The Kehen Temple is one of the most remarkable Hindu structures in Indonesia. Located north of Bangli Regency, it stands as one of the must-see attractions in southeast Bali.

History

Built in terraces on a hillside, Kehen Temple is an ancient Hindu sanctuary in East Bali. According to historians, it was constructed around 1206, with designs inspired by the famous Besakih Temple, though on a smaller scale. Various inscriptions found on-site reveal that this temple has carried different names throughout the centuries. Toward the end of the 9th century, for example, it was called Hyang Pi. Later, in the early 11th century, it became known as Hyang Kehen. It is from an inscription dating to the 13th century that the temple acquired its current name (Pura Kehen).

Today

Pura Kehen is absolutely worth visiting during a stay in Bali, thanks to its exceptional setting and the tranquility that pervades the place. The temple is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation that lends a certain mystical character to the site.

The site is divided into several zones: the outer sanctuary (jaba pisan), the middle sanctuary (jaba tengah), and the main sanctuary (jero).

Kehen Temple Description

The Kehen Temple is renowned for its 48-step staircase leading to a grand gate adorned with a dragon's head. As you climb the steps, you'll notice numerous stone animal statues carved from volcanic rock on either side—elephants, dragons, turtles, and more. These sculptures represent characters from the Indian epic Ramayana. When you explore the inner courtyards, you'll find several altars dedicated to the Hindu trinity: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. In the third courtyard (jero), for instance, you'll see an 11-roof meru, a sanctuary dedicated to the god of fire who watches over the site.

In the first courtyard (jaba pisan), you'll encounter a banyan tree over 400 years old, whose roots and branches have encased a kind of observation shelter called a kukul. On-site, you'll also find a megalithic stone surrounded by a fence where offerings are left.

Dress Code

Before visiting Kehen Temple or any other temple in Bali, remember to wear appropriate clothing (this applies even outside religious celebrations). Local residents are quite particular about this, as they consider the lower body impure. For them, the head is the purest part of the body.

Those wearing shorts, bermudas, short skirts, or short dresses will not be permitted to enter the temple grounds. Consider bringing a sarong or pareo to cover yourself during your visit.

This Hindu temple hosts the famous Pagerwesi festival every year—a religious celebration observed throughout Bali. The celebration date changes annually. Many devotees come to pray and leave offerings to the deities to ward off misfortune and protect themselves from harm. It's worth noting that some offerings are intended for the deceased.

Good to Know:

• Certain areas are not accessible to tourists, particularly prayer spaces.

• Access denied to pregnant women and women menstruating.

• Children who still have their baby teeth are not permitted.

To reach Kehen Temple, head to the outskirts of Bangli in the village of Cempaga. You won't miss it, as it's accessible from the main street. From the town of Ubud, you can reach this complex in less than 45 minutes. If you're departing from Denpasar, Bali's capital, you'll need to travel approximately 40 km to reach the temple.

Admission Fee:

To access Kehen Temple, you'll pay an entrance fee generally ranging from 20,000 Rp to 30,000 Rp (approximately €1.20 to €2).