Pura Silayukti, Bali | History | Things to Do

Pura Silayukti, Bali Overview

A place rich in cultural traditions, Pura Silayukti Temple is one of the most significant Hindu temples seated in the northeastern side of the bay of Padangbai in East Bali. The region is peppered with a number of sacred temples and is a popular site for devotees who often visit this holy site to offer their prayers. Dedicated to Mpu Kuturan, a spiritual leader who was responsible for introducing the caste system and social constructs in Bali, the glorious Pura Silayukti Temple was built in the 11th century.

Owing to its proximity to the sea, Pura Silayukti Temple is also thronged by non-pilgrims, who come here to take in the picturesque, panoramic coastal views. The sunrises and sunsets are especially breathtaking. It is a belief that the serenity of the surrounding areas of the temple is, to a large extent, suited for samadi, also known as meditation, in order to take a step towards reaching Ida Sang Hyang Widhi.

Things to Do

Pura Silayukti Temple is home to numerous intricately designed sculptures as well as fascinating stonework. For the ones who are willing to be part of a spiritual experience within the temple premises, the local priest grants a little ritual for purification which involves the use of holy water.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the revered Pura Silayukti Temple is during its anniversary, which takes place on the Wednesday of ‘Kliwon Pahang’, every year, in keeping with the Balinese pawukon calendar, comprising of two hundred and ten days. During this time, the festivities and rituals go on for about four days, and the sacred site teems with people from places near and far.

History

The name Silayukti comes from ‘sila’, which translates to basic, and ‘yukti’, which means true. When these two words are combined, it gives rise to the word ‘silayukti’, which can be translated as the basis of truth. Previously, Bali was a place where several different religious practices existed and hence, there was an impending rise in issues of conflict.

In order to prevent the same, Mpu Kuturan, formerly known as Mpu Rajakerta, was offered a position of authority that allowed him to preach his teachings which ultimately united the Balinese population to follow the same heritage and cultural practices. He used to believe in Karma, and treated everyone as his own, regardless of their social distinctions.

Owing to this, he was honoured with the title of Brahmanasista, also known as Pandita, by the Manawa Dharmasastra Library. The meritorious Mpu Kuturan had built a ‘parahyangan’ at Padangbai, where people could do samadi yoga. This is the spot where the dignified Pura Silayukti Temple stands at present.

How To Reach Pura Silayukti

The captivating Pura Silayukti Temple is located at Jalan Silayukti in Padang Bai, which is a part of Manggis. From Denpasar, it lies at a distance of an approximate forty-five kilometers, and it takes about an hour to get there by private transport via Jl. Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra.
From Seminyak, Pura Silayukti Temple is around fifty-two kilometers away, and if you are traveling by a mode of private transport, it will take a little over an hour to get to the temple via Jl. Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra.
Public transportation is not available. However, if you are staying at the neighbouring island of Lombok, ferry services are available.