On the northern coastline of Bali, where rugged limestone cliffs meet the open sea, stands Pura Pulaki, a revered Hindu temple steeped in myth, history, and spiritual significance. Located in Banyupoh Village, Buleleng Regency, this temple is not only a place of worship but also a portal into Bali’s deep-rooted religious tradition and mystical folklore.
A Scenic Coastal Landmark
Pura Pulaki sits directly along the Singaraja–Gilimanuk road, making it a prominent landmark for those journeying through North Bali. The temple’s strategic position — facing the sea and backed by towering hills — symbolizes a sacred balance between the elements, a common concept in Balinese Hindu cosmology.
Accessible within 4–5 hours from Denpasar by car, the temple attracts both religious pilgrims and cultural explorers drawn by its panoramic views and serene ambiance.
The Sacred Journey of Dang Hyang Nirartha
The temple’s origin is intertwined with the spiritual journey of Dang Hyang Nirartha, a 15th-century Hindu priest who traveled from East Java to spread Hinduism across Bali.
According to oral tradition, during his journey westward across the island, Nirartha’s wife became fatigued and requested to stay behind. With his blessing, she remained at the site that would become Pura Pulaki, while he continued on to Gelgel.
In time, the site became sacred ground, and a temple was erected to honor both Nirartha’s legacy and the divine forces believed to reside there.
What makes Pura Pulaki especially enigmatic is the tale of its disappearance from local awareness for more than four centuries. Historians and spiritual leaders believe the temple lay dormant or hidden for 431 years before being rediscovered and fully restored in 1984. This “lost and found” history adds to its mystical aura, drawing the faithful and the curious alike.
Temple Structure and Spiritual Design
As is customary in Balinese temple architecture, Pura Pulaki is divided into three zones:
- Nistaning Mandala (Outer Courtyard): A welcoming area with a split gateway (candi bentar), open to the public.
- Madya Mandala (Middle Courtyard): A transitional space used for ritual preparations and gatherings.
- Utamaning Mandala (Inner Sanctum): The holiest section, reserved for ceremonies and containing sacred shrines. This area is marked by a towering paduraksa gate, often adorned with carvings of Naga Basuki, a mythical serpent representing cosmic balance and protection.
Pura Pulaki is part of a sacred network of sea temples believed to spiritually guard the island’s coastline. It is also closely connected to nearby shrines like Pura Melanting, Pura Pemuteran, and Pura Pabean, each serving unique religious functions for the surrounding community.
Guardians of the Temple: The Sacred Monkeys
One of the most distinctive features of Pura Pulaki is its lively monkey population. These long-tailed macaques are not merely wildlife; they are regarded as spiritual guardians. Folklore suggests they once accompanied Dang Hyang Nirartha and remained in the area to protect the sacred site.
Though generally tame, the monkeys are known for their curiosity. Visitors are advised to be mindful of their belongings and avoid feeding them to maintain harmony between humans and the resident animals.
Rituals and Major Ceremonies
The main temple festival, known as Piodalan, is held during the full moon of the fourth Balinese lunar month (Purnama Kapat), typically in October. During this time, thousands of worshippers gather at the temple, dressed in ceremonial attire, to make offerings, chant mantras, and seek divine blessings.
The atmosphere during Piodalan is vibrant and sacred, filled with the sounds of traditional gamelan music, the scent of incense, and the energy of collective devotion.
A Spiritual Experience Beyond Sightseeing
Pura Pulaki offers more than just scenic beauty — it provides a space for reflection, devotion, and cultural immersion. For those seeking to understand Bali beyond its beaches and resorts, this temple serves as a profound reminder of the island’s spiritual heritage.
Visitors are encouraged to dress respectfully, wear a sarong and sash, and maintain a humble demeanor when entering sacred areas. The best time to visit is early morning, when the temple is calm, the monkeys are less active, and the rising sun bathes the cliffs in golden light.
Pura Pulaki is not just a temple — it’s a living testament to Bali’s enduring faith, its storied past, and its sacred connection with nature. Whether you’re a pilgrim, historian, or traveler in search of meaning, this coastal sanctuary welcomes you into its timeless embrace. (BT)
