Bali Anjani BLOG: August 2011

Taman Ujung Sukasadha Karangsem

Located at Tumbu Village, 85 kms from Denpasar, about 5 km from Amlapura, Capital of Karangasem Regency.

Ujung Water Palace, which by the local people is called as Taman Ujung Sukasadha, was built in 1919. However, the launching of this complex of water palace was performed in 1912.

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The water palace was constructed by the late King of Karangasem, I Gusti Bagus Jelantik, that reigned in Karangasem between 1909 and 1945.

Ujung Water Palace was majestically built to welcome and to serve important guests and Kings from neighboring countries, besides for the pleasure of the King and his royal family.

Tourism activity in this area is supported by the available of food stalls, small restaurants and quite large parking area. Visitors who are interested in local crafts product can find some of them in art shops available here.

The complex of this water palace is the combination of Balinese and European architectures. There are 3 big and large ponds inside the area. In the middle of the main pond, there is a building that connected to the edge of the pond by 2 bridges.

On the most tip of the highest level of this complex, we will find a great statue of warak (rhinoceros). Beneath the warak there is a Bull statue. From this high place we will see a marvelous view of sea, hills with lush and green forest, and the beauty of Mount Agung combined with the green terraced rice fields.

The greatness of Ujung Water Palace had been destructed by the explosion of Mount Agung in 1963 which was made worst by the great shake happened in 1979. However, the recovery effort had been performed to bring back the glory of this complex of water palace by holding a reconstruction and revitalization project on it. Although it is not as great as it was, the amaze of the past still can be seen here this moment.

More info :

Source:
http://balianjanivacation.blogspot.com/2011/08/taman-ujung-sukasadha-karangsem.html

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Tirtagangga Royal Pool Karangasem

Tirtagangga Royal Pool is situated at Ababi Village, 83 kms from Denpasar. Built in 1948 by the King of Karangasem, Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem. This water garden was constructed in a very unique architecture of Balinese and Chinese styles.

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Tirtagangga Water Garden scratches on a 1,2 Hectare area, which consists of three complexes. The first complex lies on the lowest level of this area, where we can find two ponds and a water tower. The second complex in the middle level is the location where we can find swimming pools; while in the third part, which is the main complex, we can find the rest house of the King.

Before the construction of the water garden, there was a big spring water in this area. Therefore people surrounding the area called this place embukan which means spring water.

They believe that this wellspring functioning as a bath place for the God and also used as drinking water for the local community from the nearest village. Therefore this wellspring is sacrificed by local people and keeps the park naturally. The King of Karangasem has got an idea to improve this park into a good looking and nowadays, it becomes one of the famous tourist destinations in east part of Bali.

The spring water was then functioned to fulfill the people's need of water and also for the "purification" of the Ida Betara (Gods). For this case, the spring water is recognized to be holy and sacred.

The religious to construct this tranquil water garden for his rest house and also for the people's function and the cool climate of this area, plus the fascinating view around, inspired the king leisure and pleasure.

Tirta Gangga is also featured by the wide public pool with the cool and clean water where it can be used by everyone who visiting this place. It is situated on the foot Abang Hill with cool temperature in particular night time or morning time. The lush tropical garden are well surround the park and big fish ponds are running away at another ponds to give the impression for every tourist who pay a visit to this beautiful park.

Some buildings and other decorations are intentionally made as according to the spirit from Puri Agung Karangasem (Agung Karangasem Palace), so it can be said that between Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung Sukasada which is located at Ujung countryside is a union.

More info :

Source:
http://balianjanivacation.blogspot.com/2011/08/tirtagangga-royal-pool-karangasem.html

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Taman Budaya Ardha Chandra Art Center Denpasar

Bali Art Center or known as Taman Budaya Ardha Chandra is located at Kecamatan Kesiman, municipality of Denpasar. More precisely is at the southern end of the Nusa Indah street of East Denpasar city.

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ardha chandra taman budaya art center denpasar

Three accesses can be taken to reach the area; one is from Sanur taking Jalan Hang Tuah from where bigger cars can enter, or from the crossroad of Jalan Gianyar and Gatot Subroto which is preferable to go with traffic flows already in line as in Indonesia including Bali the line is on the left. Third access is from west Denpasar city which are available many roads, but all are difficult due to the dense traffic, only smaller cars such as taxi or minivan are suggested to access art center from the west.

