Unveiling the Bamboo Grove, Finding Serenity at Beji Meninting Temple

Nestled behind a lush bamboo grove that shades a descending path stands Beji Meninting Temple, one of Bali’s revered sanctuaries long known as a sacred water source. The temple is located on Jl. Banjar Bunyuh, Perean, Baturiti District, Tabanan Regency, Bali.

According to ancestral legend, the story began in 91 AD, when the gods of Bali received the sacred tirta from Dewi Danu to be shared across their realms. From this divine water, countless springs emerged—one of which became Beji Meninting. The name “Meninting” is believed to come from the word ningting (to observe attentively), symbolizing the god’s steadfast resolve to guard the holy water.

Yet, behind the origins of this temple lies a fascinating tale. Ida Betara Sembung, who had missed the sacred gathering, attempted to seize the holy tirta from Beji Meninting by disguising himself as a celestial maiden. When his disguise was uncovered, a fierce chase ensued. Along the way, the sacred water he carried spilled in several places—each spill giving birth to new springs that remain to this day.

Shrines at Beji Meninting Temple (Source: Personal Collection)

Over time, Beji Meninting grew into an important temple. A nobleman from Puri Agung Perean, Ida Pacung Sakti, once received a pawisik (divine message) to establish shrines here as a spiritual source. To this day, the temple remains well-preserved and is faithfully maintained by the entrusted family of guardians. Every Tuesday Kliwon of the Medangsia week in the Balinese calendar, the temple also hosts the sacred Pujawali Piodalan ceremony, commemorating the holy origins of its sacred spring.

Beyond its rich legends, Pura Beji Meninting holds an essential role in the daily life of the local community. Within its grounds lies a crystal-clear spring that has long been used by villagers for bathing and drawing water for their everyday needs. The endlessly flowing water is seen as a blessing not only spiritually, but also as a vital source that sustains life.

To enter the temple, both worshippers and visitors are required to wear traditional Balinese attire, a gesture of respect for the sacredness of the place. Each step inside is accompanied by a soothing sense of serenity. The lush bamboo groves surrounding the temple create a cool, shaded atmosphere, adding to its charm alongside the sparkling purity of the spring.

The temple primarily serves the local villagers for prayer and worship, and its upkeep is a shared responsibility. A strong sense of gotong royong communal cooperation is especially visible before major ceremonies, when the entire community joins together to clean and prepare the temple grounds for the sacred rituals.

The Sacred Spring at Beji Meninting Temple (Source: Personal Collection)

Even outside of ceremonial days, Pura Beji Meninting remains lively, as its spring continues to serve as a vital water source for the community. This dual function makes the temple unique it thrives not only as a spiritual sanctuary but also as the heartbeat of daily life for the villagers.

Its natural beauty the downward path shaded by bamboo, the refreshing clear pool, and the well-kept surroundings offers a tranquil retreat for anyone who visits. Many describe their experience here as both joyful and calming, as if every step brings them closer to the harmony of nature and the timeless spirituality of Bali.

Front View of Beji Meninting Temple (Source: Personal Collection)

Walking down the shaded path beneath the arching bamboo and arriving at the temple courtyard surrounded by lush nature brings a sense of peace and reverence to anyone who visits. Beji Meninting Temple is not only a place of worship but also a spiritual heritage that continues to flow with sacredness from the past into the present.