Tirtha Empul Temple

 

TIRTA EMPUL: THE SACRED SPRINGS OF INDRA



The Eternal Fountain of Purification and Power

The Etymology and the "Bubbling Spring"

The name Tirta Empul is a direct description of the geological phenomenon that makes this site so unique.

  • Tirta: The high-register Balinese word for "Holy Water."

  • Empul: Means "Bubbling," "Surging," or "Gushing."

  • The Meaning: Together, the name translates to "The Bubbling Holy Spring." It refers to the crystal-clear water that continuously surges up from the earth within the temple’s inner courtyard, feeding the famous purification baths.

Location and the Holy Valley of Tampaksiring



Pura Tirta Empul is located in Manukaya Village, Tampaksiring District, within the Gianyar Regency.

  • The Royal Valley: It sits in a lush valley along the Pakerisan River, an area designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its high concentration of ancient monuments and its role in the Subak irrigation history.

  • The Presidential neighbor: The temple is situated directly below the Istana Tampaksiring, a grand presidential palace built in 1954 by Indonesia’s first president, Sukarno. The palace was designed so that the leader could look down upon the sacred springs from his balcony.

 History and the Blood of the Earth

The history of Tirta Empul is a dramatic blend of 10th-century archaeology and a legendary battle between gods and demons.

  • The Legend of Mayadenawa: According to the Usana Bali manuscript, the evil King Mayadenawa poisoned the nearby river to kill the army of the God Indra. To save his soldiers, Indra pierced the earth with his staff, creating a spring of "Amrita" (the elixir of immortality) to heal them. That spring became Tirta Empul.

  • The Archaeological Record: Historically, the temple was founded around 962 AD during the Warmadewa Dynasty. An ancient stone inscription found at the site confirms its founding over a millennium ago, making it one of the oldest and most historically significant temples in Bali.

  • The Ritual Heart: For over a thousand years, Balinese people from all over the island have traveled here to perform Melukat—a ritual cleansing of the body, mind, and soul.

 Access and the Cultural Pathway

As one of Bali’s most popular destinations, access to Tirta Empul is well-developed and easy for all travelers.

  • The Route: Located on the main road between Ubud and Kintamani. The journey offers beautiful views of the Gianyar countryside and traditional villages.

  • Proximity: It is about 30 minutes north of central Ubud and roughly 1.5 to 2 hours from the South Bali (Kuta/Seminyak/Sanur) areas.

  • Arrival Etiquette: Visitors enter through a large split gateway (Candi Bentar). A sarong and sash are mandatory. For those participating in the water ritual, a special green ritual sarong is usually provided or rented at the entrance to ensure the sacred pools remain pure.

 Facilities and the Sacred Courtyards

The temple is divided into three traditional sections (Jaba Pura, Jaba Tengah, and Jeroan), each serving a specific spiritual purpose.

  • The Purification Pools (Jaba Tengah): This is the most famous area, featuring two long rectangular pools with 30 carved stone waterspouts. Each spout has a specific name and purpose, such as cleansing from nightmares, bad luck, or physical illness.

  • The Inner Sanctum (Jeroan): A quiet area for prayer where visitors can see the actual source of the springs. The water bubbles up through black volcanic sand, creating a hypnotic, rhythmic movement.

  • The Koi Pond: Near the exit, there is a large, beautifully landscaped pond filled with massive, well-fed koi fish, where visitors can relax after their ritual.

  • Art Market: The exit path leads through a sprawling traditional market where local artisans sell wood carvings, sarongs, and Balinese snacks.

  • Amenities: Extensive facilities including a large paved parking lot, clean changing rooms for those doing the ritual, lockers, public restrooms, and several cafes (warungs) nearby.

Cleanse Your Soul in the Waters of Immortality

At Balisutha Tour Service, Tirta Empul is a centerpiece of our cultural programs. We provide the guidance and context needed to participate in the Melukat ritual respectfully, ensuring you feel the true "Feel Like Home" hospitality in this sacred space.


