Billy Bagus
Jul 28, 2025
Perched at an elevation of 730 meters above sea level in the tranquil hills of Desa Kerta, Petang, North Badung, Pura Pucak Tedung is one of Bali’s most enigmatic spiritual landmarks. While lesser-known than iconic temples like Uluwatu or Besakih, this mountaintop sanctuary offers not only spiritual significance but also a unique window into Bali’s mystical history and breathtaking natural scenery.
While lesser-known than iconic temples like Uluwatu or Besakih, this mountaintop sanctuary offers unique window into Bali’s mystical history
Sacred Umbrella: The Myth Behind the Name
The name Pura Pucak Tedung translates literally to “the peak of the umbrella.” It refers to a poignant moment in Balinese mythology when the revered Hindu sage Dang Hyang Nirartha, also known as Bhatara Sakti Wawu Rauh, made his way from Pulaki in the west to Bali’s eastern regions. During a moment of rest atop a high ridge, he accidentally left behind his tedung (ceremonial umbrella). Legend has it that this umbrella emitted a supernatural glow, marking the peak as sacred. That seemingly simple event became the spiritual foundation for what would later be known as Pura Pucak Tedung.
The temple’s atmosphere is both humble and potent. Unlike the ornate, heavily-structured temples scattered across Bali, Pura Pucak Tedung remains relatively modest, even unfinished in parts. There is no enclosing temple wall, and many of the structures have a raw, ancient character—yet this very simplicity lends it an unfiltered authenticity that resonates deeply with pilgrims and spiritual seekers.
Sacred Relics and Living Symbols
One of the most fascinating features of the site is a living kemuning tree believed to be the transformed walking stick of Dang Hyang Nirartha. Underneath this sacred tree rests an ancient statue of a priest flanked by two guardians, offering a visual reminder of the spiritual depth rooted in this place. Nearby, relics thought to have been left by the legendary Mpu Kuturan, another revered Hindu sage, are enshrined in the form of lingga yoni stones.
Pura Pucak Tedung is structurally divided into three primary sections: Jaba (outer courtyard), Jaba Tengah (middle courtyard), and Jeroan (innermost sanctuary), adhering to classic Balinese temple architecture. At its core stands a Meru Tumpang Tiga (a three-tiered shrine) constructed in honor of Dang Hyang Nirartha. Later, under the influence of the Mengwi royal lineage, a Meru Tumpang Tujuh (seven-tiered shrine) was built as a symbolic extension of Pura Pucak Beratan, allowing locals to pray for agricultural prosperity without traveling far.
The temple’s spiritual stewardship is deeply intertwined with Balinese noble heritage. During the golden age of the Mengwi Kingdom in the 17th century, responsibility for the temple was handed to Puri Carangsari, then transferred to Puri Kerta, and finally entrusted to Puri Petang after the extinction of Kerta's lineage. Today, Pura Pucak Tedung is supported by several traditional villages, or Desa Adat, including Sulangai, Munduk Damping, Lipah, and Sandakan.
Tumpek Krulut: The Sacred Six-Month Festival
The temple celebrates its main ceremonial festival, or piodalan, every six months on Tumpek Krulut (Saturday Kliwon of the Wuku Krulut cycle). The ritual begins with a sacred purification procession to Pura Beji, before returning to make a spiritual pause at Pura Sekartaji—a symbolic act akin to one preparing themselves before entering their home.
While the temple can be reached within a 90-minute drive from Denpasar, the journey itself becomes part of the spiritual experience. Winding roads reveal panoramic views of terraced rice fields, dense forests like Sangeh, and sleepy rural enclaves untouched by modernity. Facilities such as a spacious parking area, rest pavilions, and food stalls support visitors, yet the essence of the site remains refreshingly uncommercialized.
More than just a place of prayer, Pura Pucak Tedung offers a rare synthesis of mythology, heritage, and sacred geography. It is a living monument to Bali’s spiritual lineage, a highland haven where legends are etched into the land and peace seems to rise with the morning mist. For those seeking a deeper connection to Bali beyond beaches and resorts, Pura Pucak Tedung is an invitation to witness the island’s soul.
