Pura Besakih is Bali’s regal “mother temple” located 3.000 feet above the ocean on the majestic slopes of Mount Agung. It is the largest temple in Bali, which is saying something, as there is ( at the last count ) a total count of 11.000 temples on the island.
Pura Besakih consists of 35 shrines and pavilions that many devotees make pilgrimages to ever year for special ceremonies and Balinese holidays. Pura Besakih became a state temple at the beginning of the 11th century and still remains so today.
The structure of the temple is open-air with several courtyards hosting shrines and altars that are dedicated to a variety of important Hindu Gods.
Besakih is also considered to be Bali’s holiest temple. A great time to visit is during the temple’s Odalan ( anniversary ). During this time thousands of Balinese make their pilgrimages to Besakih. Women dressed in gorgeous Kebayas (lacy tpos and sarong) can be seen carrying elaborate offerings consisting of many kinds of fruit on their heads, which are then placed in the various shrines to appease the Gods. This ceremony takes place in the 10th month of the Balinese calendar that is usually in April.
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