Located in Denpasar near Puputan Gardens, Bail, Pura Agung Jatnatha is an iconic landmark in the town. The temple is dedicated to Sanghyang Widi, the supreme god. The main shrine is made of white coral stone, and represents the foundation of the world through a beautiful throne (heaven) set upon a mythical turtle and two nagas. Ideally visited in the morning, when the crowd is yet to arrive.
Established in 1953, Pura Agung Jagatnatha is the largest temple in North Bali. With much refreshing difference to the usual Balinese custom of believing in several gods, this temple brings the principle of Pancasila into the significance that preaches ‘Belief in One God’. Situated next to Bali Museum and Pura Jagatnatha faces Mount Agung (which is conjectured to be the palace of gods) towards west. The temple was opened as a place of worship for Sanghyang Widi Wasa (God Almighty).
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Festivals at Pura Jagatnatha Temple
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Pura Jagatnatha temple is also known for hosting two major monthly festivals, during the new moon and full moon, and call attention to wayang kulit (leather shadow-puppet) performances. Moreover, it is mandatory to attire in a sarong (much like in all other Balinese temples), ensuring a wholly clothed self before entering the temple. If one does not have a sarong of their own, they can easily take one on rent from the locals at the entrance.
Temple Architecture
Pura Jagatnatha temple is famous in Bali not just because it is a place of worship, but because of its aesthetic beauty and unique architecture. The temple incorporates some stunning buildings loaded with ethnic nuances and religious ornaments. Situated in the centre of the temple with a height of around 15 meters is Padmasana (temple shrine). The Padmasana is a remarkable piece of creation incorporating white corals, a cosmic turtle, and two nagas (which are mythical snake-like creatures symbolizing the foundation of the universe).
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The tower is embellished with the carving of hands and faces of Bhoma, the son of Earth. It is believed that these carvings ward away the evil spirits so that the purity of the temple remains undisturbed. The walls of this temple are adorned with sculptures of certain scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana, and one can expect to see some extraordinary statues of various deities. Furthermore, upon setting foot in the temple, one will also come across a bridge engraved with lotus flowers and frogs.
Highlights of the Temple
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Beautiful architecture filled with carvings and multiple statues of various deities raises the significance of this place. Tourists not only visit to worship but also to admire the stunning architecture of the temple. The temple is primarily managed by a team of volunteers that come to worship here rather than staff. Hence, one can expect to come across some friendly priests that are more than happy to share information about the temple. Moreover, since the temple is situated adjacent to the Bali museum, one can visit it to make the most out of their trip.
Visitor Tips
Guided tours are costly.
Also, dressing in a sarong and sash (which covers shoulders, midriff, ankles, and knees) and donating IDR 10,000 to IDR 20,000 (which includes the rental price of sarong) is required to enter the temple.
The weather of Bali is mostly warm and humid throughout the year; therefore, heat can become quite unbearable sometimes.
How To Reach Pura Jagatnatha
One can reach Pura Agung Jagatnatha temple using several transit options such as car, taxi, bus, or train.
By Flight Most visitors that are flying to Bali will arrive at the Ngurah Rai International Airport, which is located in Tuban, between Jimbaran and Kuta. The airport is about 16 km away from the temple and visitors will reach in roughly 45 minutes if they drive to the temple.
By Cab Also, since Denpasar is located centrally, one can reach the temple easily by car or taxi from the major tourist parts of South Bali. Based on traffic, one can reach the temple in about 20-30 minutes from Legian, Seminyak, and Kuta. Sanur is about 30 minutes from the east while Ubud and Tabanan are roughly 50-55 minutes to the north and northwest.
By Bus Visitors can also choose to travel by bus to reach the temple. The main bus terminal in Denpasar is Ubung, which is about 4 km away from the temple and can be reached in around 15 minutes by taxi.
By Train Visitors can also make use of trains if they are travelling from a bit far regions such as Jakarta. An air-conditioned train runs from Jakarta to Surabaya, and a second air-con train can be taken from Surabaya to Banyuwangi. In the outer area of the station entrance of Banyuwangi, one can then take a bus to Denpasar. One can also rent a car with a driver to manoeuvre their way around Denpasar according to their convenience.