Geographically today Ardha Chandra looks lay in the center of Denpasar city, due to the extension of the east Denpasar further east, up to the border with Kabupaten Gianyar, a distance of more than 5 km east and with the opening of beach road to the east Bali the extension of the city is even further east along the road. Before 2000 the Kecak dance was presented at one of the corner of Ardha Chandra, and due to the difficulty for bigger bus then organizer of the dance moved the stage to the new place just on the right side of main road from Sanur to Kesiman.

Taman Budaya architecturally is a complex of buildings with the main mark of a big open stage. Designed by a traditional Balinese architect Ida Bagus Pugur, opened for public in 1973.

Besides the traditional open stage there are many buildings and hall constructed in Balinese architecture with finest decoration. These buildings are consisting of two types, one type is for permanent exhibition and others are for seasonal exhibition, especially during Bali Art Festival of June every year. Two buildings with the finest Bali architecture are for permanent exhibition where one can see various art of Bali from dance facilities or figures, carvings, clothing arts, paintings, and others.

In the North is located the Gedung Kriya Uccaihsrawa building where the fine arts exhibition are held. Balinese and foreign artists exhibit there.

To The West of Gedung Kriya lies the two story Dewi Ratih Building, which is used during the Bali Art Festival for an architectural exhibition on the first floor and a photography exhibition on the second floor.

But the largest structure (7200 m2) by far is the giant crescent shaped Ardha Candra Amphitheater. A magnificent Candi Kurung's gates, through which the dancers enter the stage, make up the background of the performances. The atmosphere is particularly impressive during the full moon or under the light of the projectors. This theatre, completed in 1977, can hold up to 600 people. Underneath the stage, facing North, West and ticketing offices and handicraft exhibition rooms for the various regencies of the island.

To the west of Ardha Candra Amphitheater is the Ksirarnawa closed theatre, which occupies a 5850 square meter surface on two floors. The theatre can contain up to 800 people, which is located on the second floor. The first one is occupied by the offices of the Art Center, a cafeteria, and several is also used for various handicraft exhibitions, the turnover of which is increasing from year to year, and they play a large role in the increase in non oil exports. Visiting hours are 8 a.m. to 5 pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

During Bali Art Festival the whole buildings are filed with exhibition of all type of products, not only art products but also history, books, daily needs, creative products, governments departments with their duties and others. A real bustling situation during one month of the feast. The activities at the open stage even more lively, as scheduled life shows present their representatives from traditional dance or drama or pantomime from Bali, other Indonesian provinces and foreign participants. Loyal foreign participants so far such as India, Thailand, USA, France, Australia, Japan, and Korea. New country such as Vietnam and Cambodia have also actively participating.

The most interesting moment is during the opening of the art festival, which is always started from Puputan City square with procession of dances, music, decorations, marshal art and others, finishing at Renon city square where invited high officials and foreign officials are waiting in a temporary set up Bali traditional pavilions with thatched roof.

Along the way the procession which consist of various artists show their actions or dance catch up by many TV stations or journalists. The procession usually started at 9 pm and finishes 12 noon marking the start of a month long art festival. The livelihood of the situation can be seen both at the exhibition and at the open stage starting from the night of the opening ceremony with the procession.

Every evening or night has been scheduled the turn of each representative to present their show which is normally has been confirmed long before the event. During the day the open stage also not always rest, but sometimes the school or universities will fill with many activities such as life drum band, drama or any other art activities they can present.

Beside normal show there are also kinds of competition among the same traditional music of Bali such as Gong, and the winner will be given the appreciation. It is a pity that Dinas Kebudayan Provinsi Bali is still not yet develops despite the fact of the modern technology that already freely available in Bali with cheap price.

This situation making the information about Bali Art Festival is not yet widely known by the people. Although the people know that the art festival is organized regularly every year during June, but detailed information on the activity schedule is hard to find. It is probably lack of professional manager or staff that has made this big job never known by most of the visitors to Bali and even by tour organizers.

More info :

Source:
http://balianjanivacation.blogspot.com/2011/08/taman-budaya-ardha-chandra-art-center.html

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How Ubud Came to be

According to lontar (traditional palm leaf book), in the 8th century there was an east Indian priest named Rsi Markandeya, set off on a spiritual journey, walking across the island of Java to spread the teachings of Hinduism.

