TAMAN AYUN TEMPLE, MENGWI
Visit will be made at the charming Taman Ayun Temple of Mengwi Empire. Built in 1634 by a King of the MengwiDynasty, this impressive complex stands on an island in ariver, its inner temple surrounded by a moat and is part of a network of directional temples that protect Bali from evil spirits. Taman Ayun Temple was built as a series of garden terraces with courtyards on different levels. The entire complex was designed to symbolize the mythological home of the gods, Mount Meru, floating in the sea of eternity. An eleven-tiered Meru is dedicated to the rice goddess Dewi Sri. At the temple courtyard, guests will witness and participate in a demonstration of several aspects of Balinese cultural activities.
LAKE BERATAN, BEDUGUL
Set within the highlands of the mountainous Bedugul district, a top a plateau that sits on Lake Beratan, stands the majestic Ulun Danu Temple. Pura Ulun Danu was built in adoration of the Goddess Danu. Danu, in the Balinese tongue, means lake, while the goddess Danu is queen of water, lakes and rivers. The temple complex consists of four sacred buildings. Linga Pura stands three levels high, and is a place of worship to the God Shiva. Pura Puncak Mangu stands 11 levels high, and was built in dedication to the God Vishnu. Pura Teratai Bang is the main temple, and Pura Dalem Purwa is built in worship to Sang Hyang Widhi. This last temple is also a site forthose who pray for fertility, prosperity and well-being. The style of the building follows the Trimurti belief; three holy colors to represent the three gods: Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu. The first color is red, to the lord Brahma, The Creator. Second, is black. The symbol of the lord Vishnu, the balance and preserver of the universe. Finally, white for the god Shiva, The Destroyer.