the centre, Batu Madeg (Wisnu) to the north and Kiduling Kreteg (Brahma) to the south.
Your visit supports the mountain
Most families around Besakih still farm, garden and raise animals the traditional way. Through Besakih Peduli, the temple community plants medicinal gardens, teaches children to manage waste, and supports local makers. Every Saturday morning, the whole team cleans the sacred area together.