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Eventually, he and his large group of followers reached the island of Bali and attempted to settle in the vicinity of Taro (a village at north of Ubud). Unluckily, they were struck down by a cholera epidemic and many perished. Rsi Markandeya led the surviving devotees back to Java, where they regrouped and after a while made their way to Bali again, although this time their number was somewhat diminished.

Upon returning to Bali the priest was drawn to a place where the two branches of the river Wos converged, pulled there by the intense energy and light which emanated from this spot. Rsi Markandeya was inspired to meditate there and while doing so, received a strong message from the Gods. They told him to proceed to Mount Agung (Bali’s center of spirituality), and there he was to bury five precious metals (Panca Datu) in the ground as a foundation of power for the temple of Besakih as the mother temple.

This he and his followers did, and afterward they returned to settle in the spiritually potent location where the two rivers joined, known as Campuhan. There, in that mystical vortex of nature, he and his faithful constructed a temple and they named it Pura Gunung Lebah.

Now growing along the banks of the two rivers were many kinds of plants with marvelous healing qualities, so they christened their new home Ubad, which translated to the healing place of medicine.

Through the following centuries and continuing up to the present time, many Hindu devotees have come regularly to this special place to meditate, bathe and take some of the holy water for cleansing rituals and temple ceremonies.

With the passing of time, the name of Ubad gradually evolved to the name Ubud… and, so it came to be.

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Source:
http://balianjanivacation.blogspot.com/2011/08/how-ubud-came-to-be.html

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Bajra Sandhi Monument

The Monument of Balinese Struggle

In 1981, Fr. Ida Bagus Gede Yadnya, IAI won an architecture competition held by the provincial goverment. The competition was to award the winner with the project of building a monument to the memory of Balinese Struggle.

Ida Bagus Mantra, the former Governor of Bali, was the man who initiated the monument project, and the monument was to be built for the memory of the hard work and heroic struggle of the Balinese before and after independence.

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Somehow the building process of the monument was also a kind of a struggle. With the process started in 1981 but stuck for several years!

The Bajra Sandhi monument is located in Niti Mandala, Renon, Denpasar, an area where most of the government offices are located. It stands majestically in the middle of a green field that is usually used by the public for sports such as jogging, soccer and basket ball during early morning or evening sessions and is always full of people doing activities on Sunday mornings.

The architecture of the monument is very unique, taking the shape of Bajra or Genta, a bell that used by Hindhu Priests during religious ceremonies. It is also a symbol of the bond between males and females that creates prosperity according to the epic that tells the story of the Gods’ struggle to get the Water of Eternity.

Every statue and each carving in the monument compound has its own meaning. The whole of the monument symbolizes Mount Mandara where, according to the epic Mahabarath, the Gods had a battle with giants fighting for the Water of Eternity. The architecture also symbolises nationalism with 17 main gates, 8 pillars and the monument reaching a height of 45 meter, to reflect 17 August 1945 the independence day of the country.

Entering the monument, from the drop off point you have to climb the stairs that bring you to a garden then there are more stairs to climb to get inside where there is a round pond with fish in it. Then there is another stair to get to the main hall where you can see a range of dioramas telling the story of Balinese life from the Stone Age till the independence era.

The monument has a chamber on the top where the only access is the stairs in the middle of the pond. From the chamber, you can see the 360° green grass of the field, rooftops of houses & buildings around dominating the scene. The unique design of the monument attracts many visitors every day, and art exhibitions such as photo or painting competition are taking place quiet often in the exhibition room.

There’s an even nicer view from outside the diorama hall, where you can enjoy the scenery while savoring the breeze.

More Info :

Source:
http://balianjanivacation.blogspot.com/2011/08/bajra-sandhi-monument.html

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Pasar Kumbasari the Traditional Market

On Jalan Gajah Mada, Denpasar there are Badung and Kumbasari Markets. Both these markets have become significant for Denpasar dwellers, as they are categorized into a complete market. Diverse goods are on sale here, ranging from daily needs, fabrics, food up to ceremonial ingredients for Hindu's. There are also inexpensive handicraft products that are on offer at Kumbasari Market. But, be sure to enter the right market as Kumbasari Market is adjacent to Badung Market; they are just separated by the river. Kumbasari Market is located on the west side and Badung on the other.

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Formerly, Kumbasari Market was named Pasar Priuk, which especially sold kucit (suckling pig). In 1977, this market was restructured with four-floors with each floor selling different goods.

