Batuan Temple, also known as Puseh Batuan Temple, is one of the most beautiful and historically important Hindu temples in Bali. This sacred site is cared for by the local community of Batuan Village and is part of the Tri Kahyangan temple concept established by Mpu Kuturan in ancient times.
The temple is located along the main road connecting Denpasar and Ubud, making it a popular cultural stop for travelers exploring the region.
For more than a thousand years, Batuan has been known as a village filled with artists, storytellers, and traditional craftsmen. Because of its strategic location and deep cultural identity, Batuan Temple has long been a favorite stop for visitors heading toward Ubud who want to appreciate traditional Balinese architecture and heritage.
History of Batuan Temple
Batuan Temple is believed to have been built in 944 Isaka (1020 AD), making it nearly 1,000 years old. It is categorized as a Puseh Temple, which, according to Balinese Hindu philosophy, is dedicated to worshipping Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe.
The temple is an important part of the Tri Kahyangan (or Tri Murti) concept created by Mpu Kuturan around 1001 AD. He was a respected religious leader whose mission was to unite different spiritual groups and sects across Bali into a harmonious worship system honoring:
- Lord Brahma – the creator
- Lord Vishnu – the preserver
- Lord Shiva – the destroyer
These three temples are known as:
- Desa Temple – worship of Lord Brahma
- Puseh Temple – worship of Lord Vishnu
- Dalem Temple – worship of Lord Shiva
The arrival of Mpu Kuturan led to a major transformation in Bali’s religious and cultural unity. Discussions and agreements between different spiritual communities were held in the area now known as Samuan Tiga Temple in Blahbatuh, near Ubud.
Meaning Behind the Name “Batuan”
The name Batuan (or Baturan) comes from the word batu, meaning stone. Locals sometimes joke that it means tough like stone, but historically, it likely refers to ancient standing stones used for ceremonial rituals and gatherings during megalithic times.
Batuan later developed into an important cultural and religious center, where priests, brahmans, and scholars played key roles in shaping Balinese tradition.
Over centuries, the temple’s structures have undergone restoration and architectural evolution, but the foundation and artistic carvings remain deeply traditional. Many of the reliefs display elements from Hindu epics such as the Ramayana and represent profound spiritual symbolism.
The Uniqueness of Batuan Village
Batuan Village is known not only for its sacred temple, but also for its long history as a center of Balinese art—especially classical Batuan-style painting.
Many residents are professional artists whose paintings are famous both locally and internationally. Along the road leading to the temple, visitors can find numerous art galleries showcasing traditional, contemporary, abstract, and modern artworks.
Just as Celuk Village is known for silver and gold craftsmanship, Batuan Village is renowned for traditional painting, making it an inspiring stop for art lovers.
Temple Layout and Sacred Areas
Batuan Temple offers a beautiful visual experience with detailed traditional architecture and thick stone carvings. The temple complex is divided into three main courtyards, each with spiritual functions and unique structures.
Key areas inside the temple
- Wantilan Hall – a pavilion near the entrance used for community ceremonies and traditional dance practice
- Bale Agung and Bale Kulkul – ceremonial pavilions featuring wooden or bamboo drums
- Kori Agung Gate – a majestic split gate guarded by giant stone statues
- Main Sanctum Area – the most sacred zone, home to shrines such as multi-tiered Meru, Bale Pengiyasan, and Padmasana, the supreme shrine dedicated to Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa, the almighty God in Balinese Hinduism.
Visitors are expected to maintain respectful behavior when entering the main sanctuary area, as it is highly sacred to the local community.
Ancient Relics and Archeological Significance
One of the most fascinating elements of Batuan Temple is its impressive collection of prehistoric stone carvings and statues, believed to date back to ancient times. Among the relics found here are:
- Dwarapala guardian statues
- Animal and mythical statues
- Demon figures
- Phallic sculptures
- Figures representing rituals and ancestral spirits
These archaeological artifacts demonstrate the temple’s ancient spiritual role and confirm that Batuan Temple is one of the oldest temple complexes in Bali.
Location
Batuan Temple is located in:
Batuan Village, Sukawati, Gianyar – between Denpasar and Ubud
Approximate travel time:
- From Ubud: about 30 minutes
- From Kuta / Seminyak / airport area: about 60–90 minutes, depending on traffic
The temple is easy to find along the main road toward Ubud, and visitors typically combine it with other popular stops in the region.
Dress Code and Cultural Etiquette
As with other Hindu temples in Bali, visitors are expected to dress modestly and respectfully. Sarongs and sashes are required to enter the temple grounds and are usually available at the entrance area near the Wantilan hall.
Visitors are welcome to explore and take photos, but should always maintain good manners and avoid disturbing rituals or sacred activities.
A Meaningful Cultural Experience
Batuan Temple is far more than a historical monument—it is a living cultural and spiritual heritage that has been protected and cherished for centuries.
A visit here allows travelers to connect with the soul of Balinese Hindu tradition and admire one of the oldest architectural sites on the island.
If you appreciate history, culture, architecture, and art, Batuan Temple is a place you should not miss during your Bali journey.