Prasada Lingga Ida Cri Kresna Kepakisan Temple: A Historical Legacy and the Final Resting Place of the Adipati
Prasada Lingga Ida Cri Kresna Kepakisan Temple, located in Samplangan Village, Gianyar Regency, boasts a rich historical background and architecture influenced by the Majapahit era. This temple serves not only as a place of worship but also as a witness to the journey of the Ida Bhatara Dalem Sri Aji Kresna Kepakisan dynasty. Known for its natural beauty, the temple houses several historical objects. Through this exploration, it is hoped that future generations will remember and learn from the cultural heritage that has endured since ancient times.
In a quiet village in Gianyar Regency, specifically in Samplangan Village, stands the majestic Prasada Lingga Ida Cri Kresna Kepakisan Temple. This temple is located in a secluded area, surrounded by lush green rice fields and breathtaking natural scenery. Access to the temple is only possible via a narrow path that can only be traversed by two-wheeled vehicles. However, upon arrival, visitors are immediately greeted by the pristine beauty and serenity of the temple grounds.
Candi Bentar Gate of Prasada Lingga Temple (Source: Personal Collection)
As its name suggests, Prasada Lingga Temple is the cornerstone of the establishment of the Ida Bhatara Dalem Sri Aji Kresna Kepakisan dynasty in Bali. The story begins when the Majapahit King appointed Sri Aji Kresna Kepakisan as the Adipati (Governor) of Bali Dwipa. This historical moment is closely linked to the arrival of Patih Gajah Mada in Bali, as part of his mission to unite the Nusantara under the banner of the Majapahit Empire.
Majapahit Naval Fleet (Source: Personal Collection)
It was in Samplangan Village where Patih Gajah Mada set up camp while conducting an investigation into the former Balinese ruler, King Bedahulu. This camp would later become the foundation for the establishment of the Ida Bhatara Dalem Sri Aji Kresna Kepakisan dynasty after the defeat of King Bedahulu. The temple was then named Linggarsa Temple. However, the royal palace only remained in Samplangan for two periods before being relocated to Klungkung.
Fish Pond of Prasada Lingga Temple (Source: Personal Collection)
Upon arriving at Prasada Lingga Temple, visitors are welcomed by the grandeur of the candi bentar gate, followed by a set of steps leading to the temple's main area. As you set foot on the temple's courtyard, a well-maintained and crystal-clear fish pond greets you, with the beauty of the surrounding landscape stretching out behind it, blending seamlessly with the sacred and tranquil atmosphere of the temple.
Not far from the fish pond, stands a bale—a traditional open pavilion used by the local community for gatherings, socializing, or hosting various events.
Tri Lingga Dewata (Source: Personal Collection)
As you enter the Utama Mandala, the most sacred part of Prasada Lingga Temple, you are presented with several intriguing elements that bear witness to the glory of the Linggarsa Temple Kingdom. Within the temple, you will find the padma, prasada, and penyarikan, collectively referred to as the Tri Lingga Dewata, which features subtle touches of Majapahit architecture. The prasada is dedicated as a place of worship for the Ida Bhatara Dalem Sri Aji Kresna Kepakisan dynasty, symbolizing profound reverence for their ancestors and spiritual legacy.
Patih Gajah Mada Statue (Source: Personal Collection)
Near the prasada stands a statue of Patih Gajah Mada, depicted holding a lontar and a keris—symbols of his historic journey from Java to Bali under the orders of the Majapahit Kingdom to conduct his investigation. This statue serves as a reminder of Patih Gajah Mada’s crucial role in uniting the Nusantara, including Bali.
Not far from the prasada and the statue, there is a plot of land surrounded by a fence, with a poleng cloth draped in the center. This land, known as tanah muntig or gegumuk, is said to be unable to grow anything but grass. Local people believe that this land is the resting place of the sacred ashes of Ida Bhatara Dalem Sri Aji Kresna Kepakisan, along with his wife and daughter, and it has been preserved in its sanctity ever since.
Tanah Muntig or Gegumuk (Source: Personal Collection)
Thus, the construction of this temple serves not only as a witness to history but also as a bridge between the past and the future. Through the existence of this temple, it is hoped that future generations will continue to remember, honor, and learn from the lives of their ancestors. In this way, the cultural and spiritual heritage contained within will remain alive and relevant in Bali's historical journey.