On the first floor, merchants sell various daily needs, like fruits (southern street side), meat (at southern market stalls) and assorted perishable cakes, and bakery (northern). If entering the market stalls, just under the building, visitors will find many shops that sell diverse ingredients for Hindu ceremony like that for ngaben (cremation), melaspas (inaugural rites) and miscellaneous temple ornaments.

On the southern side, merchants sell many daily needs such as rice, vegetables and kitchen spices. Merchants on the second floor nearly all sell fabrics, school uniforms, various daily garments ranging for kids up to adults. There is also a shop that sells costumes for Balinese dance.

On the third and fourth floors is sold varied handicraft products made by Bali's craftsmen. They are wooden statues of many figures, bags, kites, slipper, ashtrays, embroidery and so forth.

Shops at Kumbasari Market open at 07.00-17.00, but some may offer their goods until late night depending on the number of visitors. Special for merchants of vegetables, fruit, young coconut leafs and some others are sold from open cars, thronging the parking lot from night until dawn.

Kumbasari Market is not only visited by the local people of Bali, but also by domestic and foreign visitors. They usually look for art articles, or just browse the market which has become a daily activity for the Balinese.

Wayan, a merchant, told us that in 1982 goods that were best favored by tourists consisted of bags, fabrics, kites, slippers and some souvenirs with new motives. While, the art products that are made of wood like statues and masks are nearly unsold. I Putu Gede a stall employee told us that he occasionally feels ashamed of his boss. Why? "Because we are paid by our boss. Then, if we cannot sell something where does he get money from to pay us?" he asked while adding that he was paid Rp 300,000 a month. This sluggish condition is also experienced by other merchants locate in the market stalls.

They also sigh since they hardly ever get any buyers. "They do not even get buyers, at times, let alone visitors who come to market stalls. Anyway, I am incessantly charged a royalty fee every day," said Ni Ketut Sutini, a merchant of Hindu ceremonial ingredients at a market stall. On the contrary, the merchants of cake, fruit and meat sell their goods every day. "Even though it is not so busy, we thank God that we can sell some of our goods," said Ni Made Wati, a meat merchant.

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Source: http://balianjanivacation.blogspot.com/2011/08/pasar-kumbasari-traditional-market.html

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Ulun Danu Beratan Temple at Bedugul

The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is located in Bedugul, 90 minutes drive from Denpasar. Backed by the enfolding green hills and the cold green waters of Lake Beratan, its charm enthralls visitors and attracts people from all over the world. The temple is one of the most prominent icons of Bali.

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The history of the temple goes back to the era when I Gusti Agung Putu established the Mengwi Kingdom. He built the Ulun Danu Beratan as a shrine for the God praised in the Puncak Mangu Temple. The inscription of Babad Mengwi, dated back in 1556 Çaka year, tells that I Gusti Agung Putu was defeated by another knight, and was given to I Gusti Ngurah Tabanan as a hostage.

Later on the defeated knight wanted to restore his power and holiness, and had he gone to Puncak Mangu to meditate and he was blessed with the magical power of a knight as a result.

The Ulun Danu temple consists of four complexes: the one at the eastern part is Lingga Petak shrine. The shrine has four doors facing the four wind directions. It is said that in the foundation of the shrine three huge stones where uncovered: white, red, and the smallest is black. There is a spring under the white stone, and it was decided that the shrine should be dedicated to the God of Ulun Danu Beratan.

The second complex is on the west of Lingga Petak Shrine, the compound called Pesimpangan Puncak Mangu. Puncak Mangu is considered as the symbol of fertility of the soil. So in this shrine, the God of Fertility and Prosperity is praised. The biggest complex in the temple compound is Pesimpangan Pura Terate Bang. The main shrine has seven storeys, where the God as creator of the earth and life is praised. One shrine in the complex is especially dedicated for the ancestors of the king Mengwi. Last but not least, The Goddess Uma, the wife of Shiva, can be praised in the Terate Bang complex. The Goddess is considered as the source of happiness.

The Ulun Danu Temple has a very calm atmosphere. The cool climate of Candi Kuning gives an extra touch to the ambience. The locals come to the temple not only for praying, since there is a wooden bridge at one corner of the compound where you can sit back and relax while the cold water of the Lake Beratan chills your tired legs. The lush green garden at the main entrance is also wonderful. You can really expect a delightful hassle-free visit to a temple that is known as one of the most famous temples of Bali.

Put this temple on your destination list when you come to Bali.

