On the eastern edge of Bali, nestled within the lush highlands of Karangasem, stands Pura Lempuyang Luhur, a temple of profound spiritual significance. Revered as one of the island’s Sad Kahyangan, the six holiest sanctuaries, it offers more than just a place of worship.
With the majestic Mount Agung as its backdrop, the temple remains a sanctuary not only for Hindu devotees but also for nature itself. The surrounding forests serve as the island’s vital green lungs, offering visitors a pristine escape into Bali’s untouched wilderness.
For those seeking an experience beyond the ordinary, the journey to Pura Lempuyang Luhur is an adventure of its own. Trekking enthusiasts will find themselves drawn to the challenge of ascending the sacred heights, where multiple trails lead to the summit. The most accessible route follows a series of terraced stone steps, traditionally used by Hindu pilgrims making their way to prayer.
The ascent begins with winding inclines and steep paths, leading first to Pura Lempuyang Madya, a temple categorized as Dang Kahyangan—a sacred site enshrining revered ancestral figures. Here, Hindu devotees honor Ida Batara Empu Agenijaya and Empu Manik Geni, spiritual sages believed to have played a role in shaping Bali’s religious traditions.
Empu Agenijaya, one of seven revered brothers, is said to share lineage with figures like Mpu Kuturan, Mpu Baradah, and Mpu Semeru, whose influence in Balinese Hinduism is deeply rooted.
The temple complex is an architectural testament to devotion, featuring shrines such as Bebaturan Linggih, where the spirits of Empu Agenijaya and Empu Manik Geni are honored. Other significant structures include Gedong Tumpang Siki, multi-tiered shrines, and Bale Pawedaan, a pavilion for ritual recitations.
Reaching the main temple at the summit is no small feat—it requires climbing more than 1,700 steps. The journey is arduous, but the rewards are immeasurable. Cool mountain air fills the lungs, while the dense tropical forest hums with life.
Birds call from the treetops, and troops of wild monkeys swing effortlessly through the canopy, providing an unexpected sense of companionship along the way. As the trail ascends, panoramic views of Karangasem’s rolling hills and valleys unfold, painting a breathtaking scene of Bali’s untamed beauty.
Yet, the journey demands not only physical endurance but also spiritual discipline. Visitors—whether Hindu pilgrims or tourists—must approach the temple with reverence. Certain taboos are strictly observed: speaking harsh words, entering while in mourning, menstruating, breastfeeding, or bringing young children with unfallen milk teeth are all prohibited. Consuming or carrying pork is also forbidden, as purity is paramount when stepping onto these sacred grounds.
To visit Pura Lempuyang Luhur is to step into a world where nature and spirituality intertwine. Whether drawn by faith, adventure, or the sheer awe of its surroundings, those who undertake this sacred ascent leave with more than just memories. They carry with them the essence of Bali—its devotion, its beauty, and its deep connection to the divine. (BT)
