About Pura Besakih
Pura Besakih, known as the Mother Temple, is the largest and holiest temple complex of Balinese Hinduism. It climbs the southwestern flank of Mount Agung, the island's highest and most sacred volcano, through a series of terraces and gateways. More than twenty temples make up the complex, with Pura Penataran Agung at its center, dedicated to Shiva.
Every Balinese caste and region has a shrine here, and the complex hosts dozens of ceremonies throughout the year. During major festivals, processions of worshippers in white and gold carry towering offerings up the stairways. In 1963 lava flows from Mount Agung came within meters of the temple, an event many Balinese saw as a sign of divine protection.
What to see
- Pura Penataran Agung main temple
- Split gates framing Mount Agung
- Multi-tiered meru shrines
- Festival processions with offerings
- Views across eastern Bali
Visiting Pura Besakih: practical guide
- Best time
- April to October; check festival dates
- Hours
- Daily, about 8:00 to 17:00
- Entry
- About 60,000 IDR; local guide recommended
- Dress code
- Sarong and sash required; available to borrow
- Nearest airport
- Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), 60 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Hire an official guide at the ticket office and decline unofficial touts
- Inner courtyards may be closed to non-worshippers
- Women who are menstruating are asked not to enter by local custom
Festivals and special days
- Bhatara Turun Kabeh (around March or April)
- Galungan and Kuningan
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Hinduism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Remove shoes before entering temples and some homes.
- Dress modestly with shoulders and legs covered.
- Some temples, such as Puri Jagannath, admit only Hindus; respect posted signs.
- Ask before photographing shrines, rituals or cremation grounds.
- Use your right hand to accept prasad, the blessed food offering.
- Avoid bringing leather items or meat into temple grounds.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Pura Besakih?
Pura Besakih is in Karangasem, Bali, Indonesia, Asia. GPS coordinates: -8.3744, 115.4509. The nearest airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), 60 km.
What is the best time to visit Pura Besakih?
April to October; check festival dates
Is there an entry fee for Pura Besakih?
About 60,000 IDR; local guide recommended Opening hours: Daily, about 8:00 to 17:00
What should I wear when visiting Pura Besakih?
Sarong and sash required; available to borrow
Which religion is Pura Besakih sacred to?
Pura Besakih is sacred to Hinduism. Active place of worship.