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Gunung Kawi Sebatu


GUNUNG KAWI SEBATU: THE GARDEN OF PURIFICATION



The Emerald Sanctuary of Water and Whispering Palms

The Etymology and the "Carved Mountain"

The name Gunung Kawi Sebatu is rich with historical and spiritual significance, though it is often confused with the Royal Tombs in Tampaksiring.

  • Gunung: Means "Mountain."

  • Kawi: Means "Carving" or "Poetry." In a spiritual context, it refers to something "created" or "manifested" by divine power.

  • Sebatu: Is the name of the village. It is derived from the word "Batu" (Stone). Local legend says that a king was once turned into stone here, giving the village its name.

  • The Meaning: Together, it signifies a "Sacred Creation in the Village of Stones." It is a place where the mountain's water has been "carved" into a series of beautiful pools and shrines.

Location and the Valley of Springs

Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu is located in Sebatu Village, Tegallalang District, within the Gianyar Regency.

  • The Highland Depression: The temple is uniquely built at the bottom of a lush, steep-walled valley. This location allows natural spring water to flow down from the surrounding hills into the temple’s intricate pond system.

  • The Flora: The site is surrounded by dense tropical foliage, giant ferns, and towering palm trees. Because it is slightly higher in elevation than Ubud, the air is remarkably fresh and the moss on the ancient stone carvings remains a vibrant, deep green year-round.

History and the Legend of Mayadenawa

The history of this temple is tied to the ancient battle between good and evil that shaped Balinese Hinduism.

  • The Flight of the Demon King: According to legend, the evil King Mayadenawa fled to this valley to escape the God Indra. Exhausted and thirsty, the people of the village prayed for water. Indra struck the ground, and a holy spring emerged.

  • The 11th Century Origins: While the current structures have been beautifully restored, the site has been a place of worship since the 11th century. It serves as a Pura Segara (Water Temple), dedicated to Vishnu, the preserver and protector of the water element.

  • The Secret Sanctuary: For centuries, it remained a private place of prayer for the local villagers. It only became known to the wider world for its aesthetic beauty and peaceful atmosphere in the late 20th century.

Access and the Scenic Descent

Reaching Sebatu is a pleasant journey through the famous "Craftsman’s Belt" of Gianyar.

  • The Route: It is located just north of the famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces. The drive involves passing through traditional wood-carving villages. The final approach requires walking down a series of well-maintained stone stairs into the valley.

  • Proximity: It is approximately 25–30 minutes from central Ubud and about 1.5 to 2 hours from the southern coastal resorts. Its proximity to Tegallalang makes it an ideal "quiet escape" after visiting the busier rice fields.

  • Etiquette: As a sacred water temple, visitors must wear a sarong and sash. If you wish to participate in the Melasti (purification) ritual, specific traditional attire and local guidance are required.

Facilities and the Water Gardens

Gunung Kawi Sebatu is often called the most beautiful "Garden Temple" in Bali due to its impeccable maintenance and layout.

  • The Holy Fish Ponds: The entrance is marked by massive ponds filled with giant orange koi and gold fish. The water is so clear that the fish appear to be floating in mid-air.

  • The Purification Baths (Petirtaan): There are separate bathing sections for men and women where locals perform ritual cleansings under ancient stone waterspouts.

  • The Floating Shrines: In the center of the main pond sits a stunning wooden shrine (Bale Kambang) that seems to float on the water's surface.

  • Forest Walkways: The temple complex features stone paths that lead into the surrounding jungle, perfect for quiet meditation.

  • Amenities: The site includes a large parking area, clean restrooms, small local shops selling high-quality wood carvings, and a ticket booth where sarongs are available for rent.

Refresh Your Spirit in the Emerald Pools

At Balisutha Tour Service, we consider Gunung Kawi Sebatu the perfect antidote to the crowds. It is where you can hear the heartbeat of Bali in the sound of falling water. It is a place that truly makes you "Feel Like Home" through its serenity.