More info :

Source: http://balianjanivacation.blogspot.com/2011/08/ulun-danu-beratan-temple-at-bedugul.html

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Besakih Mother Temple of Bali

A lontar manuscript indicates that in 158AD Rsi Markandiya came to an island with a mountain range from east to west, which was visible from his meditation spot at the summit of Mount Rawung, East Java. Rsi Markandiya was a yogi from India who had meditated in East Java for many years – exactly how many, is unknown. While he was meditating, a supernatural voice told him to go to the island together with his people.

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A tragic incident occurred while he and his people were on the island named Pulau Dawa; Pulau means island and Dawa means long. They worked hard to prepare the land for cultivation. Unfortunately, some wild animals and a strange epidemic killed many of his people. The tragedy caused great despair to the Maha Yogi, who returned to Mount Rawung and only revisited Pulau Dawa some years later.

When Rsi Markandiya returned to Pulau Dawa, he brought with him a group of people from the village of Aga in Mount Rawung. Before they started the hard land work, several rituals were held, and Rsi Markandiya performed a special ritual called Panca Datu. This ritual incorporated 5 elements… namely gold, silver, and bronze, a metal material (like tin or iron) and a red diamond. Rsi Markandiya named the site of the ritual as Basuki, which means 'Bless'. Nowadays, the area is popularly known as Besakih.

The people of Aga are now known as the Bali Aga; Bali from the word Wali means holy sacrifice and Aga means mountain. Rsi Markandiya organized his people and taught them farming, and introduced a structured social system. Thus, the island civilization of Bali started at a sacred place in the foot of Mount Agung, where a temple complex still stands majestically to this day.

Besakih temple is an extensive complex with 23 temples. The largest temple inside the complex is Pura Penataran Agung which is dedicated to Shiva. Other temples include Pura Kiduling Kreteg, representing Brahma, the Creator; and Pura Batu Madeg, representing Wisnu, the Preserver.

These three manifestations of God are known as Tri Murti. Besides these temples, there are also temples representing Panca Dewata; 5 Godly manifestations that protect the centre of the complex and the 4 directions radiating north, south, east & west of the centre. On the right and left side of Pura Penataran Agung, there are clusters of temples called pedarman where people come to pray and give offerings to their ancestors.

The complex is vast and hilly, so it is advisable to get a guide who is capable and has a good knowledge of the temple complex; otherwise you'll have to do the best you can on your own with a brochure and guide map. Indeed, there many things one can observe and appreciate in the temple complex. For example, one can appreciate the magnificent carvings which tell some epic stories of the Ramayana and Mahabrata dynasties. These decorative carvings form a part of the temple's traditional architecture, along with and Kamasan style paintings which are very ancient. Please note that tourists are not allowed inside the temples.

The best time to visit Besakih is in the morning or late evening. The breeze, the quiet environment, and the superb view down to the coast – particularly when there is no mist, add so much to the ambience of the complex. Besides, during these times of the day, not so many people are in the temple complex, and the crowds of people who call themselves temple guardians – and usually convince tourists to go around under their guidance – are not yet roaming around the complex, so one may have a hassle-free tour.

The temple which is located in Klungkung Regency is a unique heritage for all Balinese people; and indeed, Besakih has its own unique charm. It is believed that the temple area is surrounded with mystical supernatural powers. In 1963, when Mount Agung erupted, Besakih was the only place to survive from the lava explosion, even though it is nestled on the foot of the mountain. It is every Balinese's dream to pay homage to the Gods of Besakih, and the temple has a very important role in the history of Balinese civilization.

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Source:http://balianjanivacation.blogspot.com/2011/08/besakih-mother-temple-of-bali.html

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Taman Ayun Royal Temple

Taman Ayun Royal Temple is located at Mengwi, about 18 km north side from Denpasar City. As a Royal Temple of Mengwi Empire, Taman Ayun is one of recommended place to visit when you come to Bali.

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The temple strategically located beside of major roadway between Denpasar to Singaraja Regency, set on the land which is surrounded by the big fish pond and look like a drift on the water. Build with multistoried roof and Balinese Architecture. The wide beautiful landscape garden in front courtyard to welcome all visitors who come and visit this temple.

