FASCINATING–The Island of the Gods is once again pulsing with extraordinary spiritual energy. From April 12 (full moon of the tenth month in Balinese calendar) to May 3, 2025, Besakih Temple, which stands majestically on the slopes of Mount Agung, held the annual grand celebration of the Ida Bhatara Turun Kabeh (IBTK) Ceremony. This sacred ritual, which is held once a year, is not only an important moment for Hindus, but also a stunning tourist attraction, where tourists can witness firsthand the grandeur of tradition and the solemn devotion of the people.
Ida Bhatara Turun Kabeh literally means “the gods descend together”. This ceremony is believed to be the moment when the manifestations of God (Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa) along with the gods and ancestors descend to earth to bestow blessings and gifts on humanity. Besakih Temple, as the “Mother of All Temples” in Bali, is the main venue for this grand ceremony.
A series of ceremonial processions
The meaning and philosophy behind this ceremony are very profound. The descent of the gods together symbolizes cosmic harmony and balance. This is a moment of purification of the universe and of the human self, asking for safety, peace, and prosperity for the entire universe. Various series of rituals, starting from melasti (a purification procession to a holy water source), mecaru (an exorcism ceremony), to the peak of the mendak (welcoming) and nyejer (dwelling) of the gods in the shrines, have rich symbolic meanings. Every offering, every sacred hymn chanted, and every movement in the sacred dance contains a deep philosophy about the relationship between humans, nature, and the Creator.
The enthusiasm of Hindus to pray during the Ida Bhatara Turun Kabeh Ceremony is extraordinary. Day and night, thousands, even tens of thousands of people from all over Bali and outside the island, crowd the Besakih Temple area. They come in all-white traditional clothes, carrying banten (offerings) beautifully arranged and full of meaning.
The solemn and peaceful atmosphere is felt so strongly amidst the hustle and bustle of ritual activities. The chanting of prayers and sacred hymns continues to echo, creating spiritual vibrations that touch the hearts of every visitor. There is no sense of tiredness reflected on the faces of the congregation who patiently queue even under the scorching sun to ngaturang sembah (praying) in front of the shrine of the gods. Their dedication and faith are an amazing sight and leave a deep impression on anyone who witnesses it.
Tourists mingle
For tourists, the Ida Bhatara Turun Kabeh Ceremony at Besakih Temple offers an unforgettable experience. Under the guidance of a guide, they can witness firsthand the grandeur of the temple’s terraced architecture, the beauty of the colorful offerings, and the solemnity of the Hindu people in carrying out the ritual. Sacred processions involving gamelan, ritual dances, and the recitation of mantras create a magical atmosphere that is difficult to express in words. This is a golden opportunity to understand more deeply about the richness of Balinese culture and spirituality.
Although sacred, the implementation of this ceremony still pays attention to the comfort and safety of tourists. A special area is provided for them to watch the ceremony without disturbing the solemnity of the worshipers. Local tour guides are also ready to provide explanations about the meaning and stages of the ritual, so that tourists can better appreciate the cultural values contained therein.
The presence of tourists in this ceremony also has a positive impact on the community around Besakih Temple. In addition to improving the economy through the sale of crafts and food, motorcycle taxis, interactions between tourists and local people also enrich cross-cultural understanding. Tourists can learn about the noble values upheld by the Balinese people, while local people also gain new perspectives from various parts of the world.
Conclusion
The Ida Bhatara Turun Kabeh ceremony at Besakih Temple is not just a religious ritual, but also a grand cultural celebration. This is a moment where spirituality, tradition, and the natural beauty of Bali combine into a profound and memorable experience.
For anyone who has the opportunity to attend, witnessing the splendor of this ceremony will be a lasting memory and open a window of broader understanding about the richness of Indonesia’s cultural heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this miracle in the coming year! (*)
