Day 6: East Bali

While there are some lovely temples in Central Bali, the most significant and extraordinary complexes are to the east. These, along with volcano Gunung Batur and a traditional Bali Aga village, are the main reasons to visit this area.

If you prefer remote getaways, there is a superb resort, Amankila, in Manggis.

Temples, the volcano Gunung Batur and a traditional Bali Aga village, are the main reasons to visit this area...

What to Do

• Besakih Temple Complex – Hindu Pura Besakih comprises 22 temples spread over 1 sq mile on the slopes of Gunung Agung. Thought to be from the 8^th century, the Balinese believe their ancestors’ spirits live in the complex. Sadly a 1917 earthquake destroyed most of the buildings but has been renovated since.

• Of importance are the main courtyard with a triple lotus shrine dedicated to the Hindu trimurti: Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu

• The eleven-tiered Meru (pagodas) bequeathed to deified kings, ancestral spirits and nature gods

• Pura Ratu Pande with renovated roofs sporting gilded ornaments

• Pura Pentaran Agung, the spiritual core of the development

• Gunung Batur – This 10,000 ft volcano, also known as ‘Mother Mountain’ is considered the island’s holiest site

  • Unfortunately a deadly eruption in 1917 killed over 1000 people and destroyed 2000 temples, and a subsequent eruption in 1963 killed thousands and wiped out two villages on its slope

  • Trekking one of the four craters takes one to eight hours depending. A guide is not required but is recommended

  • Nearby Lake Batur is picturesque and a setting to observe daily life

• Pura Ulun Danu Batur – Another large temple complex featuring elaborate gilded carved doors and interior courtyard where dance performances are frequently held

• Taman Gili – This moated garden is all that remains from an 18^th century royal palace in Klungkung.

  • Of note are the ceiling paintings in the center bale (pavilion) illustrating scenes from Buddhist and native folklore

  • The 267 Kerta Gosa paintings on tiered ceiling panels depict Indian and Balinese narratives

• Tenganan Bali Aga Village – The Bali Aga (meaning ‘original Balinese’) maintain a centuries-old community and lifestyle. This village is the best preserved and the home of a particular resistant-dyed textile called double-ikat