PURA GUNUNG KAWI: A TEMPLE ON THE MOUNTAIN OF POETS
On a flight of steps following
a series of descents and ascents and countless perspiring moments, we found
ourselves on a deep ravine overlooking terraced rice-fields.
Standing on the middle of
huge carved stone monuments, I can’t help but be fascinated of the ancient
civilization of Indonesia, depicted in the 11th century temple
complex of Gunung Kawi in Tampaksiring north east of Ubud, Bali.
Pura
means temple. Gunung means
mountain. And Kawi means a poet. Literally translated, Pura Gunung Kawi would
mean a temple on the mountain of a poet.
But is it really that inspiring to be there for poets to produce their
respective masterpieces?
I for one can be an instant
wordsmith as we view the stream approaching the boulder where we sit. But sitting at the boulders at that moment
has been more of recovering from the long walk to the temples. I was literally catching my breath.
From the entrance of the
temple, a view deck awaits giving a panoramic view of the entire estate
consisting of forests, rice terraces and streams. On that alone, I know this will be a long
walk before we get to the main temples of Gunung
Kawi.
After our friend paid the
entrance fee, we were mandated to wear sash
(wrapped around the waist) and a sarong cloth
to cover the legs. This is a sign of
respect for the Gods.
It was a long walk.
Despite the exhausting walk,
the view of the rice terraces makes up for it.
Truly, a sight to behold. There
are communities as well along the way and a number of souvenir shops and small
restaurants settled on both sides of the cemented pathway leading to the
temple.
After the end of the
concrete stairs, a stone arch marks for a welcome and is surrounded by pillars
on each corner holding a vase filled with holy water, which a visitor may opt
to sprinkle before entering.
Upon entrance, the ten
7-meter high shrines carved into the rocky hillside is a good treat. These 10 giant statues carved into the cliff
face, is believed to depict the royal family of the Udayana dynasty and is the
main attraction for visiting this temple.
At the bottom of the valley,
we crossed a bridge and saw another group of stone monuments carved on the left
side of main temple across the river. At
the main temple courtyard, old Hindu shrines in a more contemporary
architectural style is featured where we witnessed a pilgrim making his
offering.
While at the main site, the
flowing sacred Pakerisan river come into view.
It was truly scenic. We rested
for a short while near a café, situated adjacent to the temples to breathe
fresh air.
In isolation and with the
perfect landscape, it can indeed be a mountain for the poet. But can a blogger write his trip while at the
said mountain? No, in my instance.
Note:
It would be advisable for long distance travels within a day to charter a private car for safety and convenience.
Jalan Cekomaria Gang Taman IV No. 1 Denpasar, Bali
Phone: (0361)7966391
Mobile Phone: (+62) 81 558 449 505/ (+62) 81 936 175 556
Emails:
info@baligoldentour.com
2 comments
Wow! Your blog and photos give me a feeling how mystical this place could be. Beautiful natural and manmade architectures! Thank you for sharing and transporting me!
ReplyDeleteit really is beautiful. thanks for visiting and reading the site as well...
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