History
Pursuant to Lontar Babad Mengwi (Papyrus Chronicle of the Mengwi), the temple which is now referred by Pura Taman Ayun had been newly sanctified in the year 1634 M and it is named with Taman Ahyun Temple. The word of Ahyun is coming from the root word Hyun meaning a temple is founded in the park (pool with the beautiful garden) which can fulfill the desire. The word Ahyun is then changed into Ayun word. Taman Ayun Temple is one of Hindu Temples in Bali become tourist destination which has been visited by many tourists from local and foreign. This temple is usually visited by tourist once having a set tour to Tanah Lot Temple due to this temple is the same route of the Tanah Lot Tour.

Function
The function of Taman Ayun Temple is a place to pray the god in their manifestation. It is according to the content of Babad Mengwi and the existence of temple building structure, especially the temple that is located in third area (Jeroan). According to Astadewata, the special God is worshiped in Taman Ayun Temple is the God in manifestation as a Wisnu God which his palace located in top of Mount Mangu. In papyrus of Usana Bali mentioning that one of Dewa Catur Lokapalas carry through its worship is Meru Pucak Pangelengan that is a temple building with 9 multistoried roofs.

Pitara God is a holy soul deity of ancestor who is also referred as the other names of Hyang Pitara or Dewa Hyang. Pitara God is obliged to be worshiped by clan heir (Prati Sentana) in the form of temple ceremony which the same meaning as by the ceremony to the god. The worshiping existence to Pitara God in Taman Ayun Temple can be searched and proved by pursuant to the existence of temple building which lay in by consecution in east which is called Paibon that is representing Special Temple. Taman Ayun Temple in capacities or its status as special altar for the King family of Mengwi Palace or as a Merajan Agung from Mengwi King Families specially for the founder of Mengwi Empire that is I Gusti Agung Putu.

More info :

Source:

http://blog.bali-anjani.com/2011/08/taman-ayun-royal-temple.html

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Sebatu Holy Spring Temple

Pura Sebatu or Sebatu Temple located around 40 kilometers from Denpasar, built in homage to the God of preserver – Wisnu - who rules over water, and here one finds a number of natural spring and waterspouts.

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The Balinese believe that water is one of the forces of life. The etymology of Gunung Kawi means a fabricated mountain. It lies west of Sebatu village, which is elevated and its name means slipping on a stone.

It is said in the times of King Mayadenawa - an evil King who did not believe in the existence of the God - which this area was where he chased with his soldiers by the Gods in a famous battle. At first he battled with the Gods at the great Besakih temple and then came to Sebatu via the village of Taro. Both the soldiers of Mayadenawa as well as the local villagers fled in their fear (the former of the gods, the latter of the evil King) and slipped on stones.

Seeing that local people were innocent and sin free, the God Wisnu gave a source of life (holy water). As a way of showing their gratitude, they built this temple to the Wisnu's God, which has much water, waterspout for bathing as well as a special pool of holy spring water.

A natural spring flows from the heart of the temple into a pool so clear that you can count the scales on the huge goldfish ghosting around the opulent island shrine at its center. Holy water is requested at an adjacent small shrine while nearby, and still within the temple walls, are the open-air public baths.

The visitors are welcome to explore the other courtyards where the shrines and pavilions are lovingly maintained by the people of nearby Sebatu.

More Info :

Source:

http://balianjanivacation.blogspot.com/2011/08/sebatu-holy-spring-temple.html

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TANAH LOT Sunset Temple

Tanah Lot is claimed to be the work of the 15th century priest Nirartha. During his travels along the south coast he saw the rock-island's beautiful setting and rested there.

Some fishermen saw him, and bought him gifts. Nirartha then spent the night on the little island. Later he spoke to the fishermen and told them to build a shrine on the rock for he felt it to be a holy place to worship the Balinese sea gods.

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The Tanah Lot temple was built and has been a part of Balinese mythology for centuries. The temple is one of seven sea temples around the Balinese coast. Each of the sea temples were established within eyesight of the next to form a chain along the south-western coast.

At the base of the rocky island, poisonous sea snakes are believed to guard the temple from evil spirits and intruders. A giant snake purportedly protects the temple, which was created from Niratha’s scarf when he established the island.

