PURA BESAKIH
Location: Bali, Indonesia
Referred to as Bali’s Mother Temple, Pura Besakih is a large complex of at least 86 clan temples and shrines on the southwestern slopes of Mount Agung. This temple is the largest and most sacred in Bali and its location offers spectacular views of rice terraces, hills, mountains and streams. The complex has three main temples dedicated to the Hindu trinity. Pura Penataran Agung (in the center) has white banners for Shiva, the destroyer; Pura Kiduling Kreteg (right) presents red banners for Brahma, the creator; and Pura Batu Madeg represents Vishnu, the preserver, with his black banners.
ULUN DANU BERATAN
Location: Bedugul, Bali, Indonesia
Known as the Floating Temple, the majestic Ulun Danu is located in the highlands of the mountainous Bedugul regency, perched high on a plateau on Lake Beratan. A fine mist rises from the lake and floats in the air, surrounding the temple, giving it a somewhat surreal appearance.
The temple was built in worship of the goddess Danu, the queen of water, lakes and rivers and is also dedicated to the three gods Shiva, Visnu and Brahma. The complex consists of four sacred buildings and the last one, Pura Dalem Purwa dedicated to Sang Hyang Widhi, is the place for those who pray for fertility, prosperity and well-being.
TANAH LOT
Location: Tabanan, Bali, Indonesia
When we talk about the most popular icon that personifies the romantic island of Bali, we will think about Tanah Lot. Its name means “Land in the Sea” due to its unique offshore environment. Imagine the image of a (pura) Balinese temple perched on top of the rock, facing the open ocean. With the waves crashing below and the dramatic colors of the sunset sky in the background, illuminated by the slowly disappearing sun. As one of the most photographed temples in Bali, an incredible view of the serenity of the tropical sun slowly disappearing beyond the horizon into the open ocean will be an experience to treasure for a lifetime.
ULUWATU
Location: Kuta, Bali, Indonesia
Another famous sea temple in Bali is Uluwatu. This is also one of the nine directional temples on the island intended to protect it from evil spirits. The inner sanctuary of the temple is perched on the edge of rugged cliffs that rise above the legendary waves of Bali in the south. Besides its unique and spectacular view, visitors can also enjoy the Kecak dance show that takes place on the cliff lake. The outdoor performance also shows the beautiful sunset in the background of the performance.
BATU CAVES
Location: Selangor, Malaysia
The Batu Cave Temple is one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside of India that is dedicated to Lord Murugan – the god of war. The 272 colorfully painted steps set inside a limestone cliff will lead you to the hidden cave temple. It is also the place where the holiest annual festival of the Hindus is celebrated, the Thaipusam that attracts thousands of devotees and visitors.
According to passionasiatravel.com
