Saraswati Temple

Temple of Saraswati: The Three Mandalas

Outer Mandala (Nista)

Upon entering the temple, you find yourself in the outer courtyard, which begins with a picturesque lotus pond. Lotuses symbolize purity and spiritual enlightenment, and their large pink blossoms create a magical ambiance. Around the pond grow frangipani (plumeria) trees, adding an exotic touch to the scenery. A pathway across the pond leads to a circular platform adorned with a lotus-flower installation. Here, you can see three deities skillfully carved from stone.

Middle Mandala (Madya)

Climbing the steps guarded by demon figures, you reach the Kori Agung gates. These triangular gates represent Bali’s sacred mountain and are decorated with carvings of flowers, plants, and mythical creatures. In the center of the gateway stands a lavish golden door flanked by figures of naga serpents.

In the temple’s midsection are several pavilions. One of these houses three thrones for the Trimurti gods—Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. You will also see a tall meru tower, while another pavilion stores Barong costumes—a lion and a boar—characters from Balinese mythology.

Inner Mandala (Utama)

The temple’s primary sanctuaries are located in the innermost courtyard. The central feature is a statue of the goddess Saraswati, depicted with four arms symbolizing wisdom, creativity, and spirituality. Also located here is the Padmasana throne dedicated to Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa, the supreme deity of Balinese Hinduism. The throne is adorned with carvings, gilded accents, and the sun symbol— the swastika.

A three-meter statue of the demon Jero Gede Mekalinga also stands at this level, symbolizing protection against evil. However, access to the inner courtyard is open to tourists only on major religious holidays such as Galungan and Kuningan.

Relaxation and Entertainment

Near the temple are cafés where visitors can rest, enjoy the view of the lotus ponds and the gates. Among them are Lotus Café and Starbucks, both featuring open-air terraces offering superb views of the temple structures.

Every evening except Friday, traditional dance performances take place here. Dances like Kecak, Legong, and Barong showcase the superb skills of Ubud’s performers, making for a captivating finale to a visit at the Saraswati Temple.

The temple was built between 1951 and 1952, based on designs by the renowned architect and sculptor I Gusti Nyoman Lempad. He originally served at the royal court of Blahbatuh in Gianyar, but a conflict with the local ruler forced him to leave the city. Later, the royal Sukawati family in Ubud commissioned Lempad to build Saraswati Temple and renovate several city structures.

In addition to his work as an architect, Lempad was a talented sculptor. Many of the stone statues in the temple are his creations. He became especially famous for his grotesque depictions of gods and demons, and his works are still housed in Ubud’s museums.

Main Deities of the Temple

Saraswati

The temple is dedicated to Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and creativity. Her name is variously translated as “mistress of the river” or “mistress of speech.” In the Vedas, she is mentioned as the patron of a river bearing the same name, whose exact location remains a matter of debate.

According to one tradition, Saraswati is the daughter of Shiva and Durga; another says she appeared when Brahma’s body was divided. She is called the “mother of the Vedas” and the “mistress of music and speech.” On Bali, Saraswati is associated with the wisdom that allows a person to master their emotions and thoughts, thus becoming the master of their own destiny.

Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa

This deity is the supreme god of Balinese Hinduism, representing the concept of a single divine power. He is often depicted in a lotus pose, signifying enlightened consciousness, and is placed on the lotus throne known as Padmasana. In Balinese belief, all gods are manifestations of this one supreme being.

After the founding of the Republic of Indonesia—which officially recognizes only monotheistic religions—the idea of a single god helped Balinese Hinduism retain its status within the national religious framework.

Jero Gede Mekoling

Jero Gede Mekoling is a demon from Balinese folklore, believed to be an exiled sorcerer who settled on the island of Nusa Penida. According to legend, he is responsible for epidemics, disasters, and mysterious deaths. To protect themselves from this demon, locals build shrines on the shore, make offerings, and wear protective charms symbolizing the triad of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

Jero Gede Mekoling is purely a Balinese figure, not directly related to Hinduism. He represents the local population’s fears of unexplained phenomena and illnesses. Many people still avoid Nusa Penida, viewing it as a place inhabited by evil forces.

Significance of the Temple

Saraswati Temple embodies deep religious symbolism, architectural mastery, and cultural heritage. It serves not only as a site for prayer and ceremonies but also as a vivid reflection of the myths and legends that make it unique among Balinese holy sites.