Brahma Vihara Arama, better known as ‘Banjar Buddhist Temple’, is the largest Buddhist temple on the island of Bali. It is well known in Asia for its scenic hilltop location and stunning vistas over Lovina Beach.
The temple is located south west of Lovina, three kilometers inland from the small town of Dencarik. The architectural design and its ornamentation reflect typical Balinese architecture.
This storybook monastery has a gleaming orange tiled roof with Sukothai-style golden leaf Buddha images, a brightly-painted stupa, and exquisite woodcarvings blending Balinese and Buddhist design styles in an elegant manner.
Interior panels depict Buddhist fables and there is a temple bell from Thailand, as well as a branch of the Bodhi tree of enlightenment. The lower hall is for prayer, while the upper level is for meditation.
The site opened in 1970, and is the only Buddhist monastery on the island of Bali. Tibet’s Dalai Lama visited in 1982, and Bali’s Chinese population regularly make pilgrimages to this peaceful hillside sanctuary. Although the temple was severely damaged in July 1976 due to an earthquake, it has been restored.
The Theravadic Vipassana breathing technique commonly practiced here aims to promote clarity and mindfulness. All visitors are welcome, but those wishing to stay overnight should write a letter of request first.
The vista over the north coast is breathtaking, and at night the stars illuminate the rice paddies and fireflies fill the air.
Getting There
Brahma Vihara Arama, Bali’s largest Buddhist monastery, is situated about 11 kilometers from central Lovina in the hills near Banjar village. A drive or scooter ride from Kalibukbuk takes approximately 20 minutes, following the main coastal road (Jalan Raya Singaraja-Gilimanuk) before turning inland at the signs for Banjar. Ample parking is available near the entrance, and a short walk leads up to the monastery complex, set against a backdrop of lush hills and offering stunning views of the coastline.
Need to Know
- What is it? Bali’s largest temple set on a scenic hilltop location overlooking the coastline
- Opening hours: 06:00 to 18:00 daily.
- Entrance fee: no charge; however, it is customary to make a small donation
- Where: on a hilltop, three kilometers from Dencarik in Southwest Lovina
- How to get there: from Dencarik, drive 18kms west of Singaraja towards Serirt. At the crossroads before Banjar Tegal Market, turn left; the monastery is located two kilometers up the hill