Dragons guard the gate. Prepare to enter Pura Melanting Buluh a temple steeped in Balinese tradition. Pura Melanting Buluh is not just one isolated temple. It is part of a network across Bali. Almost every traditional market has its own Melanting Temple. Here traders and business people come seeking fortune.
This main Melanting Temple sits in Banyupoh Village. It is about 5 km from Pemuteran. This is said to be the first Melanting Temple in Bali. Pilgrims travel from all over the island to visit Pura Melanting Buluh. They come especially during the full moon of the fourth month of the Caka calendar which is around October. The temple’s anniversary celebrations last for seven days.
Pura Melanting Buluh differs architecturally from other Balinese temples. Its ornaments showcase a new style. Legend says that Pura Melanting Temple commemorates the visit of a Javanese Hindu priest Dang Hyang Nirartha. It is believed that his eldest daughter Ida Swabawa became a spirit here.
As you approach Pura Melanting Buluh notice the two huge dragon statues at the main gate. A small area offers holy water for cleansing before entering the main court. Inside the middle court people prepare their offerings. The main court houses a large and beautiful temple. The government rebuilt it using a design by Balinese architect Ida Bagus Tugur.
The temple’s location is incredibly peaceful. It provides a perfect setting for prayer and meditation. Some people come at night for this purpose. From the temple you can see green layered hills. Also the blue Java Sea stretches out before you. The cool breeze and jungle sounds are very calming.
Priests here welcome visitors. An information office rents sarongs and provides information. Hindus come from across Bali and beyond to pray here day and night. The temple’s ambiance becomes more mysterious in the night.
Pura Melanting Buluh is close to other attractions. You could visit West Bali National Park. This park is a refuge for the endangered Bali Starling. You might also explore Pulaki Temple or Pura Pulaki. It sits on a hill near the beach in North Bali. Pemuteran a small fishing village is also nearby.
Visiting Pura Melanting Buluh offers more than just sightseeing. It provides a deep spiritual experience. The natural tranquility sets it apart. The majestic temple with its dragon statues and serene setting creates an unforgettable memory. Take a moment to absorb the peace here. Consider the traders and pilgrims who have sought blessings at Pura Melanting Buluh for generations.