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Pinggan Village

 

PINGGAN: THE VILLAGE ABOVE THE CLOUDS




A Highland Sanctuary of Mist, Mountains, and Morning Light

The Etymology and the "Hidden Plateau"



                       


Add Pinggan Village to your custom plan

The name Pinggan is rooted in the village's unique geography and its historical role as a fertile highland settlement.

  • The Plate/Dish: In local linguistic tradition, Pinggan (or Piring in Indonesian) refers to a plate or a shallow bowl. This is a metaphorical reference to the village’s topography; it sits on a relatively flat plateau nestled between the steep ridges of the Kintamani caldera.

  • The Meaning: The name signifies a place of "Abundance and Stability." Just as a plate holds nourishment, Pinggan has historically been a place that provides for its people through fertile volcanic soil and a steady climate, even in the harsh conditions of the highlands.

Location and the "Sunrise Amphitheater"


Pinggan is located in the Kintamani District, within the Bangli Regency, situated on the northern rim of the Batur caldera.

  • The Elevation: Sitting at approximately 1,300 meters above sea level, Pinggan offers a panoramic view that looks down into the caldera floor.

  • The Triple Peak View: From the ridges of Pinggan, you can see three of Bali’s most sacred peaks in a single frame: Mount Batur in the foreground, the towering Mount Abang to the left, and the majestic Mount Agung in the far distance.

  • The Mist Phenomenon: The village is famous for its "Sea of Clouds." Because it is higher than the lake, the morning fog often settles in the valley below, making the village appear as if it is floating on a white, fluffy ocean.

 History and the Highland Farmers




The history of Pinggan is a story of resilience and the preservation of mountain traditions.

  • The Mountain Pioneers: Pinggan was founded by mountain-dwelling Balinese who sought the fertile soil created by centuries of volcanic activity. While southern Bali focused on wet rice cultivation, Pinggan became a hub for "Palawija" (upland crops).

  • A Sanctuary of Peace: Throughout history, Pinggan remained a quiet agricultural village, largely untouched by the mass tourism that hit the southern coast. It was only with the rise of landscape photography in the 2010s that the world discovered the village's spectacular sunrise views.

  • Spiritual Connection: The village maintains deep spiritual ties to the mountains. The local temples often host ceremonies meant to balance the energy of the active volcano across the valley.

 Access and the Morning Ascent





Reaching Pinggan requires an early start and a drive through some of Bali’s most scenic mountain roads.

  • The Route: The most common route is via the Kintamani main road (Penelokan). From there, you head north toward the village of Songan and then climb the ridge toward Pinggan. The roads are paved but narrow and can be extremely foggy in the early hours.

  • Proximity: It is about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Ubud and roughly 2.5 hours from the southern tourist hubs. To catch the "Golden Hour," most visitors leave their hotels between 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM.

  • No Trekking Required: One of the biggest advantages of Pinggan is that, unlike Mount Batur, you do not need to hike for hours. You can drive directly to the viewpoint ridges, making it accessible for all ages.

Facilities and the Rustic Experience



Pinggan remains an authentic mountain village, and its facilities reflect a simple, "back-to-nature" lifestyle.

  • The Viewpoints: There are several designated "Sunrise Points" along the ridge. Most are managed by local families who have built simple bamboo viewing platforms.

  • Highland Agriculture: The village is surrounded by onion, cabbage, and tomato farms. Visitors can walk through these fields and see the unique highland irrigation methods used by local farmers.

  • Camping Sites: In recent years, several "Glamping" and traditional camping sites have opened, allowing visitors to sleep under the stars and wake up exactly where the sun rises.

  • Local Warungs: There are small, cozy stalls serving hot ginger tea (Wedang Jahe), Balinese coffee, and instant noodles—essential for staying warm in the $15°C$ to $18°C$ morning air.

  • Amenities: Basic facilities like public restrooms are available at the main viewpoints, and there is ample parking for cars and motorcycles.

Witness the World Wake Up in White

At Balisutha Tour Service, we recommend Pinggan for those who want the views of a mountain peak without the strenuous climb. It is a place of absolute stillness and breathtaking scale, perfectly aligning with our "Feel Like Home" commitment to peaceful, authentic travel.

