Want to learn the best things to do in Dharmayana Temple, Bali? Let’s try to uncover not just the beauty of the Temple but hidden gems in and around the complex. Nestled in the heart of the city, this Temple is a nidus of spiritual belief of the locals. This blog shall reflect on its importance and historical value in the region. Further, we shall learn what made this temple famous and why it should be included in your travel list to Bali. Let’s ensure that your visit to the Dharmayana Temple is full of memorable moments and an understanding of the rich landscape of Bali, Indonesia.
Discover The Dharmayana Temple
Join us on a journey to the spiritual essence of the Dharmayana Temple. Whether you are a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, this list of best things to do and uncover here will help you make your journey memorable.
1. Significance of Dharmayana Temple
The 200-year-old Vihara Dharmayana Temple is an example of stellar old Chinese Buddhist Architecture. The Temple towers majestically as one of the few remaining cultural icons tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Kuta’s surfing paradise. This ancient Chinese Buddhist Temple has a long history. The Temple, also known as Kongco Leeng Gwan Kuta or just “Kongco Kuta,” is located approximately one kilometre to the east of Kuta Beach.
During his 1982 international tour, Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet, visited a number of Buddhist monuments in Bali, including the Vihara Dharmayana Temple. Even though the Temple is somewhat hidden from view because it is situated on a corner of Jalan Blambangan, its vivid red walls and murals are immediately noticeable if you take a leisurely stroll through the neighbourhood. The Temple serves as a focal point for visitors looking to experience Balinese culture, art and spiritual elegance.
Significance: Cultural, Historical
Must Read: Bali Temples
2. Know The History
The Temple of Vihara Dharmayana Kuta, dating back to 1876 is a fantastic place to learn about the rich history of Kuta. The generations of local devotees, who are primarily of Chinese heritage, have kept the Temple in excellent condition despite its age. One of the nine centres of worship for the Tridharma, Vihara Dharmayana Kuta (also known as Kongco Kuta or Kongco Leng Gwan Kuta) honours Tan Hu Cin Jin as the primary Shing Bing.
Leeng Gwan Temple, also known as Leeng Gwan Bio (Kongco Bio Kuta), was the original Temple built at the site of Dharmayana Temple. This site was the junction of Jalan Blambangan and Jalan Padri. It was once situated at the corner of Jalan Singosari. The years 1876, 1879 and 1880 are imprinted on the three earliest inscriptions, which are found on four paired poetry boards (tuilan) that belong to this Temple. On February 23, 1980, the name of the complex was changed to the Vihara Dharmayana. The unique deity of the Dharmasala was established as a Buddhist Prayer regime. The statue was added to the Temple in the same year. The Temple further became popular when Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, paid his visit to this Temple on August 7, 1982, as an inclusion to his global trip. Further, as per the Reform Order, this Temple opened up to the public and became popular as a tourist destination for locals as well as international visitors. Today, many come here to pray, particularly from Taiwan and Korea.
Significance: Historical
3. Addressing The Spiritual Importance
Kongco temple in Bali has strong links to the Mengwi Kingdom and is frequented by local Balinese Buddhists and Hindus, as well as Chinese-Indonesians. They visit the Dharmayana Temple for prayers and social gatherings, especially during the Lunar New Year. The temple’s elaborate Far Eastern-style architecture creates a captivating and timeless sight.
There are many altars in this Temple that elevate and signify its spiritual essence. Some of the important ones include Thian Teras, Toa Kong Co Tan Hu Cin Jin, Jie Kong Co, Sha Kong Co, Kong Co Kwan Tee Ya, and Kongco Kong Tek Cun Ong. Most of these altars are located in the main room of the complex and can be easily accessed by tourists and locals.
Significance: Religious, Spiritual
Suggested Read: Campuhan Ridge Walk
4. Explore the architecture of Dharmayana Temple
The Temple’s courtyard offers a peaceful escape from the bustling traffic and is filled with the scent of incense smoke from the altars, creating a spiritual atmosphere. The Baktisala, a prominent building with large round lamps hanging from its roof and red pillars with dragon decorations, is the centrepiece of this Kuta oasis. The complex is adorned in red and gold, making it visible from a distance.
Next to the Baktisala is the Dharmasala, a smaller building where families pray in front of Chinese god figurines. An important feature is a wall mural of the Borobudur Temple. Prayers are offered to the “Four-Faced Buddha” in a special worship area located next to the Baktisala under a banyan tree. A unique sight at this location is the group of turtles swimming or sunbathing around the small moat.
Significance: Architectural
5. Know The Temple Rules
Just like any other Balinese Temple, the Dharmayana Temple offers lenient rule. All that is wanted is to maintain the decorum of the complex. The Vihara Dharmayana Temple is open to visitors from the outside. However, there are some fundamental guidelines that must be adhered to. These guidelines include wearing appropriate clothing (no shorts or singlets) and refraining from taking photographs with flash photography inside the prayer rooms.
Additionally, taking photographs of particular relics is prohibited. They represent some helpful insights regarding the Temple and its history (in Indonesian and broken English). A pleasant senior Temple keeper typically stands near the exterior altar, either folding joss paper for offerings or arranging incense sticks. He will guide you and help you with all the rules if you intend to enquire. Visitors can reach this Temple any day between 9:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Significance: Travel
Further Read: Tanah Lot Temple
The Dharmayana Temple is a historical site located amidst the bustling traffic of Kuta and the vibrant energy of the ‘surfer’s paradise.’ This temple boasts a beautiful setting, spectacular architecture, and a rich history. Visiting this temple should definitely be on your itinerary when planning a trip to Bali, as it is one of the most stunning temples on the island.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Dharmayana Temple
How to reach Vihara Dharmayana Temple?
If you are looking for the best answer to the question of how to reach Vihara Dharmayana Temple, you may need not stress. The complex is about one kilometre east of Kuta's primary seaside strip. Moreover, the vivid red walls of the Vihara Dharmayana Temple can be seen from a considerable distance at any time!
What are the Dharmayana Temple timings?
The Temple opens up in the morning for tourists at around 9:00 am. The last entry is around 8:00 pm. Hence, the Temple timings will be 9:00 am to 8:00 pm.
What is the Dharmayana Temple entry fee?
There are zero charges as Dharmayana Temple entry fee. The Temple welcomes visitors free of charge.
What is the most famous Temple in Bali?
Besakih is the largest and holiest Temple complex on the island of Bali and it is also the most important of all the Hindu Temples in Bali. Right through its entrance that resembles a ladder leading directly to heaven, towards its location on the Mountain Slopes, there is so much to admire and explore at the temple. You will surely think why haven't you visited here before.
Is there a 1000-year-old Temple in Bali?
Batuan Temple which is located in the Batuan Village, is actually known to be 1000 years old. It is one of the most ancient Temple sites on the island and has a history that dates back more than a thousand years. It is both intriguing and significant. In addition to being exceedingly prominent, such temples play a significant part in the creative heritage of Bali.
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