In the Tampaksiring area of Gianyar district, there is a unique temple. This heritage site is one of the top tourist destinations in Bali and is well-known among the Balinese. It is definitely worth a visit when in Bali. Here’s a brief history of the temple.
The temple is closely linked to the spiritual journey of a great sage named Rsi Markandeya, who lived in the 9th century BC. Along with around 400 followers, he traveled from Taro Village to Mount Agung
During his journey with his followers, Rsi Markandeya traveled a great distance under the blazing sun, which exhausted his group. They chose to rest at this place, where they felt a sense of calm. While resting, Rsi Markandeya took time to carve and pray, asking Sang Hyang Giri Pati (God of the Soul) and Sang Hyang Ari Murti (God of Vishnu) to bless them with Tirta Amerta, a sacred water to quench their thirst and heal his weary followers
During the period of worship, water emerged from the center of the Dawa Valley, which was later named Tirta Dawa Gunung Kawi. The name ‘Gunung Kawi’ comes from the word ‘carvings,’ which were made in this place of worship to symbolize the mountains
While the Supreme Rsi was deeply immersed in worship, water—known as Tirta—miraculously emerged from the ground, eventually becoming known as Tirta Empul. This sacred spring is a confluence of water from several natural sources, and, according to religious and cultural beliefs, it is believed to possess purifying properties and the power to heal various ailments
Purification here refers to cleansing oneself of negative qualities, both externally and internally. This place of worship is closely connected to Tirta Empul Temple and Mengening Temple in Tampaksiring, both of which have significant springs. In Hindu belief, water holds deep spiritual meaning—it is seen as a divine force, a source of life, and a symbol of fertility.
This spring supplies water to approximately 100 hectares of rice fields, covering three subaks: Delod Belumbang, Cebok, and Central Padang in the Tegalalang District. The temple is supported by the Sebatu community and the subak farming community, which includes around 200 families.
The Piodalan ceremony at this temple is held every Purnamaning Sasih Kasa (the first month of the Balinese calendar, typically in July). The temple is a place of worship dedicated to Ida Sanghyang Widhi Wasa in his manifestation as Lord Vishnu, who, in Hindu belief, serves as the God of Preservation.
Gunung Kawi Sebatu on map :
Goa Gajah, Yeh Pulu, Tirta Empul, Gunung Kawi Tampaksiring, Pura Mengening, Goa Garba, Candi Tebing Tegallinggah.