Pura Pulaki, Bali | Things to Do | Tips | History

Pura Pulaki, Bali Overview

This temple is also known as the “drive-through” temples in Bali and is the major temples of the temple trio of Pura Melanting, Pura Pabean and Pura Pulaki. Pura Pulaki is one of the most significant temples for Balinese as well as Hindus in this area. Located in North Bali, locals, as well as visitors, come here regularly to offer tributes.

A shrine is situated on the roadside where priests spray holy water on the devotees that pass by. One can always find a number of monkeys loitering in this area, mainly shooed away by human guards at this temple. It is located only 25 metres from the sea and is definitely worth a visit.

History

The history of Pura Pulaki goes back to the prehistoric era. A number of stone-age tools were found at Pura Melanting, a temple that is close to Pura Pulaki, in 1987. Archaeologists suggest that Pura Pulaki may be a centre of Pre-Hindu religion which uses staged pyramid buildings.

The area where this temple is situated was considered to a resting place for sea traders between Maluku and Java Ana. this temple was known to be the centre for Vaishnavism development. Dang Hyang Nirartha, a Hindu Brahmin from the Java Kingdom in the 15th century came to Bali in order to spread Shaivite priesthood in this city.

Subsequently, he established a series of temples in Bali including the Pura Pulaki in 1489. However, soon after, Pura Pulaki was abandoned until 1920 when the Dutch Colonial government rented the area of Pulaki and in 1950, the temple was taken over by the Indonesian Government, restored and protected till date.

Things to Do

Visitors are often stunned by the structure of Pura Pulaki. Not only does it have the turquoise sea facing it, but it also has a number of decorations inside the temple that reflect on Balinese culture and traditions.the main courtyard is used for prayers and offerings.

From the outer courtyard, visitors can see a range of green hills as well as the sea. Outside the temple, there are a number of food stalls and other shops that visitors can have a look at. What’s more, visitors can also make donations at this temple.

Architecture

Built in the honour of the sea, this building is a part of the “chain-forming” structure around the coast of Bali, representing a chain of spiritual protection for the island of Bali. Pura Pulaki is divided into three sactons: the outer sanctum (jaba pison), the middle sanctum jaba Tengah and the inner sanctum jero.

The outer sanctum is the outermost courtyard of this temple. It is marked by the candi bentar which is a split gate that is flanked by two towering kulkuls and a pavilion where the drum to call for prayers is kept. The inner sanctum, the most sacred part of the Balinese temple is marked with a portal structure called paduraksa which is decorated with a dragon which maintains the balance of the cosmos.

Tips

It is best to visit this temple either early in the morning or before closing time in order to have a peaceful experience.
Visitors are requested to visit the other two temples: Pura Pablean and Pula Melating as well.
Visitors are requested to visit nearby areas such as Pemuteran and Lovina.