Did you know there is a Bali temple that Predates the spread of Hinduism to Bali? If not, Penataran Sasih Temple is a must-visit on your Bali Tour. Talking about this magnificent beauty, the translation of “Sasih” in English is “Moon” and it is associated with the “Moon of Pejeng” who is the god of the moon! What makes the temple special is the interesting stories and myths around the Bronze Drum in the temple(called the “Moon of Pejeng” locally). Yes, the Penataran temple in Bali is famous for a myth of the “Moon of Pejeng”. There were thirteen moons in ancient Bali according to legend Nekara. It is said that one of them fell in the village when it was caught in the coconut tree.
The thief was embarrassed as the moon was bright day and night. To turn off the moon’s light he tried to put a piddle on the moon, but turned out that the moon exploded. So, the thief died and the moon slumped to the floor. Fascinating, isn’t it? It is just one of the highlights. Let’s explore the best time to visit, fee, opening hours, and more right away to experience the charm.
Penataran Sasih Temple: Opening Hours & Entry Fee
- Penataran Sasih Temple Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM Daily
- Penataran Sasih Entrance Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit Penataran Sasih
Visit Penataran Sasih from April to October, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploration. Also, if you want to experience the Balinese culture up close, visit during one of the temple’s festivals.Penataran Sasih Temple Location
Penataran Sasih is close to Ubud; just 7km away! You can reach the temple in 15-20 minutes using Jl. Monkey Forest and Jl. Goa Gajah. From Badung, it is about 22 km away and takes around 30 minutes to reach. Penataran Sasih Address: Jalan Raya, Pejeng, Tampaksiring, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80571, Indonesia
The Secret: What nobody tells you is that Penatarn Temple is just 20 minutes away from Tirta Empul Temple!
How To Reach Penataran Sasih Temple
As the Penataran Sasih temple is located in East Bali, it can be easily reached by car, scooter, taxi, or bus. You can take a highway from the Denpasar and follow the signs to the temple. It would take around 30 minutes to reach the temple from here, but you would have a fruitful journey throughout! So, get your transportation booked and ride through the green forests of Bali to visit the most amazing temple.
Penataran Sasih Temple Dress Code
You need to wear a sarong that covers your legs to your ankles. Also, you should wear clothes covering your shoulders and stomach.The rich history and significance of Penataran Sasih is what makes it one of the best places to visit in Bali! Penataran is an ancient temple located in the village of Pekutatan, in the Badung Regency of Bali! Also, this famous temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the three gods in the Hindu trinity. Dating back to the fourteenth century, the Penataran Sasih temple is unique for its architectural style that comprises both Indonesian and Indian influences in the whole temple. The Pura Penataran Sasih temple is a very popular pilgrimage site for Hindu devotees from around the world and is visited every year.
Worship Method In Penataran Sasih Temple In Bali
The worship method in Penataran Sasih is based on traditional Hindu rituals. The devotees offer flowers and incense sticks to the gods in the temple. People come and chant their mantras, ring bells, and burn incense which are the most popular methods of worship in Hindu culture. There are some ceremonies, barong dances, marches, and processions done in the temple where devotees can also participate-One of the unique experiences in Bali that you would cherish for a lifetime!Penataran Sasih Temple Ceremonies
The special bronze drum (Nekara) is kept in a building called Pelinggih Ratu Bhetara Sasih inside the temple. Because it’s sacred, people often have ceremonies around it and sprinkle holy water on it.The temple is also known for a special dance called Sang Hyang Jaran. Before performing this sacred dance, the dancers go into a spiritual trance.
Facts And Myths About Pura Penataran Sasih
- Penataran Sasih is named after an ancient bronze drum called Nekara Pejeng. People also call it the Pejeng Moon.
- People believe this drum fell from the sky. It used to shine bright both day and night. However, there’s a fun story about a thief who tried to urinate on it because it was too bright. After that, the drum stopped shining as brightly.
- Looks like a special drum made of bronze, it has beautiful designs on it with stars, bird feathers, and face patterns representing the skilled craftsmanship of Balinese people.
- People believe that the drum was used as a war drum.
- People used the drum in ceremonies to pray for rain.
- The drum served as a sacred object to protect the community.
- Another story states the drum belonged to Kebo Iwa. He was an important person who helped create other sacred places in Bali, like Candi Gunung Kawi and Goa Gajah.
Today, archaeologists study this drum because it tells us a lot about ancient Balinese culture and their skills.
