Brahmavihara Arama is largest Buddhist monastery in Bali. Also known as Banjar Buddhist Temple. This monastery was built since independence era. Then has become symbol of tolerance, and pluralism in this country. The founder, Ida Ketut Jelantik, was a writer. He served in Ministry of Religious Affair. Then the monastery was official established in 1917. Also occupy area of around 9 hectares.
In this area, there are various interesting buildings. Such as pagoda, kuti, meditation hall. Then bell, dharma sala, and other supporting facility. Moreover, the temple is also decorated with many Buddhist stupas, and statue. One main attraction is beautiful round pond. With fountain and lotus flower symbolizing purity.
In fact, not just for Buddhist, monastery is open to anyone, who want to seek inner peace, and enlightenment. Therefore, this is what make Brahmavihara Arama one of Buleleng Interesting Places to Visit. That is visited by many different religions. Then making it real symbol of cultural harmony, and tolerance.
The Meaning Behind Name of Brahmavihara Arama
As a matter of fact, The name Brahmavihara Arama come from three words. Brahma means something great, praiseworthy, and very noble. Vihara means way of life, and Arama means place. Altogether, the name means place to train oneself in developing noble, and praiseworthy behavior.
Furthermore, these behavior include four virtue : Metta or loving kindness, Karuna or compassion, Mudita or sympathy, and Upekkha or equanimity. These four values can be explored. Then internalized, and practice through Vipassana Bhavana meditation. Which is core of the monastery activity.
History of Brahmavihara Arama
Brahmavihara Arama was first established in 1958, by Bhikkhu Girirakkhito Thera, near Banjar Hot Spring area, on borrowed land. However, as number of Buddhist grew, this initial location was deemed inadequate, and disturbed by surrounding crowd.
After that, In 1970, Bhikkhu Giri purchased new land in Banjar Tegeha Village, Banjar District. Construction of monastery began in November 1970. Then was first used for services in May 1971.
Therefore, the name Brahmavihara Arama, was given to reflect its function as the “Garden of Sublime Brahma Peace”. Place of meditation, and cultivation of noble quality.
In fact, the monastery is in hilly area with soothing natural scenery. Surrounded by rice field, sea and mountain. Surely, this place has cool and refreshing atmosphere. That’s why support practice of meditation. Visitors, local and foreign often visit this monastery to meditate. Or simply enjoy beauty and serenity of nature.
Location and Route to Brahmavihara Arama
Brahmavihara Arama is in Banjar Tegeha Village, Banjar District, Buleleng. This place is about 19 km from Singaraja City to the west. With travel time about 30 minute, using private vehicle.
The monastery is on plateau with altitude about 300 meter above sea level. The monastery area has land area of 35 are. While rest is plantation. Therefore, this location presents beautiful view of rice field. Then sea and mountain. As well as fresh air which add to its appeal. As spiritual and recreational tourist destination.
Attractions of Brahmavihara Arama
As largest monastery in Bali, Brahmavihara Arama has various attractions, including:
- Architecture with Hindu Nuance
Although it is Buddhist monastery. The building is characterized by Hindu architecture. This reflect cultural acculturation given, that the monastery was built in 1969 with predominantly Hindu area. This uniqueness is special attraction for tourist.
- Buddhist Iconic Area
Inside monastery area, there are many Buddha statue. Including statue in center pond decorated with lotus flower. In addition, there is Dharmasala as study room, and the Uposthagara, which house statue of Buddha, as well as wall carving depicting story of Buddha birth.
- Large Garden Area
The temple has beautiful garden. With replica of Borobudur Temple, complete with five stupa on south side. Visitors can climb stair to highest peak to enjoy panoramic view of Lovina Beach from distance.
Things to Do
While in Brahmavihara Arama area, visitor can do several activities such as:
- Meditate by using cushion, that can be taken out while sitting.
- Going around to see beauty of the stupas at foot of hill.
- Exploring mango and sawo plantation, around monastery area.
- Enjoy beauty of round pond. That has been equipped with fountain and lotus flower.
Visiting Tips
The visiting tips that Bali Touristic has summarized. So that you better understand how to visit properly:
- Avoid visiting tourist attraction during rainy season, as there are many open area.
- Use comfortable footwear as there are several area to explore.
- Try meditating and enjoy tranquil. Then peaceful atmosphere at some of the designated area.
- Respect other visitor. Who are worship or meditate by keeping quiet, and not making noise.
- Make sure your body condition is fit, because this area has many interesting area, that can be explored.
Operating Hour, Ticket Price, and Facility
- Operating Hour: Open every day. From 08.00 until 00 WITA.
- Ticket Price: About IDR 20K and price could change anytime.
- Facility:
- Adequate parking area.
- Public restroom.
- Fabric loaner, such as shawl and sarong, for visitor. (YL)