In 1980 the temple’s rock face was starting to crumble and the area around and inside the temple started to become dangerous. The Japanese government then provided a loan to the Indonesia government of Rp 800 billion (approximately USD $130 million) to conserve the historic temple and other significant locations around Bali. As a result, over one third of Tanah Lot's "rock" is actually cleverly disguised artificial rock created during the Japanese-funded and supervised renovation and stabilization program. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tanah_Lot)

On Tanah Lot temple area you can also find some other temples ;

Penataran Temple

Penataran Temple is one among of several temples in Tanah Lot area. It is located in the north of Tanah Lot Temple. Penataran Temple is a place to pray for God and his manifestation in Tanah Lot Temple for wellness and happyness. The Ceremony of Penataran Temple has two ceremony days, the first day is same as Tanah Lot Temple which is held every 210 days on “Rebo Wage, Wara Langkir”, and the second day is on “Rebo Wage, Wara Merakih” according to the Balinese calendar.

Penyawang Temple

Penyawang Temple is located in the west side of Penataran Temple. This temple was built for all prayers to pray for God and the manifestation who take place and has authority in Tanah Lot Temple as God of the ocean. If the water of the sea was tide, Hindus people cannot pray into the Tanah Lot Temple but they can pray at Penyawang Temple.

Jero Kandang Temple

Jero Kandang Temple is located about 100 meters in the west side of Penyawang Temple. Jero Kandang Temple was built for villagers of Beraban village to require the wellness for their animals and plants from disease. The name of Jero Kandang Temple was took from the function that is put into a stable (kandang) all the disease. Based on the function, Jero Kandang Temple is a place to pray for God with the manifestation as the God of all animals and plants, also pray for Dewi Sri as manifestation of God as the Goddess of prosperity.The Ceremony of Jero Kandang Temple is every Sabtu (Saturday) Kliwon, Wara Uye or Tumpek Kandang day according to Balinese calendar.

Enjung Galuh Temple

Enjung Galuh Temple is located near Jero Kandang Temple to be exact at Enjung Galuh, “njung” wich is rock stick out in to the sea. Enjung Galuh Temple was built to pray for the Goddess of prosperity Dewi Sri as the power (Shakti) of Dewa Wisnu (God Manifestation as The Protector). The villagers pray requiring the fertility of the plants and rice-plant for the achievement of the prosperity in their life. The Ceremony of Enjung Galuh Temple is every Rabu (Wednesday) Umanis, Wara Medangsia according to Balinese calendar.

Batu Bolong Temple

Batu Bolong Temple is located 100 meters in the west side of Enjung Galuh Temple, to be exact at Enjung Batu Bolong, which is the rock that stick out in to the sea was hollow (bolong). Batu Bolong Temple was built to pray God for holiness. Enjung Batu Bolong area is a place that always used to held Melasti Ceremony and Pakelem Ceremony, where the meaning of both Ceremonies is to purify the world. The Ceremony of Batu Bolong Temple is every Rabu (Wednesday) Wage, Wara Langkir according to the Balinese calendar.

Batu Mejan Temple

Batu Mejan Temple is located 100 meters in the west side of Batu Bolong Temple. Batu Mejan Temple also known as Beji Temple, “beji” means holly place to get holly water for Hindus ceremonial. Batu Mejan Temple was built for villagers to beg a mercy from God trough holly water.In the south of Batu Mejan Temple along the beach, there was spring water and we could find it clearly when the sea water was decrease. Hindus people believe that spring water was holly water (tirtha pangelukatan) that could be use to purify all the badness.The Ceremony of Batu Mejan Temple is every Sabtu (Saturday) Kliwon, Wara Kuningan or Kuningan Day according to the Balinese calendar.

Pakendungan Temple

Pakendungan Temple is located in west side in Tanah Lot Area it is just 300 meters from Tanah Lot Temple. It was built in year Çaka 1330 to be exact in year 1408. Pakendungan Temple has one unity with Tanah Lot Temple. When Dang Hyang Nirartha continue his journey to find the Holy Light in Segara (Sea) Kidul Tanah Lot, he was do meditation (yoga semadi) in luxuriant forest in the west side of Segara (sea) Kidul Tanah Lot to get some vision of God about the Holy light. The forest name was known as Kendung Forest. The place that used by Dang Hyang Nirartha meditate, was built a temple and known as Pakendungan Temple. Pakendungan temple is place where Keris sakti (Holy Keris) “Ki Baru Gajah” that had power to subjugate all the disease plants in Bali Island was kept. Keris Ki Baru Gajah was holy keris given by Dang Hyang Nirartha to the Chief of Beraban Village before He leave the Beraban village. This ancient Ki Baru Gajah was kept in Puri Kediri and its Ceremonial is same with Pakendungan Temple Ceremonial is every 210 days in Sabtu (Saturday) Kliwon, Wara Kuningan or Kuningan Day, according Balinese calendar.

