Purification at Tirta Empul Temple: A Journey of Spiritual Cleansing in Bali
Curious about Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu?
Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu might just be the hidden sanctuary you didn’t know you needed.
Tucked away in the lush highlands of Tegallalang, just north of Ubud, this sacred temple blends spiritual charm with breathtaking natural beauty. Unlike the bustling scenes of Kuta or Seminyak, here you’ll find tranquil gardens, sacred water springs, and an atmosphere that invites deep reflection and calm.
Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience. A place where ancient Balinese spirituality meets serene jungle landscapes. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking peace away from the crowds, this temple is a must-visit.
We’ve put together everything you need to know from location, history, to entrance fees, so you can make the most of your visit to this enchanting gem of Ubud.
Location of Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu
Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple is located in the lush village of Sebatu, just north of Ubud in central Bali. The full address is: Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple, Sebatu Village, Tegallalang Subdistrict, Gianyar Regency, Bali, Indonesia. The temple is easily accessible by road, making it a convenient destination for visitors staying in popular areas such as Ubud, which is about a 30-minute drive away. If you’re coming from Kuta or Seminyak, the journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
For the most comfortable and scenic experience, it is recommended to hire a car with a driver, especially if you’re not familiar with Bali’s narrow and winding roads.
In addition to its stunning architecture and tranquil setting, Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple is also well known as a sacred site for purification rituals (melukat). Many locals and spiritual seekers visit this temple to bathe in its holy springs, believed to cleanse the body and soul of negative energy.
History of Pura Gunung kawi
Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu, located in Sebatu Village, Tegallalang, has deep spiritual roots dating back to the 9th century. It is believed that Rishi Markandeya and his followers rested in this valley during their journey to Mount Agung. There, he established shrines to worship Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, and sacred water springs such as Tirta Dawa Gunung Kawi and Tirta Empul are believed to have emerged during his rituals.
The temple was fully established around the 14th to 15th century and is closely connected to Tirta Empul Temple and Mengening Temple in Tampaksiring, especially in relation to holy water and traditional purification rituals known as melukat.
Key Highlights of the Temple:
- Unique Balinese architecture with large courtyards, bathing pools, shrines, and traditional gateways
- Surrounded by lush forest, cliffs, and abundant natural springs, offering a serene and sacred atmosphere
- A popular and sacred site for melukat purification rituals, where visitors come to cleanse their body and soul with holy water
- Dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Ganga, the sacred river goddess
Purification at Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu is an essential spiritual practice that draws many devotees and visitors seeking renewal and cleansing through the temple’s holy springs. This ritual purification enhances the temple’s reputation as not only a place of worship but also a sanctuary for spiritual healing.
Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu is a spiritually rich and naturally beautiful destination, making it one of Bali’s most peaceful and meaningful temple visits.
Opening Hours and The Best Time to Visit
Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. These hours provide plenty of time for visitors to explore the peaceful temple complex, stroll through the tranquil water gardens, and enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding nature.
While the main temple is open for tourism during these hours, some sacred areas may be accessible for prayer outside of regular operating hours, particularly for local devotees. If you’re visiting as a tourist, it’s best to plan your visit during standard operating hours to allow you to explore the entire temple area.
Purification rituals (melukat) are a key spiritual practice at Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu. Visitors can participate in these sacred water cleansing ceremonies during temple hours, making the experience both a cultural and spiritual highlight of your visit.
If you’re visiting during a religious ceremony or festival, keep in mind that some parts of the temple are reserved for devotees participating in the ceremony. These are wonderful times to visit if you want to witness traditional Balinese worship, although they may also mean the temple will be more crowded than usual.
Entrance Ticket Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu
Visitors to Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu are required to pay an entrance fee of IDR 50,000 for local and domestic tourists. This fee grants you access to explore the sacred temple grounds and participate in the cultural activities available on-site.
As part of the temple’s dress code, all visitors must wear a sarong to show respect for the sacred space. For your convenience, a sarong rental is included with the entrance ticket. This ensures everyone can observe local customs and dress appropriately during their visit.
The entrance fee and sarong rental help support the maintenance of the temple and the preservation of its spiritual and cultural heritage.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Purification at Pura Gunung Kawi
If you’re looking for a spiritual and cultural experience during your visit to Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu, participating in a traditional water purification ritual (Melukat) can be a truly meaningful experience. This sacred ritual is believed to cleanse the body, mind, and soul of negative energy and emotional burdens.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand what to expect:
1. Visiting the Temple Grounds
Your experience begins with a visit to the main area of the temple. You can explore the temple on your own or with a local guide, who will share information about the temple’s history, spiritual meaning, and cultural importance. This introduction helps create a deeper connection to the place and the ritual.
2. Entering the Sacred Water Area
After touring the temple, you can head straight to the holy water purification area, where the Melukat ritual takes place. This part of the temple is considered highly spiritual and is fed by a natural spring, believed to hold sacred and purifying energy.
3. Offerings and Prayer
Before entering the water, you will place a traditional offering (Canang Sari) at the temple shrine.
- You can purchase a canang and borrow a sarong in front of the temple for a donation of IDR 30,000, or you are welcome to bring your own.
- After placing the offering, take a moment to pray or meditate according to your own religion or personal beliefs.
- This is your time to set a peaceful intention before the ritual begins.
4. Begin the Melukat Ritual
You will now step into the water, beginning from the left side. At each of the water fountains, follow this process:
- Stand in front of the first water spout.
- Close your eyes and make a wish or set a personal intention.
- Drink the water three times using your hands.
- Splash the water on your head three times, symbolizing the purification of your thoughts and emotions.
- Allow the water to flow over your entire body, from front to back, until you are fully wet.
Continue this same ritual at each of the 10 water fountains.
Each fountain holds a unique spiritual meaning, and together they complete the purification journey.
5. Rest and Reflect
After completing the Melukat ritual, step out of the water and find a quiet place to sit.
This is a time to rest, reflect, and let the energy of the experience settle in. Many guests feel lighter, calmer, and more centered after this moment of pause.
6. Final Blessing with Bija (Sacred Rice)
To conclude the ritual, you will receive a blessing with bija (blessed rice):
- A small amount is placed between your eyebrows, representing clarity and spiritual insight.
- Another bit is placed on your throat, symbolizing pure and honest communication.
- Finally, a small portion is swallowed, signifying the internal acceptance of the spiritual blessing.
If you are interested in experiencing the Purification Ritual (Melukat), you can book a session with us. We offer guided ceremonies to help you fully embrace this meaningful spiritual journey.
Experience the purification by staying at Puri Gangga Resort – A Home In a Living Culture. Book now!
Phone: +62 361 902222
Mobile: +62 822 9890 2222
Email: info@puriganggaresort.com
