Melukat Overlooking a Valley: A Magical Experience at a Little-Known, Ancient 'Beji Candi'
Hidden in the highlands of Tabanan, Beji Candi in Perean village is not a temple of grand architecture, but rather a holy water source offering an authentic purification experience. Its primary uniqueness lies in its rare location, where visitors descend a staircase while looking out directly onto a view of the lush, green valley. With its tranquil and sacred atmosphere, a visit to this holy spring offers a profound melukat experience—a rare opportunity to rediscover tranquility in pure harmony with nature.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of modern Bali, we often long for a place that can restore true tranquility; a space where our breath can regulate, and a cluttered mind can find clarity. Far from the busy main roads, hidden in the highlands of Tabanan, lies a spiritual gem that preserves its authenticity: Beji Candi in the village of Perean.
Although its name contains the word "Candi," do not imagine a grand stone temple like those in Java. The majesty of this place radiates from its simplicity and its exceptionally rare location: a holy water source resting gracefully on the edge of a lush, green valley.
The journey to Beji Candi is part of the experience itself. The true entrance is a footpath that descends via dozens of steps. It is here that the first magic begins, as along the descent, the western side opens up completely to a view of the fertile valley, creating a panorama that is a feast for the eyes and soothing for the soul. The air temperature slowly drops, the scent of damp earth wafts up, and the gentle sound of flowing water grows clearer, as if calling for our imminent arrival.
Upon reaching the valley floor, the outside world seems to instantly vanish. We are welcomed and embraced by the green cliffs that tower around us. The atmosphere becomes incredibly calm and sheltered, a sacred, natural amphitheater. The moss-covered shrines and water spouts stand as silent witnesses of time, emanating an ancient energy that instills a sense of humility.
The sacred core of Beji Candi is, of course, its water. On the northern side, the main spring emerges directly from a rock crevice; its water is crystal clear and believed to possess healing properties. Water from this holy upstream source is then channeled to several spouts on the southern side, where the main pool for the melukat procession is located.
The ritual of self-purification here becomes a multi-sensory experience. Feeling the pure, cold holy water on your skin while listening to the symphony of nature and gazing upon the green valley is a powerful form of meditation. It is an opportunity to release all mental turmoil and negative energy, allowing it to drift away with the flowing water.
After completing the procession, do not rush to leave. Sit for a moment on one of the stone steps and let your body air dry. Many visitors feel an extraordinary sense of lightness and peace afterward, a feeling of clarity as if being reborn. This is the true power of Beji Candi: its ability to reconnect us not only with nature but also with our innermost selves.
For those interested in visiting this hidden gem, its location is in Perean village, and it is highly recommended to use a motorbike due to the relatively small access road. The best time to visit is in the morning when the atmosphere is at its most serene.
As a form of respect for the sanctity of the place, all visitors are required to wear a kamen, or sarong, to enter the beji area. Of course, the best way to show gratitude for this gift of nature is to help maintain its cleanliness. You can also give a voluntary donation, or punia, as a sign of support for the holy site's upkeep.
Ultimately, Beji Candi Perean is a true testament that the specialty of a holy place does not always come from magnificent structures. It is a reminder of the beauty in simplicity and the healing power that is born from pure harmony with nature.
