Royal Temple of Mengwi (Pura Taman Ayun)
- Address:Mengwi
- Admission:Free
The Royal Temple of Mengwi is one of the most important temples in Bali. Built in 1634 by a King of the Mengwi dynasty, this impressive complex stands on an island in a river, its inner temple surrounded by a moat. Its Balinese name Pura Taman Ayun literally means ‘Garden Temple in the Water’.
Part of a network of directional temples that protect Bali from evil spirits, Pura Taman Ayun was built as a series of garden terraces with courtyards on different levels. The entire complex was designed to symbolize the mythological home of the gods, Mount Meru, floating in the sea of eternity.
An eleven-tiered meru (at the far end, in the right-hand corner of the complex) is dedicated to the rice goddess Dewi Sri. The third bale on the left is believed to be the abode of several different gods.
Pura Taman Ayun was enlarged in 1937, making some of its structures the most modern temple architecture in Bail.
Latest Reviews All Royal Temple of Mengwi (Pura Taman Ayun) Reviews »
Great tour! The guide was really enthusiastic and explained all the sites really well. The tour was conducted at a good pace and did not feel rushed at all despite going to a number of places. Continue Reading »
Mengwi temple is lavish, and so worth seeing! Lotus flowers in moat around temple, one of the largest I saw in Bali. Taken to silversmith on way - truly excellent, much better than the silversmith of the Kintamani volcano trip. High quality items at prices you can't pass up. You only get half an hour with the monkeys, which is a pity but that is how the monkey forest is set up - not the tour's fault. Well worth it and not to be missed. Monkeys very placid and safe to be with. One caught my skirt - I was thrilled! Tanah Lot is a temple built on a rock jutting into the ocean, exquisite by sunset. Go! Continue Reading »
highlight of the trip for me. Loved it!!! Continue Reading »
The Royal Temple of Mengwi is in the town of Mengwi directly north of Kuta and 18km (11mi) from Denpasar.