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Trunyan village

 

TRUNYAN: THE ANCIENT GUARDIAN OF THE BANYAN



A Journey into the Realm of the Bali Aga

The Etymology and the "Fragrant Tree"

The name Trunyan (or Terunyan) is inextricably linked to a biological miracle that occurs only in this specific corner of the caldera.

  • Taru: Means "Tree."

  • Menyan: Means "Nice smelling" or "Fragrant."

  • The Meaning: Together, it means "The Fragrant Tree." This refers to the massive Taru Menyan (Banyan-like tree) that grows in the village’s cemetery. Legend says the scent of this tree was so powerful it could be smelled across the seas, leading ancient settlers to build their village at its roots to protect the source of the fragrance.

Location and the Isolated Coastline

Trunyan is located on the eastern shore of Lake Batur, within the Kintamani District, Bangli Regency.

  • The Land of Shadows: The village is wedged between the high, steep walls of the outer caldera and the deep waters of the lake. Because it sits at the base of the Abang mountain ridge, it is often shaded and cool, adding to its mysterious atmosphere.

  • Geographical Isolation: For centuries, the village was physically cut off from the rest of Bali by the steep cliffs, which allowed the community to preserve their distinct language, laws, and religious practices.

History and the Bali Aga Identity

The people of Trunyan are the Bali Aga, the "Original Balinese" who inhabited the island long before the 14th-century Javanese influence reached Bali.

  • The Legend of the Prince: Folklore tells of a Prince from Solo (Java) who followed the scent of the Taru Menyan. He eventually married the local goddess of the lake, Ratu Ayu Pingit Dalam Dasar, and founded the Trunyan lineage.

  • The Cemetery of the Open Air: Trunyan is globally famous for its unique funeral rites. Unlike the rest of Bali, which practices cremation (Ngaben), the people of Trunyan lay their dead on the ground under bamboo cages (Ancak Saji).

  • The Miracle of the Tree: Despite the bodies being left in the open air, there is no smell of decay. The Taru Menyan tree is believed to absorb all odors, a phenomenon that continues to baffle visitors and scientists alike.

Access and the Crossing of the Lake

Reaching the "Sema Wayah" (the famous cemetery) is a journey that requires crossing the sacred waters of Lake Batur.

  • The Boat Journey: While there is now a narrow, steep road that leads to the village center, the cemetery is only accessible by boat. Visitors usually take a traditional motorboat from the docks at Kedisan or Toya Bungkah.

  • The Crossing: The boat ride takes about 20–30 minutes across the lake, offering stunning views of Mount Batur’s volcanic peak from the water.

  • Proximity: It is about 1.5 hours from Ubud and 2.5 to 3 hours from South Bali. It is a highly sensitive cultural site, so visiting with a local guide is strongly recommended to ensure proper etiquette.

Facilities and the Sacred Architecture

Trunyan is a living village, not a museum, so facilities are rustic and focused on tradition.

  • Pura Pancering Jagat: This is the main temple of the village, housing a massive 4-meter-tall ancient statue of Ratu Gede Pancering Jagat. It is one of the most sacred and rarely seen relics in Bali.

  • The Cemetery (Sema Wayah): The site is well-maintained by the local community. Visitors can walk along a stone path to view the bamboo cages, the ancient skulls placed in rows, and the towering Taru Menyan tree.

  • The Village Center: There are small local warungs (stalls) in the main village where you can find simple food and drinks.

  • Local Guides: Upon arrival at the docks, local village guides are available to explain the complex social rules of the village (such as why only married people can be placed under the tree).

Respect the Echoes of the Ancestors

At Balisutha Tour Service, we approach Trunyan with the highest level of cultural respect. It is a place of deep wisdom regarding the cycle of life. Visiting Trunyan with us ensures a "Feel Like Home" experience that honors the traditions of the Bali Aga people.

