Located on the famed Turtle Island (also called Serangan Island) just off the coast of Bali, the Sakenan Temple is one of the most widely visited Hindu temples in Indonesia. The temple was built sometime during the tenth century by Mpu Kuturan, a priest belonging to the Majapahit Empire. Although it is a traditional Balinese Hindu Temple, various other religious elements were incorporated into the temple during the fifteenth century by a priest named Dang Hyang Niratha. The temple is actually made up of two compounds.
The smaller of the two compounds is also the oldest and was built using red coral and limestone. It only contains one shrine dedicated to the God of welfare and good fortune, Cri Sedana. The larger compound contains many shrines for relatives of Cri Sedana. The Sakenan Temple is a terrific place to visit to learn more about Balinese Hindu traditions.
The best time to visit is during Kuningan Day which marks the day the temple was founded by Mpu Kuturan. The festival is dedicated to the Hindu deity, Vishnu, and lasts three days between the end of Kuningan and the beginning of Langkir. During these days most devotees spend their time in prayer asking for prosperity in the coming year. The Sakenan Temple is a short ten minute drive from Sanur and takes roughly twenty minutes from Kuta.
Bali bills itself as the ‘Island of the Gods’ and it is easy to see why. From blue oceans and sandy beaches to green rice hills and dense jungles, Bali is a patchwork of gorgeous, dramatic and eye catching landscapes. It is easily one of the most beloved holiday destinations in the world and receives a steady stream of tourists throughout the year. When it comes to getting around Bali one has plenty of options including buses and taxis. Intrepid explorers should consider renting a bicycle or bike.
Accommodation is also quite easy to come by with a variety of lodging catering to different budgets. The Uma Bali is a premier luxury hotel Bali. The Ubud hotel is surrounded by verdure and radiates an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity that is sure to resonate with guests trying to get into island mode.
