DISCOVER the wonders of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bali, where tradition, nature, and architecture blend perfectly. From Subak, a traditional irrigation system that meticulously maintains harmony between humans and nature, to Taman Ayun Temple, a magnificent temple that symbolizes Balinese spirituality and architectural beauty.
Each site takes you on a meaningful journey, revealing local history and wisdom having been passed down from generation to generation. Bali is not only stunning with its nature, but also with its world-renowned cultural heritage. Ready to explore? Let’s experience its charm!
These sites are not only rich in historical value, but also attract thousands of tourists every year. For more, here are the three must-visit sites when traveling to Bali:
Subak: Bali’s Traditional Irrigation System
The history of Subak as a traditional Balinese irrigation system has been around since the 9th century. Subak is not only a way to channel water to the rice fields in Bali, but also a manifestation of Balinese culture and philosophy. According to data from Satu Data Indonesia, Bali Province until 2019, the number of subak (rice fields/wetlands) organizations was recorded at 1,596 and subak abian (dry fields) at 1,130.
The Subak system in Bali is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its extraordinary cultural, ecological, and philosophical value, as well as its important role in the lives of the Balinese people for centuries. Here are some of the main reasons why Subak is recognized by UNESCO:
- Local Wisdom in Water Management: Subak is a traditional irrigation system designed to efficiently manage rice field irrigation, which has been used since the 9th century. This system ensures fair and equitable distribution of water among farmers, even though their rice fields are on land of different elevations. This local wisdom in managing water resources is an extraordinary example of community innovation in harmony with the environment.
- Tri Hita Karana Philosophy: Subak is not just a technical irrigation system, but also reflects the Balinese philosophy called Tri Hita Karana. This philosophy encompasses three main principles that create harmony: the relationship between humans and God, the relationship between humans and others, and the relationship between humans and nature. Subak reflects how Balinese people practice these principles in their daily lives, including in agricultural activities.
- Sustainable Agriculture: The Subak system has helped Balinese farmers maintain sustainable agricultural practices for centuries, creating an ecosystem that supports the balance between humans and nature. Subak preserves Bali’s agricultural land, especially the famous Jatiluwih rice terraces, and ensures the sustainability of water resources.
- Organized Social Structure: Subak is also a form of social organization in Bali, where farmers collectively manage irrigation through regular meetings and mutual agreements. This not only strengthens the sense of community among farmers, but also creates a transparent and fair water management model.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Subak has deep cultural values, including religious rituals related to water management. Subak temples, located in various rice field locations, are where farmers make offerings to the water god, Goddess Sri, as a sign of gratitude for the harvest. The combination of religious beliefs and agricultural technology is what makes Subak unique.
With these values, Subak is recognized as a shining example of a sustainable agricultural system that is integrated with culture and religion. This heritage reflects the efforts of the Balinese people in maintaining a balance between humans and the environment that should be preserved.
Taman Ayun Temple
Taman Ayun Temple, Mengwi, Badung Regency, is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list because it reflects the harmony between unique architecture, culture, and nature and has important historical and cultural values for the Balinese people.
Here are some of the main reasons why Taman Ayun Temple is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site:
- Subak Irrigation System: Taman Ayun Temple is closely related to the Subak irrigation system, which is also recognized by UNESCO. Subak is a traditional Balinese irrigation system that reflects the principles of balance between humans, nature, and God through the concept of “Tri Hita Karana.” This temple is considered an integral part of the Subak system that manages water sustainably for agriculture.
- Unique Traditional Architecture: This temple has a design that reflects typical Balinese architecture, with a tiered pagoda (meru), which is symbolic and sacred. The temple is surrounded by a large pond that creates the illusion of the temple “floating” on the water, adding to the beauty and harmony with nature.
- Historical Value: This temple was built in the 17th century by the King of Mengwi as a royal family temple. SAs an important royal temple, Pura Taman Ayun has a deep historical value, reflecting the spiritual and social role of the temple in the lives of Balinese people for hundreds of years.
- Manifestation of Tri Hita Karana: Pura Taman Ayun represents the Balinese philosophy, “Tri Hita Karana,” which includes three main elements: the relationship between humans and God, the relationship between humans and others, and the relationship between humans and the environment. The design and layout of the temple clearly show this balance.
This recognition makes Pura Taman Ayun not only a charming tourist attraction, but also a cultural heritage that is preserved for the benefit of future generations.
Balinese Cultural Landscape: Besakih Temple Complex
Pura Besakih, often referred to as the “Great Temple,” is the largest and most important temple in Bali. Located on the slopes of Mount Agung, this temple is a holy place for Balinese Hindus.
This temple is recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its very important role in Balinese culture, spirituality, and history. This temple is considered the largest and most sacred temple in Balinese Hinduism and has extraordinary value in terms of social, cultural, and environmental aspects. Here are the reasons why Besakih Temple is recognized by UNESCO:
- The Spiritual Center of Hinduism in Bali: Besakih Temple is the largest Hindu temple complex in Bali, consisting of 86 small and large temples spread across the slopes of Mount Agung. Mount Agung is considered a holy mountain by the Balinese people, so Besakih Temple has a very deep spiritual meaning. This temple is the main place of worship for Balinese Hindus, where important and sacred ceremonies are held.
- Symbol of Tri Hita Karana Philosophy: Besakih Temple is a manifestation of the Balinese philosophy, Tri Hita Karana, which includes harmony between humans, nature, and God. Its location on the slopes of the mountain symbolizes the close relationship between nature and spirituality, where Besakih Temple is not only a place of worship, but also a place that shows balance and harmony with the surrounding environment.
- Magnificent Architecture and Layout: The Besakih Temple complex is famous for its stunning traditional Balinese architecture. Each temple in the complex is built with a design that combines natural beauty and spirituality. The tiered temples known as “Meru” reflect the hierarchy of the cosmos and create a sacred and majestic impression. Its location facing Mount Agung adds to the monumental and mystical impression.
- Long Historical Heritage: Besakih Temple has been the spiritual and cultural center of Bali for more than a thousand years. The temple is believed to have existed since pre-Hindu times, and was later adopted by Hinduism as a sacred place of worship. Besakih Temple has a very important historical value, showing the continuity of religion and culture in Bali from time to time.
- Center for Major Religious Rituals: Besakih Temple is the location of various major religious ceremonies, such as the Eka Dasa Rudra Ceremony which is held once every hundred years. Every year, the temple also hosts dozens of small and large ceremonies that strengthen its role as the spiritual center of Balinese Hinduism. Tourists can witness fascinating processions and rituals, which showcase the richness of local culture and beliefs.
Besakih Temple is not only considered a sacred place, but also a symbol of Balinese culture and spirituality that blends with nature and local traditions. UNESCO’s recognition of Besakih Temple shows the importance of maintaining and preserving this place as a valuable world heritage.
The UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bali are not just tourist attractions, but also a reflection of the deep harmony between humans, nature, and beliefs. With attractions that encompass history, culture, and natural beauty, these sites offer an immersive experience for tourists.
The supporting facilities also make visits to these sites comfortable and enjoyable. For tourists looking for more than just a beach holiday, the UNESCO sites in Bali offer a cultural richness that is worth exploring.
