Batuan Temple: A Journey Through Bali’s Spiritual & Artistic Heart** 🌿✨

#holidayitinerary
Step into **Batuan Temple** (Pura Puseh Batuan), a **1,000-year-old** masterpiece of Balinese Hinduism, where intricate carvings, ancient rituals, and vibrant festivals bring Bali’s cultural legacy to life. Nestled in **Batuan Village**, this temple is a must-visit for its **Tri Kahyangan architecture**, sacred courtyards, and deep ties to Bali’s artistic traditions. Here’s your complete guide to exploring this spiritual gem.

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## **Why Visit Batuan Temple?**
✅ **Ancient Heritage**: Founded in **1020 AD**, it’s one of Bali’s oldest temples, built under the Warmadewa dynasty and later shaped by priest **Mpu Kuturan**’s teachings .
✅ **Stunning Architecture**: Marvel at **split gates (candi bentar)**, multi-tiered Meru shrines, and **black palm-fiber roofs** adorned with mythological carvings .
✅ **Living Culture**: Witness daily offerings, **Gambuh dance performances** (on full moons), and festivals like **Galungan** .
✅ **Artistic Village**: Batuan is famed for its **traditional painting style**—visit nearby galleries to see intricate black-and-white works .

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## **Must-See Highlights**
### **1. Tri Mandala Layout**
- **Nista Mandala (Outer Courtyard)**: Enter through the iconic **split gate** into a space for community gatherings and dance rehearsals .
- **Madya Mandala (Middle Courtyard)**: Pass the **Kori Agung gate**, flanked by unique **Dwarapala statues** (standing without weapons), and see the **Bale Kulkul** (drum tower) .
- **Utama Mandala (Inner Sanctum)**: The holiest area, housing the **Padmasana shrine** for Sang Hyang Widhi (Balinese supreme god) and ancient relics .

### **2. Sacred Art & Symbols**
- **Stone Carvings**: Depict scenes from the **Ramayana** and daily Balinese life .
- **Ancient Statues**: Spot phallic symbols, guardian demons, and a **"fat Buddha"** near the village crossroads .

### **3. Festivals & Ceremonies**
- **Odalan**: Held every **210 days** (Balinese Pawukon calendar), featuring dances, gamelan music, and towering **penjor** bamboo poles .
- **Galungan & Kuningan**: Celebrate the victory of good over evil (April–October) .

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## **Visitor Essentials**
📍 **Location**: Jl. Raya Batuan, Gianyar (25 mins from Ubud, 1 hour from Kuta) .
🎫 **Entrance Fee**: **IDR 50,000** (~$3), includes sarong rental .
⏰ **Hours**: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM (open 24/7 for worship) .
👗 **Dress Code**: **Sarong & sash** (provided; cover shoulders/knees). Women should avoid entering during menstruation .

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## **Pro Tips**
- **Best Time to Visit**: **Early morning (8–10 AM)** or **late afternoon (4–6 PM)** for soft light and fewer crowds .
- **Photography**: No flash inside; wide-angle lenses recommended for carvings .
- **Guides**: Hire a local (IDR 100,000) to decode hidden symbolism .
- **Nearby Stops**: Pair with **Tegenungan Waterfall** or **Ubud Palace** .