Did you know Pura Dalem Sakenan stands as a beacon of Balinese Hindu heritage? It is located on the north-western shore of Serangan Island. Serangan Island is a small island just south of Denpasar.
Pura Dalem Sakenan is dedicated to Rambut Sedhana. It is associated with prosperity. The temple is the focal point of the 210-day Piodalan festival. Pilgrims once journeyed here by foot or colorful jukung boats. Today a bridge connects Serangan to Bali. The colorful jukung pilgrimages have faded into memory.
Established in the 10th century by Mpu Kuturan, Pura Dalem Sakenan holds deep historical roots. Mpu Kuturan was instrumental in establishing Balinese Hinduism. He arrived in Bali before the fall of the Majapahit Kingdom.
Throughout the years, Pura Dalem Sakenan has seen many renovations. The antique perimeter walls have been carefully preserved. In 1982, villagers expanded the temple complex to the west. They ensured the older limestone and coral structures remained untouched.
The island underwent reclamation in 1996. A bridge was built to connect Serangan with Bali. Before this, Serangan was often neglected in development. Children had to use boats to reach schools on the main island.
Pura Dalem Sakenan is a Pura Dalem. This pura is dedicated to Shiva. Pura Dalem temples are associated with rituals concerning death. A large tree or kepuh often stands within, serving as a shrine.
Like all Balinese temples, Pura Dalem Sakenan comprises three sections. There is an outer sanctum. Then a middle sanctum. Finally, an inner sanctum.
The outer sanctum features an empty courtyard. Two large trees adorned with polèng cloth stand guard. The black and white checkered cloth indicates that these trees are believed to be dwellings for guardian spirits.
The middle sanctum is enclosed by perimeter walls. A candi bentar gate marks the entrance from the west.
The inner sanctum is the most sacred space. Pelinggih shrines are dedicated to local deities. The tallest pelinggih honors Jro Dukuh Sakti. A paduraksa gate marks the entrance.
Pura Dalem Sakenan is the heart of the annual Piodalan festival. Celebrated every 210 days, it falls on Kliwon Kuningan Saturday. Kuningan marks the end of the Galungan celebrations.
In the past, pilgrims crossed the sea to Serangan for the Piodalan. At low tide, they walked through mangrove forests carrying heirlooms. At high tide, jukung boats ferried crowds. Since the 1996 reclamation, the Serangan Sakenan bridge provides easy access.
Pilgrims first visit Pura Susunan Wadon. It is located half a kilometer to the east. Next, they visit Pura Susunan Agung. The final stop is Pura Dalem Sakenan itself.
The name Sakenan comes from “cakya”. Cakya means “can immediately unite the mind”. The temple’s tranquil location promotes spiritual connection. It is a place to find peace and unite with the Creator.
Local beliefs hold that the trees in the temple are homes to guardian spirits. Poleng fabric signifies the sacredness of the site. Please remember to be mindful of your words and actions within the temple grounds.
So, remember the story of Pura Dalem Sakenan. Feel the island’s spiritual energy. Honor its rich history.