Karangasem, one of the ninth regencies of Bali, attracts thousands of visitors each year due to its beautiful environment and cultural attractions. One of the points of interest in Karangasem is Besakih Temple, the biggest temple, which is considered as the mother of all temples on the island, is located in the village of Besakih, in Rendang. Nestled on the slope of Mount Agung (3142 m), the temple is 1000 meters above the sea level. It is believed that Mount Agung is bided of all Gods and therefore, it is very natural that a temple should be built on its foot.The name of the temple derives from the word Basuki, meaning welfare or safety in old Javanese.

It is estimated that the temple was built in early 11th century during the reign of King Airlangga in East Java. The temple was established by Maharesi Markandeya, who traveled with his 8000 followers from Mount Raung in Java to Bali to reside and open a new settlement on the island. He planted the “Panca Datu” five holy metals in the vicinity of the temple as a part of the temple inauguration ceremony.

The existing temple was then renovated by Empu Kuturan, one of the royal high priests, who was appointed as the guardian of the Silayukti temple in Padangbai, Karangasem. He was responsible for the temple’s several new shrines with tiered roofs which imitates the shrines of the royal temple in Java. During the reign of Dalem Waturenggong in the 16th century, a new shrine with three rooms was added by Danghyang Dwijendra.

The well preserved temple was miraculously saved from several violent eruption of Mount Agung in 1089, 1143, 1189 and 1963. The temple still the holiest venue for spectacular event. Do you interested to visit Besakih Temple, book our car rental services, our Bali tour driver will be pleasured to drive for you on your intinerary.