Tri Antaka Monument

Since March 1946, the NICA (Netherlands Indies Civil Administration) had already full power in Tabanan Town. There is a man “I Gusti Ketut Kereg” and his friend “I Wayan Kamias” at that time was given an assignment to be a spy for the Main Army Station of Republic of Indonesia Fights Council under leader of Letkol I Gusti Ngurah Rai to fight against the NICA army. All the Indonesian freedom fighter of Tabanan including I Gusti Ketut Kereg and his friend started to search safe place in some villages in the South of Tabanan and keep fighting. Until June 10th 1946 they was hemmed in Tanah Lot Area and started to fire at each other with NICA army, so that I Gusti Ketut Kereg and his friend was killed and NICA army also had successful prisoner 90 the other Indonesian fighters and killed one of them “I Nyoman Regug” from Beraban village. To respect all the merit of their fighting against the NICA for Indonesian freedom, the Local Government with Beraban Villagers built the Monument at that place where I Gusti Ketut Kereg, I Wayan Kamias and I Nyoman Regug was killed.The Monument name is TRI ANTAKA.

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http://balianjanivacation.blogspot.com/2011/08/tanah-lot-sunset-temple.html

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Kintamani Village and Batur Area

Kintamani is one of the most favorite tourist destinations in Bali, located in Bangli Regency ; 50 km from Denpasar (2 hours drive by car).

BALI ANJANI VACATIONS provides accommodations, hotels, villas, Tour Packages and General Informations for your lovely holiday in Bali and Beyond

The village is surrounded by the captivating nature and there are six ancient villages around cauldron of Batur Lake which is often conceived by Bali Age Village.

The local people from these Bali Age villages own the unique cultures, houses and life style. Kintamani Area is consisted of some Villages those are Kedisan Village , Buahan, Abang, Trunyan, Songan, South Batur, Middle Batur, North Batur, Sukawana and Kintamani Village . The total of resident in these area are about 15 thousand who are mostly working as farmer, merchant, or work at industrial tourism.

Kintamani area has been founded some lodging, hotels and restaurants which are located in Kintamani and Penelokan Village. It is a famous tourist place because Kintamani area owns the beautiful panorama and it is encircled by the cold atmosphere.

Kintamani is beautifully seen at the day time around 10:00 am until 15:00 pm especially having fine weather where entire Kintamani area will be able to be seen clearly. Generally, all tourists who pay a visit to this place will arrive in the day time where they can enjoy the panorama or enjoy the lunch in the local restaurant with lake view. Mostly restaurants at Kintamani generally own very beautiful view where tourist merging into their lunch in this restaurant and meanwhile enjoy the panorama.

Mount Batur and Lake Batur

Mount Batur has erupted about 24 times since year 1800 and still active up to now. Since the mount erupting, it has impacted to the local society life around this mount, like removing altar (Temple), improve or repairing the village and re-arrange the tradition.

Lake Batur is the biggest lake in Bali and functioning as irrigation source to all farmers around it and it is also for all Bali society generally.

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The Patra Bali Resort & Villas - Tuban

The Patra Bali Resort & Villas is an 11 hectare five star resort in Tuban, offering one of the largest guestrooms in Kuta.

BALI ANJANI VACATIONS provides accommodations, hotels, villas, Tour Packages and General Informations for your lovely holiday in Bali and Beyond

All decorated in traditional Balinese style with exquisite wooden furnishings overlooking exotic tropical landscapes. The hotel has a warm and peaceful atmosphere and is ideal for total relaxation.

The Resort has 206 rooms and suites, all beautifully appointed, with marble bathrooms and five-stars amenities. There is a huge swimming pool right by the sea. The 22 villas are a semi-boutique concept, giving extra privacy and luxury for families or couples.

Many have private plunge pools, and they've al 24-hour butler service. Villa guests have their own huge seaside swimming pool and exclusive use of the Floating Heritage Lounge.

The hotel offers more facilities like 4 restaurants, convention centers, a kids club, Spa Health club, a Beach Bar and free shuttle service to Kuta.

The location is ideal, a huge landscape property on South Kuta Beach, directly on the Indian Ocean and next to the international airport. A 5 minute drive north brings you to the heart of Kuta's shopping district.

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