Bali's largest and holiest temple, built in terraces up the slopes of Mount Agung.
Pura Besakih is the largest and most sacred temple complex on the island - more than 20 temples set in terraces up the slope of Mount Agung. Known as the "Mother Temple," it has been the spiritual heart of Bali for over a thousand years. A sarong and a local guide are included, so you explore it with the right context and respect.
Wide stone stairways climb through the complex, passing split gates and rows of tiered meru shrines that rise like dark pagodas against the sky. Each courtyard opens onto another, higher up the slope. Take your time - the scale only really sinks in as you move through it, level by level, with the valley falling away below.
The whole complex is built to face sacred Mount Agung, Bali's highest and holiest volcano, which looms directly behind the highest shrines. On a clear day the mountain views are as memorable as the temple itself. Weather here changes fast - when the cloud lifts off the peak you get the full view of Mount Agung.