Known as the “Island of Gods”, Bali is the perfect place for a
soul-searching trip. Nestled between the Java and Lombok islands, it guarantees
a one-of-a-kind spiritual experience and a great opportunity to soak up the
diverse and unique culture. Despite being a popular tourist spot, Bali remains
rooted in tradition and has yet to give in to the hustle and bustle of the
modern world - it provides an enlightening experience one can’t get anywhere
else.
Although located in Indonesia, a predominantly Muslim country,
Bali is rich with Hindu culture. With gorgeously constructed temples scattered
all over the island (there are over 10,000 temples and shrines - more than the
number of homes!), the entire island has an aura of religion and spirituality.
All the temples face either the mountains, the sea or towards sunrise, making
the views simply spectacular. Even if you’re not particularly religious, the
temples are worth a visit for the stunning architecture characteristic of the
Balinese.
The most famous temple in Bali is the Tanah Lot temple.
Situated on a picturesque outcrop amidst crashing waves, this ancient shrine
can only be accessed at low tide for the waves flood the causeway at high tide.
This temple is the source of holy water for the entire region, and it is a
common practice to visit the fountain and have the priests bless you by
sprinkling the holy water over your head. Although a 45 minute drive from Kuta,
it is well worth the trip.
Another great spot for soul-searchers to visit is Goa Gajah, or
“Elephant Cave”. Steeped in history, this archaeological site was built in the
11th century as a sanctuary for meditation. Stone carvings of Buddhist and
Hindu religious symbols from as far back as the 8th century have been
discovered and restored - they are currently on display for all visitors to
see. There is also an ancient bathing pool that has been restored and split
into women’s and men’s sections. Goa Gajah may be a popular tourist spot, but
the meditation chambers remain untouched by the outside world and are the
perfect place to spend some time relaxing and unwinding from the stresses of
daily life.
A religious symbol that can be seen all over Bali is the Canang Sari, a basket made out of palm
leaves woven through a frame of bamboo sticks. This basket is filled with
multicoloured flowers such as the Plumeria and the Frangipani. The colours may
seem random, but each colour signifies something specific. For example, white
flowers symbolize Shiva, one of the primary forms of God. Red flowers symbolize
Brahma, the creator. Yellow flowers symbolize Mahadeva, another form of Shiva.
Blue or green flowers symbolize Vishnu, the preserver. Sometimes, betel nuts,
limes and even tobacco are also laid out as offerings.
The Canang Sari is kept out every day
as a thank-you to the Hindu God, Ida Sang Hyang
Widhi Wasa, for all the peace He has given to the world.