Diving into Local Wisdom at Pura Alas Arum: A Spiritual Experience in Desa Baha
Pura Alas Arum, located in Desa Baha, Badung, Bali, is a place rich in spiritual and cultural values, with a unique history rooted in a mystical event from the 17th century. Beyond serving as a sacred site for religious ceremonies like Pujawali, the temple features five holy water springs, known as pancoran beji, whose water is believed to have healing properties. Desa Baha is also renowned for its traditions, arts, and crafts, which are actively preserved by the local community, creating an authentic and immersive cultural tourism experience.
Pura Alas Arum, located in Desa Baha, Badung, Bali, is a place rich in spiritual and cultural values. It not only serves as a place of worship for Hindus but also symbolizes the long history and local wisdom of the Balinese people. As tourism continues to develop in Bali, this temple remains a prominent destination for those seeking to experience the deep culture of Bali and feel the unique spiritual peace it offers.The name Alas Arum has an interesting origin that is closely related to Bali's history in the late 17th century. At that time, Raja Mengwi, Cokorda Dimade, was expanding his kingdom's territory. During one of his military expeditions, his troops encountered a very strange event. Fire burning in the sky, followed by a fragrant aroma after the fire had extinguished, astonished everyone. This event led to the naming of "Alas Arum," which later became the name of the forest that now houses the temple.
Alas Arum Temple, Baha Village (Source: Private Collection)
This historical event makes Pura Alas Arum not only a place of worship but also a symbol of natural wonders and spiritual power that the place holds. Over time, the village surrounding the forest became known as Desa Baha, a place rich in tradition and culture.Apart from being famous for Pura Alas Arum, Desa Baha is also known for its strong traditions and Balinese culture. The villagers still uphold various traditional practices, such as making handicrafts, performing Legong dance, and holding other cultural performances. This creates an authentic atmosphere that not only attracts visitors but also offers them a deep cultural experience.
Desa Baha is also recognized as one of the villages that greatly values the preservation of Balinese culture. Visitors to the village can experience firsthand the life of the Balinese people, who hold strong to spiritual and local wisdom values. In addition, the natural beauty of the village, surrounded by rice fields and trees, makes Desa Baha an ideal place to rest and enjoy tranquility.Pura Alas Arum plays an essential role in the spiritual life of the local community. One of the important ceremonies held at this temple is Pujawali, which takes place every six months.
This ceremony is conducted to honor the gods and ask for blessings for the people of Desa Baha and Bali as a whole.Pujawali is a major ritual that involves the entire community. During the ceremony, all the villagers gather to pray together, strengthening both social and spiritual bonds. This ritual not only serves as an act of worship but also as a moment to reinforce family and community ties, while celebrating the blessings of life.Around Pura Alas Arum, there are five pancoran beji (holy springs), which are considered sacred. These springs provide water sourced from the roots of large trees surrounding the temple. The local people and visitors believe that the water from these springs has healing properties and can bring peace to those who drink it.
Alas Arum Temple, Baha Village (Source: Private Collection)
Visitors who come to the temple often bring containers to collect this sacred water. This practice has become part of the spiritual rituals, often performed by those seeking blessings or healing from various troubles. The belief in the healing power of this water adds to the deep spiritual significance of Pura Alas Arum, making it a place that nurtures not only the soul but also the body.One of the fascinating aspects of Pura Alas Arum and Desa Baha is how tourism here is developed with a focus on local wisdom. The villagers are actively involved in promoting tourism while ensuring the preservation of their traditions and welcoming visitors from outside.
The active participation of the community in tourism development enhances the richness of the visitor experience in Desa Baha. Tourists who visit can participate in various activities organized by the locals, such as Balinese cooking classes or art workshops. Through these activities, visitors not only have the chance to enjoy traditional Balinese cuisine or performing arts but also to learn directly from the community about their way of life, which is steeped in cultural values.These activities provide tourists with a more meaningful experience while also positively contributing to the local economy. The people of Desa Baha continue to uphold their traditions but also open their hearts to the outside world in a structured and purposeful manner.
Visiting Pura Alas Arum is a deeply spiritual journey that holds great significance. Every corner of the temple and the village holds stories and values waiting to be explored by every visitor. From its mysterious history, peaceful religious ceremonies, to the natural beauty surrounding it, Pura Alas Arum and Desa Baha offer an experience that not only touches the soul but also enriches one’s understanding of Bali's culture and local wisdom.Pura Alas Arum is not just a place to pray, but also a place to experience peace, natural wonders, and the rich traditions of Bali. It is a destination worth visiting for anyone who wishes to connect more deeply with Balinese spirituality and culture.
