Pucak Watu Geni Temple: Exploring the Wonders of the Fiery Stone and the Eternal Water Jar

The melukat tradition is an important ritual practiced by the Balinese Hindu community, aimed at cleansing the soul and mind. This ritual typically takes place at temples or sacred springs. In Denpasar, you can find Pura Pucak Watu Geni, a unique melukat site with its own charm. While Pura Pucak Watu Geni may not be widely known as a melukat destination, it holds some extraordinary secrets. Those who delve into the spiritual realm are likely familiar with this temple.

The name Pura Pucak Watu Geni is derived from the words "Pucak," meaning peak, "Watu," meaning stone, and "Geni," which translates to fire. This name reflects the large rock that is said to have emitted fire in the past. Today, this rock draws attention because, during the piodalan ceremony, it mysteriously emits smoke. This remains an unsolved phenomenon to this day.

This uniqueness has led the locals to believe that the large rock is sacred, reinforcing the spiritual convictions of those who pray and melukat here. Moreover, the presence of this stone adds to the sacred aura of Pura Pucak Watu Geni, making it a magnet for pilgrims and spiritual seekers who wish to experience a deeper connection in their religious practices. Through this tradition, not only is the soul cleansed, but the bond between humans, nature, and a higher power is also strengthened.

The Sacred Stone at Pura Pucak Watu Geni (Source: Personal Collection)

One of the unique features of Pura Pucak Watu Geni is the presence of a large jar that holds eternal water. The term "eternal water" isn’t just a catchy name; it’s said that the water in this jar never runs dry, even though it’s used continuously for the melukat rituals by visitors. Because of this uniqueness, many Balinese Hindus choose Pura Pucak Watu Geni as their spot for melukat. They can opt to perform the ritual either in groups or alone. Typically, melukat rituals are conducted near water sources, which can take various forms, such as springs, seawater, or rivers.

So, how is it that the water at Pura Pucak Watu Geni never runs out? This remarkable feature is closely tied to the temple's history. According to Jro Mangku Gede Made Kartana, the caretaker of Pura Pucak Watu Geni, a large stone was once discovered that is believed to mysteriously emit fire. This stone, measuring about 5 meters long, can still be seen by tourists who visit. It is this very stone that is considered sacred, as it mysteriously releases smoke every time a piodalan ceremony takes place.

 Place of Melukat at Pura Pucak Watu Geni (Source: Personal Collection)

At Pura Pucak Watu Geni, there are several important shrines. In the Jeroan (main courtyard), you'll find the Gedong Pelinggih Ida Bhatara Lingsir and the Pelinggih Ratu Gede Dalem Ped. Meanwhile, in the Jaba Tengah (middle courtyard), there are the shrines of Dewi Kwam In, Ratu Niang Lingsir, and Ratu Ayu Mas Melanting. Originally, the Pelinggih Ratu Niang Lingsir was located by the river, but following the guidance of Ida Sesuhunan, it was moved to the Jaba Tengah area of the temple. The shrines in this section are usually related to business and economy, so many entrepreneurs come to pray for the smooth operation of their businesses. Buddhists also often worship here, as the temple embraces the concept of Siwa-Buddha.

Pelinggih of Dewi Kwam In, Ratu Niang Lingsir, and Ratu Ayu Mas Melanting (Source: Personal Collection)

Pura Pucak Watu Geni regularly holds melukat ceremonies during the transition from Hari Saraswati to Hari Banyu Pinaruh. For two consecutive days, the temple allocates special time for those who wish to participate in the melukat ritual. Many people choose this time to carry out the ritual, which begins at 12:05 AM, as it is believed that at this moment, Ida Bhatara, who resides at Pura Pucak Geni, comes down to purify His devotees.

Bale Kulkul at Pura Pucak Watu Geni (Source: Personal Collection)

Pura Pucak Watu Geni is open for the melukat ritual at any time, so Balinese Hindus don’t have to wait for the special two-day event. The temple welcomes visitors 24 hours a day, allowing for rituals to be performed at midnight, early morning, or late afternoon. Just remember to bring your own supplies, like two pejati (offerings). If you're planning to do the ritual at night, it's also recommended to prepare canang as part of the ceremony.

You can find Pura Pucak Watu Geni located on Jalan Nuansa Indah Selatan in the Pemecutan Kaja village of Denpasar, right in the middle of a residential area. If you're coming from Jalan Gatot Subroto Barat, look for the intersection leading to Jalan Buluh Indah, which connects to Jalan Gunung Agung. From that intersection, head south for about 210 meters, then turn right onto Jalan Nuansa Indah Selatan. Follow that road for about 20 meters until you reach the end, then turn right into the entrance, which is another 20 meters ahead. You can also use a map to easily locate Pura Pucak Watu Geni.

One of the Pelinggih at Pura Pucak Watu Geni (Source: Personal Collection)

This temple is not just a place for melukat; it’s also a spiritual hub believed to bring prosperity, especially for traders and entrepreneurs who come to pray here. The fusion of Hindu and Buddhist cultures is evident in the various shrines found within the temple. With all its unique features and spiritual stories, Pura Pucak Watu Geni is truly a must-visit spiritual destination when you're in Bali, particularly for those seeking tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.