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Toya Devasya hot spring


TOYA DEVASYA: THE SACRED WATERS OF THE CALDERA



Geothermal Serenity at the Edge of the World

The Etymology and the "Divine Water"

The name Toya Devasya is steeped in the spiritual language of Bali, reflecting the sacred nature of the island’s volcanic springs.

  • Toya: The high-register (refined) Balinese word for Water.

  • Devasya: Derived from the Sanskrit root Deva, meaning Divine, Godly, or Celestial.

  • The Meaning: Together, the name translates to "The Divine Water." It pays homage to the local belief that the geothermal heat originates from the core of the sacred Mount Batur, carrying with it the healing energy of the gods.

Location and the Lakeside Majesty

Toya Devasya is situated in Toya Bungkah Village, Kintamani District, within the Bangli Regency.

  • The Caldera Floor: The resort is uniquely positioned on the floor of the massive Batur Global Geocosm, right at the edge of Lake Batur, Bali’s largest lake.

  • Volcanic Backdrop: To the west, the blackened lava flows of Mount Batur tower over the site, while to the east, the serene waters of the lake reflect the steep walls of the Abang mountain ridge.

  • Cool Mountain Air: At an elevation of over 1,000 meters, the ambient air is crisp and cool, making the $38°C$ to $40°C$ geothermal pools a perfect contrast.

History and the Pioneering of Wellness

The transformation of Toya Devasya from a simple local spring to a world-class wellness destination is a journey of vision and heritage.

  • The Origins (Toya Bungkah): Historically, the area was known as Toya Bungkah, where locals used the hot springs for healing skin ailments and muscle fatigue. In the 1990s, it began to attract "New Age" travelers and hikers descending from the volcano.

  • The Vision of Excellence: Over the last two decades, Toya Devasya has evolved from a small public bath into a comprehensive "Hot Spring Wellness Resort." It was one of the first establishments in Kintamani to combine traditional Balinese architecture with modern luxury facilities.

  • Sustainable Geothermal Use: The resort is a pioneer in the sustainable use of geothermal energy, utilizing the natural heat of the Earth without chemical additives, maintaining the mineral integrity of the volcanic water.

Access and the Vertical Descent


Getting to Toya Devasya involves a spectacular drive from the island’s central highlands down into the heart of the volcano.

  • The Route: Most travelers arrive via the Penelokan lookout point. From there, you descend a winding, steep road that drops several hundred meters down to the caldera floor. The view during the descent is one of the most dramatic in Southeast Asia.

  • Proximity: It is about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Ubud and roughly 2.5 to 3 hours from the southern coastal areas. It is the ultimate reward after a sunrise trek of Mount Batur.

  • The Arrival: The resort is easily accessible by car or motorcycle, with a grand entrance that welcomes guests into a lush, purple-themed tropical garden.

Facilities and the Geothermal Oasis


Toya Devasya offers a wide array of facilities designed for relaxation, adventure, and family fun.

  • Olympic-Sized Hot Spring Pool: The resort features a massive infinity pool where you can swim in warm mineral water while looking directly across Lake Batur.

  • Private & VIP Pools: For those seeking a quieter experience, there are several smaller, more secluded pools and private cabanas.

  • The Purple Spa: A dedicated wellness center offering Balinese massages and body treatments that utilize the mineral-rich waters.

  • Adventure Hub: Beyond the water, they offer cycling tours through the lava fields, hiking guides for Mount Batur, and lakeside camping facilities.

  • Dining: Multiple restaurants serve local Kintamani specialties, including the famous lake-harvested Nila (Tilapia) fish and local highlands coffee.

  • Amenities: Facilities include modern locker rooms, towel rentals, clean showers, and safe parking for large tour groups.

Bathe in the Breath of the Volcano

At Balisutha Tour Service, we recommend Toya Devasya as the ultimate "Cool Down" after a mountain adventure. It embodies our "Feel Like Home" spirit—a place to rest your body and soul in the warmth of the earth.

