Luhur Batukaru Temple

Luhur Batukaru Temple (Pura Luhur Batukaru) is a major Balinese Hindu temple located on the southern slopes of Mount Batukaru in Wongaya Gede, Penebel, Tabanan Regency, Bali. It is one of Bali's six Sad Kahyangan and nine Kayangan Jagat directional temples. Set within dense tropical forest at about 700 meters elevation, the temple is noted for its moss-covered shrines, meru towers, and tranquil mountain setting dedicated to the guardian spirit of Mount Batukaru.

Visitors can expect a tranquil forest temple complex surrounded by dense tropical woodland on the slopes of Mount Batukaru. The site features multiple moss-covered stone shrines, tiered meru towers with thatched roofs, courtyards, and a small temple pond. The atmosphere is quiet and misty due to the elevation. Visitors explore outer and middle courtyards, observe traditional Balinese architecture, and see worship activities. Sarong and sash are required and usually provided at entrance.

Pura Luhur Batukaru is believed to have been first established in the 11th century during the era of Mpu Kuturan. It was dedicated to the deity Mahadewa as guardian of Mount Batukaru. The temple was destroyed in 1604 during the wars of the Tabanan kingdom and was rebuilt in 1959. It remains one of the island's most important mountain temples with historical ties to the Tabanan royal family.

The temple is one of Bali's Sad Kahyangan Jagat and Kayangan Jagat, the six and nine most sacred directional temples that protect the island. It is highly sacred to Balinese Hindus as the spiritual guardian of western Bali and Mount Batukaru. The temple is a center for ceremonies honoring the mountain's fertility and water sources, and plays a role in subak irrigation traditions.