Gunung Kawi Tampaksiring is located in Banjar Penaka village, Tampaksiring district, Gianyar regency.
Gunung Kawi Temple is an archaeological site in the form of a very beautiful and lovely temple, carved on the sandstone wall at the cliff of Pakerisan River
Historically, Gunung Kawi Temple in Tampaksiring is a sacred place or place of worship for the Balinese King named Anak Wungsu, the son of King Udayana. It is told that King Udayana and his queen, Gunapriya Dharmapatni, had 3 sons, namely Airlangga as the eldest son who became the King of Kediri in East Java, while Marakata and Anak Wungsu continued the throne of King Udayana in Bali.
After the death of King Udayana, he was succeeded by Marakata in the year 1025 AD. Later, Marakata was replaced by his younger brother, Anak Wungsu, in the year 1049 AD until the year 1080 AD. These kings, after their deaths, were enshrined in Gunung Kawi Temple in Tampaksiring.
On the wall of Gunung Kawi Temple Tampaksiring, a Kediri Kwadrat inscription was found that reads “Haji Lumah ing Jalu”, which means the king who was enshrined in Jalu.
In the second temple, there is an inscription that reads “Rwa nak ira,” which means “his two sons.” Therefore, it can be concluded that the largest temple is the final resting place of Udayana, and the second temple is the final resting place of his two sons.
The Tengkulak Inscription, which dates back to the year 945 Saka (1023 AD), was created during the reign of Sri Haji Paduka Dharmawangsa Marakata Pangkaja Stanattunggadewa, and tells about the condition of the hermitage (Kantyangan) Amarawati located around the Pakerisan River.
In the inscription, the area is referred to as the Gunung Kawi Tampaksiring Temple complex. In addition to being the final resting place of ancestors, Gunung Kawi Temple is also a center for spiritual and religious training.
In the southern part of Gunung Kawi Temple, there is Campuhan, which is the confluence of two rivers, namely the Pakerisan River and the Bulan River. According to Hindu community beliefs, this Campuhan is believed to be a place for self-purification.
Until now, people still believe in and use the holy water / Tirta available at Gunung Kawi Temple for religious ceremonies.
Here are some additional insights you might find interesting
The Carvings: The temple is renowned for its intricate rock-cut carvings, depicting Hindu deities and scenes from Balinese mythology. The main shrine is a large, towering structure with a central statue of the king.
The Rituals: While the article doesn’t mention specific rituals, Gunung Kawi Tampaksiring is still a place of active worship. Hindus often visit the temple to offer prayers, perform ceremonies, and seek blessings.
The Location: The temple is situated in a picturesque valley along the Pakerisan River, surrounded by lush rice fields and towering hills. The peaceful setting adds to the temple’s spiritual ambiance.
Tips for Visiting:
- The best time to visit is during the cooler months of April to October.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen.
- Be respectful of the temple’s sacred atmosphere and dress modestly.
- Consider hiring a guide to learn more about the history and cultural significance of the temple.
Gunung Kawi Tampaksiring on map :
Goa Gajah, Yeh Pulu, Tirta Empul, Gunung Kawi Sebatu, Pura Mengening, Goa Garba, Candi Tebing Tegallinggah.