In the scholarly work titled "Pura Besakih: Amidst Legend and Bali's Ruler History," authored by IDG Windhu Sancaya, drawing from the book "Pura Besakih: Temple of Religion and Balinese Society" by David J. Stuart Fox, intriguingly, there exist certain sources pertaining to the establishment of Pura Besakih that continue to be a subject of doubt for the author but are fervently embraced by the local community.
Rooted in written accounts and folklore, Sri Kesari Warmadewa, the illustrious founder of the Warmadewa dynasty, which held sway over Bali for numerous centuries, is acknowledged as the presumed inaugural architect of the sprawling temple complex in Besakih. Skepticism arises from the narrative surrounding Sri Wira Dalem Kesari (Sri Kesari Warmadewa), revealing an intriguing connection with the Jaya dynasty during the 12th century, spanning the years 1131 - 1200. The mentioned Jaya dynasty encompasses Jayasakti, Ragajaya, Jayapangus, and Ekajaya Lancana. Drawing insights from the Sading inscription, it is reasonably conjectured that Sri Wira Dalem Kesari is an alternate appellation for Jayasakti, the Bali ruler reigning between 1131-1150.
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The majesty of Pura Besakih, nestled on the slopes of Mount Agung, is further enhanced by the association with figures like Mpu Kuturan and Mpu Bharadah within the narrative of Besakih. Mpu Kuturan is intrinsically linked to Pura Peninjoan and is credited as the mastermind behind the construction of Pura Besakih. The name Rsi Markandeyan, purportedly hailing from Mount Raung in East Java, is linked with the founding of Pura Basukian. This particular legend, curiously, does not find its place within conventional texts or alternate sources.
The discovery of Rsi Markandeya's relevance was contingent upon the collection of E. Korn in 1932, which drew from the account of a revered priest in the Gianyar Valley. Subsequently, additional sources corroborating Rsi Markandeya's significance emerged in the 1930s. Meanwhile, the complex of Pura Besakih boasts numerous remnants harking back to the megalithic era, including menhirs, stone thrones, and terraced pyramid structures. These vestiges offer compelling evidence of Pura Besakih's antiquity, signifying its existence in a bygone era that predates the influence of Hinduism.
The Significance of the Pura Besakih Edifice Pura Besakih stands as an architectural emblem signifying unity in the lives of the Balinese populace steadfastly adhering to the Hindu faith. Beyond being a mere colossal place of worship, its physical presence symbolizes a profound connection with the sacred Mount Agung, widely believed to be imbued with mystical forces deserving of reverence and preservation.
Each cardinal direction within the temple complex is denoted as a mandala, presided over by a ruling deity known as "Dewa Catur Lokapala." The central mandala serves as the pivotal axis, thereby culminating in the manifestation of the "Panca Dewata," signifying the amalgamation of the five mandalas. Architecturally, Pura Besakih reflects this cardinal concept, featuring Pura Penataran Agung Besakih as the central mandala—the grandest temple dedicated to the worship of Dewa Çiwa; Pura Gelap in the east venerating Dewa Içwara; Pura Kiduling Kereteg in the south paying homage to Dewa Brahmana; Pura Ulun Kulkul in the west revering Dewa Mahadewa; and Pura Batumadeg in the north, consecrated to Dewa Wisnu.
The journey from Denpasar to Pura Besakih spans approximately 25 km to the north, traversing through the captivating landscape of Bukit Jambul, which concurrently serves as a compelling tourist attraction in the Karangasem Regency.
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