It is the biggest temple in Bali or even in Indonesia, consisted of 18 temples complexes, therefore it is often named “The Mother Temple”.

LOCATION
The temple is located at Besakih village, district of Rendang, belongs to Karangasem regency. It is right on the foot of mount Agung, about 1000 meters height above the sea level.

 It is about 13 km in distance from Klungkung, the capital town of Klungkung regency, or about 60 km from Denpasar, the capital city. It can be easily reached by cars or other motor vehicles since the road is finely asphalted.

HISTORY
Referring to the inscriptions, Besakih Temple was constructed in the eleventh century (1007. A.D). The name “Besakih” was derived from the word “Basuki” means: “Safe” related to the burying of “Panca Datu” (5 kinds of Metal) by “Dang Hyang Markandya” (one of Hindu’s Holy Messengers came to Bali), at the earliest time of the temple’s construction.

From 1019 – 1042, King Erlangga ruled East Java while Empu Kuturan (the other Holy messengers) acted as Senapati (the King’s representative) in Bali, residing at Silayukti, Karangasem region. Empu Kuturan was said as the one who expanded the temple and built more shrines as seen  nowadays.