Taman Ayun Temple

Pura Taman Ayun (“Beautiful Garden”) is an example of unique Balinese architecture and an important religious landmark on the island. Located in the village of Mengwi, 17 km from Denpasar and 8 km from Ubud, the temple stands 180–240 meters above sea level.

Architecture and Layout

The complex covers an area approximately 100 meters long and 250 meters wide, divided into one outer courtyard and three inner courtyards. Each section is enclosed by stone walls and features distinctive gateways.

The first detail that catches visitors’ attention is the lotus-filled moat surrounding the temple. Entry to the grounds is possible only by crossing a bridge that leads to the Candi Bentar gate, carved to resemble a split mountain and symbolizing the Balinese concept of duality and the balance between light and dark forces.

The Three Courtyards of the Temple

1. Jaba Pura (Outer Courtyard)

After passing through the Candi Bentar gate, you enter the first inner courtyard, the largest section, symbolizing the human world.

• Garden and park area: This space is filled with trees and flowers such as plumeria, magnolia, cananga, as well as fruit trees like mangosteen, durian, rambutan, and mango.

• Dewa Nawa Sanga Fountain: In the center of the garden stands a fountain with nine water spouts, representing the nine Hindu gods who protect the directions of the compass.

• Following the path leads you to the second gate, Kori Agung, which opens onto the second courtyard.

2. Jaba Tengah (Middle Courtyard)

This courtyard represents the transition between the human world and the realm of the gods. It contains:

• Bale Kulkul (bell tower): An 8-meter-high wooden tower adorned with figures of deities, used to summon people or announce events.

• Bale Lodji Pavilion: A space for priestly preparation and ceremonies. Nowadays, artists often work here, selling their paintings.

• Bale Pengubengan Pavilion: Its walls are decorated with motifs depicting the nine Hindu deities guarding the directions of the compass.

• Manusa Yadnya Museum: Founded in 1979, it showcases Balinese Hindu rites from birth to funeral ceremonies.

3. Jaba Jero (Inner Courtyard)

This is the temple’s most sacred area, representing the world of the gods.

• Meru Towers: Rising up to 29 meters, these multi-tiered shrines are dedicated to gods, ancestors, or local mountains. They symbolize Mount Mahameru, the spiritual and physical center of the universe. Each tower has 3, 5, 7, 9, or 11 levels—considered sacred numbers in Hinduism.

• Stone sculptures and altars: Devoted to Hindu gods and mythological beings.

• Gates: The main gates only open during religious ceremonies, such as Odalan, the temple’s anniversary festival.

Features and Symbolism

• Water channels: The moat around the temple is believed to protect it from evil spirits.

• Trees and flowers: The landscaping emphasizes humankind’s unity with nature, reflecting the Tri Hita Karana philosophy—harmony among people, nature, and the gods.

• Sculptures and motifs: They depict mythological scenes and the history of Hinduism.

Visitor Information

• Dress code: A sarong is required (provided at the entrance).

• Best visiting times: Morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and large crowds.

• Guided tour: A guide is recommended to help explain the temple’s symbolism in more depth.

The Construction of Pura Taman Ayun

Pura Taman Ayun was built in 1634 by order of the Raja of the Mengwi Kingdom, I Gusti Agung Putu. Known not only as the “royal temple” but also by the name Pura Kawiten (“family temple”), it once served as the site where the royal family prayed and revered their ancestors as deities.

History of Construction and Architectural Features

The temple’s design was overseen by a friend of the king, who was of Chinese descent. His influence can be seen in certain elements of the complex. For centuries, Taman Ayun remained the largest structure in the kingdom and a symbol of its spiritual and political power.

The royal family maintained the temple in immaculate condition. However, in 1890, during a conflict with the ruler of Badung, they were forced to flee to the east, leaving the temple without supervision.

Restoration After Destruction

When part of the royal family returned to Mengwi in 1911, they began to restore the temple. However, on Saturday, January 21, 1917, a powerful earthquake struck Bali, destroying many of Taman Ayun’s buildings.

The temple also suffered damage from eruptions of the Batur and Agung volcanoes in the mid-20th century. Over its history, it has undergone several extensive restorations:

• 1937: The first major reconstruction following the earthquake

• 1949: Repairs to the temple’s main hall

• 1972: A second large-scale reconstruction project

• 1976: Completion of the full restoration of the complex

Modern-Day Condition

Despite numerous restorations, Pura Taman Ayun has retained its authentic appearance. The island’s humid climate has led to moss growth on the temple walls, lending them an ancient, mystical aura.

Interesting Facts

The temple is mentioned in a work by Henk Schulte Nordholt—Balinese Dynasty: Hierarchy and Conflict in Negara Mengwi 1700–1940. A scholar of Indonesian history, he dedicated much of his research to the study of history and politics in Southeast Asia, including Bali.

Today, Taman Ayun remains not only a symbol of the Mengwi Kingdom but also one of the most beautiful and frequently visited temples on the island. Its harmonious integration with the natural environment and unique architecture make it a significant cultural and religious monument.