Why Are Bali’s Traditional Pura Layouts So Unique?
Bali may be wrapped in beaches and resorts, but its soul lives far from the coastline. It lives in the soft thrum of temple bells, in stone gateways carved with forest spirits, in courtyards arranged with cosmic precision, and in the humble village compounds that mirror the island’s spiritual philosophy.
To walk through a Balinese pura (temple) or a traditional family compound is to step into centuries of belief where architecture, nature, and ritual are inseparable.
In this guide, we explore the timeless world of Balinese sacred architecture, from the Asta Kosala Kosali principles shaping village homes to the multi-tiered meru shrines rising like mountains. And along the way, you’ll discover how to plan your trip, what to carry, how to remain respectful — and how to travel sustainably in these living heritage spaces.
The Spiritual Blueprint: Asta Kosala Kosali Architecture
Traditional Balinese compounds are not built by design trends — they are built by cosmic balance.
The Asta Kosala Kosali system is a spiritual-architectural philosophy that lays out:
where homes should face,
where shrines should sit,
how kitchens, granaries, pavilions and gathering spaces relate to each other,
and how harmony with wind, mountains, sea and energy must be preserved.
Every structure has intention:
The Sanggah Merajan (family shrine) sits toward the kaja (mountain direction), considered sacred.
Pavilions (bale) open to breezes and communal life.
Kitchens are placed in the more earthly, practical zones.
Walking through such a compound feels like entering a living mandala.
Temples That Tell Stories: Where Architecture Meets Myth
1. Pura Beji Sangsit (North Bali)
A masterpiece of Northern Balinese “China-Bali” carving style, Pura Beji is dedicated to Dewi Sri, the rice goddess . Its walls burst with floral patterns and mythical protectors — a reminder of Bali’s agricultural traditions.
2. Pura Ulun Danu Batur (Kintamani)
Perched near the volcanic caldera, this temple honours Dewi Danu, goddess of lakes and rivers. The eleven-tier meru shrines here evoke mountains rising to the heavens — a powerful expression of Balinese cosmology.
3. Pura Taman Ayun (Mengwi)
A royal water temple surrounded by lotus-covered moats. Its meru towers create one of the most iconic skylines in Bali, symbolising harmony between royals, gods, and nature.
4. Penglipuran Village (Bangli)
A pristine, community-run traditional village where visitors can witness intact Asta Kosala Kosali layouts, bamboo forests, and meticulously maintained family shrines.
How to Plan Your Architecture-Focused Bali Trip
Suggested 3-Day Mini Itinerary
Day 1 — North Bali:
Pura Beji Sangsit → Brahma Vihara Arama → Lovina (stay)
Day 2 — Central Highlands:
Ulun Danu Batur → Kintamani viewpoints → Penglipuran Village
Day 3 — Royal Heritage:
Pura Taman Ayun → Tabanan rice terraces (Subak systems) → Finish in Ubud
Best Months to Visit
April–June for clear skies and lush greenery
September–October for fewer crowds and cooler nights
Avoid January–February due to heavy rains that can limit temple access.
What to Carry (Essentials for Temple & Heritage Visits)
Sarong + scarf/sash (mandatory dress code)
Reusable water bottle
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF)
Comfortable walking sandals
Cash for temple offerings/donations
Light shawl for cooler highland regions
Small tote for keeping trash—leave no waste behind
Respecting Local Customs (Very Important!)
Balinese temples are living spiritual spaces. Follow these guidelines:
To Do:
Wear a sarong and sash
Speak softly; avoid loud music
Ask permission before photographing ceremonies
Walk clockwise around shrines
Follow the signs about restricted areas
Avoid:
Entering temple zones during menstruation (local rule)
Touching offerings or ritual items
Stepping over canang sari (floor offerings)
Climbing structures for photos
Travel Sustainably
You’re entering living cultural ecosystems, not museum exhibits.
Buy from local artisans (woodcarvers, mask makers, stone sculptors)
Choose community-run visits like Penglipuran
Avoid drone use around temple complexes
Do not pick flowers used in offerings
Use refillable bottles to reduce plastic
Support eco-tours focused on Subak conservation
Stay in traditional homestays or eco-lodges
Small actions, big impact.