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Tunjuk Village Taman Sari Buwana

 

TUNJUK VILLAGE: THE LIVING HEART OF BALI



Taman Sari Buwana—A Journey into Ancient Agricultural Wisdom

The Etymology and the "Guiding Point"

The name Tunjuk and the project Taman Sari Buwana carry deep linguistic meanings that reflect the village’s purpose and philosophy.

  • Tunjuk (To Point/Guide): In Balinese and Indonesian, Tunjuk means to point or to give direction. Historically, the village was seen as a "pointer" or a guide for traditional life and agricultural standards in the Tabanan region.

  • Taman Sari Buwana: This is the name of the specific community-run farm and cultural center.

    • Taman: Garden.

    • Sari: Essence or Beauty.

    • Buwana: The World/Earth.

  • The Meaning: Together, Taman Sari Buwana means the "Beautiful Essence of the Earth," signifying a place where the best of nature and culture are preserved.

 Location and the Agricultural Cradle

Tunjuk Village is located in the Tabanan District of the Tabanan Regency, positioned in the fertile "Rice Bowl" of Bali.

  • The Fertile Belt: It sits between the coastal plains of Tanah Lot and the volcanic slopes of Mount Batukaru. This unique position provides the village with volcanic-rich soil and a constant supply of fresh water from the mountain springs.

  • A Living Landscape: The village is a mosaic of traditional Balinese family compounds (Umah Bali), ancient temples, and vast, undulating rice paddies that have remained unchanged for generations.

History and the Community Mission

The history of Tunjuk’s tourism is a pioneer story of protecting heritage through education.

  • The Traditional Roots: For centuries, Tunjuk has been a quiet farming community specializing in rice, coconuts, and traditional livestock.

  • The Birth of Taman Sari Buwana (2001): In the early 2000s, local visionaries realized that the traditional way of life was being threatened by modernization. They established Taman Sari Buwana not as a "museum," but as a living educational center.

  • The Philosophy of Participation: The project was built on the idea of "A Day in the Life of a Balinese Farmer." Instead of watching from afar, visitors were invited to work alongside the villagers, creating a sustainable income stream that allows the farmers to keep their land instead of selling it for development.

Access and the Cultural Corridor




Tunjuk is an accessible escape into the "Real Bali," located away from the heavy traffic of the south.

  • The Route: It is a scenic drive through the heart of Tabanan. The roads are well-maintained and pass through dozens of smaller hamlets where you can see locals practicing traditional crafts and ceremonies.

  • Proximity: It is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour from Ubud and about 1.5 hours from the Seminyak/Canggu area. Its central location in Tabanan makes it a perfect morning stop before heading north to Bedugul or Jatiluwih.

  • The Welcome: Visitors are usually met at the village center and guided into the Taman Sari Buwana complex, which is integrated directly into the village homes.

Facilities and the Immersive Experience

Taman Sari Buwana offers a comprehensive look at Balinese life through high-quality, community-run facilities.

  • Traditional House Tours: You can explore an authentic Balinese compound, learning about the Sanggah (family temple), the Paon (traditional kitchen), and the intricate rules of Balinese spatial architecture (Asta Kosala Kosali).

  • Agricultural Workshops: Facilities include access to the fields where you can plow with water buffalo (Ngalampit), plant rice seedlings, and learn about the Subak irrigation system.

  • Culinary & Craft Stations: There are dedicated areas for learning how to make traditional offerings (Canang Sari), husking coconuts, making coconut oil, and cooking traditional Balinese snacks.

  • The Village School: A portion of the project’s proceeds often supports the local village school, which visitors can sometimes observe during school hours.

  • Amenities: The complex features clean, modern restrooms (styled traditionally), a beautiful bamboo dining pavilion where a traditional Balinese lunch (Nasi Campur) is served, and a small boutique area for local village crafts.

Become Part of the Village Story

At Balisutha Tour Service, we believe Tunjuk Village is the heartbeat of our "Feel Like Home" philosophy. It is not a performance; it is a life shared. A day at Taman Sari Buwana is a day spent in the embrace of the true Balinese family.

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