Story by Gel Dumaraos / Photos by Monique Tiongco
The green highland of Ubud is interesting mixture of arts, crafts, and ancient times. It tickles the curious mind and touches the creative heart.
When one makes a stop in Bali, Indonesia, the itinerary should comprise at least of a visit in the green upland for a day or two.
Stepping into the pathways of Ubud is the same as entering a center of fine arts. In fact, Ubud is Bali’s pride when it comes to showcasing world-class Balinese art.
For over centuries, Ubud is witness to the greatness of Balinese art, thanks to its local artists and artisans, who showcase their crafts via their galleries, markets and museums all over the quaint village.
But aside from these art hubs, one can look into how Ubud’s temples can also be an inspiration if one is looking of more of Balinese art, coupled with spiritual inspiration.
Visiting Ubud’s temples
A holiday in Ubud wouldn’t be complete without seeing one of its top attractions—the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, or also known as The Monkey Forest Ubud—a spacious area for crab-eating macaques. Aside from its numerous monkeys welcoming shutterbugs and tourists, the place is frequented for it also houses the Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal temple.
Located in the south part of the forest, this temple was built in honor of the god Hyang Widhi, as represented by Shiva, the great Recycler or Transformer.
Dalem Agung, or the Great
Temple of Death, is where tourists are caught in awe of its magnificent architecture and ancient shrines carved in rocks.
Its ancient history can be dated back to the time when it was built around the 14th century. It is unknown if these temples were built during the time of Pejeng Dynasty or Majapahit empire. Up to this day, the local community of Ubud sees this temple as an important anchor to their spiritual life.
There are other two temples within the forest. One is Pura Beji, a temple for worshipping goddess Ganges, and Pura Prajapati for worshiping god Prajapati. All in all, the forest monkey is considered as a sacred place, as locals believe that forested areas welcome animal and human spirits into its midst.
Despite the fact that some of the temples’ structures are being replaced due to the tropical climate that weakens the soft volcanic rock, the message for every visitor is clear: Hinduism is a major part of Bali’s rich history.
Walking around, it is like walking back in time. It was said that religious heads for Hinduism and Buddhism arrive in Bali during 500 AD. After this, the place was conquered by Javanese Hindu kingdoms from its neighboring Java Island.
While the structure and style of the temples are stunning in itself, what makes them more interesting is its eye-catching art etched in its every corner. The temples’ corners are filled with fine, intricate details and patterns that say a lot about its origins. The rustic, sometimes mystified, vibe brought by its surrounding trees adds more curiosity to the mind.
Probably one of the most impressive temples in Ubud town is the known Pura Taman Saraswati temple. Regarded as a holy place to honor and pay tribute to the Hindu goddess of knowledge and the arts, Saraswati, this temple is considered as one of the scenic places in town.
Pura Taman Saraswati, located in Kabupaten Gianyar, specifically at Jalan Raya, Ubud, is a postcard-worthy place one can check out for its accessibility.
Surrounded by a pond of pink lotuses in full bloom, one needs more than a couple of minutes to appreciate the Hindu vibe and take photographs around it. Every angle, every subject within the façade of the temple tells and gives a different, impressive and memorable shot.
Despite the free entrance, one must abide by the customs and enter the temple with sarongs for rent by the entrance, just like any other temple within Bali as a sign of respect for the place’s culture and beliefs.
Come meal time, one can fill the hungry tummy with some food from the nearby Café Lotus. Though regarded as quite expensive, dining in this eating hub gives a majestic view of the temple, especially its lotus pools. Another art treat is in store once again, as diners can witness regular traditional dance performances.
Though a visit to these temples may just be a short side trip from strolling around the Ubud town on a day tour, a quick retreat in its pathways will give that much-needed relief from the busy shopping and tour escapade. Yes, sightseeing and walking through the plain green fields and spotting nice finds in the numerous art markets of Ubud may top the list, but the temples promise a different view of Ubud, and Bali, as a whole.
Ubud is like a box filled with wonderful surprises waiting to be uncovered by anyone who wishes to see it with their own eyes. Its grandness lies in the simplicity of the local’s life, showcasing its rich culture, beliefs, and tradition which they continue to uphold up to this day.
Once you’re there, you see the sights, not just the mere tourist attractions and backdrops for photo opportunities. Rather, it is a sacred place that builds a connection to something that is higher in the form of the mesmerizing sights and creative arts. Ubud is a place to know more. You have to choose to be in the moment. From there, you will know. And then you will feel.
Image credits: Monique Tiongco